Touring Motorcycles
1981Yamaha XS 850
19 fields on record
The 1981 Yamaha XS 850 is a mid-sized touring bike that appeals to riders seeking comfortable, reliable mid-range performance. Its smooth inline-three engine and shaft drive provide dependable, low-maintenance cruising, while the 5-speed gearbox and manageable 258kg weight make it accessible to a broad audience. Best known for balanced handling and everyday versatility.
- Capacity
- 826.0 ccm
- Engine
- In-line three-cylinder
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Wet weight
- 258.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 79.0 HP (58.1 kW) @ 8500 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- A classic Japanese custom/cruiser built for relaxed shaft-driven cruising and boulevard riding rather than outright performance.
- Built for
- The smooth in-line triple and shaft drive give it a refined, torquey character with a distinctive exhaust note typical of early 80s Yamaha triples.
- Not ideal for
- Not a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or modern sportbike-level acceleration.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 826.0 ccm
- Power
- 79.0 HP (58.1 kW) @ 8500 RPM
- Engine type
- In-line three-cylinder
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.3062 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 71.5 x 68.6 mm
- Compression
- 9.2:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Shaft
Performance
- Top speed
- 196.0 km/h (121.8 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Dual disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Front tyre
- 3.25-19
- Rear tyre
- 4.00-18
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 1980 | 1981 | 1982 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 826 cc | 826 cc | 826 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 24 L | 24 L | 24 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Yamaha XS 850?
The 1981 Yamaha XS 850 has a Capacity of 826.0 ccm (50.41 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Yamaha XS 850 have?
The 1981 Yamaha XS 850 has a Power of 79.0 HP (58.1 kW) @ 8500 RPM.
How many gears does the Yamaha XS 850 have?
The 1981 Yamaha XS 850 has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the Yamaha XS 850 weigh?
The 1981 Yamaha XS 850 has a Wet weight of 258.0 kg (568.8 pounds).
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