I'm thinking about picking up an 82 920cc Virago

[m511y]

So I found a 920cc Virago for a great price and I was thinking about picking it up for a project bike. Does anyone have any experience with them? I know the early Viragos have issues with the starter. Are there any other issues I should look for? Do they make decent project bikes? I haven't seen to many of them turned cafe accept for Docs Chops. I would appreciate any advice before I take the plunge.

Thanks!

 

[jhweems]

Although harder to find, the R models have chain drive. Believe it or not they are highly sought after in the Virago world. If you can find one, it will always hold its value. Just food for thought in case you ever had to bail on the project.

 

[beachcomber]

Loads of TR1 / XV on the forum. Many different formats from my own 60's style Cafe Racer [ here in early mock up ] through Docs modernish and simple interpretation of a CR, to completely off the wall "Specials" using USD forks and even complete Egli style frames [ Loek's ].

Even the later versions with the so called upgrade starter system are a bit fragile in that dept. - but don't let that put you off. Chain drive versions give you a little more scope for wheels [ mine are XS650 ]. But apart from a possible starter issue, the bikes are pretty bulletproof. US models seem to suffer with poor looms [ relative ].

 

[Sanchopenx]

Hello!

the 80´s Viragos are easy to modify, I turned a 94 1.100 virago to a cafe racer, here are a pics of before and after so you get inspired and go and buy yours!!!

cheers!

 

[beachcomber]

Nice work Andres,

I take it the starter issues were resolved by the time they got round to your model !!

 

[m511y]

Is the front wheel on this bike actually a rear wheel modded to accept disc brakes? If so, is this difficult to do?

 

[beachcomber]

I think this issue may have been addressed here. If not, definitely over on the Virago forum.

 

[Cafe-XV750]

Yep - rear on the front ... my conversion kit.

Easy to do as as intended DIY.