VS
The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special and 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail both compete in the cruiser segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
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 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1338cc of OHV V-twin Evolution power, delivering 55hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 271.0kg (597 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1338cc of OHV V-twin Evolution power, delivering 55hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 271.0kg (597 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 | 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 654 cc | 1338 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 55 hp |
| Torque | 50.0 Nm | 100.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 205.0 kg | 271.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 220.0 kg | 294.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 760 mm | 680 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1450 mm | 1530 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure cruiser performance, the 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail, however, excels when relaxed highway cruising and long-distance comfort is the priority. For collectors, the 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail commands more attention with a 7/10 collectibility rating.
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 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail
Harley-Davidson released the 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail in 1984 with a 1338cc OHV V-twin Evolution powerplant making 55hp — a definitive cruiser.
Full 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail Profile →