bossink
XS400 Member
Hi all, I just got my first project bike, a '78 XS400. I bought it for only € 100,- so I didn't have any high expectations. The bike wasn't running and I just had to believe that the previous owner put the bike away with a functional engine.
My plan is to build a cafe racer style bike and learning something about bikes whilst completing the project. I've been riding for about 5 years now but have no real experience in maintaining or modifying a motorcycle. I think I do have some technical insights, and got some good tools (compressor, airlift) so I can only blame myself if things don't work out!
So,what did I buy?
This is how the motor was found, partly disassembled but with all parts complete (I hope)
I've just spent one night cleaning only the front chainwheel compartment.....one big clogged black mess! Hard to believe the thing could actually roll!
Whilst sorting out the crates of parts I found these two beauties:
Well...What do you think, will this get me a functional bike?
Meanwhile I've taken out the rear wheel and saw if the electrical parts where complete. I think I'm almost complete but not sure yet. I am sure that I won't need all the electrics because I will leave the turn signals of the bike. Maybe go with a battery less setup?
I've also tried to fit the carburators (tight fit when the intake rubber is cold!) but they are in no way complete. I seem to miss the mounting plates, the idle screw, some parts to make the choke work... *getting the shopping list updated*
I've decided to strip the bike almost bare, but leave the engine in the frame for now. So, worked on getting the front forks out and the handlebar off.
(got some issues with the airlift....)
That's it for now, will keep this thread updated!
Please let me know your thoughts!
My plan is to build a cafe racer style bike and learning something about bikes whilst completing the project. I've been riding for about 5 years now but have no real experience in maintaining or modifying a motorcycle. I think I do have some technical insights, and got some good tools (compressor, airlift) so I can only blame myself if things don't work out!
So,what did I buy?
This is how the motor was found, partly disassembled but with all parts complete (I hope)
I've just spent one night cleaning only the front chainwheel compartment.....one big clogged black mess! Hard to believe the thing could actually roll!
Whilst sorting out the crates of parts I found these two beauties:
Well...What do you think, will this get me a functional bike?
Meanwhile I've taken out the rear wheel and saw if the electrical parts where complete. I think I'm almost complete but not sure yet. I am sure that I won't need all the electrics because I will leave the turn signals of the bike. Maybe go with a battery less setup?
I've also tried to fit the carburators (tight fit when the intake rubber is cold!) but they are in no way complete. I seem to miss the mounting plates, the idle screw, some parts to make the choke work... *getting the shopping list updated*
I've decided to strip the bike almost bare, but leave the engine in the frame for now. So, worked on getting the front forks out and the handlebar off.
That's it for now, will keep this thread updated!
Please let me know your thoughts!