Description
Click here for an VINData Motorcycle History Report on this 1983 Yamaha XJ650 Seca Turbo. Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
The Yamaha XJ650 Turbo was one of the quintessential examples of the 1980s Japanese movement to bring turbochargers to motorcycles. Right after Honda brought out the CX Turbo, Yamaha brought out a turbocharged variant of their 650 Seca, and it took 80s styling to a whole new level.
Interestingly enough, the engine only put exhaust through one of the dual pipes – the other pipe was designed only to exhaust overboost coming from the turbocharger.
The Turbo ended up being more successful on paper than in reality, and it didn’t last very long in the market. On the flip side, it’s become an interesting piece of Yamaha’s history that makes for a great collectible. As Cycle magazine put it, “As they now exist, turbocharged bikes are rolling platforms for expressing new, advanced ideas. The name Turbo immediately lends validity to other new ideas (such as a truly functional seating position) that might otherwise have been overlooked by an image-conscious public. We welcome these new Turbo bikes for the functional advantages they bring to sport bikes. We remain less than enthusiastic about turbocharging for the sake of increased engine performance.”
Manufactured May 1982, this example is VIN: JYA16G005DA101042. The seller inherited the bike two years ago and has decided to let it go to a new home.
The odometer shows 11,960 miles.
Maintenance:
The seller states, “Serviced the spark plugs, oil change, rebuilt carburetor, replaced the float bowl gaskets, and detailed the bike.”
Modifications:
According to the seller the bike is stock.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Continental Conti Blitz and Bridgestone tires that have aged out.
The sale includes one key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Tracy, California, this Yamaha is offered on a clean California title with current registration through June 2025. Have any XJ650 Seca Turbo stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
