First Time Motorcyclist, New Owner of a 1996 XJ600

Hi everyone. As the title states, I'm a first timer. Never rode on a motorcycle, never even sat on one before. I'm going to pick up a 1996 XJ600 I found on Craigslist tomorrow. Has 38,000 miles on it, and I'm paying $1000 for it, provided everything works out. It was just inspected and serviced about a week ago. Has new tires and new brakes, and the chain tension was adjusted as per the inspection/servicing. I've got no license, but I'm going next week for my permit. I'm a certified class 3 inspection mechanic (though I am not active), and I'm an Industrial Maintenance Technician by trade. I fix and build cars as a hobby. I've built engines from scratch, and I'm well versed in troubleshooting electrical systems. I very much look forward to working on and enjoying this motorcycle! As of now the current owner claims that it is good to go and needs absolutely nothing at all, but, given my nature, I will figure out a way to change that! Modifications! Woot woot! Any tips or pointers from anybody is thoroughly appreciated. Thanks guys!

 

Hi Flat, welcome to the camp.
READ THIS:
http://www.xjbikes.com/forums/threads/the-information-overload-hour.27544/

I hope it is a MSF course you are taking.
In regards to making the bike safe and reliable, you background should make the tasks ahead easy for you.

Tip- get the bike running in a stock condition before modifying.
2nd tip - do not believe what the previous owner tells you. "New. Brakes" does not mean a properly rebuilt (front and rear) braking system, so do NOT cross brakes off your list of things to do.

 

Welcome to XJBikes. Stumplifter mentioned the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course. It is highly recommended. I hadn't ridden a bike before taking the course and it taught me the basics plus enough to have an idea of how much I had to learn. I highly recommend it. Also, you can get your license without the road test, which is extremely convenient. Finally, to emphasize what Stumplifter wrote, check every safety item on the bike, regardless of what the previous owner stated.

 

MSF course at a minimum, and then the advanced rider's course a year later.

Get a copy of Proficient Motorcycling by David L. Hough.

Always Be the Bunny, and read the links in my signature.

 

Do all you want to the paint, handlebars, tank, fenders, etc---but keep the engine, carbs, air filter, and exhaust stock and you will enjoy many happy miles.

 

This forum focuses mainly on the older xjs from the 80's. The guys here are excellent, but your bike isn't exactly their expertise. You may want to cruise over to xjrider.com for the Seca 2 focused forum. You are still welcome here, of course!

 

Mmmm. Consenance!