81 XJ550RH White For Sale

Long sad story. I'm new on this site (I think) so I appreciate your indulgence.
1981 Yamaha Seca XJ550RH. I am the original owner of this bike. The bike is in above average condition and has always been stored inside or under cover.
Here are the pros...
12K original miles. It was my daily driver back in the day.
All plastic is good and windshield is excellent.
Rebuilt carbs fall of 2009 and got the bike back on the road, inspected and running after a long sit. Over $300 invested in the carbs alone.
Great tires (but damn old!), no tears in seat. Never been down. All body panels are correct and in good shape.
As part of the fuel system rework, the tank was cleaned and coated inside. Petcock and fuel control valve rebuilt. All fuel lines replaced.
Here are the cons...
Light surface rust on the brightwork. The aluminum cleans up well and the chromed plastic does too. I've cleaned a lot of it. I replaced the front fender and handlebars with direct replacements because of surface rust.
The big bummer... I'm pretty sure it has a rod knocking. As soon as I heard the sound I shut it off and haven't restarted it since. The engine does turn over easily, but I wouldn't risk it without tearing it down.
Trip reset knob is missing.

I just don't have the time to work on the bike any more, and even though it was like my first girlfriend, I've got to let it go. Hey, just like her!

Here is what you get: The bike, all my spares including fender, handlebars, original exhaust, owners manual, shop manual, spare oil filter housing, brake shoes, YICS tuning tool and the original toolkit that snaps in under the seat. (I have the bag and at least some of the tools). Also, there are spare valve shims and other small parts and anything else I can find in the shop. Clear title in my name.

Drop me a note if you are interested. Any reasonable offer will be considered. I'm near Houston.
I'd post a picture if I knew how!
Jim

 

I hope I’m not being to forward Jim, but it’d definitely help if you have a number you can work with for the guys and gals to consider

Market values differ greatly for different regions.
Five posts as a new member and then you can upload pictures for all to see and enjoy!!

 

Hey Joe,
Thanks. I really don't have a number in mind. I figure it is worth something, but it really just makes me sad when I see it in the shop. I am looking for a low stress deal, which means not a lot of shipping/driving hassle, but I'm always up for meeting new people - especially fans of these bikes! Like I said, this was my baby and I'd much rather see her go to a good home than languish in my shop. I have too many projects as it is. (post 2, pics soon!)

 

What makes you think it has a rod knocking?

 

Hi Chacal,
I remember your name from when I was going through the carbs; you helped me find some parts as I recall. During that process, I had a sinking float and flooded the crankcase with gasoline. Cleaned it all out and changed the oil of course. After riding for a few days, I came home from work and heard the knocking. I'm pretty certain it is a rod. I looked around for bearings, but I had no luck. Anyway, like I said, I really have too many projects and just need to move on.
I guess I think the bike is worth $500, but I could be wrong about that. Anyone who wants to make an offer can PM me. Thanks again for your help from before.
Jim

 

Post number four. Waiting for the gods to allow pictures!

 

Man. Nice.

 

When are we headed down to pick this amazing creature up?!

 

Dibs.

See you soon @Jim-in-Texas !

 

I was hoping you would pick it up. I did not want to drive to Texas I think it would look nice with a chrome chain guard

 

Recalling that conversation of "Where'd your chain guard go?" well, you're in luck - I have just the one for it

 

Done deal. Ketchup came and picked up my baby today. He heard some stories and we had a great time getting to know one another. Ketchup is a fine young man who deserves all the best you all have to offer.
I thank everyone on this forum who helped me in this and my previously forgotten nick with my baby.
She's in the best of hands and my brain will always have a soft spot for these bikes. (that's a joke y'all).
XJs fo evah! Jim