XR 600 as a dual-sport? [Archive]

CRM

6th October 2008, 10:18

Still waiting for the Gas Gas to sell and thinking about what I'm gonna get...A mate of mine has a 93 XR600 he's not using and wants to sell - loaned it to me for the weekend and I actually really like it. It's light, simple, grunty as (huge lowdown power - has a WR450 pipe which I assume allows it to breathe better) plus it's smooth, huge fun to ride on the road (currently with road gearing) and (surprise :shit:) easy to start.

So tell me why I would want a newer bike (DR650, KLE650, XR650) when this one is so much fun? It actually feels no heavier than my old DRZ400 but has heaps more grunt. This one actually could be a good dirt bike and be able to do adventure rides too with a rack etc.

What is actually that much better with the newer bikes that you can't get tidying up an old one like this?

marks

6th October 2008, 11:33

Oscar

6th October 2008, 11:49

warewolf

6th October 2008, 15:10

What is actually that much better with the newer bikes that you can't get tidying up an old one like this?Electric start?

But don't let that hold you back, sounds like a good choice!

NordieBoy

6th October 2008, 15:39

Go for it!
Better suspension than the DR/KLR and better dirt manners.
And if the price is right...

Got an Acerbis long range tank here for one :innocent:

Peril

6th October 2008, 16:00

Was looking for one before I bought the XT,but sadly either couldn't find one road legal or for a decent price or in Christchurch.
I'd say do it,buy a bigger tank for adventure riding and keep the original one for trail riding.

Schapelle

6th October 2008, 21:22

I love my XR600, I need to get it registered so I can ride it basically anywhere. If the cops here catch you in national parks without road rego they take your bike.
Mine's a 91 model with about 12000km on it, had an easy life I think.

The long range tanks (6 gallon) are available from ebay in the USA, about 250 bucks US. They look weird though and make the bike more top heavy when they are full of fuel.

NordieBoy

7th October 2008, 06:57

The long range tanks (6 gallon) are available from ebay in the USA, about 250 bucks US. They look weird though and make the bike more top heavy when they are full of fuel.

And when they're half full the weight is even lower than a full stock tank.

CRM

7th October 2008, 20:38

Thanks for the feedback guys. Looks like it's all on. I'm looking for some spare wheels so I can put knobs and larger sprocket for quick change to dirt riding. There's a guy breaking down a 91 XR600 wanting to sell the wheels. Anybody know if a) they will fit on 93 (from my research it looks as if there were no major changes between 91 and 93) and b) what do you reckon is a fair price? They look a bit rough needing new bearings and new tyres. Are these the sort of things you can pick up at motorcycle wreckers easily or are they getting rare?
Thanks :2thumbsup

Also it's had a ventura rack apparently but now just got the upright posts for one to go in. Are these fairly generic or do you need to get the specific one for the bike?

NordieBoy

7th October 2008, 21:35

Ventura racks are generic. All you need to know is the width of the mounts.
New bearings are $20 each.

Motu

7th October 2008, 21:53

But make sure you get genuine motorcycle wheel bearings,if you get the cheaper wheelbarrow wheel bearings it will make your motorcycle go much slower.....

NordieBoy

8th October 2008, 06:28

But make sure you get genuine motorcycle wheel bearings,if you get the cheaper wheelbarrow wheel bearings it will make your motorcycle go much slower.....

But you'll be able to carry a bigger load.

CRM

8th October 2008, 13:12

But make sure you get genuine motorcycle wheel bearings,if you get the cheaper wheelbarrow wheel bearings it will make your motorcycle go much slower.....

So if i put motorcycle bearings on my wheelbarrow it should be good for adventure rides? Hey wouldn't need to buy a rack then :laugh:

CRM

10th October 2008, 11:52

Looking for some spare wheels for my 93 XR 600. Anybody got some lying around they want to sell me?

There's a guy on TM with some 91 parts but apparently the pre-93's had a smaller front axle.

As an alternative what about some road wheels to motard? Anything that would go straight on? I'm a n00b to motard conversions - would be cool but hard to match the disks I would imagine.

I'm basically after quick change 10 minute change for road/dirt. Any thoughts?;)

NordieBoy

10th October 2008, 14:09

Good buying even if it is a (spit) honda.

Just put some MT-21's on it and ride.

warewolf

10th October 2008, 14:36

There's a guy on TM with some 91 parts but apparently the pre-93's had a smaller front axle.The 1991 DR350 wheels I bought for my 2001 DR-Z250 had the same issue.

The wheel bearings had the same OD but a smaller ID to match the axle. So the replacement wheel bearings I fitted were the same as the newer spec. Easy. Also I had to get an engineering shop to ream out (on a lathe) the bearing spacer in the old wheel to the larger diameter.

