Random musings

So, I'm sitting at the part-time PC tech job I still do, waiting on a system to finish its XP Repair Install, and I'm poking around through the local craigslist motorcycle page. I run across two ads.

The first was for an '81 Suzuki GS1000L, looks to be a shaft drive. The ad says it's been sitting outside for the past three years, and it looks like it from the pictures. The neat thing is, it's even got an aftermarket oil cooler. Guy wants $300 for it.

The second was a 1980 Yamaha XS1100, said it ran when he got it a few months back; unfortunately, he seems to have fried something when he tried to jumpstart it from his car. He wants $375 obo, and he "really wants to get rid of it". (Funny, so did the guy with the Suzuki.)

So, two neat ideas for projects... then again, why can't I do something with the one I've already got, for crying out loud? The frame could stand to be repainted or powdercoated, (where would I get that done around here?) I'm not too sure about the health of my #4 cylinder, I'm wondering if I've got a semi-plugged oil passage somewhere in the engine... but why pull the engine apart if I can't even be bothered to clean the blasted thing? (Because I can?)

Tearing the engine down; scary thought, that. Last time I tried that with a Hondamatic (only got as far as removing the cylinders), I dropped a washer in the crankcase, was scared to try and split the case to try and retrieve it, and ended up scrapping the bike. Thanks to this pinsetter mechanic job I'm more comfortable swinging a wrench around, but still.

Like I said; random musings. Or perhaps not-so-rando -- Ooooooh, buttons!!!

 

Yeah, I hear ya on that. It always sounds so good doesn't it? I was minding my own business, haven't had a bike since the seventies, and then this 82 XJ650 finds its way to my garage. Life hasn't been the same since. But look at on the bright side; we're not out on the streets or in the bars. Can't afford those things anymore, these projects use up every spare cent we can beg, borrow, or steal (and then some).



Phil

 

That XS would be a sweet toy, parts are available.