XRV650

[DaveS]

I'd be interested to know on what grounds they say that.
Wonder if it has an aftermarket shock like an Ohlins or something? If its stock then its potentially knackered anyway.

[xrv_jim]

There is a XRV650 presently on eBay. The seller claims that the rear suspension is superior to the later 750 models, ...?

Perhaps the seller is just trying to "talk up" the bike?

If this is the one - http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.d...509779706&rd=1 - 1991 machine (thought it'd be a 750 by then?), 43,000 miles, plus...

"The bodywork has some scratches and cracks, notably side fairing lugs which have broken away and some gravel rash on left sidepanel and tank (this has been painted over in black to stop corrosion developing). Clocks illuminating bulbs need replacing and the bike may benefit from a good clean, tappets adjustment and carb balance."

[iswoolley]

Love the description...

This bike has been used daily with no problems...bodywork has some scratches and cracks...some gravel rash...bulbs need replacing...benefit from a good clean, tappets adjustment and carb balance...IDEAL winter bike!

So it's shagged then!

[DaveS]

Its probably not worth much more than the starting bid.
Well you'd probably chuck another couple of hundred at it.
Good fun as a project bike to restore.
Tempted myself but I'm skint....

[robelst]

In my experience the HRC 650's are better built than the 750's. Actually, owning a RD07 now, there are times I wonder were the AT gets its great reputation from in the first place :
Rotting rims, rotting frame, rotting fairing-mount, rotting exhaust, rotting brake calipers, vibey engine (compared to 650), cluncky clutch, regulator and fuel pump made of chocolate, poor suspension.

The 650's have indeed better suspension too (when new...), including hydraulic preload. Apart from the front brake I think it is the superior AT. It is the only bike ever I regret to have sold.

However....

I am not convinced this 650 in particular is that superior

[Pussyhorse]

It's not as rough as mine!

[xrv_jim]

Good fun as a project bike to restore.
Tempted myself but I'm skint....

Can't you arrange an interest free loan for yourself Dave?

[DaveS]

Can't you arrange an interest free loan for yourself Dave?

I wish!

[xrv_jim]

ummm thanks to the guy that posted the link EVERYWERE for the rd03 on ebay!!!... i was hoping to buy it thanks.

Ah, thats the egalitarian beauty of the Internet - every b*gger's on it spreading the news. I'm sure something'll turn up Jenna.

BTW, welcome to the forum.

[BobA]

Errrm, I was the ebay winner for this bike, so firstly I must apologise to Jenna, who I outbid at the last moment.
I was actually watching this bike for a long time, after some tosswatt sold a bike that I'd previously won on ebay. His excuse? Well I hadn't replied to his emails within 24hrs after the bidding, even though I had contacted him before and after the auction. Never mind, I just wanted to point out that I didn't win it because the link to the auction had been posted on this site.
I still haven' t decided if I have won a bargain or a beast (read on Jenna) because although outwardly the bike seems pretty good, there may be an underlaying problem.
Cosmetically, the bike is all there, with the rash and marks exactly as described. Tyres are good, suspension is firm, and the engine feels strong but is a bit tappetty. She idles at about 1800, which I'm guessing is a bit high, but perhaps someone will put me straight on this.
The only item worrying me at present is that there seems to be some misalignment somewhere at the front end, where the bars are straight, but the front wheel off to one side slightly. I noticed this on the ride home, and although the bike rides well, a short distance of "no hands" suggest it pulls a bit one way.
I have not had the chance to investigate deeply, but initial inspection doesn't seem to suggest a frame problem, but perhaps a fork issue. After I have looked I will decide if it a pig or a peach, and either suffer it or perhaps contact the seller.
I've never owned a bike like this, and my only experience is sports bikes (which I still have) but I love the AT and hope I can fix her up.
Any comments or suggestions greatly received. Ca anyone advise if I can use Motul synthetic engine oil in this bike, and what weight, as I have access to a small supply.

Regards
Bob