Description
8th Dec, 2024 10:00
The December 2024 Auction
1975 Yamaha XS650C
Unfinished project bike
Estimate
£2, 000 - £2, 500
Buyer's premium: 15. 00%
Lot details
Registration: OOY107P
Frame: the details below
Odometer: 36, 442
MOT: Exempt
653cc 4-stroke parallel twin
5-speed gearbox
Runs but needs completing
Almost complete
Registered as Historic Vehicle
The Yamaha XS650 is a mid-size motorcycle that was made by the Yamaha Motor Company. The standard model was introduced in October 1969, and produced until 1979. When the Yamaha XS 650 was launched in October 1969 it had one of the most advanced reciprocating engines in its class of large parallel twin motorcycles. The engine and gearbox are unit construction with the crankcase split horizontally for ease of assembly, whereas almost all contemporaries in its class in 1969 are either unit construction with a vertically split crankcase or pre-unit construction with separate engine and gearbox. The XS650's engine was used in AMA Professional Dirt Track Racing by national champion Kenny Roberts. In 1969 only the Laverda 750S, and the Honda CB350, also launched that year, matched the XS 650's modernity of unit construction and SOHC valve operation.
This bike has been supplied to us by a private vendor who registered it in the UK only recently so it has a full UK V5. It has been fitted with new tyres and battery, and electronic ignition system. It comes with 2 keys, V5 and Dating Letter from Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club. A great project that needs completing or a very good starting point for a fresh idea.
