Just Picked this Up Today!! 1971 Yamaha XS1B 650

[JonW]

I found this locally on craigslist a few days ago and picked it up today. I really wasn't looking for a new project, but many of us know how that goes! It's a 1971 XS1B. The engine is stuck and there weren't any other parts to go with it. I have since sprayed it liberally with Kroil Penetrating Fluid to hopefully free things up. The only challenging thing so far, is the right-hand spark plug has been broken off in the head and is flush with the top of the spark plug hole.

 

[Tinker Taylor]

It amazes me when someone takes on a project I would consider a total write off. I am looking forward to your magic!
'TT'

 

[jetmechmarty]

That looks like a good challenge!

 

[GLJ]

There are some good bones there.

 

[JonW]

There are some good bones there.

For sure!

 

[JonW]

That looks like a good challenge!

It definitely will be. Hopefully, I can get that broken off spark plug out without too much drama and we'll take it from there!

 

[JonW]

It amazes me when someone takes on a project I would consider a total write off. I am looking forward to your magic!
'TT'

Ha ha, those are the challenges I like best!

 

[Jan_P]

Ha ha, those are the challenges I like best!

Yes Sir if it was easy anyone could do it but this time it will need a parts bike
And when that one arrives it is the one that gets rebuilt. ..most likely

 

[JonW]

Yes Sir if it was easy anyone could do it but this time it will need a parts bike
And when that one arrives it is the one that gets rebuilt. ..most likely

I was already working on getting my 1980 650 Special going when I decided to peruse craigslist as I do daily. Now, I've got two XS's to worry about....arggghhh!

 

[Jan_P]

I was already working on getting my 1980 650 Special going when I decided to peruse craigslist as I do daily. Now, I've got two XS's to worry about....arggghhh!

The fine thing with motorcycles there is always room for one more ...

 

[JonW]

The the fine thing with motorcyces there is always room for one more ...

True!!

 

[T Rex NZ]

it's challenges like you have there that keep this forum alive, well done.

 

[JonW]

it's challenges like you have there that keep this forum alive, well done.

Thank you.

 

[Kevin Werner]

There are some good bones there.

It's almost complete...

 

[Grewth]

I'll be following this one !
The XS1 bug has bitten me, but unfortunately over here there are no barn finds.
I'll just have to save up my pennies until I can buy an import

 

[Wingedwheel]

There are some good bones there.

I’m seeing some really good parts that would seriously go towards paying for a more complete project, but like I should be talking…..

 

[GLJ]

I’m seeing some really good parts that would seriously go towards paying for a more complete project, but like I should be talking…..

If that was 74 or newer I would agree. But it's a 71, totally different animal than a newer XS.

Some may agree with me some may not.

 

[JonW]

I’m seeing some really good parts that would seriously go towards paying for a more complete project, but like I should be talking…..

The guy who sold me the Yamaha also sold me my 1974 Honda CB750. He recommended I use it as a parts bike, but I would rather take the challenge.

 

[Wingedwheel]

The guy who sold me the Yamaha also sold me my 1974 Honda CB750. He recommended I use it as a parts bike, but I would rather take the challenge.

It’s just my personal preference but that year CB was my fav for a few different reasons.

 

[59Tebo]

Jon,
Something to try, to get the motor "unstuck": put a socket directly on the crank bolt, use a "breaker" bar, and "bonk" lightly with a rubber mallet. I thought the motor was stuck on my '75 (The Basketcase), but it turned out to be excessive corrosion around the alternator.

The result of improper storage (holding up the side of a shed for years). Good luck with you XS-1B