YAMAHAXJ 550 1981 - 1983

　　The Yamaha XL 550 was a motorcycle made by Yamaha, introduced to the German market in 1981 as the smallest model that rounded the XJ series. Unlike its larger brothers, the XJ 550 had a final chain drive and a six-speed transmission instead of a shaft drive and a five-speed transmission.

　　Compared to the larger XJ 650 model, the XJ 550 was 30 kg (66 lbs) lighter, more delicate, and had lower seat height, making the bike more interesting to beginners and those returning to riding.

　　In 1981, the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer launched the Yamaha XJ 550, a motorcycle fitted with standard features, such as a large round headlight, a one-piece dual seat, a dual exhaust system with a silencer on each side, and five double-spoke aluminum wheels.

　　The bike was built around a steel frame with a telescopic fork on the front, offering 137 mm of travel, and dual side-mounted shock absorbers on the rear, delivering 80 mm of travel.

　　As for the braking performance, the bike packed two 267 mm discs on the front wheel and one 182 mm drum braking unit on the rear, delivering optimum stopping power.

　　As for the power figures, the 1981 Yamaha XJ 550 had its soul brought to life by a 528cc four-stroke air-cooled four-cylinder engine that delivered an output power of 50 hp at 9,000 rpm and 42 Nm (31 lb-ft) torque at 7,500 rpm.