🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Yamaha

Model:

XS650E / XS650SE

Year:

1978

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, four-stroke, parallel-twin

Engine Displacement:

653 cc

Engine Bore X Stroke:

75.0 mm x 74.0 mm

Engine Compression Ratio:

8.4:1

Engine Valves Per Cylinder:

2 (OHV)

Engine Power Output:

Approx. 50 HP @ 6,000 RPM (Manufacturer Claim)

Engine Torque Output:

Approx. 58 Nm @ 4,500 RPM (Manufacturer Claim)

Engine Cooling System:

Air-cooled

Engine Ignition System:

CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)

Engine Starting System:

Electric Starter & Kick Starter

Model Generation:

Second Generation (pre-1979 models often referred to as 'E' variants)

Vin Code Digit Year:

1978: '2'

👋 Introduction

Segment Positioning:

Mid-size to large displacement classic motorcycle, known for its torquey parallel-twin engine and robust build quality. Competed in a market segment with models from Triumph, Norton, Kawasaki, and Honda.

Key Competitors Era:

Triumph Bonneville T140, Norton Commando, Kawasaki KZ650, Honda CB750 (though slightly larger displacement)

Engine Design Highlight:

The 653cc parallel-twin with a 277° crankpin offset provided a distinctive, characterful sound and strong low-to-mid-range torque, differentiating it from many contemporary Japanese motorcycles with higher-revving inline-fours.

Model Variant Distinction:

XS650E and XS650SE variants typically denote minor styling or component updates for the 1978 model year, with the core mechanicals remaining largely consistent. SE models often featured slightly different styling or options.

Manual Benefit To Owner:

Essential for owners seeking to perform their own maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs, or to ensure outsourced work is done correctly. Provides technical depth missing in owner's manuals.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Scope:

Complete repair and overhaul for Yamaha XS650E and XS650SE models

Page Count:

212

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English (Assumed, based on common industry practice for US market manuals)

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed breakdown, assembly, inspection, and repair of the parallel-twin engine (cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, lubrication system, etc.)

Fuel System:

Carburetor service (Mikuni VM34), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump (if applicable)

Ignition System:

CDI system diagnostics, coil testing, wiring diagrams

Transmission Drivetrain:

Gearbox disassembly and assembly, clutch service, chain drive maintenance

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, lighting system, charging system (alternator, regulator), battery maintenance, starter motor

Brakes:

Front disc brake system service (caliper, master cylinder, rotor), rear drum brake service

Suspension:

Front fork overhaul (oil change, seal replacement), rear shock absorber inspection and replacement

Steering:

Handlebar, steering head bearings inspection and adjustment

Wheels Tires:

Wheel bearing maintenance, tire inspection and replacement guidance

Exhaust System:

Muffler and pipe inspection and replacement

Frame Chassis:

Frame inspection and basic maintenance

Bodywork Cosmetics:

Fender, fuel tank, seat, and other body panel removal/installation guidance

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug service, chain adjustment, lubrication points

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common issues (starting problems, poor running, electrical faults)

Engine Rebuild:

Complete engine disassembly, inspection, measurement, and reassembly procedures

Carburetor Tuning:

Jetting information, idle speed adjustment, synchronization (if applicable)

Electrical Diagnostics:

Testing of stator, rectifier, CDI unit, and wiring continuity

Brake System Overhaul:

Bleeding procedure, caliper piston removal/cleaning, master cylinder seal replacement

Suspension Fork Rebuild:

Fork oil level and type specification, seal replacement steps

Wheel Bearing Service:

Bearing repacking and replacement instructions

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive; suitable for experienced mechanics and dedicated enthusiasts. Covers detailed internal component specifications and repair methods.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

Digital PDF, typically high resolution allowing for clear printing of diagrams and text. Quality dependent on original scan or source.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download - PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download - PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Layout:

Parallel-twin

Engine Stroke Configuration:

4-stroke

Engine Valvetrain:

Overhead Valve (OHV) with pushrods and rocker arms

Engine Crankshaft Design:

277° crankpin offset for a distinctive firing order and sound

Engine Lubrication System:

Wet sump

Power Delivery Characteristics:

Strong mid-range torque, offering flexible cruising and acceleration

Carburetor Type:

Dual Mikuni VM34SC (Slide-valve, constant velocity type)

Fuel Delivery:

Gravity feed from fuel tank to carburetors

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded gasoline (Minimum Octane Rating: 91 RON / 87 AKI) - check original manual for specifics.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed constant mesh

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate

Final Drive:

Chain drive

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios are detailed within the manual, crucial for understanding performance characteristics and diagnostic procedures.

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length:

Approx. 2,235 mm (88.0 in)

Overall Width:

Approx. 840 mm (33.1 in)

Overall Height:

Approx. 1,145 mm (45.1 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1,485 mm (58.5 in)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 207 kg (456 lbs)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

17 Liters (4.5 US gal)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

N/A (Motorcycle safety is primarily assessed through design, handling, and braking capabilities, not standardized crash test ratings like automobiles.)

Braking System:

Front: Single Disc Brake with 2-piston caliper; Rear: Drum Brake.

Lighting:

Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

N/A (Classic motorcycle, no electronic infotainment systems)

Rider Assistance:

N/A (No electronic rider aids such as ABS or traction control)

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No electronic connectivity features)

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 km (2,000 miles) or 6 months. (Refer to manual for precise recommendation)

Oil Filter Replacement:

Replace with engine oil change. (Internal oil filter screen, not a disposable cartridge for most models)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Inspect every 3,000 km (2,000 miles), replace as needed. (Specific spark plug types will be listed in the manual)

Valve Clearance Check:

Every 6,000 km (4,000 miles) or annually. (Specific clearance values in manual)

Chain Lubrication Adjustment:

Lubricate every 1,000 km (600 miles) and adjust slack as needed. Check manual for specific slack measurement.

Engine Oil Type:

Yamalube 20W-40 or equivalent API SE Service Classification. (Check manual for exact specification)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 2.4 Liters (2.5 US qt) with filter change. (Refer to manual for precise capacity)

Fork Oil Type:

Yamaha Fork Oil 10W or equivalent. (Manual specifies grade and quantity)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (if specified, check manual)

Common Xs650 Issues:

Tachometer drive seal leaks, charging system rectifier failure (early models), occasional cam chain rattle, carburetor synchronization drift, general wear and tear on aging components.

📚 Vehicle History

Yamaha Motor History:

Yamaha Motor Company, established in 1955, has a rich history in motorcycle manufacturing, building on its origins in musical instruments. Known for innovation and performance across various motorcycle segments.

Xs650 Lineage:

The XS650 series was Yamaha's first major foray into the larger displacement motorcycle market, directly challenging established British and American manufacturers. It was produced with minimal significant changes from 1970 to 1983, making it a long-lived and influential model.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

Production Span Model:

1970-1983 (with model year variations like E/SE for 1978)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Industry Recognition:

The Yamaha XS650 is widely regarded as a landmark motorcycle for its reliability and performance, becoming a favorite for customization (especially as a 'chopper' or 'bobber' platform) and a staple in the classic motorcycle community.

Motorcycle Journal Reviews:

Contemporary reviews often praised its smooth engine characteristics, solid handling for the era, and electric start convenience, distinguishing it from many air-cooled twins of British origin.