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The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special and 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 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 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 by contrast offered 1097cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 125hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 245.0kg (540 lbs) with a top speed of 240km/h (149 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 Yamaha FJ1100 by contrast offered 1097cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 125hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 245.0kg (540 lbs) with a top speed of 240km/h (149 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 Yamaha FJ1100 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 654 cc | 1097 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 125 hp |
| Torque | 50.0 Nm | 100.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 240 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 205.0 kg | 245.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 220.0 kg | 265.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 760 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 22.0 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 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 pushed output to 125hp. Both share equal collector appeal at 5/10. 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 1984 Yamaha FJ1100
Born in 1984, the 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 is a 1097cc four-cylinder touring motorcycle producing 125hp from Yamaha.
Full 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 Profile →