Just got a 1989 XJ 1100 (I think).

[thewright1]

Hi All,

My brother in law just gave me a 1989 XJ 1100 (project bike) so I've been doing some research online for the manual, is there something on the bike where I can verify the model? Also, can someone tell me what the differences are between the two models? The bike is currently not in my possession but as soon as I get back to it, I'll post some pictures.

[DGXSER]

Hmmm.....Well....there was only one year for the XJ1100 here in the states, and that was 1982. IIRC they continued in Canada for about three more years, so none after 1984. Sooo...either the year is off or you do not have an XJ1100. That is probably why you can't find the manual.

[XJOK2PLAY]

If you like, you can take a look at a few pics I have here in my album...
I have an '82 XJ1100.

DGXSER's correct, the US versions were only made 1 year, 1982.

There's a white tag on the main steering post, in front of the gas tank area...

Also, if your bike still has the stock side covers, on the inside of the R.H. cover will be an emissions tag... and it will tell you what year emissions std. it met.

(mine says '82 on the emissions, and mfgr. date of 11/ 81 on the white tag. Makes it an '82.

Lots of differences between the XJ's and the XS's... the pilot boxes, wheels, gas tanks, side covers, frames, linked brakes...etc. to name just a few.

Carbs were set up a little different, but drivetrains essentially the same. XJ's got some extra warning sensors and such.

Welcome to the fun!
Bob

[thewright1]

Ok, that makes sense then. I guess it would be the xs model. Either way I'll get confirmation on it before I start buying parts for it. I'm just excited to have a bike =}

[DGXSER]

Congrats on getting a bike. I know the feeling as I went on an 18 year sebatical from riding before I got my XS11.

Well.....The XS1100 was made between 1978 and 1981. They stopped making the XS and started the XJ in 1982. Sooo...if you are sure it is a 1989, then it is not an XS1100 either. Perhaps you meant 1979?

If it is a 1989, and an 1100 my guess would be an XV or Virago. Is it an inline four or a V-Twin?

[thewright1]

Thanks for all of the info everyone. I'll most likely go take a look at it this weekend and find out exactly what it is. I'll also post some pics of it. Hopefully it's something compatible with this forum because you all are great!

[XJOK2PLAY]

Hey Wright...

Congrats on the bike! No matter what it is.... an inherited bike beats a bought one any day!

Yes... please post some pics... it won't take long then and the sharp eyes here can tell ya what your new toy is.

We ARE a picture hungry, photo lovin' group...

Has anyone told you the procedure for posting pics here yet?

[thewright1]

Hey Wright...

Congrats on the bike! No matter what it is.... an inherited bike beats a bought one any day!

Yes... please post some pics... it won't take long then and the sharp eyes here can tell ya what your new toy is.

We ARE a picture hungry, photo lovin' group...

Has anyone told you the procedure for posting pics here yet?

Hey Thanks! Yes, I know how to post pictures so as soon as I get them, I'll upload them. Thanks for all the help.

[Bigge_al]

Manual

I am sure bug would have gotten around to it but if your bike is a xs/xj he has manuals you can download for free. http://www.ringler.us/family/mybike.html

[Jerry]

Check the engine and VIN numbers, or the serial number on the plate under the handlebars. An '82 (US) XJ1100J number will begin with 10M. Canadian version start with 11G, I believe. Any other numbers and the bike is not an 1100.

[thewright1]

Pictures are in!!!

OK All,

I finally got some pictures of my bike. Now, what do you guys think?? My brother in law says the year is 1980 so I assume it's an XS model but I'm hoping you gurus can tell me more info. I don't actually have it in my possession (not for another 3 weeks) so I can't check VIN numbers or anything. I love it, I can't wait to bring it home.

[wingnut]

Looks to be an XS 81 model year but the cap on the fuel tank is wrong. Cleaned up should be a nice machine. How long has it been sitting?

[e.z.nightrider]

Looks to me that the wheels say it's an '80

[DGXSER]

Could be either form what I know and see

To start with, Congratulations!! You are the proud owner of an XS1100 Special.

As the proud owner of an SH (81 special) and having seen more than a couple examples of the 80 model, I could not tell you if it is an 80 or 81 based upon what I see in the pictures there. The only way I know to tell the difference is by model number, the side cover emblems, or the drain on the carb float bowls. Tell us what the first three digits are on the model number on the neck of the steering assy, and we can be sure if it is an 80 or 81. You may also want to see the model number on the engine as often times engines are switched out and you have maybe a 78 engine on an 80 or 81 bike.

Good news is, your in the right spot to have her running like a champ with a little elbow grease, and maybe a few sheckles depending on what ails her.

[tarzan]

It looks like you have some good stock to work with.It also looks like you have some work to do.
Welcome to XS11 and hope you enjoy.
Rick