So all may not be lost!

homer

10th October 2008, 14:52

CRM

10th October 2008, 14:57

Good buying even if it is a (spit) honda.

Just put some MT-21's on it and ride.

Don't like the idea of falling off down a slippery clay track and having to lift it out of the mud and start it again :no:- it's cool but it's still a BRP - so want full knobs for the trail ride stuff.

CRM

10th October 2008, 15:00

i think you need to weigh up what you want to do with the bike ?
if you want a road legal bike to go off road and your looking at 600 plus cc then i say your nuts .
i have a dr650 and its great on shingle roads but way to big off road .
think about it !

That's the thing that's surprised me about the XR6 - it doesn't feel any heavier that my old DRZ400 and certainly no bigger in size - quite different to a DR650. But hey maybe you're right and I'll be sorry:doctor:

homer

10th October 2008, 15:02

That's the thing that's surprised me about the XR6 - it doesn't feel any heavier that my old DRZ400 and certainly no bigger in size - quite different to a DR650. But hey maybe you're right and I'll be sorry:doctor:

Its not the weight
Ive once been in the river bed with my dr and its the simple fact that to go forwards you have to spin rear tyre or ride clutch.
i can tell you for a fact if you want off road you want say a honda 230 or dr 200 .

NordieBoy

10th October 2008, 15:04

i think you need to weigh up what you want to do with the bike ?
if you want a road legal bike to go off road and your looking at 600 plus cc then i say your nuts .
i have a dr650 and its great on shingle roads but way to big off road .
think about it !

The XR600 is a lot smaller feeling and lighter with much better suspension and a proper 18" rear wheel.

Nothing wrong with a DR650 off road with appropriate tyres.

CRM

10th October 2008, 15:05

The 1991 DR350 wheels I bought for my 2001 DR-Z250 had the same issue.

The wheel bearings had the same OD but a smaller ID to match the axle. So the replacement wheel bearings I fitted were the same as the newer spec. Easy. Also I had to get an engineering shop to ream out (on a lathe) the bearing spacer in the old wheel to the larger diameter.

So all may not be lost!

Yeah thanks for that Colin. The guy is actually selling the whole fork assembly with the wheel including the brake cylinder and lever so wondering about just dropping out the forks and changing the whole assembly. Feasible? Could have different fork setups for road/ off-road too. Maybe???:blink:

homer

10th October 2008, 15:08

The XR600 is a lot smaller feeling and lighter with much better suspension and a proper 18" rear wheel.

Nothing wrong with a DR650 off road with appropriate tyres.

i do know what there like
just dont know how much off road hes looking at , you get my meaning
i have no probs with the weight of a dr 650 to me its light but for off road , real off road id stick to a 200 250 cc

CRM

10th October 2008, 15:27

i do know what there like
just dont know how much off road hes looking at , you get my meaning
i have no probs with the weight of a dr 650 to me its light but for off road , real off road id stick to a 200 250 cc

I know what you mean about big bikes off road - that's why I bought my Pampera - for the really tight stuff... and that's been great but what I like about the XR600 is how well it goes on the road and on the more open trails (obviously won't be trying the stuff that the Pampera thrives on). But the suspension on the XR is made for off-road so I'm looking forward to a lot of fun on it.:woohoo:

homer

10th October 2008, 15:31

I know what you mean about big bikes off road - that's why I bought my Pampera - for the really tight stuff... and that's been great but what I like about the XR600 is how well it goes on the road and on the more open trails (obviously won't be trying the stuff that the Pampera thrives on). But the suspension on the XR is made for off-road so I'm looking forward to a lot of fun on it.:woohoo:

oh me sees
yes you will love it for that
just have a good look a prices , my k6 dr cost me 7k delivered
ive seen some k4 models for around $5400, weigh up the kms ,wear, and price

warewolf

10th October 2008, 15:33

The guy is actually selling the whole fork assembly with the wheel including the brake cylinder and lever so wondering about just dropping out the forks and changing the whole assembly. Feasible? Could have different fork setups for road/ off-road too. Maybe???:blink:It takes a bit longer to swap forks, than to swap wheels. Also, are the triple clamps the same? Steering tube? You would have to find out just how many bits could or would have to be changed at once. Depends how often you would be wanting to do this. If the price is right, grab the lot and just use the wheels.

There's probably not much advantage to having different fork setups for road/trail vs off-road. However, there is a significant advantage to having one for 21" front and one for 17" front motard. Shorter, less travel and firmer, is what you want for motard. But then, what do you do with the rear end, it won't be split-personality like the front, so the bike would be out of balance.

PS check the axle spacers and the front disc spacing etc etc. It was all the same with the swap that I did, even though the axle was 15 not 17mm, and the disc was a 4-bolter not 6.

