Classic and Classy Motorcycles Ltd

The 1980 Yamaha XS 1100cc Eleven Special stands as a testament to Yamaha's commitment to combining power with comfort, creating a motorcycle that was as much at home on long highway stretches as it was on twisty rural roads. Known for its reliability and muscular performance, the XS Eleven Special captured the essence of the early '80s motorcycle innovation, offering riders a blend of speed, stability, and sophistication.

Technical Specifications and Performance

• Year: 1980
• Make: Yamaha
• Model: XS 1100cc Eleven Special
• Engine Type: 4-stroke, inline 4-cylinder, DOHC
• Engine Displacement: 1101cc
• Fuel System: Carbureted, 4 Mikuni BS34SS
• Ignition System: Transistorized ignition
• Cooling System: Air-cooled
• Transmission: 5-speed manual
• Drive Type: Shaft drive
• Suspension: Front telescopic forks; Rear swingarm with adjustable shocks
• Braking System: Dual disc brakes, front; Single disc brake, rear
• Fuel Capacity: 5.3 gallons (20 liters)
• Dry Weight: Approximately 602 pounds (273 kg)
• Top Speed: Estimated 136 mph (219 km/h)

Engineering Excellence: The XS 1100cc Eleven Special was a marvel of engineering, showcasing Yamaha's prowess in developing a bike that could deliver exhilarating performance without compromising on comfort. The bike's large displacement engine was among the most powerful of its time, providing a smooth and responsive ride. Additionally, the shaft drive system offered a low-maintenance alternative to chain-driven bikes, further enhancing the model's appeal as a practical and reliable touring option.

Design and Comfort: With its distinctive styling and thoughtful ergonomics, the XS Eleven Special was designed for the long haul. The comfortable seating position, ample wind protection, and robust chassis made it an ideal choice for riders looking to cover significant distances, while its impressive power output ensured that it never felt out of its depth, whether on city streets or country lanes.

Cultural Impact and Legacy: The Yamaha XS 1100cc Eleven Special left a lasting mark on the motorcycle community, embodying the spirit of adventure and freedom that defined the era. Its blend of performance, reliability, and comfort made it a popular choice among touring enthusiasts, contributing to its status as a classic in the Yamaha lineup.

Competitive Landscape: In the competitive environment of the late 1970s and early 1980s, the XS Eleven Special stood out against rivals like the Kawasaki KZ1000 and the Honda CBX. Its unique combination of a high-performance inline-four engine and shaft drive set it apart, offering a compelling mix of speed, stability, and low maintenance that was unmatched by its contemporaries.