1981 Yamaha XS1100 SPECIAL

[@RockinGuy1994]

Miss riding with my dad 😢

[@jordanjoestar8839]

First bike in the world to run an 11 second 1/4 mile. So fast it has you literally trying full effort to not let it rip your arms off the handles. Won an Australian Moyorcycle racing championship as well.

[@BobSmith-cb5xr]

The suzuki gs1100 was the first in 11 seconds. The 1983 gs1100 would pull 10 second quarters bone stock.

[@joshuaconley4665]

​@Bob Smith why suzuki was top of the line back then if you had one you had some Benjamin's

[@johncunningham4820]

@@BobSmith-cb5xr . The XS-1100 was the First Japanese 1100 . Everyone else followed suit . MASSIVE torque . 100 bhp everywhere .

[@RockinGuy1994]

I hope you still have this bike

[@RpmAuto]

Ken looks likes one of those guys from one of those 80's movies heading down the highway.

[@ericromeiro6688]

I still have my 1981 Yamaha 1100 Special with 10,000 miles on it always parked covered in the garage runs good

[@Cornbreadjonez]

Im so inspired by these classic bike vids. Its my passion. And to see it run with a kickass dude like Kaplan just rocks

[@Big_John_C]

Had an 82 for 7 years, one of the fastest bikes I've owned, would peg the Speedo in 3rd gear and keep on pulling! Air ride front and back always gave a smooth ride even for extended highway cruises.

[@vontegethoff]

Ok, I had one of these too. Silky smooth at 90mph on The 10 freeway. Love your videos 😎

[@tomcollins494]

The guy driving the motorcycle looks like Buddy Reperton from the movie Christine. Cool man

[@Cornbreadjonez]

Hahaha

[@tripleh4884]

no he looks like Glen Danzig 100%..google it

[@jenniferbradshaw298]

@Liberty Mongoose 420 ignorant comment,what are you doing with your life loser

[@robertblanchard6196]

Correction, buddy looks like Ken sr!

[@jeffcorbett3481]

I thought it was wolverine

[@Agwings1960]

My buddy had the 850 version of that bike, I had the Honda CB900 custom with dual range transmission, I miss those days when cycles had straight forward styling and economical pricing.

[@DaGypsyLoneRanger]

I have an '81 xs1100 standard custom hard-tail Bobber. Literally all 4 pipes are soloed out straight pipe and she is stupid LOUD ASF. Paid 1,300 for not running plus it sat out in the weather for 3yrs. I've owned it for about 1yrs+ and dump 1,300+ in getn fixed up. It needs more work a new seat etc.. it's become a nightmare and it's name is Lady-Nightmare. Since after my move back home to N.M. I raced a newer 2010+ camero and then a croch-rocket right afterwards. The camero and I we're pushing about 80-95mph. Yea he/she gave me a run for my money mad props dawg. And Judist Priest - Braking the Law was playin in my head.

[@tomcollins494]

Nice legs oops I mean motorcycle. I'm a harley owner but i love all motorcycles and especially survivor bikes and cars. I like the new trend of restoring motorcycles and cars from days gone by. Restoration of old cars and motorcycles is true recycling.

[@deborahchesser7375]

tom collins we cant keep them forever, we are just temporary care takers so we have to keep things nice. Restoring older things is doing our part to preserve history. Taking an un loved old bike or car and not only getting it running but getting it running great is gratifying.

[@MrBriansAmazingWorld]

One of the best bikes ever made. So much fun to ride.

[@fingerlakesdiet560]

Great video! I'm restoring a 1980 special rebuilding the carburetors! Cheers from the Finger Lakes!

[@bonkeydollocks1879]

That engine sounds so quiet, no rattles etc, beauty.

[@CCitis]

A little valve noise is good for that motor

[@bonkeydollocks1879]

@@CCitis with the grea5est of respect clit, did you read my post at all?

[@shayneoliver7730]

So I actually have an 81 xs1100 that my brother in law gave me. It's my first bike. I'm getting into good running condition and getting my license next spring. I love watching this video because I can't wait to take my bike for the first ride.

[@briansauer6695]

Quite the bike for your first one! Good luck with it and don't go crazy on it please! As a rider of 40 years and no accidents (part luck), I encourage you to take a motorcycle training course! My parents made me at 15 ( the instructors let me take it but no license until I was 16 as I'd ridden dirtbikes for a few years and I'd have a bike on the road before the spring course started). I can't tell you how many times it saved my ass! My first street bike was an RD400 two stroke. I sold it and bought a 1985 Kawi 900 Eliminator brand new and still have it. I stupidly had it doing 150mph (250kph) the first year when I was 18. After the 2nd time I did that on a country road, I smacked myself in the head and said "you idiot! All it would take is a rock on the road, an animal to dart out, or someone pulling out of a driveway and you would be dead! No questions asked, no 2nd chance!" so please ride safe! I know that bike will come close to that! But enjoy it!

