Hello from south eastern Wisconsin

Hello everyone. Just thought I would poke in and say hi to everyone. I am probably soon getting a 1981 maxim 550. I figured I would join the forum and see if I can get some input on this bike. I am trading my 1991 vx800 for it as i do not enjoy the bike. I also ride a 1980 yamaha xs400. What king of input can you all give me on the 550's? What are some things to check for on the bike? Are they decent for cruising at highway speeds? Any and all input is greatly appreciated. Nice to meet everryone and I lok forward to having many long discussions about the bike.

 

Welcome to the XJ forum. You'll make plenty of friends on here and get lots of knowledgeable input to any questions.

First things to check or get sorted on the XJs are usually carbs and valve shims.

Enjoy...

 

General advice: see all receipts of maintenance that they have. No receipt - don't trust whatever maintenance was done. Be aware that a 30 year old bike will *always* need work, and be ok with that.

When you show up to view the bike, bring tools to pull the plugs and a compression gauge. Tell the owner not to start the bike - you want the engine cold when you start it to see if it starts well, and that the choke is operational, and that the carbs are working properly. Check the color of the plugs and test all the cylinders. As long as the engine is sound, you can make the rest work. Check the date code on the front brake lines; you'll need to replace them if they are older than 4 years or so. Look at the wear indicator for the rear brakes, and you can visually inspect the pads on the front. Has the bike been sitting long? If so, the rear shoes are prone to delaminating! Very dangerous. The rubber boots between the carbs and the airbox and cylinders are prone to cracking. Usually, we have a few shallow cracks, but if they are bad, you'll have to replace them, and they are around $100/4. Ask to see the title and make sure the VIN numbers match.

Good luck!!

 

I should of asked - how many miles on the bike? Testing the compression is usually only recommending for bikes with significant miles. For me, that's probably nearing 20K, but I welcome others input.

 

Hey Iggster!
From Milwaukee here.

Sorry I don't give out much advice - but I sure do get alot here. You will find alot of good people here - heed their advice and you will have a sweet ride.

Then stop down at Rocker Box on August 4th by Fuel Cafe.

 

The 'Falls here....welcome aboard.

I'm new too, so I ask a lot more than I tell people what to do.

 

I grew up in Menomonee Falls.
Lived on Robert Ave. across from the Tamarack Swamp. Friends of mine would ride dirt bikes where the YMCA is now.

 

Welcome aboard, from Milwaukee's Northwest side! All the general advise has been given so I won't repeat anything. Best of luck with the search and enjoy.

 

Welcome from green bay!!

where ya from?