XJ Noob

Hi everyone. As I said in the subject, I'm a noob when it comes to these bikes. I've owned and ridden before, and clocked plenty of miles. I'm also an experienced off-road rider, car enthusiast, tech geek, computer nerd, electronics wiz... well hell, just call me a jack of all trades I guess. I'm in Georgia, about 20 miles south of Atlanta, and have spent my whole life here.

I recently picked up a 1982 XJ650 Maxim for free from a buddy of mine down the street. It's in really bad shape, as it has spent the last few years on its side out in the elements. No tank, seat, carbs, or any electronics to speak of, but the frame is what I wanted. I'm big on "if I can't build it, I don't want it bad enough", hence why I'm considering myself a jack of all trades. That's where most of my toys came from... I don't know what this bike is going to end up being; bobber, brat style, chopper, rat, monster... whatever you want to call it I guess. All I know is it will be mine and mine alone. The engine is completely locked up and was full to the brim with water, so it's getting torn down for fun (and education). If for whatever reason I absolutely can't get a replacement stock mill in this thing, I will find a 750 for it and make it happen (or maybe a virago twin!). BTW, the rear shocks were already "relocated" like that by the P.O.

I'm also getting an early '80s XS1100 soon for the low price of finishing a project started before my son was born. My brother in law and I transplanted a F.I. 95 2.3l into his carb equipped 83 Ranger, and I was tasked with finishing the wiring, troubleshooting, and to get it running right. No problem, almost done. This bike needs a good bit of work, but nothing close to the neglected XJ.

If all else fails, I will do what "can't be done" and meld the two. I'll fab some mounts and put the 1100 engine in the tiny 650 frame... this is where "monster" comes in above... also sounds fast as hell.

Regardless, I'm sure I'll have questions about stuff later... after the search of course!

So enough about me and my plans... flame away folks! 8)

 

Welcome from VA! Good Luck on your project.

 

WELCOME from TN!!! No FLAMING here! Will say QUITE a project you've got yourself though :wink: ...

skillet

 

lol... no doubt! Thanks folks.

 

Couple bolts and the rest will buff right out.

LMAO

Welcome from Michigan, can't wait to see where this one goes!

Good luck

 

Welcome from PA! Yeah, maybe a LITTLE bit of buffing!

 

Man, apparently these engines are not easy to come by around here... I've had my feelers out for a while now and can't seem to find one for less than $300. Anybody know of any decent bike bone yards in GA?