Would you buy this if you could?

I have the opportunity to buy an 82 XJ650 for a steal. However, it's been sitting outside for about 4 years uncovered. The engine looks to be complete. There's no battery, so I can't try to start it. I'm assuming the shaft is probably rusted so much it won't turn. I already have a XJ550 I'm working on, but I'd really like to get this 650.

So the question is, would you buy this bike if you had the opportunity? Or what should I look for as a definite sign not to buy it. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

Depnding on how cheap it is, you probably can't lose on it. And if it's too much work to resurrect you can always part it out and make your money back.

I call 'dibs' on the tank! ;-)

 

There are amazing stories in our Archives about guys who bought "Long-time-sitter's" and got them all together and tuned-up and running nice after a minimum amount of T-L-C and Elbow Grease.

Like the man said: If its cheap enough you can get your money back selling it off a part at a time"

 

I also wouldn't bet too much on the shaft drive being seized, as the shaft itself isn't exposed.

As for whether a bike is too far gone, simply ask the user here who is resurrecting a bike that suffered fire damage whether his bike isn't worth the effort.

Also: define what a "steal" is. ;-)

 

I just purchased one that got into an accident, then sat (the guy's girlfriend did not approve, this was the second bike he crashed). I paid $400 USD for it, and I know it isn't seized (pushed it down a hill, tried pop-starting it, and it turned but wouldn't start). I'd consider that a great deal on a reliable commuter (of course, getting it to run is assumed...)

 

Question is--
Do you have the time, money and motivation to her her running?
If so, then HELL YES. Show that 26 yo girl who's boss!!

If the answer above is no, then lemme know the cost and location!
Might be worth MY time.

Pics maybe, a visual couldn't hurt the thought process on the forum's end!

 

just from what you describe, WITH title, no more than 100. you'll need quite a few things

 

I wouldnt buy it without a title, like mcrwt644 said I wouldnt pay more than 100 for it, they just arent worth that much even restored and perfect.

 

I'm going to look at it again today. I'm only paying 50 bucks for it, and I'm pretty sure he has the title. I'm still undecided because I'm working on my 550 still. Besides, I just want something to ride. Which ever is going to be the easiest to get up and running.

 

buy it. you have nothing to lose for $50. That is a good price. I wish I could find a few like that around here. post up some pics! (make sure you resize first)

 

I decided not got get it. I'm having enough issues getting my 550 running. If anyone here is close to Carrollton Texas, PM me and I'll give you the guys email address if you want it. But you better act fast, he's going to take them to the scrap yard tomorrow. Or if anybody has a spare 550 frame, I'll pick up the 650 and trade you for it.

 

Son of a gun!!

I cant act that quick. Darn darn darn...

Well I know where Carrollton is...used to live in Lewisville.
Thats still a good 5 hours from here
I could almost buy a NEW bike by NOT driving to DFW!
I could see about maybe comming up soon, but not by tommorrow.

 

dude, tell him to give you the title, and you'll take it to the yard, or say you'll take it from him from free. you will kick yourself later for not doing it