UK parts suppliers for early XS

[cris]

Hi, I've just registered on the forum and have to say what a brilliant site it is. Loads of information for the uninitiated and it's got me all fired up to get an XS. The question I have is how to obtain parts for the early (1970 to 1973) model bikes. I really fancy buying one of the early models but a web search hasn't found any suppliers in the UK (where I live) that specialise in the XS650 parts (let alone the early ones) and Mikes has a much better supply for the 74 on models. Any ideas? Who are the best suppliers in the UK? I'm happy to order parts from the US (or anywhere worldwide) but am concerned about buying an early model and struggling to buy parts, especially as this will be a working bike. I'm planning on keeping the bike pretty standard so standard rather than custom parts are what I will be after. Any help gratefully received! Thanks, Cris

 

[TwoManyXS1Bs]

Welcome to the forum, cris. I understand that Yambits may be your best friend for your parts support.

Even though it may appear that we're swimming in XS's and parts on this side of the pond, the truth is that these bikes are relatively rare, especially those early models. Even more so for model specific body and trim parts, which are decomposing daily. Often, though, custom builders will offer up these parts that will not be used in their builds. Ebay, Craigslist, and especially this forum, are your best tools here.

But, this requires patience, diligence and a competent knowledge of the various XS650 components. For that, this forum is a massive storehouse of information,,, and,,, opportunities...

 

[Huszarail]

As well as Yambits, I used Heiden and got good service but you've gotta factor in the shipping. Not ideal if your only getting bits n pieces.
I've been using www.xs650shop.de too. Good service from these guys so far. Take Paypal as well.

 

[yellowdog]

Yambits is in Yorkshire not far from you and has a fair few bits for our model.

Mikes xs is good but you will get charged import duty and an extra delivery charge to get it to your door,the postal charge is only to get it into the uk .ouch costs a lot.
Heidens is good no vat or import duty as it is in the EU.
Most of the parts for my 72 have come from EBay ,I check every day and so far have got loads of stuff sourced here in the UK.It takes awhile but eventually the part you want will turn up

I have just ordered a head gasket from Poland though as it was cheaper than here

 

[cris]

Hi, thanks for all that info - much appreciated. The feeling I'm getting from these replies and looking at the sites of the dealers mentioned is that it would be a lot easier to run a '74 on model than a 70 to 73 model as a working day to day bike. Is this a fair conclusion? I have a hankering for an early model (they look so good!) but the riding for me is what it's about so I don't want to be sat around for weeks waiting for parts to sort the thing out when it misbehaves. Am I being too pessimistic about parts availability?! Thanks, Cris

 

[yellowdog]

74 parts on are more available and interchangeable,but me personally it's all about the xs 2
I love the look of it and just seems to have that certain something.

 

[Huszarail]

.
I have just ordered a head gasket from Poland though as it was cheaper than here

Interesting. Please post how you get on, quality,delivery etc. I'm in the market too.

 

[peanut]

Fowlers would be a good bet for OEM parts
https://www.fowlersparts.co.uk/
and there is also Wemoto
http://www.wemoto.com/

There is a good Brit forum too, you might find some spares on there but you'll definitely find a lot of friendly help and advice .
Most of the members seem to be based in Yorkshire ?
http://www.customxs650.com/

You need to refresh your page once or twice to access the forum page for some reason ?

 

[cris]

A big thank you for all this information! Really useful know there's a UK forum too - just registered now. I think I'm going to leave the choice of early or late bike to the hands of fate and see what comes up in the right condition and at the right price. Live on the edge, eh?

 

[peanut]

Good luck Chris, keep us updated with your search

Might see you on the customxs forum sometime.

 

[cris]

Will do! Thanks, Cris

 

[Triggerton III]

Anyone know of a supplier that can provide a wiring loom for a xs1b in the UK?