VS
The 1980 Yamaha XJ650 and 1985 Yamaha FZ750 represent two chapters in Yamaha's storied history.
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 1985 Yamaha FZ750 by contrast offered 749cc of DOHC inline-4 5-valve power, delivering 100hp at 10500rpm. Tipping the scales at 196.0kg (432 lbs) with a top speed of 235km/h (146 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 1985 Yamaha FZ750 by contrast offered 749cc of DOHC inline-4 5-valve power, delivering 100hp at 10500rpm. Tipping the scales at 196.0kg (432 lbs) with a top speed of 235km/h (146 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 | 1985 Yamaha FZ750 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 653 cc | 749 cc |
| Power | 71 hp | 100 hp |
| Torque | 56.0 Nm | 70.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 235 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 215.0 kg | 196.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 232.0 kg | 214.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm | 1465 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 20.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Yamaha machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1980 Yamaha XJ650 laid the groundwork with 71hp, while the later 1985 Yamaha FZ750 pushed output to 100hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1985 Yamaha FZ750 holds the edge with a 6/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Yamaha collection.
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 1985 Yamaha FZ750
Introduced in 1985, the 1985 Yamaha FZ750 features a 749cc DOHC inline-4 5-valve engine producing 100hp, establishing itself as a notable sport bike.
Full 1985 Yamaha FZ750 Profile →