The 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca from Japan was powered by a 853cc DOHC inline-4 producing 88hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 230.0kg (507 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS by contrast offered 347cc of 2-stroke twin YPVS power, delivering 59hp at 9500rpm. Tipping the scales at 141.0kg (311 lbs) with a top speed of 195km/h (121 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
| 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca | 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 853 cc | 347 cc |
| Power | 88 hp | 59 hp |
| Torque | 74.0 Nm | 37.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 195 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 230.0 kg | 141.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 248.0 kg | 155.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1355 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 20.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Yamaha machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca laid the groundwork with 88hp, while the later 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS pushed output to 59hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS holds the edge with a 8/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Yamaha collection. Parts availability is good for the 1982 Yamaha XJ900 Seca and moderate for the 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 →About the 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS
The 1985 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS is a 347cc twin-cylinder sport bike that became one of Yamaha's most memorable motorcycles of the 1980s.
Full 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS Profile →