1997Yamaha XVS 650 Drag Star

20 fields on record

The 1997 Yamaha XVS 650 Drag Star is an approachable cruiser designed for riders seeking classic styling without overwhelming power. Its 649cc V-twin engine delivers manageable torque, comfortable seat height, and lightweight handling, making it ideal for new and intermediate riders. The Drag Star is renowned for combining affordable, reliable performance with authentic custom cruiser aesthetics.

Capacity: 649.0 ccm
Engine: V -Twin twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 214.0 kg
Seat height: 695 mm
Power: 40.0 HP

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

Other years 1997 1998 1999 2001 2002 2003

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering40%

City riding65%

Daily riding65%

Touring45%

Two-up45%

Track10%

Best for: Built as a classic-styled cruiser for relaxed, low-revving V-twin riding rather than outright performance.
Built for: A laid-back, torque-focused cruiser that delivers a traditional V-twin feel with easygoing, unintimidating power delivery.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering performance, high-speed touring, or any off-road capability.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 695mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1997 Yamaha XVS 650 Drag Star, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 649.0 ccm
Power: 40.0 HP
Torque: 50.0 Nm (5.1 kgf-m)
Engine type: V -Twin twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.1869 HP/kg
Bore x stroke: 81.0 x 63.0 mm
Compression: 9.0:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 2

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Shaft
Clutch: Wet, multiple disc

Performance

Top speed: 155.0 km/h (96.3 mph)

Dimensions & weight

Seat height: 695 mm
Dry weight: 214.0 kg

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc

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	1997	1998	2001	2002	2003
Capacity	649.00 ccm (39.60 cubic inches)	649.00 ccm (39.60 cubic inches)	649.00 ccm (39.60 cubic inches)	649.00 ccm (39.60 cubic inches)	649.00 ccm (39.60 cubic inches)
Dry weight	214.0 kg (471.8 pounds)	214.0 kg (471.8 pounds)	214.0 kg (471.8 pounds)	215.0 kg (474.0 pounds)	214.0 kg (471.8 pounds)
Seat height	695 mm (27.4 inches)	695 mm (27.4 inches)	695 mm (27.4 inches)	695 mm (27.4 inches)	695 mm (27.4 inches)
Fuel capacity	—	—	16.00 litres (4.23 gallons)	—	16.00 litres (4.23 gallons)
Color options	—	—	—	—	Silver Metallic, Black