The Yamaha XS650 is a classic motorcycle that was first introduced in 1978. It was powered by a 650cc parallel twin engine and featured a shaft drive. The XS650 was a popular motorcycle in its day, and it remains a popular choice for collectors and enthusiasts today.
The XS650 was praised for its smooth power delivery, excellent handling, and comfortable ride. It was also relatively affordable, which made it a good option for first-time motorcycle buyers. The XS650 was also used as a police motorcycle in some countries.
The XS650 was discontinued in 1985, but it remains a popular motorcycle today. There are many aftermarket parts available for the XS650, and it is a relatively easy motorcycle to work on. The XS650 is a great choice for anyone who is looking for a classic motorcycle that is fun to ride and easy to maintain.
yamaha 1978 xs650
The Yamaha XS650 is a classic motorcycle that was first introduced in 1978. It was powered by a 650cc parallel twin engine and featured a shaft drive. The XS650 was a popular motorcycle in its day, and it remains a popular choice for collectors and enthusiasts today.
- Engine: 650cc parallel twin
- Drivetrain: Shaft drive
- Suspension: Telescopic forks, dual rear shocks
- Brakes: Single disc front, drum rear
- Weight: 450 lbs (dry)
- Top speed: 115 mph
- Fuel economy: 50 mpg
- Price: $2,500 (1978)
- Production: 1978-1985
The XS650 was praised for its smooth power delivery, excellent handling, and comfortable ride. It was also relatively affordable, which made it a good option for first-time motorcycle buyers. The XS650 was also used as a police motorcycle in some countries.
The XS650 was discontinued in 1985, but it remains a popular motorcycle today. There are many aftermarket parts available for the XS650, and it is a relatively easy motorcycle to work on. The XS650 is a great choice for anyone who is looking for a classic motorcycle that is fun to ride and easy to maintain.
Engine
The Yamaha XS650 is powered by a 650cc parallel twin engine. This engine is known for its smooth power delivery, excellent handling, and comfortable ride. It is also relatively affordable, which made it a good option for first-time motorcycle buyers.
- Power: The 650cc parallel twin engine produces 50 horsepower and 45 ft-lbs of torque. This gives the XS650 plenty of power for commuting, cruising, and even some light touring.
- Fuel efficiency: The XS650 gets good fuel economy for a motorcycle of its size, averaging around 50 mpg. This makes it a good choice for riders who are looking for a motorcycle that is both fun to ride and economical to operate.
- Reliability: The XS650 is known for its reliability. It is a well-built motorcycle that can last for many years with proper maintenance.
- Customization: The XS650 is a popular motorcycle for customization. There are many aftermarket parts available for the XS650, which makes it easy to personalize the bike to your own taste.
Overall, the 650cc parallel twin engine is a great choice for riders who are looking for a motorcycle that is powerful, fuel-efficient, reliable, and customizable. It is a versatile engine that can be used for a variety of purposes, from commuting to cruising to touring.
Drivetrain
The Yamaha XS650 is equipped with a shaft drive, which is a type of drivetrain that uses a driveshaft to transmit power from the engine to the rear wheel. Shaft drives are known for their durability, low maintenance, and quiet operation.
One of the main advantages of a shaft drive is that it is very durable. Unlike a chain drive, which can stretch and break over time, a shaft drive is enclosed in a housing, which protects it from the elements and other damage. This makes shaft drives ideal for motorcycles that are used in harsh conditions, such as off-road or in inclement weather.
Shaft drives also require less maintenance than chain drives. Chain drives need to be lubricated and adjusted regularly, while shaft drives do not. This can save riders time and money in the long run.
Finally, shaft drives are quieter than chain drives. This can be a major advantage for riders who want a motorcycle that is more comfortable to ride, especially on long trips.
Overall, the shaft drive is an important component of the Yamaha XS650. It provides durability, low maintenance, and quiet operation, making it a good choice for riders who want a motorcycle that is reliable and easy to ride.
