1988 Yamaha FZ600

[fireball8716]

Hey guys had a question about a bike i'm looking at. My friend has gotten me into riding and recommended that I take a MSF course and purchase a jacket, pants, helmet and gloves before I start riding. I was looking for a good starter bike and came across one when doing some work at my neighbors house. He has a 1987 or 88 Yamaha FZ600 with 12K on it. He offered to give it to me for 250 and I am thinking of doing it. I just wanted to know what kind of work it would need (tires, spark plugs, etc.). My friend and I got it running and all of the gears seem to work fine, and seems to run fine.

Thanks


Chris

[robertc729]

sounds like your friend is leading in ther right direction, in terms of making sure you take an MSF course.

[Clint]

Well, I can't quite make out the condition of the tires, chain and sprockets, fluids, brake pads and suspension from here, so you'll have to describe it to me.

I had a 1989 Yamaha 600 as my first. It sure felt like a screaming machine to me back then! Those that start on modern superbikes miss a big step in the speed escalator. Their loss.

[Funkmon]

Well, since it's tough to tell from the internet, and the bike runs fine, I'd take it to a local bike repair shop, and then have them take a look at it. It'll be worth however much it costs. Great deal, though.

[fireball8716]

i took a closer look and the tires seem to be hard and slightly dry rotted, overall the bike has no rust from what I see on the frame, sprockets or other parts, the shocks don't appear to be leaking at all and the seal on the outside looks intact. If I can get a digital camera I'll snap some pictures and post them up.

[Clint]

That's a good start. I recommend SWMoto for tires. One indication of chain wear is the marks on the swingarm. If the pointer is getting toward the rear end, the chain's likely about had it. Also, check the sprocket teeth for scalloping or damage.