What makes a yamaha xs400 so heavy?

i asked an earlier question about modifying for performance an yamaha xs400. i was told it was too heavy to be a cafe racer technically, what makes it so heavy. i see honda 400's made into cafe racers often. what are some of the differences? what kind of things am i missing between the same cc motorcycles?

What makes a yamaha xs400 so heavy?aurora

Too heavy to be a cafe racer...I really like the wisdom of the self proclaimed experts. Sure, weight is a detriment to good handling but light weight doesn't equate to good handling. Just ask anyone who used to ride the H1 or H2 Kawasakis. They NEEDED extra weight used in frame construction. Good tires, stiffer springs, better shocks and riding position can more than make up for a heavier than average bike. Plain and simple, the MOST important thing needed for good handling is a competant rider. Like the time I met two young guys on mid sized Suzuki sport bikes. They wanted to go to a bar, so I followed on my 720 pound, full dress KZ1000 shaft drive touring bike with soft suspension and loaded down with traveling gear. Going around curves they were hanging off the seat and guess what? I had no problem keeping up with them through the curves and we pulled into the bar together. My advice is to not listen to others (myself included), outfit the bike the way you like it and learn to ride safely and competantly. Pleasing yoursrlf is more important than pleasing others.