[@tomservo5347]

I like how Yamaha did what no one else did with their first superbike-gave it a shaft drive. I love my '79 Special. Many people will argue the XS11 was the best production bike ever made. The only problem is plastic and exhaust is getting scarce for these. The only exhaust system you can get is a 4 to 1 Mac but I'm not giving up my center stand!

[@Genjokoan]

My XS11 was the superior, non special variety. I have no idea what system I used, but I installed a 4-1 *and* kept my center stand. The bike was a joy to own and ride.

[@joeyflett8675]

I hear you Man. I have the same bike. She's a rescue from a garden shed she's been in for 6 years. I've got her running now but there's a lot more work to be done and parts aren't exactly everywhere.

[@XS-ry6ig]

Not true . Mac also has 4 into 2. I know I just bought a black set for my Midnight Special 2/19/2019, that I am restoring. That is what these pipes are . The MAC 4 into 2 chrome turnouts. Mac has about 4 different style of these pipes for this bike. Call MAC and ask for Manny. California time. I also have the same bike in the video with a MAC 4 into 1 exhaust with a DYNO JET Jet Kit. The bike is much faster. Also I am using a K&N air filter. I will also be rejetting the carbs on the Midnight Special and using a K&N air filter also.

[@Adam_Warso]

@@XS-ry6ig i just picked up an(other) 81 xs1100 this evening and it came with a set of Vance & Hines 4:2 pipes. seller claims they are for the bike, but we will see. i've never seen them before.

[@henrycomputer1403]

Mine has a 4 into 1 kerker and still has the centerstand

[@user-ko3vg7fc7o]

Now your tugging at my heart! I had an 82 maxim 750. In my favorite red! I loved that bike! Thats the one i was riding when i had my wreck. Good lord! I really loved that bike! I rode it from cali to virginia once. After the first 500 miles when my butt went numb, it was great!

[@RockinGuy1994]

Happy new year

[@christopherdarrough2667]

Man I had one of these back in about 2000 1st bike i ever rode I couldn't believe how much power the thing had you had to respect it that was for sure

[@tt-mt7rn]

I had an 81 also. Black. The original pipes sounded and looked better. 145 mph quick and no problem! Seen that bike a few months ago. 80,000 miles, no major work. You might see it running around Vegas once in awhile. Also had the midnight special with the black chrome. Should have never sold them!

[@stevensegaloetdemelderse5059]

That's a kickass ride. Wolverine on the prowl!

[@tonylama2012]

Dude I was thinking sabertooth

[@shoominati23]

worlverine who isnt secretly gay lol

[@peterjohn3123]

Back in 82, Yamaha was almost giving this bike away. Couldn't sell them, back then I was riding a 1980 850 triple.

[@ismaeldossantos3296]

I had one, only one word can describe it. AWSOME.

[@duane3719]

Had an 80' which was silver and dark grey if I remember. Planned a trip from Alberta to California with 2 buddies. They bailed so I went by myself. Still had a great time. Bike got covered with volcanic ash because prior to my trip Mt. St. Helen's erupted. When I went it rained steadily leaving a gritty wet ash covering my bike.

[@AndreasW-p4r]

Nothing beats the classics

[@nandoGdog]

Confession: I clicked on the video just to see the girl.

[@cluckhead1913]

The bike comes with a new set of Dunlops, a full tank of VP 110, a complete work order and the girl.

[@RockinGuy1994]

Miss riding with my dad 😭

[@RockinGuy1994]

Miss. My dad

[@artemusbaxter8751]

I had that bike in same color and similar add ons in early eighties.. Power and torque were amazing

[@ironhorse1962]

a buddy of mine (army ranger) had a 1979 1100 special in 1981 and that bike was fast as hell . when i rode behind him we had our helmets on and when he shifted my helmet would hit the back of his helmet and he would slowly turn his head and basically say keep your head straight. good days.

[@fanoboss]

One of the most iconic bikes that you've had, imho. This XS1100, the Honda CR500 and the 1989 Harley Davidson FXR With S&S 113 CI have been my favorites so far.

[@RockinGuy1994]

Never forget riding with My dad

[@nommadd5758]

I'm working on an '81 just like that. Btw, that girl needs to gear up. At least long pants. When she stepped off she put her right leg next to that exhaust pipe. I guarantee those pipes are HOT! Gave a gal a ride on my '79 XS11 Special long ago & she failed to heed my repeated warnings: "Step on & off the pegs!" (I'm sure she still has a scar.) Still riding the '79, going on 30 yrs! Ride safe!!

