1998 Yamaha XVS650
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1998 | 2 |
| 1999 | 4 |
| 2000 | 8 |
| 2001 | 8 |
| 2002 | 13 |
| 2005 | 4 |
| 2009 | 1 |
| 2010 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 2 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 2 total reports mention: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
MANUAL TRANSMISSION SKIPS UP INTO NEUTRAL POSITION WHILE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION
NHTSA ODI report, 20040414
ALSO, SHIFTING FROM FIRST TO SECOND IS ROUGH. GRINDING USUALLY OCCURS EVEN IF I TRY TO SHIFT IT SOFTLY. I KNOW DOZENS OF OTHER OWNERS OF THIS BIKE WHO COMPLAIN ABOUT THE INFERIOR TRANSMISSION.
NHTSA ODI report, 20020425
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1998 Yamaha XVS650 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (2 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 1998 Yamaha XVS650 reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1998 Yamaha XVS650?
The most-reported component is power train:manual transmission, accounting for 100% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1998 Yamaha XVS650 have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.