One year ago I had zero xs1100s. By chance I now have 7 and I've already scrapped one out. I won't get into the details but they are in varying states of repair. One 79 standard is my rider and isn't going anywhere. The other is a 79 special that needs small bits to be back on the road and will be staying in the family.
Of the remaining hoard there are 2 79 specials that will ultimately need to join forces to make a solid runner. One frame is very clean and engine has good compression numbers/generally filth free so I have faith in it as a runner. The other frame is all there but obviously weathered. The engine does run but is ejecting an array of sparkling oil from the #4 exhaust port. I have deemed it DOA and won't be putting any effort into it. The frame is clean titled however, and my question is...is it worth trying to find a home for this titled frame? Parting bikes out is MUCH easier with a saw blade but if you cats think I should try and rehome the frame, I'll consider it.
Next is a 78e. I haven't checked compression numbers on it, but other than the exhaust it seems to be unmolested (down the factory glass fuses). It too has not been weathered well, but is salvageable. There is a nasty dent in the tank however. I'm considering getting it running and riding (on the cheap) and handing it over to a good friend who will most likely modify it to his own taste (which may heavily stray from the original e). Am I doing a huge disservice to the lineage? I REALLY don't want to put the effort into getting it back into original condition...
Next is a 79 standard that seems to be pretty well cared for save the ridiculous lighting and sirens affixed to it. You might ask "hey, get that 79 fixed up for your buddy and save the E". Well, you're logical but best friend pricing doesn't garner the pick of the litter and I feel like this standard can make a good clean rider for someone outside of my circle of friends.
Lastly, I've got a venturer. Before your mind wanders to its indigo blue glory, with bags and fairings. It's not that. It's at best a ghost of its former self. Engine is long gone, as are all the plastics. The tank has been mangled. Ultimately it's saving grace is the vin and title. But, is it worth trying to find a home for that? Believe me when I say it is a LONG way from its days of glory.
I'm not trying to make a mint on anything. I ask these questions NOT to find value in a monetary sense, but in the nostalgia of the line. Am I going to be breaking anyone's heart if I scrap a venturer frame, a beat to hell special, and turn a 78 e to the dogs? What would you guys do? I'd live to keep them all and putz with each of them in time but I don't have the time or money for such things.
Of the remaining hoard there are 2 79 specials that will ultimately need to join forces to make a solid runner. One frame is very clean and engine has good compression numbers/generally filth free so I have faith in it as a runner. The other frame is all there but obviously weathered. The engine does run but is ejecting an array of sparkling oil from the #4 exhaust port. I have deemed it DOA and won't be putting any effort into it. The frame is clean titled however, and my question is...is it worth trying to find a home for this titled frame? Parting bikes out is MUCH easier with a saw blade but if you cats think I should try and rehome the frame, I'll consider it.
Next is a 78e. I haven't checked compression numbers on it, but other than the exhaust it seems to be unmolested (down the factory glass fuses). It too has not been weathered well, but is salvageable. There is a nasty dent in the tank however. I'm considering getting it running and riding (on the cheap) and handing it over to a good friend who will most likely modify it to his own taste (which may heavily stray from the original e). Am I doing a huge disservice to the lineage? I REALLY don't want to put the effort into getting it back into original condition...
Next is a 79 standard that seems to be pretty well cared for save the ridiculous lighting and sirens affixed to it. You might ask "hey, get that 79 fixed up for your buddy and save the E". Well, you're logical but best friend pricing doesn't garner the pick of the litter and I feel like this standard can make a good clean rider for someone outside of my circle of friends.
Lastly, I've got a venturer. Before your mind wanders to its indigo blue glory, with bags and fairings. It's not that. It's at best a ghost of its former self. Engine is long gone, as are all the plastics. The tank has been mangled. Ultimately it's saving grace is the vin and title. But, is it worth trying to find a home for that? Believe me when I say it is a LONG way from its days of glory.
I'm not trying to make a mint on anything. I ask these questions NOT to find value in a monetary sense, but in the nostalgia of the line. Am I going to be breaking anyone's heart if I scrap a venturer frame, a beat to hell special, and turn a 78 e to the dogs? What would you guys do? I'd live to keep them all and putz with each of them in time but I don't have the time or money for such things.
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