1980 YAMAHA reviews

Years ahead if it's time, plenty of power, and good riding position, and almost bulletproof, if you can find a clean example, grab it.... Show less

The bike was bought new in 1980 by my father who then sold it to me in 1989. Other than tires, exhaust and brakes the bike has needed nothing.It still looks great and runs as strong as the day it came home. I only wish tires were easier to find for it. But I am encouraged by the recent move towards "retro" style bikes from more than one of the bike companies. I guess it makes my bike a living "retro". Show less

The look of my XJ 650 is cruiser but the heart of this bike is all sport. I don't have a lot of road bike experience ( 5 years, 40,000 kms) but most people that ride with me are impressed at the amount of get-up and go this little 650 has. Head bearings seem to be a common problem on these bikes. (I've rebuilt two xj650's and both needed new bearings) If the carbs aren't drained in the off season they do gum up. Show less