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The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special and 1982 Yamaha XV920 Virago 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 XV920 Virago by contrast offered 920cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 70hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 223.0kg (492 lbs) with a top speed of 180km/h (112 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 XV920 Virago by contrast offered 920cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 70hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 223.0kg (492 lbs) with a top speed of 180km/h (112 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 XV920 Virago | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 654 cc | 920 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 70 hp |
| Torque | 50.0 Nm | 72.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 180 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 205.0 kg | 223.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 220.0 kg | 242.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 760 mm | 750 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1450 mm | 1520 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 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 XV920 Virago pushed output to 70hp. Both share equal collector appeal at 5/10. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Yamaha collection. Parts availability is good for the 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special and moderate for the 1982 Yamaha XV920 Virago — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 XV920 Virago
Born in 1982, the 1982 Yamaha XV920 Virago is a 920cc twin-cylinder cruiser producing 70hp from Yamaha.
Full 1982 Yamaha XV920 Virago Profile →