Cheap XS650 Project:
Afternoon,
Wanted to thank you & send you some photos, your site was a big help in pulling together ideas & parts for a cheap project I just wrapped up. I've had only old Harley's for the past 10 years ('57 Panhead, '74 Shovelhead, & '83 Ironhead) but couldn't turn down a '81 XS650 found in the local craigslist. The bike had been sitting outside for 2 years because it stopped charging, so the owner was very flexible on the price. After cleaning the carbs it fired first kick, and cleaning the brushes solved the charging problem. Previous owner was the second or third and it only has 7K miles, don't believe a wrench has ever been turned on it due to the amount of slack in the drive chain! Motor runs great, so I only had to concern myself with improving the cosmetics. I installed a Hotwing tail section & took off any unnecessary parts, only kept the electric start & gauges because it'll primarily be used as a loaner bike. Including the purchase price, I've only got about $600 invested due to my free labor & paint by rattlecan. Fun bike for less than the cost of a H-D frame!
Kevin
XS650 Cycle Links, Images & Info: Click Here!
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