Between 1975-1977, the Japanese manufacturers seek a little their way. They, which all practically began with 2-strokes (except Honda, of course), should be interested in 4-strokes. Kawasaki, who drew the first in 1973 with the Z 900 to counter the 750 Honda, launches then on the market the Z 650 and Suzuki, the GS 750. Yamaha made a masterly flop with the TX 750 twin-cylinder and must better do. Not being able definitely to make like everyone (and it is so much better), the Japanese firm leaves a 3 cylinders with cardan drive. Suffering from some evils of youth, this XS improved with the passing of years like a good wine, the most succeeded being the 1979 model which received a 24 liters fuel tank. I lengthily hesitated in 1978 between the XS and the Z 650 Kawasaki and chose (without any regret) the latter.