VS
The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special and 1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer 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 1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer Softail, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1338cc of OHV V-twin Evolution power, delivering 55hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 280.0kg (617 lbs) with a top speed of 150km/h (93 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 1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer Softail, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1338cc of OHV V-twin Evolution power, delivering 55hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 280.0kg (617 lbs) with a top speed of 150km/h (93 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 | 1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer 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 | 150 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 205.0 kg | 280.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 220.0 kg | 303.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 760 mm | 680 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1450 mm | 1545 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 1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer Softail, however, excels when relaxed highway cruising and long-distance comfort is the priority. For collectors, the 1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer 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 1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer Softail
Born in 1988, the 1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer Softail is a 1338cc twin-cylinder cruiser producing 55hp from Harley-Davidson.
Full 1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer Softail Profile →