VS
The 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow and 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special both compete in the cruiser segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow from Japan was powered by a 749cc OHV V-twin producing 55hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 226.0kg (498 lbs) and with a seat height of 740mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special by contrast offered 654cc of OHV twin power, delivering 50hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 205.0kg (452 lbs) with a top speed of 165km/h (103 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
The 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow from Japan was powered by a 749cc OHV V-twin producing 55hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 226.0kg (498 lbs) and with a seat height of 740mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special by contrast offered 654cc of OHV twin power, delivering 50hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 205.0kg (452 lbs) with a top speed of 165km/h (103 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
Specifications Comparison
| 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow | 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 749 cc | 654 cc |
| Power | 55 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 56.0 Nm | 50.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 165 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 226.0 kg | 205.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 246.0 kg | 220.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 740 mm | 760 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1450 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two cruisers are remarkably well-matched. With 55hp versus 50hp, the performance difference is marginal. The choice between them comes down to brand loyalty, aesthetics, and riding preference.
About the 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow
A cruiser from 1983, the 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow delivers 55hp from its 749cc OHV V-twin engine.
Full 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow Profile →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 →