yamaha xs500

[dcmspikes]

does anyone have any info on the 1975 yamaha xs500? there is one locally, but i couldnt find much info from a google search. whats good, whats bad, what to look out for? thanks

 

[SrgtBear]

does anyone have any info on the 1975 yamaha xs500? there is one locally, but i couldnt find much info from a google search. whats good, whats bad, what to look out for? thanks

well it's a great project bike if you want your hands full. The big concern with this model is that they heads are prone to cracking if the engine is not properly maintained. I would at least make sure the engine turns and remove the spark plugs and look into the cylinders. I haven't had a chance to run mine yet but everything looks super clean inside. Check tappet valve clearances, adjust timing, sync carbs and fire it up.

Parts are hard to find but most come ones are on ebay. Other parts like exhaust headers, kick start oil seal, etc i had to call around to specialty shops. Any seat or tank will prob take some good modification to get them to fit just right. I bought my project bike for $200 and I think JRK5892 bought his for around $350. Mine needed alot work. I wouldn't pay too much for the bike unless it's in great shape.

Check out my build or JRK5892
http://www.dotheton.com/forum/index.php?topic=14392.0

http://www.dotheton.com/forum/index.php?topic=5959.0

 

[dcmspikes]

thank you for that. i will take that all that into consideration.