1982 Yamaha XJ550 review from United States of America
"Good bike in stock condition"
What things have gone wrong with the motorcycle?
I got this as a trade, so a few things need to be fixed, but from poor maintenance.
Chains rusting and stretch, had to replace it.
Carbs needed a good cleaning.
Front forks needed new seals.
Exhaust pipes had hole made by rust, had to replace.
Cam chain is making noise (due to stretching 'cause of age), will need to replace before any major trips.
General comments?
I trade a moped for this bike as a project and since has become a great everyday (around town bike).
Once I did some good cleaning, this bike ran awesome. Has always started on first attempt, till I let it sit for 3 months (then it took two attempts).
The seat is very uncomfortable after about 100 miles, gonna have it redone. They also don't make a back-rest for passenger, so I'm designing one.
All and all, a good bike in stock condition. Once I'm done with the seat, back-rest, & Cam Chain; it will be an awesome bike.
For a "do it yourself", this is very easy to work on, compared to other bikes.
Recommended Reviews:
![]() | Good, until a major fault crippled it |
![]() | A great running bike, and an overall joy to own and ride |
| Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1982 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Acceleration marks | 8/10 |
| Roll-on Performance marks | |
| Handling marks | 7/10 |
| Braking marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 4/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 13000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 28000 miles |
| Previous motorcycle | Yamaha XJ550 |
| Date of Entry | 19th January, 2007 |

