Would like some advise please… I know some of you have ridden bikes for a long time and would know about older bikes. (with carbs etc)
I’m thinking of getting an old bike as a chop/bob. Probably the classic yamaha xs650. (Not to build, but as a finished bike).
Question is, as I’m new to bikes (all new bikes are fuel injected etc, low maintenance etc etc), what considerations would I need to take on board for a 20-30yr old engine/bike?
Engine will be reconditioned but what’s it like with carbs. Do things go out of sync now and again? Will I be forever having to tweak this and that?
What level of maintenance knowledge would I need? Do I need a whole range of tools, or would just a regular yearly service keep it sweet?
Thanks for any thoughts…
what considerations would I need to take on board for a 20-30yr old engine/bike?
Even second hand parts might be extremely hard to get. Is there an owners club: they might help in tech, parts and workarounds.
Engine will be reconditioned but what’s it like with carbs. Dothings go out of sync now and again?
Yes they go out of balance, but vacuum gauges are dead easy to use.
Will I be forever having to tweak this and that?
Only if you want to.
What level ofmaintenance knowledge would I need?
Buy a Haynes for that engine, it will set the level and information for you.
Do I need a whole range of tools, or would just a regular yearly service keep it sweet?
How long is a piece of string? You can do a lot with just metric spanners and screw drivers. And maybe, servicing isn’t that hard if you’re bothered to do it, biggest barrier is a lack in confidence and a Haynes for when you need a guide.
XS650, I used to own one. The engine is based on the older Brit twins but without the oil leaks.
Just sold my xs650 tracker conversion . Very easy engine to deal with . I did a how to in a thread on valve clearance to.show how simple it is . I also did.the electronic ignition conversion . Bullet proof engine that should cause few problems .
Many thanks NumNum and silentwalker for your advice! I really appreciate you helping me out here… I may give it a go as you have given me confidence…
