Hi

Hi All,
new here, new to XJ's but not new to bikes. (also have a DT175 MX ) Had greasy fingers for the last 30 years or so, probably do more fixing than riding...

Anyway, just picked up a new project, it's a 1982 XJ550 Maxim, looks in fair condition, shame its all in boxes. Think its all there, missing the airbox & battery tray so far.
couple of questions to start - will be many more I'm sure!

First - here in the UK there's not so many Maxims around, spares are
hard to find - is the XJ650/750 based on the same frame? - will the cycle
parts fit? The seat I have I'm told is from a 650 and I can't see how it fits?

Second, am I wasting my time? should I part it out and look for a better one to start with? be honest - i'll listen !!


Thanks
Eddy

 

The 550 frame is not the same as either the 650 or 750.

Some of the parts are interchangeable. Most would need some sort of fabrication to fit.

As far as wasting your time, it depends. If you are just looking for something to ride, find something else.

If you are looking for a project that you can be proud of when you are done, by all means, fix her up.

I'd start with a compression test if possible before I made a decision.

 

Welcome to the site from Canada. The 550 and 650 are different frames and everything else. Not much is interchangeable. The seat definitely won't fit either. A lot of what you will need is available at XJ4Ever, our supporting vender. Several members from europe use his service but I'm not sure what shipping costs are. If you click on the logo in the banner at the top, you will find a catalogue, links to Chacal (Len). My dealings with him have always been great.

 

Thanks for the info guys,
been going throough the boxes looking for missing bits and the list is growing.
so far, without the seat, side panels, battery tray, airbox,headlight and mounts the future is looking dubious.. the parts just aren't around here, especially as the 650/750 parts dont fit..
looks like buying another breaker and making 1 from 2 or just part this out and look for a good one..
Eddy

 

Welcome from Lancashire UK, You will find all the info you need from the great people on this site. I all so know what you mean with regards to the shortage of maxims (most of them chopped/customized or broke for spears) would like to get my hands on a 750maxim.

 

Eddy, turn it into a cafe' racer, like what I'm doing, you won't need all the bits you can't find.