CRM

10th October 2008, 20:55

oh me sees
yes you will love it for that
just have a good look a prices , my k6 dr cost me 7k delivered
ive seen some k4 models for around $5400, weigh up the kms ,wear, and price

Yeah I looked long and hard at the DR650's but then rode the XR600 and I was in love:love:. Looking at specs confirms what I suspected - the XR is 128kg compared to 147 for DR650 and 119 for DRZ400E (the one I had). HP is 46 for the XR600, 43 for the DR650 and apparently 48 for the DRZ400 (but at 9000 rpm so who goes there?) In the real world it's the torque that makes the difference - 52Nm for the XR, 54Nm for the DR650 and only 40 for the DRZ400 but that's at 7500rpm compared with peak at 5500rpm for the XR and 4600rpm for the DR650.

So to me the usable power and the torque of the XR600 give it the edge over the DRZ400 without feeling any heavier. And the weight and better suspension give it the edge over the DR650. I've yet to take it seriously off road (need to change the tyres and the gearing) so i will report back once I've had the pleasure...:scooter:

NordieBoy

11th October 2008, 08:29

Those numbers are at the crank.

A stock DR650 is about 36hp and 46Nm at the wheel.
One thing with the smaller engines is there's less gyro effect from the motor/piston.

An XR500 motor only weighs a few Kg more than the 250 but in motion it feels like a lot bigger bike.

CRM

11th October 2008, 16:03

Go for it!

Got an Acerbis long range tank here for one :innocent:

Could be pretty keen on that - what sort of condition? How much does it hold? What sort of $? What colour?

Thanks - Clive

NordieBoy

11th October 2008, 20:05

Could be pretty keen on that - what sort of condition? How much does it hold? What sort of $? What colour?

Acerbis - RED - Good condition (I think?) - >20L (I think).

I'll get it from the lockup and take some photos and check it out.

talbertnz

13th October 2008, 09:33

http://motocross.transworld.net/2008/09/10/texas-grudge-match/

xr 600 at work

cooneyr

13th October 2008, 11:38

http://motocross.transworld.net/2008/09/10/texas-grudge-match/

xr 600 at work

That's quite a cool vid though it is a XR650L (air cooled) not a XR600. Makes me wonder how a XR650R (water cooled) would go against the CRF450R :D

Cheers R

CRM

14th October 2008, 10:11

Here's the beautiful beast... Tell me what I need to turn her into an adventure bike. :eek:

List so far is a long range tank and some kind of rack. It's got posts welded on to take a ventura rack but I don't fancy a high bar for tricky stuff - what do you suggest for carrying a good load without carrying it too high and awkward?

Thanks guys...

Peril

14th October 2008, 11:45

The rear indicators look interesting :laugh:
As for your rack,maybe get something made up that sits above the tool bag (so you can at least still carry tools in it) but clamps or bolts onto that rack that's there already.
I'm sure someone will clarify a bit better,but you may also need to beef up the rear subframe too if you're going to carry anything decent that far back.
Looks like you've got a good bike there,but I still prefer the big hunchback look of the mid 80s XRs though.
Make sure you come down for the dusty butt on it :D

MXNUT

14th October 2008, 14:17

and some kind of rack. It's got posts welded on to take a ventura rack but I don't fancy a high bar for tricky stuff - what do you suggest for carrying a good load without carrying it too high and awkward?

Thanks guys...

I would stick with the ventura, you would only need to purchase the high rack and that shoud be pretty cheap. I have found with mine that as long as you pack the heavy items down low it does not affect the handling too much.

Did the Whangamomana track recently with the pack full and it was ok.

NordieBoy

14th October 2008, 14:23

You need a tank on that :D

CRM

14th October 2008, 14:37

I would stick with the ventura, you would only need to purchase the high rack and that shoud be pretty cheap. I have found with mine that as long as you pack the heavy items down low it does not affect the handling too much.

Did the Whangamomana track recently with the pack full and it was ok.

Okay thanks for that - a high rack would certainly mean a bigger pack. Not sure where to get a rack from that's actually going to fit as it's not standard - the posts are welded on. Been trying to search online to find the actual dimensions but not easy to find - anyone knows an outlet that sells racks that i could email?

CRM

14th October 2008, 14:41

You need a tank on that :D

Yeah sure do - you wouldn't have a spare one would you? :drool: Nice big red one would be good so it really lives up to the BRP label (looking forward to those pics).

MXNUT

15th October 2008, 07:24

- anyone knows an outlet that sells racks that i could email?

