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The 1985 Honda XBR500 and 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca are both iconic 1980s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1985 Honda XBR500 from Japan was powered by a 499cc SOHC single RFVC producing 44hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 161.0kg (355 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca by contrast offered 853cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 88hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 230.0kg (507 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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 1985 Honda XBR500 from Japan was powered by a 499cc SOHC single RFVC producing 44hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 161.0kg (355 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca by contrast offered 853cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 88hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 230.0kg (507 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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
| 1985 Honda XBR500 | 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 499 cc | 853 cc |
| Power | 44 hp | 88 hp |
| Torque | 42.0 Nm | 74.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 161.0 kg | 230.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 176.0 kg | 248.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1395 mm | 1490 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 20.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca has the edge thanks to more power (88hp vs 44hp) and a higher top speed. The 1985 Honda XBR500, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. Parts availability is moderate for the 1985 Honda XBR500 and good for the 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1985 Honda XBR500
Honda released the 1985 Honda XBR500 in 1985 with a 499cc SOHC single RFVC powerplant making 44hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1985 Honda XBR500 Profile →About the 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca
Introduced in 1982, the 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca features a 853cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 88hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca Profile →