I bought a XS-1 (I think) from a a guy off of Craigslist. I've wanted to get into riding and working on bikes for a while, but never had the money. Saw this for $550, and I jumped on the opportunity. That being said, I really don't know anything about getting started. I can say that the bike has sat for about 20-25 years, but the guy I bought it from kept in in good condition. Does anyone have advice on where to start taking it apart? I did buy a owner's workshop manual for it, and I've got some tools to work with, but I'll take any advice I can get my hands on for what to do next.
That is the first ..last and only mistake Beginners Do --->
Does anyone have advice on where to start taking it apart?
Once taken apart the coming together sometimes (most times ) don't happen .
Most times I have seen this was bikes that was not likely to run at all .And was cheap.
Not knowing your skills or tools or time available. So if you ask me the first rule for a beginner .
If not broken dont touch it.
Here on the forum are people installing aftermarket Whatnot and ends in huge problems.
Experts can find solutions .But a beginner cannot
Clearly openly stating -->
I really don't know anything about getting started
I find that as a very good sign say that again -- very good sign ---The opposite is more common.
Bought the bike and the manual and two weeks later are Experts. Fumbling it
With the pictures I have seen ..It looks like a find .. We don't know the facts
If the engine i seized and mileage
Many here on the forum are Experts the Worlds best .. And their advice tend to underestimate how difficult it can be and don't remember their own mistakes . Nor how expensive it can be.
A careful touch according to waking up instructions and not touching the rest would be my recommendation
Keeping it stock don't touch the exterior
Then you have essentially the same bike to sell on if this is not right for you.
Getting some more dollars for.It
Then if you get it running you can slowly plan for the future finding part and perhaps go for cleaning off the
Paint
I have heard the saying here
" There is no such thing as a Normal wear on an Enthusiast vehicle they only get better with time "
It can be a process that takes many years .
Take your time .. get it running and then think about the next step.
As gggGary puts it .The wrong approach can reduce value .And as I have seen getting a bike that ran ( poorly )
Soon Being a box of parts.
People do what they want with their property and bikes I know that . But here is a good start. Dont hurt to think before.
) I used these reference photos endlessly, and I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been contacted by someone asking to see photos of some detail. With phone cameras and digital storage on computers there’s no reason to not take a ton of photos. You’ll be glad you did.
