'81 XJ 750 RH (Seca) bobber project

So I bought my first xj a few weeks ago for a bargain. Engine still runs but it needs quite a bit of tlc. Got the model sorted and got all the relevant manuals thanx to the patrons of this forum (my thanx to all who contributed).

So I'm building a bobber from this bike. stipped the seat, tank and all the electronics down (labeled off course) and cut of the rear bracket of the seat, so the basic bobber shape is coming along nicely. The bike is old and covered in thick grease, so I am going to start on one side and clean and repair and replace as need be.

This thread I suppose I can call my build thread. And all input would be appreciated. Will keep you all posted on progress and post fotos and the like....to start of with, the original bike and phase one stipping....

I am unsure how to proceed, what should I tackle next? should I first focus on the engine and get it purring again (thus engine, carbs etc.) or should I start elsewhere? any suggestions?

 

I'm doing the same thing to my XJ650 and I've opted to get the bike running optimally before modifying anything cosmetically (or what seems cosmetic anyway). My reasoning for this is if I decide to use pod filters or 4 to1 exhaust, I'll first want to be sure that the valves have been adjusted, carbs are properly syched, and the bike has been colortuned so that if I begin to make any changes to jets for pod mods I can simply diagnose the problem (should any arise) or always revert it back to stock and know it will function properly.

Basically, if it runs right you have a benchmark for how it should be once you start making changes.

I could be totally off base here since I'm new to this but it seems like the most logical route to me.

Mine will be a process that will take some time since I'm in the waiting process to move to my new house (which has a garage). In the mean time I'll get the bike running right and ride it until Oct. (or until the bug bites me) and start making my changes to the bike once the season is over. YMMV.

 

Get it running well first. Would kinda suck to do all the mods just to find out the engine is a paperweight!

 

Thanx guys....the so it shall be....I see the logical reasoning behind it....will keep you posted....

 

Hows the project coming along, I have a XJ750 seca that Im thinking of doing the same too