New member

Hi, new member here and this is my first post.

My neighbor gave me a motorcycle. He can't find the operators manual and is searching for the title, so I'm trying to figure out what I've got. Unfortunately he can't find the keys either. :-(

He will likely find the title, but I don't know about the manual and the keys.

Probably hasn't run in 5-7 years. It has 19800 miles on the clock.

The emblems on the side say "650," "Maxim." The tag on the neck says "5-81." Does this mean it is a 1981 model?

The vehicle ID is JYA4H7009BAxxxxxx.

Am I on the right forum?

Is this enough info to determine what I got?

Thanks for your help.
Jim

 

It sounds like an '81. Do the engine side covers say anything like YICS? If it doesn't it's probably an '81 (or older).

 

Which engine covers are you talking about? The crank end covers are both blank. The cover for the tranny (both sides) says "Yamaha."

Thanks.
Jim

 

Got any pics? Got a digi camera? If you post a pic or three someone here could probably ID the bike. Also look at my gallery and the galleries of others who own 81 Maxims and see if they resemble your bike. It does sound like you are describing a 81 Maxim XJ650.
Lost title is a few hoops to jump thru, but doable in most cases, especially if your neighbor is the original owner. A locksmith should be able to rekey or replace the tumbler if needed. Bear in mind that the ignition key also unlocks the gas cap on that model.
Anyway, welcome!

 

The "crank end covers" would say YICS if it were '82 or newer. It sounds like an '81. Someone with the XJCD should be able to run the VIN for you to nail it down, though.

 

Serial number starting at 4H7-000101 to 4H7-100000 is a 1980 model
Serial number starting at 4H7-100101 to 4H7-300000 is a 1981 model

 

Jim, I sent the information for you in your PM Box.

 

Thanks for the help!

I ordered the XJCD.

I found the registration under the seat and it says it is a 1981 model.

My neighbor found a key. The key works the ignition and the helmet lock.

It fits and turns the gas cap but I can not get the cap to open. How far should the key turn to open the gas cap? What is the gas lid opening procedure (push and turn etc.)?

The key fits in but does not turn the chain lock. Should the same key fit all locking devices on this bike?

The bike has not run since 2001. What should I do and/or check before cranking it over?

This list is great! Thanks again.
Jim

 

I'm very pleased to hear that the key and registration were located. The lock should turn less than a quarter of the way to open the gas cap. Shoot some WD-40 in there to lubricate the mechanisim, it won't hurt anything.
First thing to do is to remove all the spark plugs and fog the cylinders with fogging oil (found in boat shops and Walmart). Let the cylinders get some lube, then, after pulling the left hand side crank cover, turn the engine over by hand with a wrench. This is to determine if the piston rings are stuck or any other issues may be present in the cylinder that would prevent the engine from turning over. You want to find out at this step rather than with the starter, it could get messy otherwise. Valves can stick open and/or rust build up in the cylinder. Either one is a bad sign.
There are other issues to address but I'm out of time right now. I'm certain someone else will pop by and give you a run down of prestart instructions. Best of luck!