Description
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
While the theme of the late 70s was outright power, the 80s saw OEMs looking to show off their visions off the future of motorcycling. Yamaha’s vision was the XZ550…also known as the Vision!
In addition to a futuristic design, the XZ was equipped with an over square (bore bigger than stroke) longitudinally mounted V-twin engine that attracted the eyes. The pretty interesting 552cc engine was fed by two Mikuni downdraft carburetors, which meant that the airbox was above the carbs, as opposed to “sidedraft” carburetors that had the airbox on the side. This technology inspired by the automotive industry necessitated to dig into the bottom part of the tank to fit the airbox. This notably increased the dimensions of the tank, though it “only” held 4.5 gallon. The XZ was also one of the first Japanese bikes (with the CX500 for example) to get liquid cooling. The very promising bike really had some decent tools and decent specs, but the Vision earned itself a bad reputation thanks to a fuel delivery issue with the carbs, starters that would loosen themselves or get filled with oil (or both), and electrical issues with the stator and regulator/rectifier, among other things. Despite some improvements for the 1983 model, the bike’s production was stopped and forgotten soon after.
Manufactured in February of 1982, this example is VIN: 11J001495. The seller purchased this example six months ago from a private party.
The odometer shows 7,746 kilometers (4,813 miles). The seller has put 310 miles on this example.
Maintenance:
The seller states they have performed the following services:
Replaced fork seals.
Sonic-cleaned the carburetors.
Replaced front brake pads.
Replaced the thermostat and flushed the coolant.
Replaced the spark plugs.
The seller has provided documentation for various services they have performed on this example.
Modifications:
Yamaha-branded crash bars.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Avon RoadRider tires with date codes of 2322 and 2422.
The sale includes three keys.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Ontario, Canada, this Yamaha is offered on a clean Canada title. Have any 550 Vision stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
