New to the forum... already asking :-)

[OMeGA_65]

Dears, good day! It's so cool I've found this forum, I've lurked it since I first found it and today I decided it was time to show up!

I live in Italy and have always been fascinated with classic motorcycles, to the point I worked in a local small repair shop when I was a teenager. My first solo job ever was to fix a Fiat 131's single Weber carburettor. I have many classic motorcycles and my daily ride is my dad's 1973 Moto Guzzi California 850, still going strong after 360.000 kilometers.

Now, to the question! I've found this XS400 and since it has no papers it's only good for riding in private properties or tracks.

Now, I have a small kart track near my house and I've an idea of buying this bike, fixing whatever needs being fixed, modify what needs to be modified, put a good set of tyres on and go to the track to have fun.
So my question is: judging by the forum's posts it seems to me that this bike in particular has carbs which are a bit tricky to keep synced, is there something else I should be aware of? let's call them "typical issues" of the model.

Thank you very much in advance!
Omega

 

[GuyS]

Are your carbs BS34’s. There’s a lot of information on Youtube (rebuilding etc). Also this forum is very good.

 

[OMeGA_65]

Thanks a lot for the inputs! I have no idea which kind of carbs are fitted, because I still have to buy the bike. I will take your advice in consideration.
Let's say I'm still gathering info lol

 

[CaptChrome]

Welcome to the forum!

The bike looks like either a 1980 or 1981 Special. These are pretty basic machines with dual Mikuni BS34 carbs. Other than the square headlight and the missing rear grab rail, this bike looks pretty complete. These are generally trouble-free, but spending some time cleaning the carbs well and doing the initial carburetor adjustments (float height, idle speed setting and synchronizing) and doing all of the basic greasing, oil changes and other general maintenance will most likely be needed. This bike will have an electronic ignition from the factory also.

I don't know, if I had a vintage Guzzi California to ride, I don't think I would have any time left to work on a new project!

 

[CaptChrome]

Oops! A clarification is needed.

I assumed this bike is a US market bike that is now in Italy. One thing I don't know is if there was a Special made specifically for the European market, if there was, then it may not use the electronic ignition, but have a breaker points ignition.

 

[OMeGA_65]

Thanks a lot for the feedback! I don't think that's an US market bike sold in Italy, most probably it's made for the European market because of the rectangular headlight which, if I remember correctly, had to be fitted to comply with an Italian law in use in the late 70s........ will keep you posted! thanks!

 

[XSSmith]

Hey Omega, welcome aboard! That Guzzi with 360k is awesome.. love hearing bikes getting real miles like that.
As for the XS400, you’re spot on about the carbs, they can be fussy to sync and tune, especially if they've been sitting. Also keep an eye out for weak charging systems and brittle old wiring. Cam chain tensioner wear is another common one to check. Otherwise, they’re solid bikes and a blast once dialed in. Sounds like a great little track project.. go for it!