Yamaha XJ700XS - 1986 Specifications and Reviews

The 1986 Yamaha XJ700XS is a midweight custom cruiser that appeals to riders seeking accessible performance with classic styling. Powered by a 697cc inline-four engine producing 86 horsepower, it balances comfortable cruising with enough power for spirited riding. Known for its reliability and affordable entry point into custom motorcycle culture, the XJ700XS became a popular choice for riders transitioning from smaller bikes.

1986
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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year1986
ModelYamaha XJ700XS
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

ClutchWet/multi-disc
Transmission typefinal driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
Lubrication systemWet Sump
StarterElectric
IgnitionTCI
Fuel controlDOHC
Valves per cylinder5
Fuel systemCarburettor. (4) Standard side-draft 33 mm Mikuni CV
Bore x stroke68.0 x 48.0 mm (2.7 x 1.9 inches)
Compression11.2:1
Max RPM10000
Torque67.66
Power86.00
Stroke4
Engine typeIn-line four
Capacity:697.30 ccm (42.55 cubic inches)

Physical measures and capacities

Wheelbase1,520 mm (59.8 inches)
Ground clearance145 mm (5.7 inches)
Overall width775 mm (30.5 inches)
Overall length2,235 mm (88.0 inches)
Overall height1,160 mm (45.7 inches)
Seat height760 mm (29.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc232.0 kg (511.5 pounds)
Dry weight215.0 kg (474.0 pounds)

Yamaha XJ700XS dimensions and frame

Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Front brakesDouble disc
Rear tyre dimensions130/90-16
Front tyre dimensions100/90-19
Rear suspension travel99 mm (3.9 inches)
Rear suspensionSwing arm w/ coil springs
Front suspension travel150 mm (5.9 inches)
Front suspensionTelescopic fork
Trail120 mm (4.7 inches)
Rake (fork angle)31.5°
Frame typeDouble Cradle

Speed and acceleration

Power/weight ratio0.4000 HP/kg
1/4 mile (0.4 km)11.790 seconds
 
 

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Oil capacity3.50 litres (0.23 quarts)
Fuel consumption pr. 10 km (6.2 miles)5.70 litres (1.51 gallons)
Reserve fuel capacity3.00 litres (0.79 gallons)
Fuel capacity13.00 litres (3.43 gallons)

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

86 hp
Peak Power
4.2s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track40%
City45%
Cornering55%
Daily Riding60%
Touring62%
Passenger58%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis bike suits an intermediate to experienced rider comfortable with a torquey, high-revving four-cylinder engine in a heavier cruiser-style chassis.
PurposeIt's a mid-80s custom/cruiser built for confident straight-line acceleration and relaxed cross-town or highway cruising rather than aggressive cornering.
Rider FitAt 760mm seat height and over 230kg wet weight, it demands a rider of average-to-above height with decent low-speed strength for maneuvering at a stop.
CharacterIt has the soul of a sport-cruiser hybrid, blending a genuinely quick DOHC inline-four with laid-back cruiser ergonomics and shaft-drive simplicity.
Not Ideal ForIt's not a good fit for off-road use, novice riders wary of quick throttle response, or anyone wanting a lightweight, flickable machine.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

1986 Yamaha XJ700XS Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 760mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1986 Yamaha XJ700XS, with a cramped knee angle of around 85 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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