What is the engine displacement of the 1981 Yamaha XS 750 Special?

The 1981 Yamaha XS 750 Special has an engine displacement of 747.00 ccm (45.58 cubic inches).

How much horsepower does the 1981 Yamaha XS 750 Special have?

The 1981 Yamaha XS 750 Special produces 69.00 HP (50.4 kW)) @ 8500 RPM of power.

What is the top speed of the 1981 Yamaha XS 750 Special?

The 1981 Yamaha XS 750 Special has a top speed of 175.0 km/h (108.7 mph).

1981 Yamaha XS 750 Special Price, Specs, Review

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Review

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The 1981 Yamaha XS 750 Special represents a significant chapter in Yamaha's motorcycle history, building on the success of its triple-cylinder lineage. This particular model year arrived as a refined iteration within the XS series, offering a compelling alternative in the burgeoning "Special" cruiser-style segment of the early 80s. It found itself competing directly with machines like the Honda CB750 Custom and the Kawasaki KZ750 LTD, aiming to capture riders seeking a blend of comfort and accessible power in a distinctive package.

At its heart, the XS 750 Special houses a robust 747.00 ccm (45.58 cubic inches) engine. This powerplant generates a respectable 69.00 HP (50.4 kW) at 8500 RPM, providing ample thrust for its category. This allows the motorcycle to achieve a top speed of 175.0 km/h (108.7 mph), making it capable of sustained highway cruising. With a fuel capacity of 19.00 litres (5.02 gallons), the XS 750 Special offers a decent range between fill-ups, a practical consideration for touring or longer rides. These specifications firmly place it within the Vintage category today, but they were competitive in its era.

Riding characteristics of the XS 750 Special lean towards comfort and ease of use, typical of the "Special" moniker. Its ergonomics featured a more relaxed, upright stance compared to sportier contemporaries, with handlebars positioned for a comfortable reach and footpegs offering a standard riding position. This setup was conducive to longer rides, reducing rider fatigue. While not a corner-carving machine, its handling was predictable and stable, providing confidence for riders of varying skill levels. The suspension, while not overly sophisticated, effectively soaked up road imperfections, contributing to a smooth ride quality.

The 1981 Yamaha XS 750 Special was primarily aimed at riders who appreciated a comfortable, reliable, and stylish motorcycle without the aggressive posture of a sportbike or the extreme low-slung nature of dedicated cruisers. It appealed to those seeking a versatile machine for weekend trips, commuting, and general enjoyment. Today, as a Vintage category motorcycle, it appeals to collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its classic styling, the unique sound of its triple engine, and the straightforward mechanics of an era gone by. It offers an authentic slice of 1980s motorcycling, providing a rewarding ownership experience for those who value heritage and a distinctive ride.

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Pros (Advantages)

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✅ Why buy this bike?

The Yamaha XS 750 Special 1981 has a unique and stylish design that stands out from other motorcycles of its era.
It features a smooth and powerful 750cc inline triple engine, providing excellent performance and a thrilling riding experience.
The bike has a comfortable riding position and a well-designed seat, making it suitable for long-distance rides.
The XS 750 Special 1981 is known for its reliable build quality and durability, requiring minimal maintenance for its time.
It offers a good balance of handling and stability, making it easy to maneuver through city streets or take on winding roads with confidence.

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Cons (Disadvantages)

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⚠️ Things to consider

The Yamaha XS 750 Special 1981 is known to have a complex and sometimes unreliable electrical system, which can lead to frequent issues and costly repairs.
The bike's weight distribution and handling characteristics can feel cumbersome and less agile compared to newer models, making it less suitable for aggressive riding styles.
The stock suspension on the XS 750 Special 1981 is often criticized for being too soft, resulting in a less than ideal ride quality and reduced cornering performance.
The fuel efficiency of the XS 750 Special 1981 is not the best, especially compared to modern motorcycles, which may lead to more frequent stops at the gas station during long rides.
Finding replacement parts for the Yamaha XS 750 Special 1981 can be challenging and expensive, as the bike is now considered a classic and some components may be hard to come by.

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Alternatives

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⚖️ Comparison & Competition

Honda CB750
The Honda CB750 is a classic inline-four motorcycle known for its reliability and smooth power delivery. It offers a comfortable riding position and is a popular choice for riders looking for a vintage style bike.
Kawasaki KZ1000
The Kawasaki KZ1000 is a powerful and iconic motorcycle that was popular in the 1980s. It features a large inline-four engine, offering plenty of power for highway cruising. The KZ1000 is known for its durability and performance.
Suzuki GS750
The Suzuki GS750 is a versatile and reliable motorcycle that offers a good balance of power and handling. It has a smooth inline-four engine and a comfortable riding position, making it a great choice for both commuting and longer rides.
BMW R65
The BMW R65 is a classic air-cooled boxer twin motorcycle known for its durability and unique design. It offers a smooth and torquey engine, along with excellent build quality and handling. The R65 is a great choice for riders looking for a vintage BMW experience.
Ducati 900SS
The Ducati 900SS is a sporty and stylish motorcycle known for its V-twin engine and agile handling. It offers a more aggressive riding position compared to the Yamaha XS 750 Special, making it a great choice for riders looking for a more performance-oriented bike with Italian flair