It came pretty cheap and the reason for it is that it needed quite a bit of work. All though it didn't look much it rode pretty well. Have seen newer models that were in way worse shape than this one.
Like I said the look was something to wish for but I knew that is a lot easier to work on than something in the engine like second gear. I was told that the second gear issue was taken care of when I asked the seller and that was big factor of buying this bike.
Seat had a little rip in the front but otherwise really nice shape considering it's original. That is something that will be rebuilt.
A hydraulic foot brake that is not only for the rear tire but also to the left front brake caliper wasn't working. Had to buy a rebuild kit that was about 75$. Also had to replace the hose to the overfill container that was rock hard. Took long time to bleed the system but with the help of vacuum pump and an external bleeding container made the job clean and easier. Brake pads are good for now.
Windshields have been always a trouble to keep them clean without scratching. Same thing with this one. It's not too bad but it does need to be replaced eventually. That will be close to 100$.
For now it will be fine specially since being a tall guy I can look over it.
Front tire was bald like the Howie's head. Had to change that also, that was also around 70$.
Rear tire should go a season or two.
Biggest trouble I had with was speedometer. It didn't show speed nor counted mileage. Owner disconnected the cable cause it was making a racket. Had to open it up and found the problem.
It was completely messed up inside. Bell housing came loose and that's what was making the noise. This part was not repairable even though I sure tried. Found an old Virago speedometer and stole the guts from that. Well, it was counting mileage now but still no speed. Eventually I found newer Venture speedometer that fit right in. Trouble is it still needs to be calibrated. HINT: To get to the speedometer you only need to loosen two bolts. BUT to get to those you have to take off the windshield, fairing around the light(two screws on the bottom front) and headlight(one screw on each side of the light). Looking in from the hole where headlight was you can see two bolts facing you a bit angled. With an extension and 10mm socket and the speedometer is ready to come out. You have to lift it a bit so that little pegs in rubber grommet would allow to come out. Now there are tree electrical connectors and one big connector in the middle of the speedometer. Once you get those off you have the speedometer cable. AND off it comes....
Going 60 mp/h shows me about 72. I could handle little error but that will not work. Right now I am using actually GPS that shows me also speed. Very quick and responsive.
Greatest ugliness came from the fact that it has been sitting in the sun a lot and most of the maroon paint was cooked, faded and cracked. It will have to be painted. It will be Dodge Viper blue. Considering two tone.
Also thinking about trying my hand in pin striping. That will be ether racing red or silver.
Have been thinking about light blue ghost flames but I think that will not look good on touring bike.
Doing all that and running between my computer to find information about the darn bike online I actually realized that there is no repair manual for it. NONE!!
That was something I really ........ didn't like......and THAT made me create this blog. I hope if you read this you find something useful and are little better off than me.
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