1983 Yamaha XJ650 Maxim
Summary:
Great for Philippines road conditions and trips
Faults:
Only problem encountered is a bad coil. Luckily I found a used set here in PI, and now she is back to her old performance.
The seat was modified and split into two, similar to the Venture, and it is a delight to ride.
It's perfect for the road conditions here in PI. It might be a bad choice in the states where I had my Harley, but here it is excellent.
General Comments:
I got the 650 Special, which is the japanese model of the XJ650, and it has been a fabulous experience to ride a retro bike.
I just changed and rebuilt the carbs with a dynajet set, and opened the pipes. I tested it on a dynamo and it clocked 85hp.
I had Harleys, Suzuki's, and owned a CB 750 plus a Chinese bike known as Skygo 250cc, modified with a Harley style side car, which is perfect for taking the whole family on bike trips, but my 650 is my preferred bike.
Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 26th July, 2006
8th Dec 2011, 10:48
Because Japanese LAW restricts bikes to 180kph. You just need to have a Japanese spec BIKE de-restricted, and it will go faster than 180kph.
28th May 2008, 14:34
Why has the XJ650 Special (Japanese) got a silly 180kph speedo if it is so powerful and fun to ride?