1985 Yamaha XJ650 Turbo

Lot details
Registration No: Un-Reg
Frame No: 11T-000828
Engine No: 11T-000828

Yamaha introduced their turbocharged competitor in 1982, using the four cylinder double overhead cam XJ650 as the basis. The new model retained many of the features of its normally aspirated cousin including air cooling, four carburettors and the chassis. A number of "experts" questioned the wisdom of the induction system, perceived wisdom being that fuel injection was needed and that pressurised carburettors would not deliver smooth fuelling, but their concerns were proved to be unfounded when examples of the new model became available for test, the power delivery being smooth with very little turbo lag. The machine was equipped with a futuristic fairing and bodywork that was praised for it's efficiency and comfort, however the frame, which had been carried over from the standard machine struggled to cope with the models increased performance. When tested against the rival Honda CX500 Turbo, the XJ was unable to match it in outright performance prompting Yamaha to release a "hop-up" kit, available free of charge, that increased the turbos peak boost from 7 psi to 12 psi. The kit consisted of a stronger wastegate spring and a washer fitted to the right side silencer, which vented overboost from the turbo. The left hand exhaust dealt with the engine emissions. These modifications were fitted as standard to the 1983 models as were 1 mm thicker front forks which improved the handling. Unfortunately, the XJ650 did not capture the publics imagination, 6,500 were built in the first year and only 1,500 in the second year of production. Potential buyers were impressed by the styling and performance but were concerned about the models complexity and cost, opting instead for normally aspirated, larger capacity models that offered similar levels of performance for less money. Consequently good examples of the XJ650 Turbo are rare today and sought after by collectors.
The original, unrestored example offered is described by the vendor as being "like new", having had only one owner. It has recorded only 20701 km's and is offered with German papers.