XS Model Variations?

[Hawkinspickle]

My apologies if this is elsewhere on this site but does anyone have a quick reference or basics on the various model differences. I have an XS that crosses multiple years and models, e.g., ’79 XS1100SF Frame, ’80 XS1100SG Engine, and ’81 Carbs. With that, I am working with 3 different manuals and finding it hard to understand slight differences in specs. I think it would help me in ordering parts too if I better understood the model differences, at least with my (Frankestein) bike. I understand that anything with an S is a “special” but not sure what the differences are between an SG and G or an SH and LH? Nothing on the interweb either. Thanks.

[jetmechmarty]

There are a lot of differences. Without taking the time to go into all the details, treat your bike as a XS1100SF. Except, going into the engine, you have XS1100G or SG. Carburetors are XS1100H or SH.

Post pictures. It might help us determine how much of a Frankenbike you actually have.

[Hawkinspickle]

Thanks Marty. I'll post pics soon. BTW, how did you know I have XS1100H or SH carbs? Becuse they're 1981? The reason I was aksing too was to know if oil and air filters fit all models. I feel dumb asking these simple questions but it's hard to find the info otherwise.

[Ranger_xs1100]

Here ya go, hope this helps.

Year	Model
1978	XS1100E
1979	XS1100F
1979	XS1100SF
1980	XS1100G
1980	XS1100SG
1980	XS1100LG
1981	XS1100H
1981	XS1100SH
1981	XS1100LH

[jetmechmarty]

Carbs & engines, standard and Special are the same.

[Ranger_xs1100]

Let me add one more column for you as it may also be helpful.

Year	Model
1978	XS1100E	standard
1979	XS1100F	standard
1979	XS1100SF	special
1980	XS1100G	standard
1980	XS1100SG	special
1980	XS1100LG	midnight special
1981	XS1100H	standard
1981	XS1100SH	special
1981	XS1100LH	midnight special

[Hawkinspickle]

"Let me add one more column for you as it may also be helpful."

That last table is what I was looking for. Thanks!

[LAB3]

When in doubt, compare part numbers! If you have differences on carb assemblies chances are it's nothing more than the jets. On one particular bike I had there where four sub-models all with different carb assembly numbers and the only thing actually different where the jets. The sub-models had different rear wheel and/or sprocket sizes, it made sense the jetting would be slightly different depending on the combo used on that model.

[jetmechmarty]

Oil filter, air filter, spark plugs, same same all XS1100 models.

The ‘79 Special has peculiar parts on it. The seat and side panels don’t interchange with any other XS1100.

[Hawkinspickle]

Very helpful information Marty et al., especially to someone who is new to the bike. I didn't see the reasoning for the letters. Simple: letters E,F.G and H corresponds to model years, S for Special and L for Midnight Special.

[jetmechmarty]

crazy steve posted extensively on differences.
Search the archive for tech tips.