1981 Yamaha XV750H Cruiser reviews

My bike is actually an '82, but close enough. My riding is about 75 percent freeway speeds (70-75mph), rest backcountry roads. The bike is perfectly happy 'till you hit around 65 mph. From then on it can be challenging to keep a straight line while being blown around by the surrounding autos. The windshield I installed might amplify this, but the vibration felt at 70mph is also noticeable. Great for in-town riding though. Mine came with "drag pipes" installed (used bike) and for all the world sounds like an 883 Sportster. Cheap fun, but wish it was more stable. Show less

This bike is approaching 20 years old. The only problem I've had in over 20k is a blown Head gasket which did not leave me stranded, just decreased preformance a bit. It has been a pleasure to work on, simple and straight forword to the end. The bike rides very well through town, and always has enough "pep" to get you moving in a hurry (which is what biking is about isn't it?) At normal highway speeds it is comfortable, however when you bury the speedo (85) the ride gets a bit rough. I would highly recomend anyone this bike for reliablity and ease of use, even at 20+ years old it still looks and runs like a dream. Show less

Being the first air-cooled V-twin should guarantee it a place in the history books by itself. But that's not the only reason to like this bike. I bought mine with only 13k miles on the clock and have put 15,000 more in the last 2 years. It's reliable, good looking, and comfortable to ride around town. After having a Russell Day long saddle built for it, and installing a Ventura cargro rack for extra supplies, you can cruise 450 miles to Disneyland in one day, like I did, and not have a problem. Of course, the 115 - 125 mile tank range (before reserve) is a bit small, but it gives you a reason for a break. In clean, & shiny condition, people still look. It's a bit cold blooded due in part to the EPA regulations in force at the time, but once warmed up, pulls acceptably hard in all gears. And it's very simple to maintain. I hope to keep mine for many more reliable years. Show less

Has good power through the mid range level. Will vibrate your teeth loose over 75mph. Low fuel range (120 miles) but your ready for a break about then. Not hard to drag the pegs if you get carried away on the twisties. Show less