1979 Yamaha XS1100

1979 Yamaha XS1100

touring70sJapan

Introduced in 1979, the 1979 Yamaha XS1100 features a 1101cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 95hp, establishing itself as a notable touring motorcycle.

Specifications

Engine

Type
DOHC inline-4
Displacement
1101 cc
Cylinders
4
Power
95 hp @ 8000 rpm
Torque
89.0 Nm
Compression
—
Bore × Stroke
71.5 × 68.6 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
4x Mikuni carburetors

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel double cradle
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Twin shock
Front Brake
Dual disc
Rear Brake
Single disc
Front Tyre
—
Rear Tyre
—
Transmission
5-speed
Final Drive
Shaft

Performance

Top Speed
210 km/h (130 mph)
¼ Mile
—

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
268 kg (591 lbs)
Wet Weight
290 kg (639 lbs)
Seat Height
810 mm
Wheelbase
1530 mm
Ground Clearance
—
Fuel Capacity
22.0 L

History & Story

Yamaha's 1979 Yamaha XS1100 arrived in 1979 as a touring motorcycle designed for the discerning rider. Produced in Japan, it quickly earned recognition as a capable touring motorcycle from the 1970s.

At the heart of the 1979 Yamaha XS1100 sits a 1101cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 95 horsepower at 8000 rpm. The four-cylinder powerplant features a four-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by 4x Mikuni carburetors. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 5-speed transmission and shaft final drive.

Weighing 268 kg (591 lbs) dry, the 1979 Yamaha XS1100 uses a steel double cradle frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises dual disc front and single disc rear units.

Performance-wise, the 1979 Yamaha XS1100 achieves a claimed top speed of 210 km/h (130 mph). With a generous fuel capacity of 22.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for touring motorcycle duties. The seat height of 810 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

Known Issues

  • Charging system rotor failures on early models
  • Speedometer gear wear

Fun Facts

  • The 1979 Yamaha XS1100 was one of the largest-displacement motorcycles of its era
  • The 1979 Yamaha XS1100 was produced in Yamaha's Japan facilities
  • The 1979 Yamaha XS1100 featured a steel double cradle frame typical of 1970s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Moderate
Collector Rating
5/10

Resources & Parts

🔧 Find 1979 Yamaha XS1100 Parts on eBay Search eBay Motors for parts, accessories and restoration supplies 📖 Haynes Manual for Yamaha Workshop manuals, service guides and technical references 🛡 Insure Your Classic Yamaha Specialist classic motorcycle insurance from Hagerty

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