I loved my '72 XS-650. I bought it new for $1200. About 6 months later when I was going about 90 MPH at full throttle, my 650 went into a high speed wobble. Somehow, I was able to hang on. Scared the crap out of me. I took it back to the Yamaha dealer and gave them an earful. Their mechanic showed me how loose the swing arm was. He put the bike on its center stand and grabbed the back wheel. He pushed and pulled it side to side. It moved about an 1/8" in each direction from center (1/4" total movement). He said the swing arm bushings had failed and Yamaha replaced them under warranty. That little defect damn near got me killed. After that, I never trusted that bike above 80 MPH. It was great for riding around town.
Hi, Brodie. Just a comment to say that these videos are hugely appreciated. I’m currently restoring a ‘76 XS650, my first foray into the world of classics, and your videos, clear presentation, and practical advice, are helping no end. Thank you so much. Mark (in bonnie Scotland)
For those without a press you can use a length of threaded rod, 2 washers and 2 nuts. Brass bushings into freezer then just position both into swing arm, pass threaded rod and tighten the nuts and washers against brass bushing. It will gently press into place. Love your videos. A big help as I do a complete Heritage Special restoration
Thanks mate. Give this link a go www.google.com.au/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=www.geoffsxs.com.au/&ved=2ahUKEwj_o8iT_eP5AhWT3jgGHSaHByAQFnoECAgQAQ&usg=AOvVaw1V9DqcKu6TrJ5mRf6hE_DM.
Thanks mate. Powder coat is good but if you need to modify anything down the line you have to get it all done again. Paint is cheaper and can be patched more readily.
I loved my '72 XS-650. I bought it new for $1200. About 6 months later when I was going about 90 MPH at full throttle, my 650 went into a high speed wobble. Somehow, I was able to hang on. Scared the crap out of me. I took it back to the Yamaha dealer and gave them an earful. Their mechanic showed me how loose the swing arm was. He put the bike on its center stand and grabbed the back wheel. He pushed and pulled it side to side. It moved about an 1/8" in each direction from center (1/4" total movement). He said the swing arm bushings had failed and Yamaha replaced them under warranty. That little defect damn near got me killed. After that, I never trusted that bike above 80 MPH. It was great for riding around town.
Hi, Brodie. Just a comment to say that these videos are hugely appreciated. I’m currently restoring a ‘76 XS650, my first foray into the world of classics, and your videos, clear presentation, and practical advice, are helping no end. Thank you so much. Mark (in bonnie Scotland)
Hi Mark. Thank you so much for your kind words, I am glad that you find my videos helpful. Good luck with your restoration.
Probably one of the best simple improvements you can do to an xs. I do plan to brace mine one day . Cheers
I consider it a must
For those without a press you can use a length of threaded rod, 2 washers and 2 nuts. Brass bushings into freezer then just position both into swing arm, pass threaded rod and tighten the nuts and washers against brass bushing. It will gently press into place.
Love your videos. A big help as I do a complete Heritage Special restoration
Good idea. Thanks mate
Another easy but informative video! Keep them coming brother!
Cheers mate
keep up the great work Brodie.
also love the outdoor painting rack I only hang clothing and goonbags on mine.
Thanks mate. The Hills Hoist is a versatile peice of Australiana.
The rotary paint booth.
Handy and easy to follow, but where do you buy the brass-bushes ? You can't even buy an oil-filter over here ! Dave NZ
Thanks mate. Give this link a go www.google.com.au/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=www.geoffsxs.com.au/&ved=2ahUKEwj_o8iT_eP5AhWT3jgGHSaHByAQFnoECAgQAQ&usg=AOvVaw1V9DqcKu6TrJ5mRf6hE_DM.
Maybe give him a ring first. He is a pretty good bloke and I can't imagine him having a problem posting to NZ
Is it worth the effort to powder coat instead of spray and heat? I love your videos!
Thanks mate. Powder coat is good but if you need to modify anything down the line you have to get it all done again. Paint is cheaper and can be patched more readily.
Mate, please cover crankshaft bearings.
There is a video on rebuilding the crank in my engine rebuild play list.
You neglected to mention shims. You can cover that on the install.
I'll mention it during the install but neither of my XS650's had them, nor would they fit as there is no clearance.
@@2wheelworkshop You don’t have them because there is no clearance. My bikes have shims to take up the clearance.