[@papercut1987]

I have the xs850 special, I'm liking the cruiser handle bar more and more. Wish I can find a cool seat like that or a sissy bar to add some flare.

[@sonnyseabury4051]

Gorgeous Yamaha. My Uncle had one back in the day.

[@TheRedJin]

Beautiful bike. I was the 2nd owner of a 1981 Yamaha XJ650 Midnight Maxim with everything all original. Was so sad to have had to sell it. I got mine in 1996 from a guy that was going through a bad divorce. He sold it to me for $1 per cc so $650. When I sold it.....well lets just say it was for a lot more in 2013. I only had just over 22,000km on it or a little over 13,500 miles. The bike always looked like it had just come off the showroom floor. Anywhere I would go people would take pictures, ask questions or just stare.

[@sarahbowling4567]

Hello I am a very big fan of ur show an especially a fan of what u do I grew up every pore we never had a lot but I considered myself to be very fortunate iv got a wife an too kids an I live for them an i want to ty , an say an the inspiration is awesome ty, ps love that 480 Yamaha it's a beast of a bike ,thanks

[@sarahbowling4567]

If u ever want to give me one of those bikes omg it would be a dream come true for me lol.ty #awesome is u all .

[@motomark9736]

I had 81 model in a 650 twin when I was around 22 it was a great riding bike

[@douglichty6191]

Exhaust sounds wonderful

[@ItaloFarias1]

great bike, very strong and beautiful !

[@Unfunny_Username_389]

corners like a bullet

[@RockinGuy1994]

May 11th 2009 is when I lost my dad 😭

[@shaneenerson8418]

A friend of mine when I was in high school had one of those bikes and I loved the thing

[@marays9189]

I’ve had a lot of bikes and this was my favorite.

[@mr.motormaster9881]

Sounds like the 80s 😍💕

[@RockinGuy1994]

Merry Christmas

[@joelmartinez9171]

Old schools are the best 🤘👍🇺🇸 love u bike

[@richsampson5030]

I just picked one up 3 days ago for free runs awesome turnin it to a bobber be done couple a days

[@jrs6266]

Blondie is a trooper !!

[@norbertpecheq3427]

No helmet,no registration number,no speed limits.....God Bless America!!! It was joke....should be ...

[@PnwOnTour]

Norbert Pecheq I’ll pray for your brain 🧠

[@marcus2491]

😂😂😂

[@carolinabarcellikalil9843]

God bless any non developed country then

[@texsurfer]

reminds me of my 81 Suzuki GS1000L. Wish I still had it!

[@justdoit8014]

When I’m seeing Ken in his famous black new balance sneakers and vest than I know that the bike is 10/10 😁🥇

[@keithsoderbeck6295]

I owned a 1981 XS 1100 Yamaha in the exact same shape. I could not believe the power this bike has as the speedometer says 160 and still had throttle, and I was clocked at 160 on a straight away. The reason I was clocked because after 130 I couldn't read the speedo because all my sights where looking straight ahead as at that speed, you have to hold on or you will turn into hamburger on the side of the road.I also sky drive and love taking risks. I had a 1970 SS 454 Chevelle Malibu w/cowl induction, 4 barrel, turbo hydromatic transmission with a built in shift kit, and owned it for 25 years and with 500 horse power right out of the gate. Also, owned this XS 1100 Yamaha for 10 years during the same era. Muscle cars, muscle bikes are such a bad ass vehicle. Do yo still have this bike for sale?

[@stefanlundblad7693]

You have damn it every sort of motorcycles!

[@shayneoliver7730]

Hey so I commented about 2 years ago about my 81 xs 1100. I rebuilt the starter but It was suffocating so I checked the air box and there was a mouse nest in it so I tore it apart and cleaned it out then I tore apart the top of my carburators and cleaned them out real good and I noticed I was pissing out all my gas overnight and so I replaced the seals in the fuel shut off valves but when I turn the fuel on it still pours through my air box so I rebuilt the carburetors and it STILL pours through the air box. Did I just do something wrong or is there another issue I haven't addressed yet that would cause this? Maybe something to do with the vacuum lines?

[@Boelick]

My 1st bike, had it up to 12 years ago.

[@2WheeledPatinaThomasC]

That sounds great!

[@stevefrench3397]

Are the headers stock on this 81?? I have an 80 in simular condition but my headers cross. 1 and 3 are together and 2 and 4 are together. Are my headers after market??

[@ericcook5515]

I had one of these getting another really good bikes And is that wolverines stunt double 👍

[@glenndecker1645]

I've got an 81 1100 special. Over 8000 mi. On it. Can't ride anymore. Needs a little love. But it will go like hell!

