Went to pick up my "new" XS and it was a XJ!

[neJeff]

This was listed as a 80 Kawi 650. After I talked to him he had determined it was an XS 650. So I drove an hour to pick it up and I have myself a 80' XJ550! It has a new battery and starts, thats about it. 1 and 3 cylinders are ice cold, seat is shot, tank rusty and tach needle is broke. Also headlight is from a farm store I think. Has the worst sound coming from the engine that I have ever heard...ever. I need to get it on You Tube somehow ( I'll ask my teenager to help me!) No I did not pay much for her! Kind of like it a little. Any thoughts? Any parts out there you have that you see I need then I'm your buyer. Damn the stuff you bring home when you have a trailer...

[jetmechmarty]

The XJ550 Maxim was chain drive. I think you have a XJ650 Maxim.

[neJeff]

The XJ550 Maxim was chain drive. I think you have a XJ650 Maxim.

Well he did say it was a 650 but title shows model as XJ550R. Maybe a typo? The first three letters of vin are 4H7. I think your right on the 650 but how do I get that changed I wonder? My guess is the 650 is more desirable than the 550. Thanks for the info Marty!

[MaximPhil]

Well he did say it was a 650 but title shows model as XJ550R. Maybe a typo? The first three letters of vin are 4H7. I think your right on the 650 but how do I get that changed I wonder? My guess is the 650 is more desirable than the 550. Thanks for the info Marty!

HiNeJeff,
I would agree looks like an XJ650. with a non stock saddle. Excellent bikes well worth restoring to it's former glory.
Phil

[neJeff]

HiNeJeff,
I would agree looks like an XJ650. with a non stock saddle. Excellent bikes well worth restoring to it's former glory.
Phil

Yes, that seat is driving me crazy! Might need another bike to put this one back together...

[tcoop]

from xjbikes.com
" the "4H7" model ID code is for a USA-destined 1980-81 XJ650 Maxim model"

To get the title changed you would need to have it inspected by a police officer to get the VIN number and bike certified and a bunch of paperwork (At least that’s how it is here in Utah). But first make sure they gave you the correct title. I almost gave the guy who bought my 80G the title to my wife’s 83 XJ750 Maxim ( I didn't have my glasses on). Things do happen.

[tcoop]

here is the link to find out what you have
http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=14577.html

[Schming]

I beleive...

Well he did say it was a 650 but title shows model as XJ550R. Maybe a typo? The first three letters of vin are 4H7. I think your right on the 650 but how do I get that changed I wonder? My guess is the 650 is more desirable than the 550. Thanks for the info Marty!

...insurance premiums are based on engine size.

[Nubian]

Too funny!

...insurance premiums are based on engine size.

[JerseyJon]

I'm just glad I don't have a trailer.

[Cuda 69]

that definetly looks like my old xj650 maxim.they are a great bike,and fast. is the speedo round or does it have a flat bottom? I had an 82,I didn't think they started making xj's till 81.am I wrong?

[Yahman]

The 80-81 XJ650 didn't come with the YICS system, that happened in 82. That would make it an early XJ650.

Larry

[neJeff]

The 80-81 XJ650 didn't come with the YICS system, that happened in 82. That would make it an early XJ650.

Larry

Yes, happy it does not have the YICS. Not sure on the speedometer, I have it safely nestled away, will have to check it out. Need to find XJ parts for here

[neJeff]

I'm just glad I don't have a trailer.

My wife is wishing I didn't! Brought home an 80' GS850G today in the pouring rain!

[neJeff]

that definetly looks like my old xj650 maxim.they are a great bike,and fast. is the speedo round or does it have a flat bottom? I had an 82,I didn't think they started making xj's till 81.am I wrong?

Yep, has flat bottom!