Dold industries are the manufacturers of Ventura pack racks and are located here in Hamilton, check out their web site for contact details - www.ventura-bike.com

CRM

16th October 2008, 07:40

Dold industries are the manufacturers of Ventura pack racks and are located here in Hamilton, check out their web site for contact details - www.ventura-bike.com

Thanks for that - have flicked them off an email. What about packs? Any recommendations?

NordieBoy

16th October 2008, 07:58

What about packs? Any recommendations?

Well...
Considering it's a Ventura rack.
How about a Ventura pack.

:done:

monchopper

21st October 2008, 08:39

CRM
Have you had the new purchase out on the dirt yet? Give us an update when you do. You've got me curious about the 600.

I live in London and am returning home (chch) for 6 months and need a bike. I've currently got a 04 XR400 which I'm selling here soon and redirecting the funds into a bike in NZ.
I thought I will get another XR4 as I've stripped all the go faster goodies off mine here and shipped to NZ (Vortip baffle, Mikuni Pumper Carb, Hot CDI unit), but am keen on doing some adventure rides and although the XR4 is OK a few more horses wouldn't be bad for the longer stints on the road. So am very interested to you opinion of the XR6 on the dirt as compared to your old DRZ?

(WTF is going on with the prices people have on there bikes on trademe? Why don't people just put there bike on with no reserve and let the market decide how much it's worth, it seems alot of people on trademe haven't the idea about online marketplaces!!-rant over:argue:)

CRM

21st October 2008, 10:39

CRM
Have you had the new purchase out on the dirt yet? Give us an update when you do. You've got me curious about the 600.

I live in London and am returning home (chch) for 6 months and need a bike. I've currently got a 04 XR400 which I'm selling here soon and redirecting the funds into a bike in NZ.
I thought I will get another XR4 as I've stripped all the go faster goodies off mine here and shipped to NZ (Vortip baffle, Mikuni Pumper Carb, Hot CDI unit), but am keen on doing some adventure rides and although the XR4 is OK a few more horses wouldn't be bad for the longer stints on the road. So am very interested to you opinion of the XR6 on the dirt as compared to your old DRZ?

Not yet - just trying to suss out some tyres for it. Down to Pirelli MT-21, Michelin AC10, Kenda K760, Dunlop D908 or combination thereof...

Also need to get another chain - it came with spare sprockets but the ones on it are a new set for the road, so torn between buying just a new chain for the half worn dirt sprockets or a whole new set. Not wanting to break the bank all at once LOL.

Also trying to locate some spare wheels - lots in Aus but not in NZ - any idea if the XR400 wheels fit?

Will keep you posted on progress :niceone:

skidMark

21st October 2008, 10:46

Bams

26th October 2008, 22:54

I had a 93xr600 for a number of years for adventure riding and it was a great bike perfect for when your really doing adventure riding but rattle your ass of on a long trip on the tarseal lots of vibrations but go anywhere awesome.
The rear rack is a problem I had to weld up and mod an existing ventura rack system and had endless problems with braking welds on the ruff going but probably had alot to do with my bird shit welds and judging by your photo mine looks abit stonger than yours but the rear end frame handled it with no problems, I would put a full on tramping pack tent food pack a shit load of weight and it was only my welds that failed.
Trail riding bikes are a lot lighter now and if your been abit compeditive the xr600 got the grunt to be right up there but jesus the efforts hugh I still trail ride my xr but serously thinking of dropping to a 400 after riding a mates and the supension has improved with the newer bike I have noticed .
And if you ever have a funny knocking noise in the cam area throw away the auto decompression thingy, bike goes better, starts better the manuals all you need this messed me around for some time trying to work this noise out so watch out for this about 20000 kms

Bams

26th October 2008, 22:57

thats actually my xr with its load on the back in my id photo broke the welds on that ride big boulder thou and a few rap offs did'nt help

RØKSTA

27th October 2008, 07:16

does anyone knw if there is anyone in NZ that makes or fabricates panniers similar to touratech ones for XR650's? could some engineering works make them perhaps?

zeRax

27th October 2008, 08:04

thats a sexy xr you've got @_@

CRM

8th November 2008, 19:11

CRM
Have you had the new purchase out on the dirt yet? Give us an update when you do. You've got me curious about the 600.

So am very interested to you opinion of the XR6 on the dirt as compared to your old DRZ?

Did a good mixed ride today with my son and his mate, twisty seal and gravel roads out to my sisters farm. Rode paddocks, farm races and dirt tracks plus some fairly tight hilly stuff. XR6 has impeccable manners; great fun in twisties and gravel - the torque reminds me of the 73 Cadillac I had for a while - just role it on and enjoy!!

The dirt tracks and races were heaps of fun, but the tyres (IRC trail winner GP110R's) really let it down on the grass and mud. Any more that 1/4 throttle the back comes round to meet the front!!