[@wsmith7584]

If WOLVERINE owned a cycle shop, it would be Kaplan

[@Craig-t1d]

Bought one new in 80, but cams and a Kerker 4-1 header , not that it needed it, but such an awesome bike. Traded it on my first Harley, a new 81 FXWG, which I still have! But I’ll always miss that XS…

[@johnbusic3608]

I have four of these that need restoration for sale. Loads of extra XS100 parts. What do you need ? In Texas near Houston.

[@FlipFlopandFly]

Ride safe Kaplan America!!!!!!!!!

[@aicrag11]

Ken how tall are you? Looking to get one of these too but hopefully will be comfortable sitting 6'3.

[@viharivikram4126]

Sir you are great this is your daughter sir

[@krystalstarrett6760]

Wife and I love riding our KAWASAKI LTD, Yamaha XS looks like tons of fun!

[@KaplanCycles]

It sure is!

[@jag2039]

It was so bad ass.Had straight Bars 4 into 1 my buddy JAMIE JAMES kept it tuned for me That was in 83 driveshaft,11000 Red Line split shaft in half.What a Machine when I was in my early 20’s We tricked them out so Bad Ass n could take so much abuse lol

[@BikerBenny]

Wolverine classic 😄😄

[@philzail2532]

I rode mine from Cleveland, OH to Miami, FL.

[@theItalianshamrock]

Is it comfortable for long rides?

[@santiagolopez2140]

Who else is here just for the lady?

[@smokeymcbongwater3561]

Baddas bike love that seat whut a classic

[@CS_247]

I love that thing. Wow, it's tidy!

[@dannyloiland8609]

I had a 79 model , great bike!

[@ouxli3116]

i found one for a great low cost around 2500 or so should i buy it for a first bike im over 6 foot i rode dirt bikes before i dont know if that translate

[@US-px7wc]

Girls been selling motorcycles since forever! $$$

[@samuelgonzales3824]

Is it for sale ?

[@mattmatthews5414]

That trans needs no clutch between shifts. A little pressure on the lever and a quick downblip on the throttle is all it needs.

[@st3phenJC]

Man that bike sounds good

[@dco956]

those were such cool bikes n the day

[@YTjndallas]

The link didn’t work. 😕

[@marcus2491]

How tall are you? Trying to see how I'd fit on one.

[@AlexGarcia-ew2fv]

Back In 81 that bike was a power house..

[@Mrdarrellleslie]

Do you still have this bike?

[@6bt_str86]

I've got the 79 / charcoal silver in color that's 100% Complete minus the Vance and Hines instead of stock, 32k on clock. Going to get it on road now that $5.50gal gas is around the corner...

[@mantelmann13]

Found you yesterday by accident. Awesome channel. But give this girl a helmet.

[@tonylama2012]

Gay

[@Twincam808]

Gorgeous bike and gorgeous girl

[@luisalbertovillatoro1517]

Que belleza de moto me enamoran las yamaha tuve la maxima650 fue mi primer amor y mi maestra ...

[@zuttinetnetwork1778]

Ken is the most Connecticut man in Connecticut

[@steveright1937]

I own a 1980 XS100 Midnight Special and have had it since 1987 . I may sell it due to a neck problem .

[@kartguy]

I just got a 1975 XS500 pretty much mint for $200 because my cousins couldn't handle the double timing plate behind the points haha

[@eddiebowens1919]

i had one like it, man it was fast..........love it.

[@AlbertCHVYBOY]

Ain't that the truth kick ass brother 😎

[@ryanwaits8967]

How's this bike for taller rider

[@toadftw23]

I drive one myself for my daily commute (lol), I’m about 6’2. It’s great, more comfy than the Kawasaki ninja I started out on.

[@sathwikk8624]

Yeh Jordan 😍

[@benchas7575]

The vmax was the best road bike Yamaha ever made I'm looking 4another 1

[@relaxfly7]

I like the style of this bike, shape is great, sounds excited like a racing bike. I am not interested in after this, like XV series, star series, america muscle bike at all, not every but most. In-line 4 cylinder engine more classic, but except HD. For Honda, have similar sense about this...

[@matoko123]

I had the xs650 Special, bought new in 1980 ... a real head turner back then. PS take the screen off that one.

[@bartoszguszynski4217]

Exactly. I was think this guy is familiar to someone. Buddy Reperton

[@theclassytroglodyteclssyt2936]

Think i drooled on my clean shirt a lil bit but yah thats the one for me alright🤤🤤🤤

[@randysmith6688]

I had the 1100 midnight special.

[@gregorytimmons4777]

I have the 1100 Midnight Special. Practically stole it for $480. Unfortunately it looks like it sat outside it's whole life. Runs great though and has good tires on it.