Cruisers

1997Yamaha XV 750 Virago

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The 1997 Yamaha XV 750 Virago is a lightweight cruiser ideal for beginner and intermediate riders seeking an accessible entry into cruiser-style motorcycling. Its air-cooled V-twin engine delivers manageable power with strong torque characteristics, while the low 220kg dry weight and shaft drive make it reliable and easy to handle. Best known for its affordable price point and classic cruiser styling, it remains a popular choice for customization enthusiasts.

Capacity: 748.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 220.0 kg
Seat height: 715 mm
Power: 54.0 HP (39.7 kW) @ 7000 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

What’s new for the 1997 Yamaha XV 750 Virago

vs the 1996

Spec	1996	1997
Power	55.0 HP (41.0 kW)	54.0 HP (39.7 kW) @ 7000 RPM
Torque	58.0 Nm (5.9 kgf-m or 42.8 ft.lbs) @ 5875 RPM	58.0 Nm (5.9 kgf-m or 42.8 ft.lbs) @ 6000 RPM
Front brakes	Dual disc	Single disc

Other years 1985 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering40%

City riding55%

Daily riding60%

Touring45%

Two-up45%

Track10%

Best for: Built for laid-back boulevard cruising and short-to-medium rides rather than speed or long-distance touring.
Built for: A classic air-cooled V-twin cruiser with modest power, shaft drive smoothness, and an unhurried, torquey feel that rewards relaxed throttle inputs over aggressive riding.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking high top speed, sharp cornering performance, or serious 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 715mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1997 Yamaha XV 750 Virago, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 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: 748.0 ccm
Power: 54.0 HP (39.7 kW) @ 7000 RPM
Torque: 58.0 Nm (5.9 kgf-m) @ 6000 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2455 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 83.0 x 69.2 mm
Compression: 8.7:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric
Ignition: Transistorized breakerless ignition system
Valves per cylinder: 2
Lubrication system: Wet sump

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Shaft
Clutch: Wet Multi Plate, Cable Operated

Performance

Top speed: 175.0 km/h (108.7 mph)

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1520 mm
Overall length: 2230 mm
Overall width: 805 mm
Overall height: 1160 mm
Seat height: 715 mm
Dry weight: 220.0 kg
Wet weight: 238.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 14.50 litres
Ground clearance: 145 mm

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Pressed steel, backbone frame
Front suspension: Coil spring, hydraulically-damped telesopic
Rear suspension: Twin shock absorbers with concentric coil springs
Rear wheel travel: 223 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes: Expanding brake
Rear brakes diameter: 200 mm
Front tyre: 100/90-19 57H

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	1985	1990	1992	1995	1997
Capacity	748 cc	748 cc	748 cc	748 cc	748 cc
Dry weight	225 kg	225 kg	225 kg	219 kg	220 kg
Seat height	710 mm	710 mm	710 mm	715 mm	715 mm
Fuel capacity	12 L	12 L	12 L	14.5 L	14.5 L