I've got some Michelin AC10's on order - proper (DOT) knobblies- so looking forward to that next weekend maybe. Love to use that torque in the paddocks and jumps etc but just not biting with the IRC's - letting the pressure down to 15 seemed to actually make it worse.

But overall really pleased with it - even losing traction and having to get off and walk it in places the bike was fine mannered and not a handful at all - very impressed! :yes: Maybe I've just got to be a better rider than when I had my DRZ (after a year of riding a Pampera that could well be so) but I would rate the 600 superior to the DRZ on and off road.

CRM

19th November 2008, 20:02

Okay so here she is with her new tank (thanks Nordie - I found that spider you told me about and a few mates too I think)<_<

The tank feels just the same when riding - might even cut out some of the wind off yer legs - but it's huge when you see it next to the old one. One issue is the front light surround rubs on the tank at full lock. Not sure if I can move it up or maybe trim a bit off. I'd really like to get a little screen and a brighter light. Anybody know anything that might fit?

I've also got the Ventura Rack fitted - just got to find a good bag now. Also fitted the 'XR's only' choke plate fitted (they say the only bad weak point on these is the choke plate - they self destruct and suck into the engine :shit: hence XR's only make an aluminium replacement).

Just need to fit the Michelin AC10's and she's ready for anything I reckon :rolleyes:.

Anybody got some spare XR600 or XR400 wheels or hubs? I'd love to be able to do quick swaps for different kinds of rides. :wari:

Other issue is the colour clash between the seat and the tank :gob: - the tank and barkbusters are the same orangy colour but the seat is real red ... maybe a black seat cover? Can you successfully paint plastic (my sidecovers have been painted black but I think they would scratch real easy)?

I know it's an old bike but it might as well look cool...:whistle:

NordieBoy

19th November 2008, 20:50

Looks like the white tank may have some pink babies soon :D

CRM

19th November 2008, 20:53

Looks like the white tank may have some pink babies soon :D

:laugh: might start a stud farm...

monchopper

20th November 2008, 21:49

Take it easy with the AC10!! The front takes a little getting used to, if you can change the order I'd go for something else. MT21 perhaps.
The rear is great!!!

CRM

21st November 2008, 12:16

Take it easy with the AC10!! The front takes a little getting used to, if you can change the order I'd go for something else. MT21 perhaps.
The rear is great!!!

What sort of issues does it have? You mean it takes a little getting used to on road or off road? :blink:Thanks for the info.

CRM

21st November 2008, 18:04

Okay my wife has come home after a few days away and says the tank looks atrocious and it has spoiled my bike. :gob:
Do I:
A) blame Nordie and sue for damages?
B) agree with her and take it off?
C) figure out how to disguise it somehow with paint/ paper mache/ stickers/ mud?
D) tell her to get over it?

Thanks guys - we all need support in these moments of crisis...:eek5:

NordieBoy

21st November 2008, 18:29

Get rid of the other colours and re-do it all in red.
Tell her it'll float now if you tip over in a river.
Get some old school Dakar posters up with the biiig tanks and that one'll start looking small.

But!
Most importantly...
Agree with her first!

CRM

23rd November 2008, 20:00

Still thinking about the tank. Apparently they don'y recommend you paint them because the material they are made of actually 'breathes' therefore most paints will bubble. I'm wondering about some kind of colour restorer to at least get it back to Honda red again as I assume it's faded like the bark-busters. The other option is just get a black seat cover.

Anyway I put the AC10 on the back yesterday and we went for a quick ride today - it was a good test as it was raining and we did some clay tracks plus some wet seal and gravel. Anyway it seemed pretty good - stuck on to everything and no surprises (I took it real easy on the seal though being new and untested).

Peril

23rd November 2008, 20:24

Have you tried polish or cutting compound on the tank yet?
I found on my little red front mudguard lip that blasting it with silicon spray and leaving it for a while works too.

NordieBoy

23rd November 2008, 21:42

Just needs some more red plastics.
Keep the whiteys for motarding?

RØKSTA

26th November 2008, 09:49

anyone here know the best sprocket combo for on road/off road riding?

CRM

26th November 2008, 15:42

anyone here know the best sprocket combo for on road/off road riding?

You mean for an XR600? Mine is geared real high - 42/15 I think (from the scrawl on my desk pad). Doing some research most people recommend stock 48/14 for road/offroad. But I kind of like the tall gearing because it's so torquey anyway you just use the clutch a bit more. And geared up you can use the gears more on the road - drop into 4th at 120 for overtaking if you want to. I haven't had it in real tight offroad situations yet so I might change my mind then :blink:.

Reading a post on the DR650 thread http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=79915&page=5 about getting some wheels for motarding - anyone got any idea of a possible fit for an XR600 without too much hassle and cost?

