The Motorcycle

So in the late Spring of 2012 I had the opportunity to purchase a 1979 Yamaha XS650 Special from a gentleman near Steamboat Springs, CO. The bike ran, but needed lots of love especially since she had been covered in about a inch of barn dust. With various things happening in my life and a move to Texas I have finally been able to give her the love she needs.

Bessie was in pretty much stock condition 33 years after she was "born".

She needed a few "spa days" to get the inch of barn off her

Bessie even had 33 year old air filters in her.. no bueno.

So what is a Yamaha XS650 Special? 

•  The "Special" cruiser model was introduced in 1978 and produced through 1985.
• A 653 Twin
• When the Yamaha XS 650 was launched in 1968 it had one of the most advanced engines in its class of large parallel twin motorcycles. 
• Has point ignition in the pre-80's bikes and is turned over with a kick start.
• In 1980, electronic ignition was installed on XS650s.
• Is a popular bike with the cafe racing community, but are also popular as bobbers, choppers, street & flat trackers, and just old school restoration.
• Weighs about 450 wet (with gas/oil). 

Rockabettie