speeedracer27
XS650 Member
So I pulled the trigger on a 1975 XS 650 with a side hack. Always liked the 650 parallel twin and this seemed like an opportune time to get one. I'm a gear head, so I won't be able to leave this as is...Also, I needed a new Spring-time project and my dog wanted a sidecar.
Based on my cursory research, it looks like PamcoPete is tits up and Mike's has some substandard electronic components. Perhaps you fine folks can point me in the right direction.
Things I think I want to do:
1. Steering/swing-arm bearings
2. Get rid of points (Electronic ignition, etc. Want it to be reliable and I hate points...) Is Rawahide any good?
3. Front brakes. Would love to go to a Brembo 4 piston set-up or perhaps a dual disc. I like to stop and with the added weight of a side hack, I would like something better than a single piston 45 year-old relic. The rear can remain a drum, unless someone has a suggestion. I want to keep the spoke wheels.
4. I'll probably change the rear shocks out, suggestions are welcome.
4. Anything else that may be of benefit. I'm not looking to spend $10K but also like doing things the right way and cannot stand buying junk that doesn't work. Having said all that, here is the intended result:
I don't really care about boosting extra power or gaining superior handling, etc. I have faster and newer stuff to ride for that. This is a project for my dog to enjoy Sunday rides and just look cool. I don't mid tearing this thing down to the bones, if need be. The XS is about as simple as they come. Mostly looking for pragmatic tips, information, resource and general things an enthusiast might find helpful.
Disclaimer:
I may spontaneously get completely out of control and drop a 750 big bore kit in this thing and do a frame-off. Who knows...This stuff is just fun!
Feel free to bust balls and make ridiculous statements.
Thanks in advance
With much respect,
Speeedracer27
Based on my cursory research, it looks like PamcoPete is tits up and Mike's has some substandard electronic components. Perhaps you fine folks can point me in the right direction.
Things I think I want to do:
1. Steering/swing-arm bearings
2. Get rid of points (Electronic ignition, etc. Want it to be reliable and I hate points...) Is Rawahide any good?
3. Front brakes. Would love to go to a Brembo 4 piston set-up or perhaps a dual disc. I like to stop and with the added weight of a side hack, I would like something better than a single piston 45 year-old relic. The rear can remain a drum, unless someone has a suggestion. I want to keep the spoke wheels.
4. I'll probably change the rear shocks out, suggestions are welcome.
4. Anything else that may be of benefit. I'm not looking to spend $10K but also like doing things the right way and cannot stand buying junk that doesn't work. Having said all that, here is the intended result:
I don't really care about boosting extra power or gaining superior handling, etc. I have faster and newer stuff to ride for that. This is a project for my dog to enjoy Sunday rides and just look cool. I don't mid tearing this thing down to the bones, if need be. The XS is about as simple as they come. Mostly looking for pragmatic tips, information, resource and general things an enthusiast might find helpful.
Disclaimer:
I may spontaneously get completely out of control and drop a 750 big bore kit in this thing and do a frame-off. Who knows...This stuff is just fun!
Feel free to bust balls and make ridiculous statements.
Thanks in advance
With much respect,
Speeedracer27