1981 XJ550 in central Indiana

Hi,

I bought a 1981 XJ550 about a month ago. It was previously owned by an older guy who lived out in the country. I fought the usual gremlins. A coworker/buddy helped me rebuild the carbs, starter switch, and starter solenoid. It seemed the country dirt was in everything. I changed all filters, fluids, added a fuel filter and new fuel line, spark plugs, spark plug boots and brake lights. I got my new tires back today, got them reinstalled on the bike, and took the chance to adjust and lube the chain.

So far, my buddy and I have put about 140 miles on it, and it seems to really be coming together. This is my first bike, and I don't have a ton of experience riding. I took it out a few days ago for my first time out of my parking complex, after lots of parking lot practice and did alright. After practicing braking and slow speed maneuvering, I went for my first real drive tonight of about 40 miles to the next town over and back. Most of it was stoplight to 45 MPH back to stoplight. I did one stretch of road at 55-60.

I bought the bike initially as a learner bike, due to the cheap price, ease of repair, and it was larger than a 250cc w/o being too large. I really wanted something that could take some highway riding when needed, and handle my 6'1" frame. After riding it some, I can see why people fall in love with the XJs.

Also, chacal has been great with parts. He provided several of the harder to find key parts. Being able to buy a premade YICS tools was worth the money of not having to find all the little parts. Thanks Chacal.

If anybody is around north or east side of Indianapolis and wants to ride with a newbie, PM me.

Doug

 

Glad your enjoying it! I would ride with ya, but I am a little far from you lol.

 

East side of Indy here with two XJ's... Sounds like you're out near Greenfield if it was all stoplights and long stretches?

 

I'm on the northeast side at 96 st + I69. I rode over to Carmel, Westfield, Zionsville and back today to see friends + check on parents house after last nights storm. I'm starting to feel more comfortable, but still not sure I'm ready for any highway riding. I work on the east side next to Fort Ben and hope to be riding the bike to work soon. My truck gets about 15 mpg commuting, so the sooner I commute on the bike, the sooner I wont be spending all my money on gas.

Doug

 

Aah, northeast side... gotcha. I'm on the due east side (Washington and Arlington area). I'm up in Carmel skating pretty frequently though. I know that area well... used to commute from here to the north side of Muncie every day on my bike. I totally feel you on commuting on the bike -- that's why I bought mine in the first place. I'm up