Well I had been looking for an xs 650 to replace my xj750 which I had bought and sorted.
Picked up a non-running 1981 Yamaha XS650 Heritage Special, imported to the UK in the early 90s. Started with the electrics—rewired it to remove a load of old inline glass fuses. Still no spark initially, but after replacing the coil, HT leads, and sorting the earths, it’s now got a strong, consistent spark. Carbs were in a terrible state, so I fully rebuilt them, including new throttle shaft seals. That’s now paid off as it’s running.
Previous owner claimed it was running last year… I’m sceptical.
Brakes were completely seized—calipers stripped and cleaned, full of gunk. Currently waiting on seals, a new piston, and tyres, etc. Overall it looks like it hasn’t been properly serviced in years. Really enjoying bringing it back to life. Plan is a light scrambler-style build, but only once it’s running and riding properly.
Picked up a non-running 1981 Yamaha XS650 Heritage Special, imported to the UK in the early 90s. Started with the electrics—rewired it to remove a load of old inline glass fuses. Still no spark initially, but after replacing the coil, HT leads, and sorting the earths, it’s now got a strong, consistent spark. Carbs were in a terrible state, so I fully rebuilt them, including new throttle shaft seals. That’s now paid off as it’s running.
Previous owner claimed it was running last year… I’m sceptical.
Brakes were completely seized—calipers stripped and cleaned, full of gunk. Currently waiting on seals, a new piston, and tyres, etc. Overall it looks like it hasn’t been properly serviced in years. Really enjoying bringing it back to life. Plan is a light scrambler-style build, but only once it’s running and riding properly.