Suspension
The Yamaha XS650's suspension system consists of telescopic forks in the front and dual rear shocks in the rear. This suspension system provides a comfortable ride and good handling, making the XS650 a great choice for both commuting and cruising.
- Front suspension: The telescopic forks in the front of the XS650 provide 5.9 inches of travel. This travel allows the front wheel to move up and down to absorb bumps and other irregularities in the road surface. The forks are also adjustable for preload, which allows riders to fine-tune the suspension to their own weight and riding style.
- Rear suspension: The dual rear shocks in the rear of the XS650 provide 4.3 inches of travel. These shocks are also adjustable for preload, which allows riders to fine-tune the suspension to their own weight and riding style. The rear shocks also feature a progressive spring rate, which means that they become stiffer as they are compressed. This helps to prevent the rear end of the motorcycle from bottoming out over bumps and other irregularities in the road surface.
- Overall performance: The combination of telescopic forks in the front and dual rear shocks in the rear provides the XS650 with a comfortable ride and good handling. The suspension system absorbs bumps and other irregularities in the road surface, making the XS650 a pleasure to ride on both short and long trips.
Overall, the suspension system on the Yamaha XS650 is a well-designed and well-executed system that provides a comfortable ride and good handling. It is a major factor in the XS650's popularity as a classic motorcycle.
Brakes
The Yamaha XS650 features a single disc brake in the front and a drum brake in the rear. This braking system is adequate for the bike's performance and weight, but it is not as powerful as the dual disc brakes that are found on many modern motorcycles.
- Front brake: The single disc brake in the front provides good stopping power, and it is easy to modulate. The brake lever is also adjustable, which allows riders to find the most comfortable position for their hands.
- Rear brake: The drum brake in the rear is less powerful than the front brake, but it is still adequate for slowing the bike down. The rear brake is also used to lock the rear wheel when the bike is stopped, which can be helpful on slippery surfaces.
- Overall performance: The single disc front brake and drum rear brake provide adequate stopping power for the Yamaha XS650. The brakes are easy to modulate, and they are also adjustable to fit the rider's preferences.
Overall, the braking system on the Yamaha XS650 is a good example of the technology that was available in the late 1970s. The brakes are adequate for the bike's performance and weight, and they are also easy to use and maintain.
Weight
The Yamaha XS650 weighs 450 lbs (dry). This relatively low weight makes the XS650 a good choice for riders who are new to motorcycling or who are not comfortable with heavy motorcycles. The XS650's low weight also makes it easy to maneuver and handle, even in tight spaces.
The XS650's weight is also a factor in its performance. The bike's low weight gives it a good power-to-weight ratio, which means that it can accelerate quickly and easily. The XS650's low weight also makes it more fuel-efficient than heavier motorcycles.
Overall, the Yamaha XS650's weight of 450 lbs (dry) is a major factor in its performance, handling, and fuel efficiency. The bike's low weight makes it a good choice for riders who are new to motorcycling or who are not comfortable with heavy motorcycles.
Top speed
The Yamaha XS650 has a top speed of 115 mph. This makes it a relatively fast motorcycle, especially for its era. The XS650's top speed is due to its powerful engine and its lightweight design.
- Power: The XS650's 650cc parallel twin engine produces 50 horsepower and 45 ft-lbs of torque. This gives the XS650 plenty of power to reach its top speed.
- Weight: The XS650 weighs just 450 lbs (dry). This makes it a relatively lightweight motorcycle, which helps it to accelerate quickly and reach its top speed.
- Aerodynamics: The XS650's sleek design helps to reduce drag, which also contributes to its top speed.
The XS650's top speed of 115 mph makes it a good choice for riders who want a motorcycle that is both fast and fun to ride. It is also a good choice for riders who want a motorcycle that is capable of long-distance travel.
Fuel economy
The Yamaha XS650 is known for its excellent fuel economy, getting up to 50 mpg. This is a major advantage for riders who are looking for a motorcycle that is both fun to ride and economical to operate.
