Um...

[jetmechmarty]

Was there a big difference between the XS2 and the 650 Special? I never did alot of digging into the history of those bikes, was told they made a ton of them though.

The XS-2 engine is different than later models. It's the 1st disc brake model. It has a two piece rotor and two pot cast iron caliper. It's the first one with electric start and has compression release to go with it. As an early model, the frame is a "box o' hinges". It has a shorter swingarm than the later models as well. It doesn't share a lot of parts with later models.

By time the Special came out in 1978, many improvements had been made. Notably, the frame was stiffened and it has fatter forks. (late standards enjoyed these features too) I could go on and on. The Specials were wildly popular back in the day. That's what everybody wanted. With the XS650, the Special frame has very little difference with the late standard. The only thing readily noticable is the shocks are tilted forward.



The standards have been gaining popularity with collectors. The Specials are far more plentiful. As far as building a custom, there really aren't stumbling blocks vs. building a standard. The standards have become restoration worthy. I expect the Specials will get there, but the time hasn't come.

[jetmechmarty]

I wonder if someone would trade me a reliable running motorcycle for my Boxes O' XS2...

It wouldn't surprise me in the least!

[MacMcMacmac]

I wonder if someone would trade me a reliable running motorcycle for my Boxes O' XS2...

Try xs650.com. You never know, the old stuff is a lot more popular than the new(er) stuff. I have an 83 Heritage Special.

[Joab]

Try xs650.com. You never know, the old stuff is a lot more popular than the new(er) stuff. I have an 83 Heritage Special.

I havent visited that site since I disassembled the bike. I will have to hop over there and take a look when I have some time.

[EricHa]

One of the prettiest bikes Yamaha ever built....

Agreed. Not as pretty as a vintage BSA or Triumph twin, but still a candy cane colored cutie.

IMHO, the 650 engine is the single best looking lump that the factory ever designed.