Brenner

Randy I have been watching your timer project for the anti dives and I have a question. It is my understanding that the anti dive system on the MKII is electrically activated and deactivated through the front brake switch whether on or off. I understand the system when activated restricts the oil flow in the fork to keep the fork under pressure so it does not compress and cause the bike to dive. My understanding is that when the brake is released the anti dive opens and lets the fork oil reverse its direction and recover with the assist of the springs and returns to normal ride height. I am going to assume that the anti dive will allow some bypass or there will be some dive when the bike is slowing down that we cannot control and in a normal system when off the brake the anti dive would open and quickly allow the fork to decompress, but if you had installed a timer would this not cause a unwanted delay? Meaning I ride my bike down the road and squeeze the front brakes depending on my switch adjustment and how tight my brake system is is there not a possibility that my bike might dive a bit then lock the solenoids and I release the brake and want the bike to level out but it won't till the timer allows it to do so? I know of two riders who ride their bikes with in my opinion half squeeze on the brakes due to not being able to "reach" or squeeze the lever. This in my opinion would not happen on that setup. I have big hands and have no problem reaching and squeezing my brakes and have them set up very tight meaning my brakes start to activate prior to the brake switch turning the brake light on. Would it not in a setup like mine possible delay my recovery in such an event? We all ride differently and have different setups and different riding conditions and quite possibly in the aforementioned scenario maybe the fluid already through the fork prior to the anti dive activation may be minimal enough that it's effect would be unnoticeable. I have just been pondering the pros and cons on this no more and no less than the other mods and ideas that are on this forum. I will be watching and if it works well I might just have to try it on my bike. Besides I am still waiting on the results of the covers project you told me about.

Carl I really hate to disagree with your last post but wiring the speaker does matter. It is called speaker phase. I have played with sound systems before and agree many people wire up speakers wrong and you do not get proper sound unless wired correctly. Here is a link - https://www.mtx.com/t/library-phase-discussion Sorry my friend.

Puc I am glad you see the differences I was referring to. I like the 85 as it is slightly different. Even read the ad Freebird posted and how that was the year of the choke change. I had a choice of rebuilding the 84 or the 85 and the 85 was a little more unique so I took that route. I have side cover for an 84 and they are smaller without the vents. You are right it is as I like to think as somewhat one year thing. The best of both MK's? Mine will be a mixed breed but not hacked, all yamaha parts except the progressive springs. Maybe your next will be an 85? LOL....

Hi guys, those who monitor the first gen discussion might recognize me as a new member resurrecting an 85. Well prior to starting that project and part of that projects decision was to build a bike and trailer for my hopefully upcoming needs. I have been putting off the trailer portion of the build and have been scanning the classifieds and online sales and auctions without finding a trailer that I really like. I have come to the point of going the harbour freight way as many have done in the past but I am still stuck on one difference that I would possibly like to accomplish if I can. I have seen many many pics of motorcycle pull behind trailers and I am drawn to the very few that utilize motorcycle tires and rims. I have parted more than one bike to build my project and have a couple wheels and tires that might suit a trailer just fine. My questions I suppose are has this been done recently? Is there reason why it is not being done? I understand the geometry required so no problem there and the weight factor is low so why is this not more common? I like to think it would look nice having matching wheels on bike and trailer. Thoughts and or comments?

You guys in the states are very lucky. I am not trying to start something but here in Canada if I ran a car tire on the back of a bike and had an accident my insurance company would not pay out and I would be cancelled. It never ceases to amaze me the difference in price between Canadian ( way higher) and US ( so much cheaper) insurance and the US being able to alter their bikes and still be covered. I wish I could pull that off over here as one of the questions and stipulations is that my bike is not altered or heavily modified.

Too stiff arizona? The enclosed instructions stated that to adjust the ride either add or subtract spacer height in 1/2" intervals. I personally like a stiffer ride and road feel as a new rider would not trust myself on a soft bike or one that floats. Maybe it is the mechanic in me but it gives me peace of mind feeling my ride and possibly being able to "feel" a problem before it starts. Again I am new so my opinion might change with experience.

Chaharly, I am resurrecting an 85 and will note a few items I have noticed different that the 85 has compared to the 83-84 and maybe the 86-93 models. Aside from some common differences like the forks and anti dive being the same from 83-85 and 86 -87 having electric front mount anti dive and 88-93 having side mount electric anti dive, the 83-84 tourpack being smaller than the 85-93, and the 83-85 being 1200 and 86-93 being 1300 . You will find little things different like 85 had the removable bags with the larger tourpak, one year only rear bag crash bars as the 83-84 are different and have the helmet locks on the side where the 85 has them on the rear beneath the tourpak. 1986-93 have fixed bags and a different rear bar setup, and 86-93 have a different muffler mount tab location than the 83-85 I am told. Gas tanks are different size cap and the gas lock on 83-84 is in the gas door but my 85 is larger and the cap itself locks. The key blanks are different and will not slide into each other, the venting check valve is in a different location and fuel catch (bib) is larger on the 85, the cruise light is in the tachometer on 84-85 models but on the handle bar cover on 86 and later models, unsure about 83 but I do know the 83 has a different cmu layout and clock location than 84-93 models. The choke on the controls is different in 85 from the 83-84 models. The 83-85 2 piston calipers, mounts, and internally vented rotors and from what I understand are the same in MKI but the MKII has a rear floating rotor, front solid rotors with cut outs for venting/cooling, 4 piston calipers all around, and larger bore master cylinders. I know the headlight design changed in the MKII but am unsure what year, quite possibly 86. The 1986 and later front crash bars have the tabs for the front lower fairing the 83-85 did not have. The optional drivers rear back rest mounts change with the model changes meaning 83-84, 86-93, 85 I am unsure as I ran 84 bars for me to use an 84 backrest but kept the 85 grab bars for the rear passenger as they were longer and easier for the passenger to grab. The antenna mounts are also different among the year changes. I am sure I missed a few things but these are the things I have noticed as I am building my franken bike but I am keeping it all yamaha. Maybe too much info. I believe it is correct if I am wrong someone will surely correct me. You most likely have read the second gear issue was remedied in 85 and there is a case marking that should tell you if an earlier bike was done as a recall. I have learned a lot form this forum and its members but alot of what I mention are things I have personally noted as I have torn down these model parts bikes to build mine the way that I want. It is cheaper to buy one and enjoy but if you are going to build then build it the way you feel you will enjoy and or make use of it the most, it might cost more but it is built your way. Good luck.