CRM

1st December 2008, 15:38

Did the mid-north adventure ride in the weekend - see thread. The XR ran pretty much faultlessly. New tank was great - no worries about running out; but I did loose the rubber breather hose along the way.

Gearing was fine for this ride so will probably stick with it until I need new chain then gear it closer to standard. The Michelin AC10's performed well in all conditions. It does use a bit of oil though - not sure why. Maybe this is normal for 30000km and it's getting a bit loose:mellow:. Anybody know??

NordieBoy

1st December 2008, 15:58

Only 30,000km?

But it may have been thrashed earlier in it's life.

BTW: How big is that tank?

CRM

1st December 2008, 16:20

Only 30,000km?

But it may have been thrashed earlier in it's life.

BTW: How big is that tank?

Don't know as I tipped the old one into the new one then filled it and haven't got anywhere the bottom yet - just topped it up. I think 20 litres maybe? I saw the one on DucatiJims DR650 in the weekend and it's way bigger. Mines about right - wouldn't want any bigger.

NordieBoy

1st December 2008, 16:47

Don't know as I tipped the old one into the new one then filled it and haven't got anywhere the bottom yet - just topped it up. I think 20 litres maybe? I saw the one on DucatiJims DR650 in the weekend and it's way bigger. Mines about right - wouldn't want any bigger.

The Safari is a 32L :D

CRM

5th December 2008, 16:21

Still trying to track down some spare wheels for the XR6. Anybody know off the top of their heads if CRF450 or YZ250 wheels would work (wait - don't they have 19" rears - would that really matter for dirt riding?) There's a set of each on TM at the moment for a 'good' :sick: price (i.e possibly do-able if I forget Christmas).

Looking on EBay in Australia and found an XR600 front wheel. Any idea how much that would be to courier??

Thanks guys.

CRM

28th March 2009, 21:40

Well finally got some wheels for XR6. $300 for the pair with good tyres and apparently were on a 93 XR600 so everything should fit. So today being a nice sunny day I decide to put them on and go for a ride :lol: (as if it's ever that easy).

Wheels looking good (pic one) what could go wrong? First problem my bike stand (various bit of scrap wood cobbled together) really didn't work that well and barked my thumb real good :mad: (pic 2). Thought I'd try the front wheel first as I figured it might be easier. All good until I went to insert the axle through the new wheel - won't fit - axle too big :crybaby:.

Okay off to the bearing shop - not a lot of help. There is a sleeve in the bearings they said maybe a bike shop may have a replacement. Bike shop says go to engineer and get it drilled out a bit (it's only about a mil too small). Being Saturday - end of fun. No rides this weekend...:bash:.

Consequently went home to try out back wheel. Removed wheel, bike overbalances, I grab to stop falling against my car and slice thumb - more blood, more muttering. I'm so glad i didn't follow my teenage dream to become a motorcycle mechanic... :crazy:

So there she is bereft of her wheels and abandoned until I'm off to the engineers on Monday to see if I can get this sorted.

CRM

4th April 2009, 14:54

Slight progress...

Got the front fitting - now issues with the back...:bash: They look good though.

I've put them on TradeMe - i don't have time for stuffing around. Maybe they won't sell and I'll get over it and find some time to do some more work on them.

cynna

6th April 2009, 04:06

good to see that your bike stand has improved from a few pieces of wood. i used to use a similar technique with the same result...

a decent bike jack makes life easier

CRM

6th April 2009, 09:20

Yeah for sure - way easier. Been wanting one for quite awhile.

CRM

25th September 2009, 11:33

Well after putting her on TradeMe with the idea of getting something more road-worthy and getting a couple of mild responses (but no-one willing to offer me my high-but-fair price) and encouragements from you guys to just bling up the XR6 I've decided to do just that...so I've resurrected this thread so I can share my project with anyone who is interested.

Since last posting I've had the cam chain replaced, refaced the valves, rebore and new piston and run in. She's going very sweet and of course not using oil any more. The goal is to turn her into a fine looking long distance traveler that looks equally at home in Queen Street or Ahipara but can still tackle any offroad challenge. Next thing to do is new lights and plastics/stickers.

CRM

28th September 2009, 10:54

Just trying to make a decision over the best way to get more lighting power. I can get a stator unit from XR's only for $130US which will give me 2x100W pretty much plug and play apparently. :2thumbsup That's looking like a good option. But to get an actual headlight unit isn't so easy to source. I want to replace the stock one anyway as it's pretty small even if I upgraded the bulb and the whole thing is pretty knocked about.

Ideally I want something that can run around 100W, be road legal and in a large numberplate/ small fairing arrangement that looks good and doesn't cost too much. I've been searching the interwebs and not a lot of joy :weep:- anybody know who stocks such a thing?

