BBQRider
XS650 Enthusiast
I recently purchased a pretty nice (all original) 1983 xs650. She only has 6800 miles on her. This is my first Xs and I believe I'm in love. As you guys know it's a pure joy to ride. I've been through boat and car projects but this will be my first bike project. I've owned a few other bikes but always kept them pretty stock. My first (of many I'm sure) questions is in regards to the front forks. They seem pretty spongy and nearly bottom out with firm braking. Im just curious if it's a given that a 30 year old bike needs new springs or could a simple fork oil change be the fix? I realize I can answer my own question with the oil change but I guess what I am really asking is, how can I get the optimum performance out of the stock forks on somewhat of a budget. My goal is to build a tracker that will feel like its running on rails so I'm just trying to chart my course carefully. Thanks in advance for any input.