1983 Yamaha XJ650 Maxim review from Canada
"A well-maintained used XJ has a high fun-cost ratio"
What things have gone wrong with the motorcycle?
The Yamaha XJ series are generally very reliable (thanks in part to shaft drive and electronic ignition, as well as an excellent engine design).
Many of these are still rolling happily at 25+ years, long after lesser bikes have bit the dust. Common problems: corrosion in the fuse block (replace it with in-line fuses) ; corrosion in electrical connectors; weak coils (replace with Dynas). If the bike has been stored a while, disassembling and cleaning the carbs may be necessary, or at least a few good shots of SeaFoam.
General comments?
There is an active owners' listserv, xj-owners, at micapeak.com of riders who fix their own and are very supportive, trading parts and advice, and even producing an inexpensive CD/DVD set full of technical info and tips.
I highly recommend these bikes for inexpensive touring and commuting, and they're still fast enough to blow off most Harleys and sports cars!
Recommended reviews
 | Great for Philippines road conditions and trips |
 | None of today's flair, but solid nostalgic performance that still turns the eye!!! |
| Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Acceleration marks | 8/10 |
| Roll-on Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Handling marks | 6/10 |
| Braking marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 24000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 40000 miles |
| Previous motorcycle | Triumph Daytona |
| Date of Entry | 30th March, 2007 |