Description:
        
        
            The Yamaha XS650 series, particularly the Special models, were popular Japanese custom-style motorcycles of their era, known for their torquey parallel-twin engines and classic styling, appealing to riders seeking a more relaxed cruising experience or a platform for customization.
        
     
    
    
        
            Competitors:
        
        
            Competed with other Japanese cruisers and standard motorcycles of the late 70s and early 80s, as well as American V-twin offerings. Its parallel-twin configuration offered a distinct character compared to the V-twins.
        
     
    
    
        
            Features:
        
        
            Iconic parallel-twin engine, distinctive styling, robust construction, and a strong aftermarket support base contributing to its custom potential.
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Engine:
        
        
            Complete engine assembly, disassembly, tuning, and troubleshooting
        
     
    
        
            Fuel System:
        
        
            Carburetor adjustment, cleaning, and repair; fuel tank, lines, and petcock service
        
     
    
        
            Ignition System:
        
        
            Ignition timing, coil testing, spark plug service, and points adjustment
        
     
    
        
            Transmission Drivetrain:
        
        
            Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly and assembly, final drive maintenance
        
     
    
        
            Electrical System:
        
        
            Wiring diagrams, lighting system, battery charging, starter motor, and instrument panel service
        
     
    
        
            Brakes:
        
        
            Front and rear brake system maintenance, adjustment, and component replacement
        
     
    
        
            Suspension Steering:
        
        
            Front fork service, rear shock absorber maintenance, steering head bearing adjustment
        
     
    
        
            Wheels Tires:
        
        
            Wheel bearing maintenance, tire replacement, and spoke tensioning
        
     
    
        
            Frame Bodywork:
        
        
            Frame inspection, seat and tank removal/installation, minor bodywork adjustments
        
     
    
    
        
            Routine Maintenance:
        
        
            Oil changes, filter replacement, lubrication points, chain adjustment
        
     
    
        
            Troubleshooting:
        
        
            Diagnostic charts for common problems and their solutions
        
     
    
        
            Component Overhaul:
        
        
            Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components like the engine and transmission
        
     
    
        
            Adjustments:
        
        
            Carburetor synchronization, ignition timing, clutch cable, brake levers
        
     
    
        
            Torque Specifications:
        
        
            Essential torque values for critical fasteners
        
     
    
    
        
            Depth:
        
        
            Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and advanced diagnostics
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Engine Type:
        
        
            Air-cooled, four-stroke, SOHC, parallel-twin
        
     
    
        
            Displacement:
        
        
            653 cc (39.8 cu in)
        
     
    
        
            Bore X Stroke:
        
        
            75 mm x 74 mm (2.95 in x 2.91 in)
        
     
    
    
        
            Valve Arrangement:
        
        
            SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
        
     
    
    
        
            Horsepower Approx:
        
        
            53 hp @ 6,500 rpm (est.)
        
     
    
        
            Torque Approx:
        
        
            52 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm (est.)
        
     
    
    
        
            Carburetor Type:
        
        
            Dual Mikuni VM34SS
        
     
    
        
            Fuel Capacity:
        
        
            13.0 L (3.4 US gal)
        
     
    
    
        
            Ignition Type:
        
        
            CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) with dual spark plugs per cylinder
        
     
    
    
        
            Oil Capacity With Filter:
        
        
            Approx. 2.5 L (2.6 US qt)
        
     
    
        
            Recommended Oil Viscosity:
        
        
            10W-40 or 20W-50 (refer to manual for specific climate recommendations)
        
     
    
    
        
            Engine Mounting:
        
        
            Rubber-mounted for vibration isolation
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Safety Ratings:
        
        
            Not applicable in modern automotive crash test rating systems
        
     
    
    
        
            Brakes Front:
        
        
            Single Disc Brake
        
     
    
    
    
        
            Lighting:
        
        
            Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals
        
     
    
        
            Instrumentation:
        
        
            Speedometer, tachometer, neutral indicator, high beam indicator, turn signal indicators
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Infotainment System:
        
        
            N/A (Analog instrumentation)
        
     
    
    
        
            Driver Assistance Features:
        
        
            N/A
        
     
    
    
        
            Connectivity Options:
        
        
            N/A
        
     
    
    
        
            Engine Management System:
        
        
            Mechanical carburetor and CDI ignition, requiring manual tuning and adjustment.
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Oil Change Interval:
        
        
            Every 3,000 km (1,800 miles) or 6 months (refer to manual for precise recommendations)
        
     
    
        
            Air Filter Cleaning:
        
        
            As needed, or every 6,000 km (3,600 miles)
        
     
    
        
            Spark Plug Replacement:
        
        
            Every 12,000 km (7,200 miles) or as per inspection
        
     
    
        
            Valve Clearance Check:
        
        
            Every 6,000 km (3,600 miles)
        
     
    
        
            Clutch Adjustment:
        
        
            As needed
        
     
    
        
            Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
        
        
            Every 1,000 km (600 miles) or after washing/rain
        
     
    
    
        
            Engine Oil Type:
        
        
            API SE, SF or SG classified, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 motorcycle oil
        
     
    
        
            Brake Fluid Type:
        
        
            DOT 3 or DOT 4 (for disc brake system)
        
     
    
    
        
            Common Wear Items:
        
        
            Cam chain wear, output shaft seal leaks, carburetors requiring synchronization, charging system components (rectifier/regulator), and valve guide wear over high mileage.
        
     
    
        
            Typical Repairs:
        
        
            Piston ring replacement, top-end rebuilds, clutch adjustments and replacements, carburetor rebuilds.
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Yamaha Motorcycles:
        
        
            Yamaha Motor Corporation, founded in 1955, has a rich history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for innovation, performance, and reliability across various disciplines.
        
     
    
    
        
            Xs650 Lineage:
        
        
            The XS650 series was introduced in 1970 and was a significant model for Yamaha, evolving through various iterations and special editions. The 1981 models represent a mature stage of this popular platform.
        
     
    
    
        
            Production Period:
        
        
            1970-1983 for the XS650 line
        
     
    
        
            Manufacturing Location:
        
        
            Japan