Cruisers

1996Yamaha XV750 Virago

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The 1996 Yamaha XV 750 Virago is a lightweight cruiser ideal for riders seeking an accessible, manageable machine. Its air-cooled V-twin engine delivers predictable performance with strong low-end torque, while the 220kg dry weight ensures easy handling. Best known for reliability and affordability, it remains popular among custom builders and beginner cruiser enthusiasts.

Capacity: 748.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 220.0 kg
Seat height: 715 mm
Power: 55.0 HP (41.0 kW) @ 7000 RPM

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What’s new for the 1996 Yamaha XV750 Virago

vs the 1995

Spec	1995	1996
Power	54.0 HP (41.0 kW) @ 7000 RPM	55.0 HP (41.0 kW) @ 7000 RPM

Other years 1983 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 1996 Yamaha XV750 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: 55.0 HP (41.0 kW) @ 7000 RPM
Torque: 58.0 Nm (5.9 kgf-m) @ 5875 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2500 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: 174.4 km/h (108.4 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: Dual disc
Rear brakes: Expanding brake
Rear brakes diameter: 200 mm
Front tyre: 100/90-19 57H

Specs last verified against published sources: October 2026.

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	1983	1989	1992	1994	1996	1997
Capacity	748 cc	748 cc	748 cc	748 cc	748 cc	748 cc
Dry weight	225 kg	225 kg	225 kg	219 kg	220 kg	220 kg
Seat height	710 mm	710 mm	710 mm	715 mm	715 mm	715 mm
Fuel capacity	12 L	12 L	12 L	14.5 L	14.5 L	14.5 L