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Just picked up a 78 XS1100 in very good condition. Temps were in the low 40's yesterday so I got it out for my first ride. Wasn't sure what to expect as I have a long history with bikes but never a big motor japanese standard.
WOW! What an awesome ride. I could only take about 45 minutes but I was pleasantly surprised by the smooth, linear power delivery. Nothing abrupt or out of control. I could even see clearly out of the rear view mirror - which doesn't happen often. Brakes were good but front suspension obviously needs some work - excessive fork dive and felt really wobbly anytime I pushed the front end into a corner. Clutch was a little grabby and not the smoothest when shifting. Riding position felt aggressive but he had put on flat bars so I was definately bent at the waist. I was surprised at how small it felt once I was in the saddle. Kind of reminded me of my 07 Speed Triple. Felt really comfortable.
Already starting to list the upgrade projects. Front end will probably take priority - new springs, fork oil, etc. Will probably swith to braided brake lines and maybe clean up the forks, triple trees, etc. Paint is new so no issues there - and tires are brand new. Looking forward to some warmer weather and more time in the saddle. First ride made me a believer!
WOW! What an awesome ride. I could only take about 45 minutes but I was pleasantly surprised by the smooth, linear power delivery. Nothing abrupt or out of control. I could even see clearly out of the rear view mirror - which doesn't happen often. Brakes were good but front suspension obviously needs some work - excessive fork dive and felt really wobbly anytime I pushed the front end into a corner. Clutch was a little grabby and not the smoothest when shifting. Riding position felt aggressive but he had put on flat bars so I was definately bent at the waist. I was surprised at how small it felt once I was in the saddle. Kind of reminded me of my 07 Speed Triple. Felt really comfortable.
Already starting to list the upgrade projects. Front end will probably take priority - new springs, fork oil, etc. Will probably swith to braided brake lines and maybe clean up the forks, triple trees, etc. Paint is new so no issues there - and tires are brand new. Looking forward to some warmer weather and more time in the saddle. First ride made me a believer!
Load them up on Photobucket and link to them in your posts here. Also, if you put your model in your signature, and your location in your profile, that will help others diagnose your problems and help you in the future.
. I will admit thought that as the years have passed and the middle section has expanded I don't get quite as cold as I used too
I saw your comment about a speed triple and your user name,I suppose you're an old triple fan. I just went from an xs850 triple to my beloved xs1100. Quite a bit different machines ain't they! 
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