Dreamin about a 86 GSXR1100

[Omega1]

Hi Guys,

I need some reality check aka advice, there's a tidy 86 GSXR1100 on trademe not to expensive, pretty original but needs a tidy up The tank is dented which it the only cosmetic major I can see. It apparently runs ok and I think it would be ok as a project doer upper. I just looking for advice as to what things I should looking out for? are sourcing parts a big issue? I have always loved these bikes since I was a kid.

Appreciate your advice

Cheers
O1

[T.W.R]

Wheels: check the wheel for stress cracks around the spokes
Frame: check for stress cracks around headstock

[Oakie]

It sounds like your reasons for wanting this bike have nothing to do with logic so there's no point trying to dissuade you from buying a 24 year old bike. Enjoy.

[jamessmith]

I was looking at that. they really are are cool bike those old gsxrs. I have my 88 in bits at the mo. you can still source parts, but mostly from overseas. www.alphasports.com or www.yamahaoytroy.com and fairings from www.justfairings.co.nz manuals are easy enough to find.
only thing needed after all that is some skill! which im still searching for. Have also been told that those old suzukis are quite interchangable.

[rocketman1]

I am presently doing up its younger brother an 86' 750GSXR.
They are great bikes, the first of the real sport bikes.
Not many original about for sale now days.
Most parts can be bought new. I have been able to source all replacement parts
Look out for worn front rotors/ discs, they need to be 4mm + or no wof, cost about $750 a pair.
Most parts can be sourced from ebay in the states.
I would say the plastics are getting hard to find second hand in NZ, although these can also be sourced new out of the USA
Good luck with your project.
There used to be lots on trademe , not many now, they must all be getting bought as projects.

[shrub]

When I worked in a bike shop we had a lot of guys who had bought old Jap bikes, often with a view to loving them back to their former glory, and in most cases it was a heartbreaking experience. After 24 years lots and lots and LOTS of things have worn out - brake components, clutches, engine internals, alternators, bearings, cables etc. The oil seals are often not good (especialliy if the bike has spent years in storage), electrics are often showing signs of abuse etc. And parts are available, but almost entirely from overseas.

However a classic Jap superbike is a very fine thing, and there are good ones out there. The best thing you can do is get a mechanic who is experienced with old oil boilers to have a look at it - if you were down here I'd suggest TWR. If it's a goodun, you have a very fine machine on your hands, but be aware that technology has moved a brazillian miles since 1986 and if you're used to modern bikes you'll be disappointed in braking and handling, although they're still reasonably quick.

Another option, especially of you have cash and time in abundance, is to buy an old oil boiler and build a streetfighter/custom. The engines are bulletproof and love mods, so you throw late model suspenders and brakes on, bin the cracked and crappy plastic and make something that goes well, handles and looks like nothing else on the road.

[avgas]

You will curse and swear - call it a bloody old piece of shit.
But you only hurt those you love - so I say go for it.
But don't think for an instant it will be easy.
Young girls are gullible, old bags are stubborn and she may have some interesting surprises for you when you start work.