Where to Start... Bobber Build

I have a 1985 Yamaha Maxim XJ700. Its in great condition, completely stock, but I'm looking to turn it into a bobber. I would like to keep the costs as low as possible, but I want to do it right. What should I start with doing?

 

Step 1. sell your great condition maxim 700 so someone else can enjoy it stock!
Step 2. buy a crappy looking one that has a good engine
Step 3. chop away!

 

But really if you make sure that the engine, carbs and brakes and such are all running perfectly first than you will save yourself from headaches, and from having a pretty display piece that isn't driveable after you go through whats necessary to get the visual look you want.

 

I'm going to use my bike because it already runs and drives great.

 

Start by searching this site for other guys' project threads. Lots and lots of inspiration here. Simply dig into the "Modifications" section like it's an all you can eat buffet! You will be able to learn from others and get some ideas for your own build. Also, start your own thread now, so when you look back on it, you won't say "Damn! Wish I had taken those before pics!" Keep us posted!

 

As Beekman suggested, spend $$ to get the engine running correctly. That is ground zero. From there, chop off and/or modify piece by piece until you end up with what you want, but if it runs stops and handles correctly from the outset, it will be cheaper in the long run.
As to how to do it as cheaply as possible, that depends on what you really want to do, you need to define your goals a little. Simple steps are to remove the front fender, adapt a Harley bobtail fender to the rear or, just chop off the back end of the stocker to the rear of the supports (gotta leave the supports as the fender holds up the saddle!). Smaller gauges, flat bar and new cables, how does it look at that point? It would still be rideable through this entire process. Sell off the parts you don't edged to fund new bits. Pods are tempting but stay away for the time being, maybe eventually find a spare set of carbs on ebay and use those as your "tuned/rejetted" set for pod tuning. Again, this way you can keep the bike running with the original setup.
As you may infer, to me it is most important to keep the bike in running condition as long as possible unless you are Roland Sands or equivalent.

 

Theres a guy selling lowered rear shocks in the buy and sell, could be a good starting point to get your look underway. Unless youre planning on hardtailing it

 

Thank you, those look like a nice pair. I have changed my mind slightly, I won't be doing any cutting. I will be making mine similar to hogfiddles psuedo-bob.

 

You're gonna please the purists here, and you can't find a better inspiration than the Hogs' wheels. He does things right! Style is personal to everyone, everyone's tastes differ, but no one is gonna hate on a bike that runs right every time.