Built between 1970 and 1983, the XS650 had a production run of approximately half a million. When released, it was Yamaha’s biggest production bike and it was advanced for the time with unit construction for the engine and transmission, as well as a horizontally-split crankcase. It aped the styling of classic British twins but these Yammies developed a solid reputation for reliability.
The model got several upgrades over its 13 year production run – 1972 was a notable year as that’s when the XS gained an electric start and disc brakes. This Motorcycle Classic story suggests that 1977 was the best year of them all: Five years later, after adjustments to the frame, engine components, exhaust system, carburetor and suspension, Yamaha created what some collectors consider the masterpiece of the line. “The ’77 has some mysterious quality about it where it seemed like everything came together,” says Don Lawson, former director of the Yamaha 650 Society. “It was fast, powerful, smooth, reliable, a lot of fun. I had four of them at one time.”
This example is VIN: 4N9014691. The seller purchased this example new from a Yamaha dealership in San Jose, California back in 1981.
The odometer shows 16,444 miles. The seller accounts for all miles.
Maintenance:
Per the seller: “ Brand new: tires, all seals, shocks, chain & sprockets and battery. Lower cases & transmission all cleaned internally. All systems tested and functioning perfectly. Tank and carbs/jetting completely cleaned to new condition.”
Modifications:
The seller states this example is completely stock.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Kenda 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 San Jose, California, this Yamaha is offered on a clean California title. Have any XS650 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
Continental US: Iconic has several private shipping partners that criss-cross the country for us. Please email transport@iconicmotorbikes.com or fill out the form at the bottom of this page to request a quote.
Haul Bikes will ship anything sold through Iconic for a starting rate of $750 in the Continental US (prices may increase in rural markets), and Iconic will handle the paperwork on your behalf.
Please note:
spares/extras will have to be shipped separately via FedEx or similar.
the fee includes $15,000 of insurance with a $500 deductible. Additional insurance can be purchased at a cost of $50 per additional $5,000 of value.
California/Nevada/Arizona We are located in Santa Monica, California 90405. On a case-by-case basis, we can transport motorcycles in our van. Please email transport@iconicmotorbikes.com or fill out the form at the bottom of this page to request a quote.
$5,000 for US to Europe/Asia is a VERY ROUGH ballpark which includes transport as well as customs fees and duties. Please contact Shippio for an exact quote.