model identification

[leggman1]

My just purchased bike is a 1981 xs1100. I think it is a special because it has the slant slotted rotors?
There has to be a serial number on there somewhere but all I have been able to find is the sticker on the neck with tire information.
Please advise if I am looking in the wrong place. Thanks Dave

[leggman1]

Once again I am answering my own question. I just found it in the manual. Thanks again

[motoman]

I.D. is stamped into steering neck opposite side of where sticker is. If it has original motor, same will be stamped into top right-side of engine case near where end of starter assembly is. I.D. will start wilth 4RO for Specials, 4R1 for Standard. BTW, all models(Special, Midnight Specials and Standard) all have the slotted rotors in 1981 along with the 82 XJ(Maxim).

[leggman1]

By looking at google images my bike is a 1981 xs1100
It is super clean but I am going to have to remove the carbs even though it was ran dry ten years ago because the PO never reattached the fuel lines to the tank and the mud dobbers moved in.

[TopCatGr58]

You're still missing whether it's a standard or special.

The standard is the "H" ending of the model name, the Special is the "SH" for the 81 year.

The Standard has rectangular headlight, turn signals, gauges and the front axle is at the END of the fork tubes/sliders. The Special has round headlight, signals, gauges, and the axle is on the leading/front edge/side of the sliders.

There is a SERIAL Number stamped into the side of the steering neck, check opposite of the sticker, as well as the clutch cover.... a flat area just below the carbs also has it.

Then you can compare that with this thread:
http://www.xs11.com/forum/showthread.php?t=396

And Yes....Scott/3Phase...I tell new members about this identification thread as well in the new membership confirmation email I send out...when it seems like they don't know or aren't sure of their year/model style when they apply.

T.C.

[3Phase]

Right on!

[leggman1]

I do know that the headlight is round so I am ASS U Ming that it is a special.

[leggman1]

And the serial does start with a 4ro. I learn something new about that bike everyday

[motoman]

And the serial does start with a 4ro. I learn something new about that bike everyday

Nice.........makes for a never wasted day.

[leggman1]

I just received a box of stuff from the PO and included among other things was the original tool kit minus the plastic cover/housing, thr front turn signals (removed for a fairing) and the original purchase/warranty papers from the dealer. It is listed as a xs 1100 h 4ro-000465. Purchase price new was 3,350
Oh how I need a time machine.
The warranty was for 6 months, unlimited mileage

[leggman1]

Now I am confused. again. the papers say xs1100h but I have a round headlight and the 4ro designation?

[bikerphil]

4R0 is an 81 Special (SH) which should have the round headlight. Titles/registrations are sometimes incorrect. A picture of your bike would be most helpful.

[MPittma100]

1981 xs1100

The 1981 Standard came in one color - dark blue. The bike was named the Venturer. It had a fairing, saddle bags, luggage rack and a larger 6 gallon fuel tank with a white patch on both sides. These items came on the bike from Yamaha. Headlight was rectangular.

Special and Midnight Special had teardrop tank and round headlight.

[leggman1]

Its a special because of the round headlight. I will try to get pictures loaded this weekend. Thanks.