Crisis management

28th September 2009, 11:54

CRM

29th September 2009, 15:50

I have no idea how feasible this is but Hella do a driving light unit F50? that you could mount for high beam only rather than trying to replace the existing unit. Quite a few guys use them as additional lighting for adventure riding so I assume they are reliable.
The XR's looking good, keep at it.

Yeah not sure about those if they are road legal now. I used to have one on a CB400F back in the day wired to high beam - real good:sunny: I'm wondering about the Ascerbis Dimension HP (http://www.acerbis.com/p107_headlight/211370.html) which runs 35W with halogen bulbs. May be enough without having to do the stator. Anybody know who does these in NZ?

I've got a new black XR's Only seat cover and tank graphic coming from Ballards, plus a black single sheepskin ordered for the distance rides. Decided to just repaint the side covers - can't justify new ones at the moment.:whistle:

CRM

2nd October 2009, 16:01

I'm heading off on Sunday 11th, my trip taking me as far as Christchurch; so just sorting out some essentials like tyres...:yawn:

My front one (trail winner of something...) is fine but the back one is just about worn out. I'll be doing mostly tar-seal on my trip, but like to get into some gravel and maybe even some sweet tracks in the weekend I'm away around the top of the South Island :scooter:.

I've scoured the tyre thread and it looks like the Michelin T63 could be a good buy, or maybe a Mitas E08? Can't find any pricing on these though. Any other ones I should look out for around the $100 to $150 mark for the type of riding I'll be doing? :whistle:

NordieBoy

2nd October 2009, 16:13

I've scoured the tyre thread and it looks like the Michelin T63 could be a good buy, or maybe a Mitas E08? Can't find any pricing on these though. Any other ones I should look out for around the $100 to $150 mark for the type of riding I'll be doing? :whistle:

If it's dry the Shinko 705 may be the go (E-08 style).

Woodman

2nd October 2009, 21:07

What about a unit like the klr and xl600s have . Standard semi sealed headlight that takes an H4 bulb therefore lots of watt/gas options.

CRM

6th October 2009, 08:01

I've ordered one of these: http://www.acerbis.com/p107_headlight/images/50/2113700002.jpg

It's still a 35w but comes with a halogen bulb. Also an LED tail-light and LED rear indicators so no one will run over me on the motorway.

Putting it all together on Sat so I'll post some pics. I'm heading down via Gisborne/ Napier to Wellington next week then over on the ferry and to Chch the following week then home. Not liking the idea of snow that much...:cold:.

CRM

11th October 2009, 19:30

I've spent most of the weekend adding the bling to the XR600 getting her ready to go (planning to ride Whangarei to Napier tomorrow, then over to the south isles on Friday, down the west coast, in Chch Mon to Wed then back up Kaikoura Coast and home for labour weekend.

Just got to fabricate something to keep the left pannier from getting caught up in the wheel but here are some pics of progress:

As she was when I got her:
http://www.typepad.com/services/asset/6a010536a6b624970c0120a5d8775f970b-115si

New Ascerbis Dimension HP Halogen light, black seat cover and tank graphics ex Ballards:
http://www.typepad.com/services/asset/6a010536a6b624970c0120a5d87768970b-115si

On the back LED taillight and indicators:
http://www.typepad.com/services/asset/6a010536a6b624970c0120a5d8776d970b-115si

Sheepskin, Panniers, Rackpack etc - all sweet nearly ready to go at crack of dawn :cool:.
http://www.typepad.com/services/asset/6a010536a6b624970c0120a5d87753970b-115si

Better go set up that pannier bar and pack...

CRM

11th October 2009, 22:16

Okay all set. Used an old sway-bar out of a celica to support the left side-cover so it doesn't bend under and touch the wheel. Could be prettier but effective for now...:niceone:

I got a second-hand DRZ400 ignition switch thinking I could wire it into the kill switch line (first cowboy-electrician thought). Of course that din't work because the kill switch just shorts out the power and kills the engine. Second cowboy-electrician discovery was that I had wired it into the hand-brake light switch :rolleyes:. My son pointed that out through tears of laughter.

My other wiring was okay - headlight and taillight worked (except for high and low beam around the wrong way - easily fixed). The LED indicators on the back didn't work but my son pointed out that LED's only run one way so we swapped the wires and she was GOOD :clap:. The lights seem really bright - haven't tried the headlight at night yet but the halogen is certainly looking brighter as are the LED's on the back.

Last shots came out a little small so here are some better ones.

