1982 Yamaha XJ650 Maxim review from United States of America

Clutch cable snapped at 20,000 miles, but then, the bike is 23 years old.

The foot pegs have worn. I cannot reasonably complain, this is normal wear and tear, and this is a great bike!

Cold starting: If the bike sits for a couple weeks, it takes a bit longer to crank, but when I ride it a couple times a week, I can simply touch the start button and presto, a one second button push gets her rumbling. Takes a few minutes to smooth the engine out, then can cruise like a bee!

I bought this bike for $800, they go often for about $1500 on Ebay.

It has plenty of power for a mid size bike, and the direct drive transmission is awesome. It is fast, oh yeah, very fast, and has surprised many, many a friend at the power it offers even with two riders on it.

Gas mileage is about 60-65 mpg if you ride like a sane old granny and keep it at 55 mph. However, even at the near $3 gallon price of today, it will perk out at 45 mpg for the insane, throttle thrushing, middle-agers who like to hot dog the bike in the 80 to 80mph range (I personally know).

Maintenance, about minimal. It is very dependabe. I have only had to do the typical bare, minimal maintenance one would expect: oil change, spark plug change, new battery. Oh yeah, replaced the clutch cable and a worn tire (had the original tires on it).

I did also buy a small windshield, a definite plus, adds a sporty look, without all the bulk of a faring, and it adds three thousand percent enjoyment to riding.

If you are thinking about getting a used one, do it now. These bikes I believe in a few years will be vintage worthy of higher dollars. They are a nice collectible. Most people don't realize they are over a quarter century old.

Oh, if you plan long rides, invest in a larger seat, otherwise it is a great bike, nothing else to explain.

John, North East TN.