Need help getting started on 650 project

[Scotty T]

O.K. So I got this 83 650 from my brother in law months ago. When I got it, it was suppose to be for transportation. He told me it just needed the battery charged and the carbs adjusted. Ha! So I am completely ignorant to motorcycles, but I have never backed down from anything. I would love to do a chopper or maybe even bobber out of this. My first question is how hard or is it even possible to stretch and rake it with the shaft drive? Is there a benefit to shaft over chain? Or is it possible to convert to chain? I think I would prefer to convert to chain if possible. I know my way around mechanics and a fab shop, but I could use some direction if anyone has time oin their hands to guide an idiot through some of the steps. Thank you all who read this. If nothing else I am so stoked I found this site. I have been looking for exactly what I have found here tonight. I love the inspiration I have just looking at the other projects and posts. Good luck to all and good riding. I appreciate any input and feeback.

 

[XSJoel]

You don't have an XS650 if it is shaft drive.

 

[jamesgs4]

also there is no simple shaft to chain conversion.

 

[XSJoel]

There is actually no shaft to chain conversion known to man for the XS650.

 

[sidewinder]

Scott, you said you have a 650, must be an xj? Probly pretty hard if not impossable to stretch the swingarm- chain, no. Cafe???

 

[Detale]

or possibly a 750

 

[jamesgs4]

There is actually no shaft to chain conversion known to man for the XS650.

lol



.

 

[Aussie 650]

Yep, not an xs. Maybe just stick to the transportation option? You can still rake the neck, shorter shocks, Single seat it if you really want a bobber look? Chuck up pics, we'll tell u what it is.

 

[gggGary]

Scotty, ALWAYS get it running and ride it before you start to customize. Good luck and good bye.

 

[Scotty T]

Thank you all for the input. I will most def get it running first. I want to ride it a bit to see how the ride feels and let that direct which way I go. So yes it is an xj650. My apologies.

 

[hmusket]

Scotty T, check this forum out: http://www.xjbikes.com/index.php