1981 XJ 650 Starting Point

This bike was purchased about 3 weeks ago and I am slowly working out the bugs that over 10 years of storage have brought out. Lots to do and lots to learn about the XJ's. I have had 2 previous Yamahas. In fact my first bike was a Yamaha YDS2. If you can remember that far back you kind of how old I am....LOL My second Yamaha was a 2006 V Star 1100, nice bike but getting up there in weight. I am pleased the XJ is only in the Mid 400 pound area. The following is a photo of the project as we begin its repair to safe riding. Darn can't get the photo to load.

 

I guess the photos did post....how about that, old guy wins one.

 

This is most likely your best starting point:
http://www.xjbikes.com/forums/threads/the-information-overload-hour.27544/
And asking questions here on this forum, lots of smart people here.

Sounds like you are on the right track "slowly" and with a focus on safety!