1984 Yamaha XVZ1300D Venture Royale from Canada
Summary:
Very powerful touring bike
Faults:
The only defective item on this bike has been 2nd gear.
It has deteriorated to the point where it can no longer tolerate heavy acceleration in second gear, without popping into neutral.
The clutch had to be replaced at about 85,000 Km. At the point before replacement, it would slip slightly under hard acceleration in 4th and 5th gear.
General Comments:
Hands down the most comfortable bike I've ever ridden. After a full day's ride, I can get off and feel like I've only been riding for an hour.
Huge amount of power for a bike this size (754 lbs.).
Slow speed handling is second to none for a bike this size, but you better have both feet well planted when it's standing still. Very top heavy. When it's moving, you don't even notice the weight.
The styling is very sleek and unique. I would never have considered this bike before I took one for a test ride. Now I wouldn't ride anything else (and I've ridden a lot of bikes).
Lots of luggage space. Great touring bike.
Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 21st May, 2008
5th Aug 2012, 13:11
Interesting similarity.
I also upgraded from a Honda CB900C to a 1986 Venture (not Royal, but on the way to becoming close, after original radio is installed, Project #1).
I have similar observation regarding slow speed handling, or exactly "legging" while standing: 2 feet on the ground!
I was also looking for other than a Venture bike until this one came up (reasonable advertised asking price can make wonders).
I'm happy so far.
I'll wait with posting my own comments until more miles are acquired. It is at approx. 800 miles now.
I keep a very detailed log of expenses and fuel mileage (for tax reasons). Will keep you and others posted to know what the potential used vehicle buyers will be facing. Hopefully not much, as this vehicle's reliability is not affected by its age. So what others are saying. We'll see.
27th Aug 2018, 15:56
The second gear issue was a known engineering problem... I think up to mid-year 1985 when Yamaha finally had the feedback to address it. I had an 83 that I replaced with an 89 for this very reason. The problem was a single washer made from too low a grade of metal that second gear would impact into every time you shift. Over time, the washer will get thinner and thinner until there is enough play in the gear alignments that second gear will no longer stay engaged. Happens on every one of these bikes somewhere between 50k and 80k. It's a crying shame really.
1st Jul 2010, 22:51
Looking for timing specs for my 1986 Yamaha Royal Venture?