CRM

2nd November 2009, 08:43

The trip to Timaru was great but I've got a couple more coming up (like down to Opotiki later this week which will be road only) so I really need to get something more roadable - I'd like a 650 VStrom but they are a little too pricy. I'll probably get a sport/tourer so sadly looking at selling the XR6.:crybaby:

So please someone buy it and love it for me...http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=251020313

Lots of good bits. I’ve just spent nearly $2000 on it (new tyre, chain, lights, seat cover, graphics, top end etc.) so I’m not giving it away but I realise you don’t really ever get back what you spend on an old bike.

The only things that is a bit rough on it are the frame – it could so with painting or better still powder-coating. Also the pipe might not be to everyone’s taste being loud and hacked on a bit with muffler wrap by the previous owner (who I know just used it for commuting as he had it geared right up).

The gear-box is good, it has a new clutch cable (replaced while I was away), steering and linkage bearings are all freshly lubed.

I wouldn’t be prepared to go under $4000 unless I kept the spare tyres and big tank and sold them separately (these tanks are over $600 new). I guess with the standard tank and tyres that are on it I might drop a bit for a fellow fanatic.:wacko:

If you haven't ridden an XR6 you are in for a treat. They don't have to be revved like DRZ's etc... they just pull like crazy :wari:

NordieBoy

18th August 2011, 18:08

How about a nice XR400?
244932

CRM

19th August 2011, 12:25

How about a nice XR400?
244932

Don't look like any XR400 I ever seen :confused:. Nice though - if I had a garage full of bikes I'd want that one too. For now I'd just like a garage :no:

Waihou Thumper

19th August 2011, 16:43

Don't look like any XR400 I ever seen :confused:. Nice though - if I had a garage full of bikes I'd want that one too. For now I'd just like a garage :no:

Main priority when sourcing a place to live......Garage, Man cave and Broadband availability....If it ain't got it, don't buy it..:)

dino3310

19th August 2011, 19:13

How about a nice XR400?
244932

too slow, put a XR6 donkey with the O/S3mm and she'll be a street weapon.
looks pretty cool, nice lines

NordieBoy

28th January 2012, 10:05

How about an XL600 from CraigsList...

XL600R Plated - $1600 (Ventura County)
Date: 2012-01-01, 8:36PM PST

OK, let me start off by saying this XL is only available for purchase by the manliest of men (or women). My friend, if it was possible for a dirt bike to sprout chest hair and a five o'clock shadow, this Honda would look like Tom Selleck. It is just that manly.

It was never intended to ride down a grass filled ditch in your LBZ baggy gear looking like a spode. It wasn't meant to do 3-foot long pop wheelies in front of your hillbilly friends in your cousin's back yard while everyone drinks Budweiser. No, that's what a 50 is for. If that's the kind of bike you're looking for, then just do us all a favor and stop reading right now. This bike has been to hell and back, twice, and has the scars to prove it. So if you can't handle being seen behind the bars of this biblical, fire breathing, dragon slaying hero because it has a few purple hearts, move on.

This bike was engineered by 3rd degree ninja pirate super-warriors in the highest mountains of Japan to serve the needs of the man that cheats death on a daily basis. They didn't even consider superfluous Nancy boy, contradictory decor in the form of Monster, Red Bull, Spy, Oakley, FMF, and Pro Circuit stickers plastered all over the bike. This bike looks legit because it is.

This brute comes with the things us testosterone-fueled super action junkies need. It has a 600cc to fly down the trail or to outrun the cops and has a 6-speed transmission so you know grandma won't be taking off with it when you're not looking. It's saved my bacon more than once. It's got special blood/gore resistant grippy seat cover. It even has a first-aid kit in the back. You know what the first aid kit has in it? A pint of whiskey, a stitch-your-own-wound kit and a hunk of leather to bite down on when you're operating on yourself. (NOTE: I cut myself fighting a streetbiker who looked at me funny and used the first aid kit, a replacement kit is available for an additional $100 and comes with Gentleman's Jack.)

My price on this bad boy is an incredibly low $1600 but I'll entertain reasonable offers. And by reasonable, I mean don't walk up and tell me you'll give me $500 for it. That's liable to earn you a Burmese-roundhouse-sphincter-kick with a follow up three fingered eye-jab. Would it hurt? Hell yeah. Let's just say you won't be the prettiest guy at the Coldplay concert anymore.

There's only 25,000 miles on this hellcat from Planet Kickass since purchased in 83'. Trust me, it will outlive you and the offspring that will carry your name. It will live on as a monument to your machismo.

Now, go look in the mirror and tell me what you see. If it's a rugged, no holds barred, super brute he-man macho Chuck Norris stunt double, then reply to this ad. I might be out hang-gliding or BASE jumping or just chilling with my lady, but leave a message and I'll get back to you. And when I do, we'll talk about a price over a nice glass of Schmidt while we listen to Johnny Cash.

God bless -- Buy It