Bought 83 650 maxim

My wife was uncomfortable on my new 900 Vulcan, wanted something smaller to learn on, this seems like a good bike for her size/weight wise. I will be tuning it up over the next few months for the summer weather, I found this website noodling through various others. Looks like a great forum with good info and tips on our new bike.
I was thinking we will get it out in the warmer weather, check out the tranny and motor, if nothing too terrible wrong, we will restore as much as possible. I am planning on cleaning carbs, flushing brake lines, changing oil, checking brakes, any suggestions on do or don't when new to these bikes would be appreciated.
Paul

 

Spend some time in the FAQ forum aqnd you will likely find the info you need to bring her to life(the bike). Carb rebuilds are time consuming but necessary. Follow the steps of the Gurus and you will hhave a good runner.

As far as a bike to learn on? The XJ 650 is a hoot to ride. Fast but not squirrely. Comfortable riding position, seat will kick your a$$ though after a few hours in the saddle.

If I were going to put my wife on a bike to learn to ride (I'll warn you guys should this happen as it would certainly signal the impending extinction of mankind as in hell just froze over) I would put her on a Honda Rebel. Short, light, easy to ride, economical, etc.

The XJ is certainly doable and will be a TON more fun after the initial learning curve is over.

Have fun!!!

Loren

 

I'll echo Wamaxim, I started my ex off on a Rebel. Too bad they are so darn expensive to come by. I did get my current spouse up on the 650 Max with no troubles but she did demonstrate confidence issues with the size of the bike. Oh well. Welcome aboard and let us know how we might be of service.

 

haha, any xj bike (besides the 400) I wouldnt consider to be a good learner, I bet when you get that 650 running right, it will leave the vulcan in the dust.

 

My wife took a bike course here in B.C. to get her first stage license, they put the student on 250 Rebels to learn the basics, she has that part figued out, the XJ is over 100 lbs less than the Vulcan, built differently.
As for leaving the Vulcan in the dust?
Those days are over, I am out for a comfortable cruise on a reliable ride.
Thanks for the carb suggestion, I will clean them up.
paul

 

I have an 01 800 Vulcan and a 650 XJ and would have to agree to the XJ leaving the Vulcan in the dust. However they are both very unique rides and fully enjoyable each in their own right.

Rob

 

Welcome aboard, Paul. Whereabouts in BC? There are several members in the Van area.

 

Good to have you aboard.

 

Yeah, welcome...by the way.