Opinions on Yamaha XS 500

[Ledyard]

I'm seeking the wisdom of GS gurus on a 1976 Yamaha XS 500. It appears to be in immaculate shape; 16,000 on the clock. Starts easily and runs smooth. New seat, but original paint and all parts. Owner asking $1300.

I've read things here and there about over heating problems, and a general lack of enthusiasm for this particular bike (as opposed to the XS 650, which people seem to love).

Any thoughts about it? Thanks in advance.

 

[farmall]

A motorcycle is an answer to the question "what do you want to DO with a motorcycle?"

I rode a couple owned by friends and see no reason to bother with one. Nothing special about them at all. If one were given to me I'd sell it. Parts will be hard to find compared to successful models.

1300 would get you a nice GS with more power, better support (like these forums!) and much more usability.

 

[1980GS1000E]

The XS500 has chains wizzing all around inside of it. Run it hard and have some fun.

 

[SVSooke]

I just read a horror story about the XS500 in an old Cycle Canada.Best say far far away.

 

[850 Combat]

Nothing special in their performance. In between the Honda 550-4, and the 500T, which was a punched out ten year old 450.

I never heard that they were the mega-lemon that the XT750 was

Back then to get a 4 valve head, I think that you had to buy a Jensen Healy, Lotus Elite, or Ford Escort Cosworth, Triumph Dolomite Sprint, or these Yamaha twins.

 

[Guest]

Isn't that the one with all those counter anti vibration things in it?
I passed on it and got the '76 XS650 which vibrated all to hell .
Shortly thereafter I found true love and happiness with my first GS,
'78 GS1000E.

 

[jeff.saunders]

There's not many of them on the road these days. Parts are very difficult to find. Virtually nothing available aftermarket, so you are looking for used or NOS parts on anything other than very basic maintenance parts.

Not very fast - I used to have a friend with one and my old RD350 was a faster and better handling bike.