The Yamaha XS650 is probably the archtypical universal Japanese motorcycle. It was produced from 1969 to 1984 in several forms--standard and cruiser. XS650's remain popular today, and have generous support for parts and knowlege to keep them running. All in all, it is still a really good motorcycle that handles well, is comfortable, and if properly set up very reliable. Great bike for vintage rallies, and gets lots of attention. I have done some touring on this bike, including a ride from Atlanta, GA to Key West, FL. The bike never missed a beat. The biggest problem was fuel capacity, so I bought a repop tank kit from Mikes XS about 200 miles ago. New gel battery.
These are pics of my 79 XS650 SF that I picked up after being in a garage fire. The previous owner had done some mods on it, but many of the parts were damaged where they were being stored. I purchased the bike minus carbs/seat etc. It was a really low milage bike, but the bores were pitted so it is bored .010.
I had planned on making it into a street tracker, but was never really happy with how it looked. I rearranged the rear frame loop, and added a fender from a 250 Exciter. The front fender is off of a Maxim 750. The seat is a Hotglass tracker seat/fender combo. I have it mounted so it is easy to get off to access under seat components. I like the way it looks much better now. With the gas shortages, it has become daily transportation.
Frame: Remodeled rear frame loop, mounted Hotglass seat, bronze swingarm bushings. Givi mount modified as package rack/mount for top case.
Engine: .010 over pistons, VM34 Mikunis, Uni pod filters, Pamco ignition, Fwd cam chain guide, paper oil filter/cooler, new clutch disks/pusher, gaskets/seals.
Exhaust: Mikes XS Commando exhaust. Sounds great! Does not ground out like the Mac 2-1.
Suspension: Progressive 12 shocks 75-120 springs. Progressive fork springs, Shortened preload adjuster, Revalved damping. Fork brace. Fork oil level 6" from top with springs out.
Electrics: Rewired most of the bike. Removed the light checker etc. and about half of the wiring. Since the switches are all old, relays were wired in to do the actual switching for the main power and kill switch. This prevents voltage drops. Electronic voltage regulator, rewound rotor and stator, gel battery. Pamco electronic ignition. Kris Harley FX turn signals.
Body: New fuel tank from Mikes XS, new petcocks, new cap. Hotglass seat. Exciter rear fender/Maxim front fender.
Controls: Renthal aluminum handlebars. Handlebar end weights. Progrip grips. Motion Pro cables/levers.
Wheels: Stock mags converted to tubeless. Bridgestone Spitfire tires. Ferrodo brakes, braided brake lines. New chain/sprockets--17T x 33T,EK o-ring chain.
This bike has been an education in vintage bike mechanics. Just getting it to charge the battery was an ordeal. It is reliable now, but getting it there was a lot of work. It is a good thing that there are many parts and support for this bike. The XS650 garage has been an invaluable resource, and I have to thank all of those members who have helped me out.
