Sell the XJ and other bikes for a newer bike (GSX750F)or not

The missus has posed an interesting proposition. She wants to scale down the shed and is proposing the acquisition of a near new bike and sell all the rest. The rest consists of 3 bikes that are not running and including the XJ900N 1985, XV1000 Midnight Special 1983 (1100 motor) and a 1949 Ariel Red Hunter NH350. None have major problems. The XJ is the one getting priority and is getting a whole new braking system, now that I have finally replaced that damn neutral switch. The others get a passing bit of attention to arrest rust and seizure, and generally just warm my heart when I see them.

I have thought long and hard on this as I find it hard to get into the shed these days with young kids and jobs. A bike only a few years old, with no further work to do, just hop on and ride, would be nice. But I just can't seem to deal with the idea of parting with the XJ, as I have been slowly working on this baby for years (Neglected mess when I got it).

I am also of the view that a running XJ is not significantly worse or more maintenance than a newer bike. In fact, the XJ is a much surer proposition, as I have faced many of its demons before. It's got 3 brand new disc rotors on it, FFS.

Anyway, as this forum constitutes the closest thing to counselling that I am likely to come across, would appreciate your views comrades.

 

I personaly like the older bikes. Putting your personal touch into them as they come back to life is more gratifying to me. But having a running bike does have its merits.

 

Re: Sell the XJ and other bikes for a newer bike (GSX750F)or

I was in a similar place. Spend time tinkering and fixing or riding. Since time was in a limited quantity, I ended up choosing riding for now and picked up a newer bike. My wife and I discussed, and the door is open to get another project bike when I have more time.

No regrets at this point. I'll pick up another project later in life.

 

What is it about the Katana that you like?

If you rode one and always wanted one, ... and the one you can get is a good deal on a clean Bike with nothing to replace for awhile ... except tires and brakes ...

Buy a Rattle-can of International Orange spray paint.
Shoot the cardboard "For Sale" signs ... Orange.
People can see them better that way.

Unload the whole stable.
Sweep the floor.
Buy the Zook and go looking for twisties.

I think I'd even buy a new Helmet.