Looking for/at speedometers. Need some advice.

Hi all,

I am now to the point in my build to start checking around for accessories for my 82 XJ550.

One big question I have is: Is there any rules to picking out a new speedo for my project? Anything that will not work? Any advice?

Im looking for a vintage-esc or replica of a simple round speedo/odo.
possibly with an old Norton, BMW or Indian feel to it.

Here are just a few I have been looking at on e-bay.

Any advice on what to/not to purchase would be greatly appreaciated

Thanks!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Motorcycle-Univ ... 3cb88f4161


http://www.ebay.com/itm/ANALOG-BACKLIT- ... 4cfe51f278

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Speedometer-Roy ... 2c5f7db23c

 

Forget genuine Norton, BMW or Indian.

Think instead ANY Japanese bike of the same era; and I mean from about 1972 until they started to become specialized/electronic.

Virtually all late '70s~'80s~into the 90s mechanical Jap bike speedometers have the same drive ratio; 2240rpm=60mph.

I kept my stock 550 Seca cluster and transplanted the guts from a 150mph speedo from an XJ900 into it.

 

Just in case you missed it, that first one is kilometers. Also, make sure the speedo you get is 2240/60 ratio, otherwise you're going to WAY off.

 

2240:60 ratio got it. Thanks. There are quite a few good looking speedos on ebay with a "for harley" tag. Any reason why i wouldnt want one of these?

 

Mostly the ratio, Harley's use either a 2:1 or 1:1

 

Liking this one. Doesnt say the ratio. Sent the seller a message asking. ANy thoughts?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Speedometer-Roy ... 2c5f7db23c

 

I like the first 2 you have posted but they do have ones that close to those but have your indicator lights in it as well. Its alittle more money but it adds alot to it.

 

I have one just like the first link you posted but it has indicator lights. Works great after 5000 miles. The only beef I have is the yellow turn indicator light is nearly impossible to see in the daytime.

 

This is the one i like. I dont care for the handlebar mount but I think it could really be put anywere.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mini-Speedomete ... 5d3217cf5f

 

Try this

http://www.mikesxs.net/products-46.html#products

 

i got one similar to the first link off ebay for $30 and though it works, there are a couple issues:
Runs about 5 mph below actual speed even though it's the right ratio
Light burnt out and it's a really weird bulb I can't find a replacement for...not too good for night riding.
I guess you get what you pay for.

 

Im a little confused. mikesxs' speedometers say " Calibrated for 19" front wheel. 2:1 ratio. "

so 2:1 ratio speedos DO work on xj's??

 

I have the one junkmn posted. It is a 2:1 and reads bang on. I did not handle bar mount mine just used a open bolt hole from the previous gauges.

 

19 inch rim, add 5 inches of tire = 24, multiply by 3.14 gives 75.36 inches.

Sixty MPH is one MPM (minute) which has 63,360 inches a minute.

Divide inches per minute by inches around the tire, 63,360/75.36 = 840 revolutions per mile (regardless of the speed).

Then there's the gear reduction in the hub - sender unit.

2240/840 = 2.66 hub reduction ratio. How close was that??

 

I'm running a speedometer from an older Honda CB350 street bike and it is spot on (I checked it with my GPS) Just an idea if you can find one on Ebay or Craiglist.

 

8O WOAH 8O