Xj 650 Turbo is it worth it?

Hi. I bought xj650 4kO to build my own bike from it. It's near as original condition I'm just getting to get her running properly. I just found a xj650 turbo for good money US import (I'm in UK) 43K MILES all original running bike but need a cosmetic refreshing and service. Question is is the frame of a turbo model the same as all xj650? Any problems due to turbo fitted to the engine. I was thinking of keeping the 4KO as is and customise /chop the turbo. Any advise is welcome.

 

Since the turbo is much less common, that would be the one to keep original, if you're intent on chopping one of them.

 

Indeed, a running turbo could be a decent investment especially if it is just cosmetics- otherwise it could a bigger money pit than a regular XJ

 

I bought one and I am going to collect it next weekend so I will see in what condition this will be.

 

My understanding is that the turbo 650is built on the standard 650 frame. What is actually meant by that, though, I'm not sure. Could be extra stuff welded on as mounting points, etc..... We'll see as more people chime in

 

Tons more tabs and mounting points on the turbo frame. Though if you aren't putting ANY fairings on, you can probably get away without almost all of them.

Turbos are money pits, not doubt about it, but they are fun. A "refresh" will involved everything on a "normal" XJ plus a rebuild of the turbocharger, a more complicated electrical system, and fuel system. Just don't kid yourself and think that you'll drop a couple hundred and be on the road again and you'll be fine.

 

I understand that this will need some work done. Bike I have bought has 42k miles and has had cylinder head service done 2k miles ago. Also the bike has been put through MOT test so all seems to be good.