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spring upgrade yamaha xj550 80-81 model

Discussion in 'XJ Technical Chat' started by oz_johnno, Feb 29, 2012.

  1. oz_johnno

    oz_johnno New Member

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    G'day blokes,
    After having it sit around under a mates house for 18 years, I finally got around to starting up my old xj550...... and it fired up no problems at all! A mate who is a mechanic reckons she runs nice with no nasty engine noises at all.... score.

    Im in the process of going through the bike (changing bearings, caliper/master kits etc) and am looking at a spring upgrade.

    the bike weighs 401 pounds (185kg) and I weigh 240 pounds (110kg) without my gear on. (no fat jokes please). the bike will be set up as a cafe racer and will be used for spirited rides through the hills and the odd track day.

    am I better off with a progressive spring or a set rate (I was thinking about .95)? what weight of fork oil should I use?

    cheers

    OZ
     
    oz_johnno, Feb 29, 2012
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  2. oz_johnno

    oz_johnno New Member

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    bump.....
     
    oz_johnno, Mar 6, 2012
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  3. MercuryMan

    MercuryMan Active Member

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    Progressive is better, especially if you wish to ride it in varied conditions. I can't see any reason why you can't go up in weight from the spec for the oil to create a little more response-15w or even 20. While your at it I would change out the steering bearings as well.

    That's another testament to Yamaha's craftmanship-18 years on life support and after a shot of adrenaline she's up and running!!
     
    MercuryMan, Mar 6, 2012
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  4. bigfitz52

    bigfitz52 Well-Known Member Premium Member

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    I agree on using progressively-wound versus straight-rate springs.

    Heavier fork oil doesn't increase response, it slows it. That being said, I find the stock recommendation of 10W to be too light; I run 15W in my Seca 550s (which are similar to your non-USA 550.)
     
    bigfitz52, Mar 6, 2012
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  5. oz_johnno

    oz_johnno New Member

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    cheers blokes I appreciate the advice.

    steering head bearings are on the way...... (edit: are here !!)

    the mate who helped me start the bike teaches motorcycle mechanics to wayward kids (well he used to, but thats another story) and I was happy to lose $20 when I bet him it wouldnt start. As he took my dough he smiled and told me that old yamaha's usually start up like that if they are not siezed. He then told me about his mates old xs1100(?) yammie that was under a tree for 20 years and it started up first go!!

    never bet with someone in the know......

    that'll learn me :)

    OZ
     
    oz_johnno, Mar 6, 2012
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