Yamaha XV 1000 SE Midnight Special - 1983 Specifications and Reviews
The 1983 Yamaha XV 1000 SE Midnight Special is a classic cruiser designed for riders seeking accessible V-twin performance with understated style. Its air-cooled 981cc engine delivers smooth power ideal for relaxed highway cruising and city riding. Best known for reliable shaft drive mechanics and minimalist aesthetics, this model appeals to traditionalists valuing simplicity and practicality.
1983
General information | |
| Category | Custom / cruiser |
| Year | 1983 |
| Model | Yamaha XV 1000 SE Midnight Special |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Transmission type,final drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Air |
| Fuel control | OHC |
| Valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Bore x stroke | 95.0 x 69.2 mm (3.7 x 2.7 inches) |
| Compression | 8.3:1 |
| Top speed | 172.0 km/h (106.9 mph) |
| Power | 68.00 |
| Engine type | V2, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 981.00 ccm (59.86 cubic inches) |
| | |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Rear brakes | Expanding brake |
| Front brakes | Dual disc |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 130/90-16 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 3.50-19 |
| | |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Fuel capacity | 13.00 litres (3.43 gallons) |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 240.0 kg (529.1 pounds) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
68 hp
Peak Power
6.5s
0-60 mph
106.9 mph
Top Speed
Best For
Track15%
City45%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding55%
Touring55%
Passenger50%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Suits riders with at least some experience handling a heavy, torque-driven V-twin cruiser rather than absolute beginners. |
| Purpose | Built for relaxed, stylish boulevard cruising and easy shaft-driven highway miles rather than outright speed or agility. |
| Rider Fit | The low seat height and cruiser ergonomics are forgiving, but the 240 kg mass demands confident low-speed handling and a bit of upper body strength at parking speeds. |
| Character | A laid-back, classic-styled 1980s custom cruiser with a torquey air-cooled V-twin, shaft drive, and a relaxed, unhurried personality. |
| Not Ideal For | Not a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering ability, off-road capability, or genuine sport-bike performance. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
Rider Reviews
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