Cruisers
1988Yamaha XV 1000 Virago
22 fields on record
The 1988 Yamaha XV 1000 Virago is a cruiser motorcycle powered by a 981cc V-twin engine producing 64 horsepower, ideal for riders seeking classic styling with accessible performance. Known for its low-slung design, shaft drive reliability, and manageable handling, it appeals to cruiser enthusiasts and middleweight riders. The air-cooled engine and 5-speed gearbox deliver smooth, predictable power suitable for highway cruising and casual riding.
- Capacity
- 981.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Wet weight
- 235.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 64.0 HP (47.1 kW) @ 6500 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for laid-back boulevard cruising and shaft-driven low-maintenance commuting rather than speed or sport riding.
- Built for
- A classic air-cooled V-twin cruiser with laid-back power delivery, straightforward mechanicals, and shaft-drive simplicity that rewards a smooth, unhurried riding style.
- Not ideal for
- Not for riders seeking sharp cornering ability, high top speed, or any genuine off-road capability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 981.0 ccm
- Power
- 64.0 HP (47.1 kW) @ 6500 RPM
- Engine type
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2723 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 95.0 x 69.2 mm
- Compression
- 8.3:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Fuel system
- Carburettor
- Starting
- Electric
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Shaft
- Clutch
- life on a plate
Performance
- Top speed
- 171.0 km/h (106.3 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Dual disc
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake
- Front tyre
- 100/90-19
- Rear tyre
- 140/90-15
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 | 1986 | 1987 | 1988 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 981 cc | 981 cc | 981 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 14.5 L | 14.5 L | 14.5 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 XV 1000 Virago?
The 1988 Yamaha XV 1000 Virago has a Capacity of 981.0 ccm (59.86 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Yamaha XV 1000 Virago have?
The 1988 Yamaha XV 1000 Virago has a Power of 64.0 HP (47.1 kW) @ 6500 RPM.
How many gears does the Yamaha XV 1000 Virago have?
The 1988 Yamaha XV 1000 Virago has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the Yamaha XV 1000 Virago weigh?
The 1988 Yamaha XV 1000 Virago has a Wet weight of 235.0 kg (518.1 pounds).
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