1981 Yamaha XS650 Special

[A11an0n]

Just wanted to share some pictures of my buddies mint condition 1981 Yamaha XS 650 Special.  Would love to own this bike one day an turn it into a bobber...

[Burns]

If you are going to get into XS650's check out

XS 650 Garage
http://xs650temp.proboards.com/

and

XS650.com
http://www.xs650.com/


The Garage has the most XS650 knowledgeable people on the planet, though they are not extremely noobie-friendly. They will expect you to do your homework.  If you are going to modify anything on an XS650 they are by far the best source of information.


the XS650.com crowd is more eclectic and easy going,  good place for ideas, and a place to chat.

[motohorseman]

That is nice!

I've had my eye on one as well....

[anson45]

Before turning one of those fine bikes into a "Bobber" I suggest you ride one a few miles. I rode a guys hard tail Harley back in '72. It took less than 5 miles and I decided this guy was nuts, and not in a good way. A young guy wanted to buy my 1981 XS650H last spring because he had a "Bobber" and wanted a 650 to ride. I firmly believe that there is a special place in hell for people who cut the frame and "Bobber" a XS650. Cafe a 650? Definitely. That's like taking the 650 to a higher level, like a sculptor who takes a block of stone and chips away everything that isn't a beautiful woman. I like some "Bobbers", V Twins make great "Bobbers"
That's a nice looking '81 BTW. I'm surprised how much is stock.
Anson

[A11an0n]

I've always wanted a bike to make 'custom' and the xs650s seem to be a good platform to start with.  Café racers are nice, but I've always liked the look of a bobber.  That being said I've never rode a hard tail before and I can image the ride wouldn't be pleasant.  Also if I did manage to get my hands on this bike I'm not sure if I could bring myself to chop the frame just because of its condition.  If the opportunity arises I will definitely scoop this one up, but perhaps I should be looking for one a little worse for wear to chop.

Thanks for the links Burns, there are some nice bikes in those pages...

Motohorseman I'd grab that one too if given the chance...

Thanks for the advice anson,  definitely appreciate it...

If I get my hands on it you guys will be the first to know... 

[ken65]

always liked the look of the xs650,,   thanks for the links aswell,  heres mine.

[Burns]

cutting ken's beauty up would be sinful, but any of the 16" rear-wheeled ("Special") XS's is fair game for the torch.