1978 Yamaha XS650 Special
The 1978 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special is a 654cc twin-cylinder cruiser that became one of Yamaha's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Specifications
Engine
- Type
- OHV twin
- Displacement
- 654 cc
- Cylinders
- 2
- Power
- 50 hp @ 7000 rpm
- Torque
- 50.0 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
- 165 km/h (103 mph)
- ¼ Mile
- —
Dimensions & Weight
- Dry Weight
- 205 kg (452 lbs)
- Wet Weight
- 220 kg (485 lbs)
- Seat Height
- 760 mm
- Wheelbase
- 1450 mm
- Ground Clearance
- —
- Fuel Capacity
- 14.0 L
History & Story
The 1978 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special was introduced by Yamaha as a cruiser aimed at riders seeking cruiser performance and style. Manufactured in Japan, it represented Yamaha's vision for the twin-cylinder cruiser market during the 1970s.
Powering the 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special is a 654cc OHV twin producing 50hp. 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.
Built around a steel double cradle frame, the 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special suspends its 205 kg (452 lbs) on telescopic fork forks and twin shock rear units. Braking relies on single disc at the front and drum at the rear, with a 1450 mm wheelbase providing stability.
Performance-wise, the 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special achieves a claimed top speed of 165 km/h (103 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for cruiser duties. The seat height of 760 mm makes it accessible for most riders.
Powering the 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special is a 654cc OHV twin producing 50hp. 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.
Built around a steel double cradle frame, the 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special suspends its 205 kg (452 lbs) on telescopic fork forks and twin shock rear units. Braking relies on single disc at the front and drum at the rear, with a 1450 mm wheelbase providing stability.
Performance-wise, the 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special achieves a claimed top speed of 165 km/h (103 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for cruiser duties. The seat height of 760 mm makes it accessible for most riders.
Known Issues
- Charging system rotor failures on early models
- Primary chain adjustment needed
- Speedometer gear wear
Fun Facts
- The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special was produced in Yamaha's Japan facilities
- The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special featured a steel double cradle frame typical of 1970s design philosophy
Collector Information
- Parts Availability
- Good
- Collector Rating
- 5/10
Resources & Parts
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