1982 YAMAHA SECA 550

I purchased this 1982 550 Seca XJ550RJ on October 30, 2010, number of previous owners unknown. This was my "project bike" for the northern-hemisphere winter of 2010-2011. Indicated mileage - 9603 (15461 km).

In relatively nice condition when purchased, the XJ550 was missing a small number of parts including the graphics and reflectors on the fairing. Also missing were the original turn signals (blinkers), the carburetor heat shield and several small trim pieces. I was able to replace all missing items with NOS Yamaha parts except for the carburetor heat shield which is a used part.

As I seldom purchase a machine unless it has the original factory exhaust system, I was lucky to find this example with the factory exhaust in such nice condition and rust-free.

I completed what I describe as a "semi-restoration" consisting of a thorough cleaning, comprehensive maintenance and detailing of the entire machine. For pictures from my restoration effort I invite you to visit my Seca 550 Rehab Page.

Essentially similar to the 1981 XJ550RH and 1983 XJ550RK models, the 1982 Seca 550 did not sell in large numbers, at least in the United States, and today is a rarely seen model. The XJ550R Seca, Yamaha's "forgotten middleweight," offers desirable features such as a 6-speed transmission, fuel gauge, self-canceling turnsignals, built-in voltmeter, relatively light weight, attractive styling, factory-supplied security chain and a narrow, fine-performing 4-cylinder engine.

The pics below are from a ride on the Seca.

For more information on the Yamaha XJ Seca/Maxim series of machines you may enjoy a visit to the XJBikes.com website. This fine site has a wealth of information as well as an active rider's forum.

I invite you to visit my 1982 Seca 650 page. A beautiful shaft-drive machine with many fine qualities, I purchased it new in 1985.

As with other machines in the collection, the Seca 550 is not offered for sale at this time.

Are you searching for Seca 550 parts? If so, visit my Q&A page for a number of links and ideas for finding bikes and parts.

Here's a shot of the Seca 550 with a like-size stablemate:

L-R: 1982 Yamaha Seca 550 - 1981 Kawasaki KZ550

Click the image to supersize and view a second photo shot from a different angle!

Here's a shot of the Seca 550 with its slightly larger cousin:

L-R: 1982 Yamaha Seca 550 XJ550RJ - 1982 Yamaha Seca 650 XJ650RJ

Click the image to supersize and view a second photo shot from a different angle!