- Reduced operating costs: With fuel prices on the rise, the XS650's excellent fuel economy can save riders a significant amount of money on gas. This can make a big difference for riders who commute to work or who like to take long trips.
- Reduced environmental impact: The XS650's fuel efficiency also helps to reduce its environmental impact. Motorcycles that get good gas mileage produce fewer emissions, which helps to improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gases.
- Increased range: The XS650's fuel efficiency also gives riders a greater range. This means that riders can travel further on a single tank of gas, which is a major advantage for riders who like to take long trips.
Overall, the Yamaha XS650's fuel economy of 50 mpg is a major advantage for riders who are looking for a motorcycle that is both fun to ride and economical to operate. It is a major factor in the XS650's popularity as a classic motorcycle.
Price
The Yamaha XS650 was priced at $2,500 when it was first introduced in 1978. This was a relatively affordable price for a motorcycle of its size and performance. The XS650's price made it a popular choice for riders who were looking for a good value.
- Affordability: The XS650's price made it a good value for riders who were looking for a motorcycle that was both affordable and reliable.
- Popularity: The XS650's price helped to make it a popular choice for riders of all ages and experience levels.
- Collectibility: The XS650's price has remained relatively stable over the years, making it a good investment for collectors.
Overall, the Yamaha XS650's price of $2,500 (1978) was a major factor in its popularity and success. The XS650's price made it a good value for riders who were looking for a motorcycle that was both affordable and reliable.
Production
The Yamaha XS650 was produced from 1978 to 1985. This period of production marked a significant chapter in the history of the XS650 and had a profound impact on its legacy and popularity.
- Early Success: The XS650 was an instant success when it was first introduced in 1978. Riders were impressed by its smooth power delivery, excellent handling, and comfortable ride. The XS650 quickly became a popular choice for commuters, cruisers, and even some sport riders.
- Peak Production: The XS650 reached its peak production in 1980, with over 50,000 units produced that year. This was due in part to the bike's popularity and its reputation for reliability and durability.
- Decline in Production: Production of the XS650 began to decline in the early 1980s, as Yamaha introduced new models to its lineup. The XS650 was also facing competition from other Japanese manufacturers, such as Honda and Kawasaki.
- End of Production: Production of the XS650 ended in 1985. By this time, the XS650 had become a classic motorcycle, and it remains popular with collectors and enthusiasts today.
The production period of 1978-1985 was a defining period for the Yamaha XS650. It was during this time that the XS650 established itself as a popular and reliable motorcycle. The XS650's legacy continues today, as it remains a popular choice for riders who are looking for a classic motorcycle that is fun to ride and easy to maintain.
FAQs about the Yamaha 1978 XS650
The Yamaha 1978 XS650 is a classic motorcycle that is still popular today. Riders appreciate its smooth power delivery, excellent handling, and comfortable ride. However, there are some common questions that potential buyers have about the XS650.
Question 1: What are the key features of the Yamaha 1978 XS650?
Answer: The Yamaha 1978 XS650 is powered by a 650cc parallel twin engine and features a shaft drive. It has a top speed of 115 mph and gets up to 50 mpg. The XS650 is also known for its smooth power delivery, excellent handling, and comfortable ride.
Question 2: What are the benefits of owning a Yamaha 1978 XS650?
Answer: The Yamaha 1978 XS650 is a great choice for riders who are looking for a classic motorcycle that is fun to ride and easy to maintain. It is also a good value for the price.
Question 3: What are the drawbacks of owning a Yamaha 1978 XS650?
Answer: The Yamaha 1978 XS650 is not as powerful as some other motorcycles on the market. It also has a relatively low top speed. Additionally, the XS650 is not as fuel-efficient as some other motorcycles.
Question 4: What are the most common problems with the Yamaha 1978 XS650?
Answer: The most common problems with the Yamaha 1978 XS650 are carburetor problems, electrical problems, and oil leaks. However, these problems can be easily fixed by a qualified mechanic.
Question 5: Is the Yamaha 1978 XS650 a good investment?
