mattylmbr
mattylmbr
Howdy all.. New to the XS650 world, have always ridden newer sport bikes and dirt bikes, but really looking forward to digging into a build (never gotten into more than maintenance and upkeep on a bike till now).. As a first timer on the tear down and build up, definitely some concerns on what I can and can't take care of on my own, but looking forward to figuring it out.
Bike is a 1980 XS650.. Has had some "work" done, some good, and some "OK", but I think a great start.. Does have a Pamco ignition and Hughes PMA system already installed, and kick only (however they didn't remove the starter - I'll get to that later).. Plans are to go to a 2016 R6 front end and brakes, Cognito front wheel conversion for the R6 Forks, and 17" modern wheels laced to the stock rear hub and Cognito front hub (dry run/fit pics of the front end below).. Also, grabbed a tank off of a 1977, as I like the center gas cap and overall shape and width of the 1977 better than the stock 1980 tank.. Have already fitted the tank and dual petcocks, and looks and runs great.. Pics are after 1977 tank install and with stock fork, and then mock up with R6 fork on..
Challenges will be the engine, as it runs great, but has some definite leaks - and that starts to get out of my comfort level.. Will be looking for some help from the forums on the engine needs.. Leaking from both head gaskets, so, no clue how to get down there and back up.. So - like I said - will be looking for guidance.. Otherwise - hoping to have her back in riding condition for the spring..
Appreciate the guidance in advance, and hope you enjoy the slow build!!
Bike is a 1980 XS650.. Has had some "work" done, some good, and some "OK", but I think a great start.. Does have a Pamco ignition and Hughes PMA system already installed, and kick only (however they didn't remove the starter - I'll get to that later).. Plans are to go to a 2016 R6 front end and brakes, Cognito front wheel conversion for the R6 Forks, and 17" modern wheels laced to the stock rear hub and Cognito front hub (dry run/fit pics of the front end below).. Also, grabbed a tank off of a 1977, as I like the center gas cap and overall shape and width of the 1977 better than the stock 1980 tank.. Have already fitted the tank and dual petcocks, and looks and runs great.. Pics are after 1977 tank install and with stock fork, and then mock up with R6 fork on..
Challenges will be the engine, as it runs great, but has some definite leaks - and that starts to get out of my comfort level.. Will be looking for some help from the forums on the engine needs.. Leaking from both head gaskets, so, no clue how to get down there and back up.. So - like I said - will be looking for guidance.. Otherwise - hoping to have her back in riding condition for the spring..
Appreciate the guidance in advance, and hope you enjoy the slow build!!