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XS1100 -- Everything You Need To Know

Nice XS11 Cafe Racer
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I do wish people wouldn't write things like that.
XS11's are relatively cheap over this side of the pond, while other '70's Japanese superbikes are now fetching silly prices, you can still pick up a XS11 Special for £1000 to £1500 if it needs some tidying up.
The trouble is that I'm broke at the moment, I'd like prices to stay low for a year or two so I can bag a couple and stash them away.
That's not gonna happen if they suddenly become fashonable
 
Or it's final iteration the XJ1100J ;)
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The version you want if your inseam is 30" or less.
It's an acquired taste, but the integrated brake works fine once you get used to it.
Wouldn't take much to make this one your classic.
Rode this then the R1200GS. Mumble, mumble, antiques is antiques.
 
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Grewth said:
I do wish people wouldn't write things like that.
XS11's are relatively cheap over this side of the pond, while other '70's Japanese superbikes are now fetching silly prices, you can still pick up a XS11 Special for £1000 to £1500 if it needs some tidying up.
The trouble is that I'm broke at the moment, I'd like prices to stay low for a year or two so I can bag a couple and stash them away.
That's not gonna happen if they suddenly become fashonable
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As compared to KZ and GS liter bikes, the XS1100 hasn't been getting the attention that they do, even though you can make the argument that the XS is the better bike. I've been involved in the community for about 20 years. XS11.com is dead and taken up by XS11.club. It's very slow as compared to here. The XS11 rallies, what's left of them are attended on other bikes. XS Southeast evolved into Vintage Yamaha Rally and the XS1100 is no longer predominant. Parts are becoming scarce as well. Younger folks buy them because they're cheap then usually destroy them. They may be rare sooner than later.
 
My frankenbike. It’s made from several different bikes. Title says 79 special but it has a 17” rear wheel. Trying to sort out the carbs as they look like later than 79.
Mystery wiring, rear wheel space problems. It does look good sitting there….
 

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In the 70’s Yamahas we’re my thing. I started with an RD350 in high school, bought an XT500 when I was 19, then an XS650 when I was in my early 20’s and finally an XS750. The next logical step for me would’ve been an XS1100 and I did want one. I remember when that black and gold Special first came out, I remember thinking that was so cool looking! :laugh2: But alas, like so many of us here, my mid 20’s became more about being married and having kids and working two jobs and motorcycles went by the wayside.
Still….I sure would’ve liked to own an XS1100. 🙄
 
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