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The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special and 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca represent two chapters in Yamaha's storied history.
The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special from Japan was powered by a 654cc OHV twin producing 50hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 205.0kg (452 lbs) and with a seat height of 760mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca by contrast offered 853cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 88hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 230.0kg (507 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special from Japan was powered by a 654cc OHV twin producing 50hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 205.0kg (452 lbs) and with a seat height of 760mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca by contrast offered 853cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 88hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 230.0kg (507 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special | 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 654 cc | 853 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 88 hp |
| Torque | 50.0 Nm | 74.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 205.0 kg | 230.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 220.0 kg | 248.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 760 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 20.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Yamaha machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special laid the groundwork with 50hp, while the later 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca pushed output to 88hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special holds the edge with a 5/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Yamaha collection.
About the 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special
The 1978 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special is a 654cc twin-cylinder cruiser that became one of Yamaha's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special Profile →About the 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca
Introduced in 1982, the 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca features a 853cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 88hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca Profile →