The XVS650 came in two models: the Custom with a lower seat height and slightly less weight, and the Classic with a higher seat.

The Yamaha XVS650 was sold in the U.S. as the entry-level bike of the V-Star line.

That line was offered from 1998 to 2008 in two different versions: the Custom and the Classic.

Both versions are built around the same 649 cc v-twin engine.

The V-Star line offers the visual appeal of larger v-twin motorcycles paired with the fuel efficiency, reliability, and handling of a mid-size cruiser.