Yamaha XV920R

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Yamaha XV920R
Tr1-05.jpg
Manufacturer Yamaha
Production 81-82
Engine 920cc
Sparkplug NGK BP7ES '81-82
Battery YUASA Y50-N18L-A '81-82
Front Tire '81-82
Rear Tire 120/90-18 '81-82
Related Yamaha XV250
Yamaha XV535
Yamaha XV700
Yamaha XV750
Yamaha XV920
Yamaha XV1000
Yamaha XV1100
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The Yamaha XV920R was introduced in 1981, along with the XV750 Virago. In addition to larger engine displacement, it featured some distinctly "un-Virago-like" styling and technical features. This model was geared toward European-style sport touring.

The XV920R had a unique enclosed chain final drive, a large 8 inch diameter headlamp, a high-capacity sculpted fuel tank, and rear-set controls and footpegs. Like the Virago, it had a stamped-steel backbone frame, also serving as part of the air-induction system. It had a mono-shock rear suspension, with (air) preload and damper adjustments. The front suspension had air preload adjustment only.

In 1981 (XV920RH) it was offered only in candy metalflake maroon. In 1982 (XV920RJ), the only color offered in the US was silver with black trim. US sales were discontinued after 1982, with many units still unsold. The rear end styling, with its swingarm-mounted fender (now commonplace), drew much criticism. The bike was also sold in Europe with 980 cc displacement, and called "TR1". European sales were more successful, and continued, with slight styling and color modifications (including a switch to more 'mainstream' rear-end styling), through 1986.


Xv920.jpg

XV920 with Greer S1 Fairing.jpg


1982 Yamaha XV 920 RH

In 1980 Yamaha was bound and determined to outdo Honda in sales—sort of a mano a mano engagement at both the corporate and dealership levels. And one way to do it, Yamaha figured, was to come out with a lot more models. Like a V-twin.