Project XJ update

Well I have had my bike for almost a year now. Didn't really know much about motorcycle's before buying my XJ1100. This site is a great resource and all of the guys on here are very helpful. I figured it's time that I give something back.

I am starting my Project XJ update. I am doing some custom work and trying to update the 82 with some more appealing looks. Thought, Comments, Suggestions are welcome and I will try my best to post how to's and answers questions along the way.

This is pretty much what she looked like when I bought her. I painted the rear wheel and put on a new tire.

 

Nice machine.
Pitter patter, best get at her.
What's your style preference?
I guess not '80's dude, cause it's screaming that now huh?

Gunk

 

I'm kinda diggin' the blacked out rear. Keep us updated.

 

paint the front wheel, ditch the gauges, go to one mirror, get smaller signals, and that should do it.

 

I feel the same way about your comments so far.

here are some new pics of progress.

 

Here is some more of the work i did this weekend.

Got a new fender and seat. Still working out all the details.

 

hmmmm, the bike looked pretty good before. Not a big fan of the fender and seat. Doesnt seem like it 'belongs' to me. I agree more with dwcopple

 

Whats that fender off of?

 

It's a HARLEY DAVIDSON SOFTAIL/BOBTAIL FENDER

 

how'd you stripe the rear rim?

 

It got the stripes here. Ebay.com

They work great. cant even tell it is a sticker.

 

Hello,I am wondering if you still have the seat and front fender?Also,do you want to sell them...I would also pay shipping.Please contact me at rikosaur@msn.com,or 508-514-4007. THANKS,RICK SAVIDGE.

 

Are you going to paint the fender. I kind of like it but think it would look great painted

 

I am the Opposite of crath I think that fender looks sweet on there and alot better than what was there. It would be cool to see an led tail setup under the lip of the fender to keep things flowing nice. Keep it up

 

I'd like to know more about those bars. It's a very elegant solution to those wierd adjustables. Where can I get a set of those perches/DBones?

The rims and entire rear look great

 

Love the black rim with the red strip and have every intention of stealing this idea for my bike. Other than the rims mine is staying mostly stock though.

 

Thanks for the comments guys. The rear fender isn't painted yet because i need to do some welding. I plan to paint the whole bike matte black with some red accents.

The handle bars-
I had to do some research to make this mod. basically found a set of risers on eBay and drilled some holes into the existing triple tree clamp. Isn't as hard as it looks. Very sexy mod compared to those outrages two piece monsters.

I have been busy lately but ready to finish this baby. Hope to do welding soon. I just got my new tail light and should have that mounted this week.

 

Love that rear fender (got one on mine!) It gives that bike some style now.
The bars look alot better than those stock bars too and are probably a bit more comfortable. I can understand having adjustable handlebars, but the ones that come on the Seca just don't melt my wax and looked ugly anyways. I tried drag bars, but they were too low. I tried ape hangers, but they were too high. Then I found some mini apes, and they're just right! I can ride all day with no strain on my shoulders or wrists. I guess it all depends on what kind of riding position your into. More forward (lower and aggressive) or higher (laid back and cruise) makes a big difference.

 

Hey Nickr! Sweet mods. I like what you've done. I have a question though where did you het that solo seat from it looks like it fits the fender really well. it looks like its from a sportster. keep posting your progress and pics.

alan.

 

Amoney,

Thanks for the nice comments. You are right I stole this seat off of a sportster. My Dad got a new seat for his so I made off with the used one. The seat actually inspired my whole idea for the changes that I have made so far.

 

I finally had some time and my buddy stopped over with his welder. Although he forgot the mask we were still able to spot weld on the bracket needed to mount the rear fender. I also got around to painting the fender.

For around $8.00 I was able to find some nice looking stainless steel hardware at the local hardware shop.

Last thing to do is make the seat fit. This will be a challenge but I will let you know how I make out.

 

It's a nice look. I think I would lower it a little in the rear.

 

kick ass... i was just looking at bobtail and honda shadow fenders about an hour on ebay because i luv the lip-up look, looks very sleek...now just get the rims chromed and the frame,tank and side covers done in burnt metallic orange and your all done

S!

 

I finally got her out on the road yesterday. I went to the parking lot behind my house to test drive for a little first. Wanted to make sure that she was still safe to ride. Well balanced and I like the feel %100 better.

Here is the most current pic.

There are a few things that need to be finished yet.

*polish all the metal and give it some shine.
*replace the front tire and paint the rim.
*add diamond plate where the frame "V's" under the seat.
*lower the front end by an inch or 2.

 

very nice bike, I agree with awalker19 that you should lower it perhaps the rear more so than the front. But then again i know nothing about customizing unless its bolt on :lol: so great job!