Answer: The Yamaha 1978 XS650 is a good investment for riders who are looking for a classic motorcycle that is fun to ride and easy to maintain. The XS650 is also a good value for the price.
Question 6: What is the future of the Yamaha 1978 XS650?
Answer: The Yamaha 1978 XS650 is a classic motorcycle that will continue to be popular for many years to come. The XS650 is a good choice for riders who are looking for a fun and reliable motorcycle.
Overall, the Yamaha 1978 XS650 is a great choice for riders who are looking for a classic motorcycle that is fun to ride and easy to maintain. It is also a good value for the price.
If you are considering buying a Yamaha 1978 XS650, be sure to do your research and find a qualified mechanic to inspect the motorcycle before you buy it.
Tips for Yamaha 1978 XS650 Owners and Enthusiasts
The Yamaha 1978 XS650 is a classic motorcycle that is still popular today. Riders appreciate its smooth power delivery, excellent handling, and comfortable ride. However, there are some things that owners and enthusiasts can do to keep their XS650s running in top condition.
Tip 1: Perform regular maintenance.
Regular maintenance is essential for keeping any motorcycle running well, and the Yamaha 1978 XS650 is no exception. Owners should consult their owner's manual for a detailed maintenance schedule, but some of the most important tasks include changing the oil and filter, checking the brakes, and inspecting the tires.
Tip 2: Use high-quality parts.
When it comes to parts for your Yamaha 1978 XS650, it is important to use high-quality components. This will help to ensure that your motorcycle performs well and lasts for many years to come. There are many aftermarket parts available for the XS650, but it is important to do your research and choose parts that are made from that meet or exceed OEM standards.
Tip 3: Store your motorcycle properly.
When you are not riding your Yamaha 1978 XS650, it is important to store it properly. This will help to protect it from the elements and prevent it from being damaged. If possible, store your motorcycle in a garage or other enclosed space. If you must store your motorcycle outdoors, be sure to cover it with a motorcycle cover.
Tip 4: Find a good mechanic.
If you are not comfortable working on your motorcycle yourself, it is important to find a good mechanic who can help you keep it in top condition. A good mechanic will be able to diagnose and fix any problems that your motorcycle may develop, and they will also be able to perform regular maintenance tasks.
Tip 5: Ride your motorcycle regularly.
The best way to keep your Yamaha 1978 XS650 running well is to ride it regularly. This will help to keep all of the moving parts lubricated and prevent them from seizing up. If you can, try to ride your motorcycle at least once a week.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits:
By following these tips, you can help to keep your Yamaha 1978 XS650 running in top condition for many years to come. These tips will help to extend the life of your motorcycle, improve its performance, and protect your investment.
Transition to the article's conclusion:
The Yamaha 1978 XS650 is a classic motorcycle that is still popular today. By following these tips, you can help to keep your XS650 running in top condition for many years to come. So get out there and enjoy your ride!
Conclusion
The Yamaha 1978 XS650 is a classic motorcycle that is still popular today. It is known for its smooth power delivery, excellent handling, and comfortable ride. The XS650 is also a relatively affordable motorcycle, which makes it a good choice for riders who are new to motorcycling or who are not comfortable with heavy motorcycles.
The XS650 has a long and storied history. It was first introduced in 1978 and was produced until 1985. During that time, the XS650 became a popular choice for riders of all ages and experience levels. The XS650 was also used by police departments and other law enforcement agencies.
Today, the XS650 is still a popular choice for riders who are looking for a classic motorcycle that is fun to ride and easy to maintain. There are many aftermarket parts available for the XS650, which makes it easy to customize the motorcycle to your own taste.
If you are considering buying a Yamaha 1978 XS650, be sure to do your research and find a qualified mechanic to inspect the motorcycle before you buy it. With proper care and maintenance, the XS650 can provide many years of riding enjoyment.
The Yamaha 1978 XS650 is a timeless classic that is still enjoyed by riders today. Its combination of style, performance, and affordability make it a great choice for riders of all ages and experience levels.
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