Faults:

I have replaced the fuse box unit, the front shocks, and I have replaced both the front and rear tires.

General Comments:

This was my first and only motorcycle. I have owned it since 1984 and have not ridden it a lot. It has plenty of power and seems to start every year without hesitation. I like it for its low center of gravity and its ease of handling, not to mention the gas mileage.

Faults:

Oil blowing out of the crankcase.

General Comments:

Runs great, but oil blows into the breather.

Faults:

The Yamaha XJ series are generally very reliable (thanks in part to shaft drive and electronic ignition, as well as an excellent engine design).

Many of these are still rolling happily at 25+ years, long after lesser bikes have bit the dust. Common problems: corrosion in the fuse block (replace it with in-line fuses); corrosion in electrical connectors; weak coils (replace with Dynas). If the bike has been stored a while, disassembling and cleaning the carbs may be necessary, or at least a few good shots of SeaFoam.

General Comments:

There is an active owners' listserv, xj-owners, at micapeak.com of riders who fix their own and are very supportive, trading parts and advice, and even producing an inexpensive CD/DVD set full of technical info and tips.

I highly recommend these bikes for inexpensive touring and commuting, and they're still fast enough to blow off most Harleys and sports cars!

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.