VS
The 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago and 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS represent two chapters in Yamaha's storied history.
The 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago from Japan was powered by a 981cc OHV V-twin producing 74hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 240.0kg (529 lbs) and with a seat height of 750mm, it was aimed at cruiser 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.
The 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago from Japan was powered by a 981cc OHV V-twin producing 74hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 240.0kg (529 lbs) and with a seat height of 750mm, it was aimed at cruiser 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
| 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago | 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 981 cc | 347 cc |
| Power | 74 hp | 59 hp |
| Torque | 77.0 Nm | 37.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 195 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 240.0 kg | 141.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 260.0 kg | 155.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 750 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1560 mm | 1355 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Yamaha machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago laid the groundwork with 74hp, 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.
About the 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago
The 1984 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago packs a 981cc OHV V-twin engine with 74hp into a cruiser package from Yamaha.
Full 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago 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 →