VS
The 1988 Yamaha XV535 Virago and 1996 Yamaha Royal Star represent two chapters in Yamaha's storied history.
The 1988 Yamaha XV535 Virago from Japan was powered by a 535cc OHV V-twin producing 44hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 740mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1996 Yamaha Royal Star by contrast offered 1294cc of OHV V-4 power, delivering 75hp at 4750rpm. Tipping the scales at 303.0kg (668 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 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 1988 Yamaha XV535 Virago from Japan was powered by a 535cc OHV V-twin producing 44hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 740mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1996 Yamaha Royal Star by contrast offered 1294cc of OHV V-4 power, delivering 75hp at 4750rpm. Tipping the scales at 303.0kg (668 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 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
| 1988 Yamaha XV535 Virago | 1996 Yamaha Royal Star | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 535 cc | 1294 cc |
| Power | 44 hp | 75 hp |
| Torque | 42.0 Nm | 110.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 160 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 303.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 212.0 kg | 328.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 740 mm | 720 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1650 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 12.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Yamaha machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1988 Yamaha XV535 Virago laid the groundwork with 44hp, while the later 1996 Yamaha Royal Star pushed output to 75hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1996 Yamaha Royal Star holds the edge with a 4/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Yamaha collection.
About the 1988 Yamaha XV535 Virago
Introduced in 1988, the 1988 Yamaha XV535 Virago features a 535cc OHV V-twin engine producing 44hp, establishing itself as a notable cruiser.
Full 1988 Yamaha XV535 Virago Profile →About the 1996 Yamaha Royal Star
The 1996 1996 Yamaha Royal Star is a 1294cc four-cylinder cruiser that became one of Yamaha's most memorable motorcycles of the 1990s.
Full 1996 Yamaha Royal Star Profile →