Yamaha XJ 650 Maxim - 1980 Specifications and Reviews
The 1980 Yamaha XJ 650 Maxim is an accessible middleweight cruiser that appeals to riders seeking reliable, manageable performance without excessive power. Known for its smooth inline-four engine and shaft drive practicality, it excels as a comfortable, low-maintenance bike for everyday riding and long-distance touring.
1980
General information | |
| Category | Custom / cruiser |
| Year | 1980 |
| Model | Yamaha XJ 650 Maxim |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Exhaust system | Dual stainless steel |
| Clutch | Wet plate |
| Transmission type,final drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Air |
| Lubrication system | Wet sump |
| Ignition | Transistorized |
| Fuel control | DOHC |
| Fuel system | Carburettor. YICS, Mikuni CV |
| Valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Engine type | In-line four, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 650.00 ccm (39.66 cubic inches) |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Rear brakes | Expanding brake (drum brake). Mechanical actuator |
| Front brakes | Single disc. Hydraulic single-piston |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 130/90-16 |
| Front tyre dimensions | -19 |
| Frame type | Steel tubing |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 226.8 kg (500.0 pounds) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Modifications compared to previous model | First year of XJ and YICS powerplant. |
| Color options | Black |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
5.8s
0-60 mph (est.)
Best For
Track15%
City55%
Cornering40%
Daily Riding60%
Touring50%
Passenger55%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Suits riders with at least some prior motorcycle experience who want a classic Japanese four-cylinder cruiser rather than a beginner-only machine. |
| Purpose | Built as a laid-back custom-styled cruiser for relaxed street riding rather than outright performance or off-road use. |
| Rider Fit | A mid-weight machine around 227 kg that demands moderate strength at low speed and stops but feels stable and manageable once moving. |
| Character | A smooth, torquey air-cooled inline-four with shaft drive that delivers a classic early-1980s Japanese cruiser feel with dependable, unhurried performance. |
| Not Ideal For | Not the right choice for riders seeking sharp modern handling, sport-bike acceleration, or any serious off-road capability. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
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