Yamaha XJ700XN - 1985 Specifications and Reviews
The 1985 Yamaha XJ700XN is a middleweight custom cruiser designed for riders seeking an accessible, stylish alternative to larger machines. Its 697cc twin-cylinder engine delivers manageable torque and smooth power characteristics, while the cruiser styling appeals to those wanting classic American aesthetics with Japanese reliability. Known for its comfortable riding position and affordable ownership costs, it suits commuters and casual riders who value practicality over raw performance.
1985
General information | |
| Category | Custom / cruiser |
| Year | 1985 |
| Model | Yamaha XJ700XN |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Clutch | Wet multiple-disc |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Lubrication system | wet sump |
| Starter | Electric |
| Ignition | T.C.I. |
| Fuel control | DOHC |
| Valves per cylinder | 5 |
| Fuel system | Carburettor. BS33/4/Mikuni |
| Bore x stroke | 68.0 x 48.0 mm (2.7 x 1.9 inches) |
| Compression | 11.2:1 |
| Max RPM | 4663 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | Twin |
| Capacity: | 697.00 ccm (42.53 cubic inches) |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Wheelbase | 2 mm (0.1 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 145 mm (5.7 inches) |
| Overall width | 775 mm (30.5 inches) |
| Overall length | 2 mm (0.1 inches) |
| Overall height | 1 mm (0.0 inches) |
| Alternate seat height | 749 mm (29.5 inches) If adjustable, highest setting. |
| Seat height | 760 mm (29.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Rear percentage of weight | 50.0 |
| Front percentage of weight | 50.0 |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 224.0 kg (493.8 pounds) |
| Dry weight | 224.1 kg (494.0 pounds) |
| | |
Yamaha XJ700XN dimensions and frame | |
| Exhaust system | Four into two |
| Rear brakes | Expanding brake (drum brake). Right foot operation |
| Front brakes | Double disc. Right hand operation |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 130/90-16 67 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 100/90-19 57H |
| Rear suspension travel | 99 mm (3.9 inches) |
| Rear suspension | Swingarm |
| Front suspension travel | 150 mm (5.9 inches) |
| Front suspension | Telescopic Fork |
| Trail | 120 mm (4.7 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 31.5° |
| Frame type | Tubular, steel double cradle |
Speed and acceleration | |
| 60-140 km/h (37-87 mph), highest gear | 3.200 seconds |
| 1/4 mile (0.4 km) | 11.790 seconds |
| 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) | 5.040 seconds |
| Top speed | 217.3 km/h (135.0 mph) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Modifications compared to previous model | 1st year production of two years 11.79 sec @ 112.82 mph Quater mile |
| Color options | Black, Red, Blue |
| Fuel consumption pr. 10 km (6.2 miles) | 18.90 litres (4.99 gallons) |
| Reserve fuel capacity | 3.00 litres (0.79 gallons) |
| Fuel capacity | 13.00 litres (3.43 gallons) |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
5.5s
0-60 mph (est.)
135 mph
Top Speed
Best For
Track20%
City55%
Cornering40%
Daily Riding60%
Touring60%
Passenger55%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Suits riders with at least some prior experience on mid-to-large capacity motorcycles, given its weight and shaft-drive cruiser handling character; note the listed acceleration figures seem unusually quick for this class and may not be accurate for this s |
| Purpose | Built as a relaxed, shaft-driven custom cruiser for cruising boulevards and covering moderate distances rather than for outright performance or sport riding. |
| Rider Fit | The low-ish seat height and balanced 50/50 weight distribution make it manageable for riders of average height and build, though its heft around 224 kg calls for reasonable strength at low speeds and when maneuvering. |
| Character | A laid-back, classic-styled 1980s Japanese cruiser with a smooth liquid-cooled twin, shaft final drive, and unhurried, stable road manners. |
| Not Ideal For | Not the right choice for riders seeking aggressive cornering ability, off-road capability, or genuine sportbike-level acceleration. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
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