...in one phrase...

[simonmotorbike]

I am currently looking at this bike here:

http://tinyurl.com/8duw2

(No, I don't like the faring too much either)

The seller describes it as "rustic but healthy" - which may also capture some of the guys on this site I reckon .

I have never come across the XS1100 before so I would like a bit of guidance. Looking at it, I get the impression of something weighty and dated in a way that is just about coming into fashion. Doubtless considered a bit sporty in its day, it still will give good service. That's my impression, based on nothing but a glance at a picture.

So how would you sum it up?

I can't find a "tips for buying a used model" on the forum, so anything on this much appreciated too.

Simon

[pggg]

"Dated in a way that is just about coming into fashion"

Yep, who's ya daddy.

[randy]

I am currently looking at this bike here:

http://tinyurl.com/8duw2


Hey, check out that front end??

[mro]

tips for buying a used model

It's in the miscellaneous section, main page.
Several good threads there.


mro

[Street_Rat78]

Article Link...

Here's the link Simon:

Buying a Used Motorcycle - What to look for...and why

That should help you out a whole lot!!! Good luck with the purchase.

[Street_Rat78]

Another really good one that helped me out a whole $hitload was this one:

What to look for on a neglected XS/XJ 1100

[JWSanders]

Originally posted by randy


http://tinyurl.com/8duw2


Hey, check out that front end??

Yeah, that is a strange beast. Rear shocks on both sides (of the front!) built onto a stiff frame.. Compensation for the sidecar, I guess? Seems like it'd be a good bit stiffer than normal. You can see a tie rod of some sort going to the car, too. I bet it would handle very strangely without the sidecar.

Looking at it closer, it appears to have completely different wheels, too. Am I seeing things or is that a solid chrome harley style back wheel?

I kinda like the fairing on it. It's different. would look better black though.

[simonmotorbike]

Yes, the changes are standard sidecar modifications. The front end is strengthen and the rake is changed to help steering. Car-type wheels and tyres are fitted to save on wear, as sidecars only use the centre portion of the tread, so expensive sticky motorcycle tyres are unsuited. These mods cost money, which is why sidecars are pricey.

Regarding a summary phrase for the bike, I was thinking, 'sure takes up a lot of sidewalk'.

Simon

[motoman]

That front-end suspension is remminesint of the Greeves leading-link front-end that were on there moto-crossers in the early 70's!

[fly]

the leading link front ends used on sidecars reduce trail to make steering easier. big bucks.you can get the same result using stock xs11 parts. if you have a std. you use stock lower tree. special upper tree and forks. will reduce trail from 5plus inches to about 2 1/2.
fly
78 xs11/hitchhiker sidecar