1972 Yamaha XS650
The 1972 1972 Yamaha XS650 is a 654cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Yamaha's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Specifications
Engine
- Type
- OHV twin
- Displacement
- 654 cc
- Cylinders
- 2
- Power
- 53 hp @ 7000 rpm
- Torque
- 53.0 Nm
- Compression
- —
- Bore × Stroke
- 75.0 × 74.0 mm
- Cooling
- Air-cooled
- Fuel System
- 2x Mikuni carburetors
Chassis & Transmission
- Frame
- Steel double cradle
- Front Suspension
- Telescopic fork
- Rear Suspension
- Twin shock
- Front Brake
- Single disc
- Rear Brake
- Drum
- Front Tyre
- —
- Rear Tyre
- —
- Transmission
- 5-speed
- Final Drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top Speed
- 170 km/h (106 mph)
- ¼ Mile
- —
Dimensions & Weight
- Dry Weight
- 195 kg (430 lbs)
- Wet Weight
- 212 kg (467 lbs)
- Seat Height
- 810 mm
- Wheelbase
- 1430 mm
- Ground Clearance
- —
- Fuel Capacity
- 14.0 L
History & Story
In 1972, Yamaha launched the 1972 Yamaha XS650 — a standard motorcycle that would come to define an era of motorcycling. Hailing from Japan, it combined Japan engineering with standard motorcycle appeal.
Powering the 1972 Yamaha XS650 is a 654cc OHV twin producing 53hp. This twin-cylinder engine uses air-cooled cooling and draws fuel through 2x Mikuni carburetors. A 5-speed gearbox sends power via chain final drive to the rear wheel.
Weighing 195 kg (430 lbs) dry, the 1972 Yamaha XS650 uses a steel double cradle frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises single disc front and drum rear units.
Performance-wise, the 1972 Yamaha XS650 achieves a claimed top speed of 170 km/h (106 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 810 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
Powering the 1972 Yamaha XS650 is a 654cc OHV twin producing 53hp. This twin-cylinder engine uses air-cooled cooling and draws fuel through 2x Mikuni carburetors. A 5-speed gearbox sends power via chain final drive to the rear wheel.
Weighing 195 kg (430 lbs) dry, the 1972 Yamaha XS650 uses a steel double cradle frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises single disc front and drum rear units.
Performance-wise, the 1972 Yamaha XS650 achieves a claimed top speed of 170 km/h (106 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 810 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
Known Issues
- Charging system rotor failures on early models
- Primary chain adjustment needed
- Speedometer gear wear
Fun Facts
- The 1972 Yamaha XS650 was produced in Yamaha's Japan facilities
- The 1972 Yamaha XS650 featured a steel double cradle frame typical of 1970s design philosophy
Collector Information
- Parts Availability
- Good
- Collector Rating
- 6/10
Resources & Parts
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