'79 1100 with 73,000 miles

Hey guys I just came across a 79 1100 today (i like the fact that it has a kick start just for an old school feel) and had a question. The gentleman that owns it is the only owner and has 73,000 miles on it. Thats the most ive ever seen on these bikes by far. It definitely got ridden and not stored very long here in colorado. I was wondering if that many miles is something to steer away from or not. I would assume it getting ridden is better than a bike sitting for 10 years but 73,000 is a lot compared to what I have seen. How long do these engines last? I am checking it out today. Thanks for all your help.

 

I have seen XJs nearly go round the clock twice, as log as they a fairly well maintained like regular oil changes cam chain adjusting every once in a while. All so valves adjusting, I would say there a bullet proof engine if looked after well. I have never herd or known them to throw rings, seizing, or blowing any major gaskets. Just make sore it runners well no rattles, knocking or any weird noses for that matter, all so make shore it pulls well.

Al

 

compression across the board will also help determine your question i believe. similar numbers on all four cylinders (right?) can tell you what condition the piston/rings are

I've heard these engines can run forever so with that, not sure what else to tell ya

 

There is a guy where i live selling his says it runs great with 118k miles on it. I have seen several with over 100k. As long as its been properly maintained ad not overheated should be good for a while .Hows 2nd gear?

 

I wouldn't be scared of it if it was kinda maintained. If the price is approprate for the mileage...go for it. You know what you got. If compression is consistent and a good look over suits you I wouldn't let mileage scare me too bad. Use the mileage number and haggle yourself a good deal

 

Yeah its a single owner bike and only selling it for $700 and has some parts I could even sell to make the money back, however, calling the guy a few hours ago he said someone is coming by and will probably pick it up so I am keeping my fingers crossed. Kinda bummed about it but there are always more bikes out there I guess.

 

I wouldn't worry about the mielage as others have stated if it's has been well taken care of, which is sounds like it has. I think the main reason you don't see that many miles on these bikes is that they get neglected over the years and left to sit unattended for long times, which lets them detiorate into scrap metal eventually. For some reason people get bored with them and don't ride them anymore ro find other things to do with their time instead of riding (who dat?)
I see so many bikes for sale when the owner doesn't ride them enough or it's been parked for years with no preventive maintenance. It's a shame they go to waste like that. There are alot of good miles left in those bikes, but you wouldn't know it by looking at them.

 

Yeah I feel like its adopting a puppy. haha Got to give em some lovin' again.