Greetings from paradise

[coleman2347]

Its my first time here, been riding for about 50 years,older than dirt. I live in the Philippines and bikes larger than 200cc are fairly rare here.I'm a retired US Marine and love it here.
I've just sold a honda super 4 for my (here) dream bike a 78 Yamaha 650 Special. I know nothing about the bike, never had one b4. My main reason for getting it is that I,m a nut about vintage english bikes and cafe racers. From what I've read its a great bike and hopefully soon I can turn it into my version of a two up cafe racer. Has to be two up as my wife loves to ride.
The bike is a fair shape (for here) 1978 650 Special. First thing I noticed is the starter does not work, from what I read here in the wee hours of the morning its the spring clip. I am sure that as I go along many other things will be evident so this forum will be invaluable. BTW, there is no such thing as a Mig welder here, in the entire city I live in there is only arc and gas. Doing things by hand is the norm, labor is cheaper than progress.
I look forward to meeting you and hope as I pick up experiance about the bike, maybe I can be of some help also....Thanks Lee

 

[retiredgentleman]

Welcome to the group.

You have got just about the best XS650 model there is. I may be a little biased, but the 78 Special is when Yamaha had it all figured out, but before they started getting goofy with styling and interlocks.

Lots of middle aged lads, like myself, on the site.

Always good to post a picture of your bike.

 

[TwoManyXS1Bs]

Hey jarhead, welcome to the forum!

Older than dirt? Hell, some of these guys were on the design team!

Good luck with your project...