The Cagiva Elefant650 is a testament to the innovative spirit of off-road racing, born from the unforgiving crucible of the Paris-to-Dakar rally.
In this mechanical hell where street engines are pushed to their limits inside dirt-bike chassis, Cagiva forged its 650 Elefant. This dual-purpose marvel combines the best of both worlds, blending the ruggedness of a dirt bike with the speed and agility of a street machine.
The result is an engine that’s as at home on the fire roads as it is on the pavement. The 90-degree V-twin powerplant, borrowed from the 650 Alazzurra, boasts desmodromic valve actuation for ultimate protection against over-rev damage, making it the perfect choice for tackling both on- and off-road terrain.
With its towering presence, imposing weight, and chest-high handlebars, the Elefant is a bike that demands respect. Yet, beneath its rugged exterior lies a refined and agile machine, capable of delivering blistering acceleration and handling with precision.
The Cagiva Elefant650 is not just a motorcycle – it’s an experience that redefines the boundaries of what’s possible on two wheels.
Key Specifications
Engine Type
Four stroke, 90 Ltwin cylinder, SOHC, desmodromic 2 valve per cylinder.
Engine Capacity
39.6 cubic inches / 649 cc
Max Power
54 hp / 40 kW @ 8400 rpm
Max Torque
39.8 ft-lb / 54 nm
Fuel Tank Capacity
4.6 US gallons / 17.5 L
Weight (Wet/Kerb)
458.6 lbs / 208 kg
Seat Height
35.6 inches / 905 mm
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
All Specifications
Make & Model
Model
Cagiva Elefant650
Year
1987 – 88
Engine
Engine Type
Four stroke, 90 Ltwin cylinder, SOHC, desmodromic 2 valve per cylinder.
Displacement
39.6 cubic inches / 649 cc
Bore x Stroke
82 x 61 mm
Compression Ratio
10.0:1
Max Horsepower
54 hp / 40 kW @ 8400 rpm
Max Torque
39.8 ft-lb / 54 nm
Engine Management System
2x 36mm Dell’Orto carburetors
Cooling System
Air cooled
Performance
Top Speed
179 km/h
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
Transmission
Gearbox
5 Speed
Final Drive
Chain
Electrical & Electronics System
Starter
Electric
Chassis & Suspension
Front Suspension
Air adjustable forks 42mm tubes
Front Suspension Travel
8.6 inches / 220 mm
Rear Suspension
Single shock absorber. adjustable for spring preload
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tire Size
90/90-21
Rear Tire Size
130/90-17
Front Brakes
Single260mmdisc 4 piston caliper
Rear Brakes
Single240mmdisc 2 piston caliper
Dimension & Weights
Seat Height
35.6 inches / 905 mm
Wheelbase
59.8 inches / 1520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity
4.6 US gallons / 17.5 L
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight
458.6 lbs / 208 kg
Dry Weight
191 kg/ 421 lbs
Features
90-degree V-twin engine
Desmodromic valve actuation
82 x 61.5mm bore and stroke
10.1 compression ratio
Valve sizes match Alazzurra specifications
Included angle matches Alazzurra specifications
8500-rpm redline
Five-speed transmission
Aluminum engine mounts
Steel frame rails with aluminum sections to isolate engine
Solid-mounted engine
Primary imbalance cancelled by 90-degree layout
Secondary shakes remain in horizontal plane
Wheelbase over 60 inches
Seat height 35 inches
Wet weight 454 pounds
Shared basic engine specifications with Alazzurra
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*We strive to provide the most comprehensive and accurate specifications possible. However, certain details may not be available if the manufacturer did not disclose them or if the information is no longer publicly accessible. If you find any discrepancy with any data on this site, please feel free to let us know at contact@throttlecraze.com
