VS
The 1980 Yamaha XJ650 and 1982 Triumph TSS are both iconic 1980s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1980 Yamaha XJ650 from Japan was powered by a 653cc DOHC inline-4 producing 71hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 215.0kg (474 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1982 Triumph TSS, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 744cc of OHV twin power, delivering 50hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 185.0kg (408 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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 1980 Yamaha XJ650 from Japan was powered by a 653cc DOHC inline-4 producing 71hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 215.0kg (474 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1982 Triumph TSS, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 744cc of OHV twin power, delivering 50hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 185.0kg (408 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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
| 1980 Yamaha XJ650 | 1982 Triumph TSS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 653 cc | 744 cc |
| Power | 71 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 56.0 Nm | 54.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 215.0 kg | 185.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 232.0 kg | 198.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1980 Yamaha XJ650 has the edge thanks to more power (71hp vs 50hp) and a higher top speed. The 1982 Triumph TSS, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority and offers a lighter package. Parts availability is good for the 1980 Yamaha XJ650 and moderate for the 1982 Triumph TSS — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1980 Yamaha XJ650
Born in 1980, the 1980 Yamaha XJ650 is a 653cc four-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 71hp from Yamaha.
Full 1980 Yamaha XJ650 Profile →About the 1982 Triumph TSS
The 1982 1982 Triumph TSS is a 744cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Triumph's most memorable motorcycles of the 1980s.
Full 1982 Triumph TSS Profile →