RDPics
XS400 New Member
So my coworker was given a 1982 XS400j Maxim, and it's been sitting on the side of the building for as long as I've worked here. I finally mentioned something about it, and he offered to sell it to me. We settled on $100. So far, it's the cheapest motorcycle I've ever owned. It's also one of the oldest I've owned...second to a sportster 883 with a 1250 conversion kit...but that's another story. Anyways, it's pretty rough, but off to a great start. Lots of oxidation and rust because we are right near the beach in Orange County, California, but lots of character as well.
Basically, he stripped all the BS off, welded up some drag bars, and lowered the shocks as much as possible. That's pretty much it. So I guess it's more of a cafe build than anything. I'm going to keep it going in that general direction, but am not opposed to heading in the Tracker direction if it makes sense financially...as I'm only $250 invested as of right now. I've ordered a couple parts to get things running properly and road ready...carburetor float gaskets, throttle cable, 2 individual pod style air filters to replace the clunky air box, fork oil seals, a Kenda challenger k657 120/90-16 rear tire...also got little excited at the so cal cycle swap meet yesterday and mistakenly purchased a front tire that is 1" too small....100/90-18...needs 100/90-19...D'OH!
Gotta try and swap that mistake out, but I don't think it will be that hard since it's a brand new tire.
Figured I'd introduce myself, and give a little back to the thread, as this place has already helped me out with finding specific numbers (minus the front wheel mixup) and parts compatibility. Thanks to everyone for posting, it helps more than you know!
Best,
Ryan
Basically, he stripped all the BS off, welded up some drag bars, and lowered the shocks as much as possible. That's pretty much it. So I guess it's more of a cafe build than anything. I'm going to keep it going in that general direction, but am not opposed to heading in the Tracker direction if it makes sense financially...as I'm only $250 invested as of right now. I've ordered a couple parts to get things running properly and road ready...carburetor float gaskets, throttle cable, 2 individual pod style air filters to replace the clunky air box, fork oil seals, a Kenda challenger k657 120/90-16 rear tire...also got little excited at the so cal cycle swap meet yesterday and mistakenly purchased a front tire that is 1" too small....100/90-18...needs 100/90-19...D'OH!
Gotta try and swap that mistake out, but I don't think it will be that hard since it's a brand new tire.Figured I'd introduce myself, and give a little back to the thread, as this place has already helped me out with finding specific numbers (minus the front wheel mixup) and parts compatibility. Thanks to everyone for posting, it helps more than you know!
Best,
Ryan
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