In the late 1970s, Yamaha decided to build on the legacy of the ever-popular XS650 and offer a new model. A teardrop tank, pull back handlebars, a stepped seat and mag wheels were slapped on the ole reliable 653cc engine and voila!…the XS650 “Specials” hit the streets.
Mikes XS customer Dan Thorngren is new to the XS650 world and has been impressed since the onset of his discoveries. “This is my first Yamaha”, says Thorngren. “For me, it is like an old Ironhead, with the transmission and engine being all one unit. Simple and works well.”
Dan found this 1979 XS650 Special locally on Craigslist for $950. It ran, but had a small oil leak and some cosmetic aging. Overall, it was a solid bike. Anybody who knows the bulletproof DNA of the XS650 engine knows this story all too well…
The first thing Dan did was cut off the back and welded on a brat kit from Visual Impact. Chopping it down but still utilizing the shocks was right up Thorngren’s alley.
“As I said, this is my first Yamaha [so] I wanted a good looking and good-running engine. I found out that I don’t live far from Hoos Racing [so] I dropped off the engine with Roger, who bored it out to 700cc, added a PowerDynamo ignition and Mikuni VM34’s.”
“I bought the tank and rear fender from LowBrow Customs and sent it off to Cutting Edge Illusions with the ‘wing idea’ in candy red and cold. They did a killer job, the paint looks so much better in person! The headlight was painted by Lumpy’s Garage. This guy is amazing!”
In the meantime, Dan polished the engine covers and painted the lettering in red. Some homemade struts were fabbed up and chrome-plated, along with the rear brake caliper mount. Most of the electrical components are hidden neatly underneath the custom seat by Ranger Leather. A Harley popsicle kicker was added to further draw from Thorngren’s heavy HD influence.
“She is running great”, Thorngren proudly admits. “My first trip lasted a couple of miles and all went well. I still have a few minor things to clean up with the wiring location. I’m looking forward to warmer weather and putting some miles on her…and a shout-out to Joe Quinn, who helped out with the welding!”
Excellent work, Dan and thank you for choosing Mikes XS to assist in being a part of your first XS650 build. We are looking forward to seeing the next one!
Mikes XS Parts List
Billet Front Hub / Rim / Spoke / Bearing Kit
Billet Rear Hub / Rim / Spoke / Bearing Kit
XS Performance 2-1 Headpipe Set
Megaphone Bell End Style Muffler
TC Bros. 60″ Braided Stainless Steel Brake Line Kit
High-Performance Disc Brake Rotor ( fits: 1977 – 1984 XS650 )
Rear Rubber Brake Line ( fits: 1978 – 1980 XS650 )
Brake Caliper Piston ( fits: 1977 – 1984 XS650 )
XS650 Kickstarter Shaft Oil Seal
OEM-Type Headlamp Connector ( fits: 1974 – 1984 XS650 )
48″ Throttle Cable ( fits: 1978 – 1984 “Specials” )
Speedometer Cable ( fits: 1975 – 1984 XS650 and other Yamaha models )
52.5″ Clutch Cable ( fits: 1978 – 1984 “Specials” )
Clutch Cable Adjuster Dust Cover
To submit YOUR Yamaha build, please send submissions to customerservice@mikesxs.net for a chance to be featured in our Bike Gallery!