Progressive springs wow what a difference. Today I picked up my new seals and decided to install my progressive springs. My manual stated to install tight end up and the progressive springs said to install tight end down so in the end I used the progressive instructions for the installation orientation and oil level instruction. Happy am I as the bike is now starting to feel sporty and not too soft. I think it is getting closer to my desired specs. I now have the itch to find a rear progressive shock spring. I have seen other on this site post pics of them but as of yet been unable to locate one. In other news a fellow member has responded to my wanted ad in the classifieds and it seems I may have a hitch that I have also been looking for, it is coming in on a trade as per the sellers request and I am more than pleased with that. I really am happy that I found and joined this forum. If my parts come in next week I hope to have the mechanical reassembled and the engine running which will give me more inspiration. The blacking out looks great and I am gonna have to get the camera out to take and post some pics. Sorry for the lameness of this post but I just had to express my enthusiasm and this is my only outlet as I really have no one at home who shares an interest. Okay on the hunt for the rear spring, orange if I remember correctly........

As a newer member I feel I can see things as an outsider. I have been in other forums and found many to be of the type that in their eyes you were only good if you shared the same brand. I have met a few members here and feel that there is a kinship as some I have met do not even have a bike anymore or ride a different brand. I get bored easily and like to think that if I choose to move on to a different ride no matter what brand it might be this forum will support it. Sure I might get teased but hey it's all in fun. I personally own a Harley and a Venture, and even been looking at my first new bike that is not a yamaha nor metric and not even a Harley. In a years time we will see and who knows maybe this old first gen will change my mind? Will someone comment in a not so positive manner about my choice of ride? Quite possibly and most likely but in my opinion it is what keeps the conversation out here. If we were all the same would it not be a dull place and life we live? We all share an interest in this sport and most of us like the company and conversation so why squabble over such trivial differences? Ride what you enjoy and enjoy your ride, life is too short. Those who can't or don't want to be seen with you or bother unless you you suit their style well frankly may not be worth your time. Drama can be found anywhere so no need to look for it or feed into it. These are my feelings and opinions as someone who is doing his best in being a glass half full guy rather than a glass half empty guy. Remember opinions are like butt holes, every one has one and quite often they stink.

Man oh man I am in the need of one. I gotta get up to see you when you are available.

Puc, maybe this is not the thread to ask but I see it mentioned above that this 83 is not your first and I have noted in other posts you mention you have had a few ventures. Might I ask how many and maybe what years you have had? Any new? Roughly how long do these bikes run you? Inquiring minds would like to know. Maybe once I get my project assembled and if you are around home I will give it a "test ride" and come see you to assist in your 86 wiring concerns. This is something I did a lot of in the dealership and it comes pretty easy for me. The wiring on these bike are pretty basic compared to todays cages and no low voltage circuits.

Thanks to all and yes it looks like it is the cmu, dang another item I need to find. I checked the harness and for short to ground and all is well. Even if I disconnect the switch it still says second gear. It is a livable concern but after going through all this work on this project bike I cannot accept anything but a fully functioning bike. I am supposed to pick up another parts bike saturday and I will try the cmu from it.

Perhaps a dumb question but I have not owned or rode one of these bikes before and have no manual to reference what I am looking for. I was going over the wiring on my project today 1985 xvz12 and hooked up the new gear position switch and noticed something odd. Now I do not know if it is normal or messed since I converted it to a second gen gear swap and switched the shift drum. My bike shows second gear in neutral, first, and second, but does work correctly in third, fourth, and fifth. Even the neural light works correctly. Is this normal or do I have a cmu concern? I tried another switch and even manually grounded the terminals and I get the same result. Am I concerned for nothing or do I have a problem?

Puc, I gotta respectfully say that I have been watching this from the beginning and that you are a lucky man. I too call my better half my best friend. You are doing the things I hope to do in my near future and seeing you and your misses as a team, well I only hope I can get my misses to get involved in that way. The only reason I moved up to the xvz was for room for my misses as I just can't see the two of us on my Harley trying to go any distance. My misses did not want anything to do with bikes or going for rides but after seeing me come and go for a couple of months she finally asked to come along. It has been positive but not enough to sell her on long trips and I am hoping the xvz will change her mind. Keep up the story telling as it is an inspiration in more ways than one. I only hope that if I am able to make my trips that they will be as successful as yours have been. Cheers

I'll call tomorrow until then g-nite.

OOOPs I forgot to say that is if I am not stepping on anybody's toes on this.....

Carl, I will come have a look at it. I DO have an 84 motor that runs and spare parts that might make it worth while. I will call you later and if the misses wants me out of the house I will come see you tomorrow. I love projects..... TTYS

BIGTOM, In my opinion you have an electrical concern whether it be a connection to the temp sensor, or gauge cluster concern. Because it goes from operating temp to cold and back in abrupt movements this seems possible. The guys are correct when they mention air in the system is possible but usually there is more symptoms as loss of coolant whether consumed or leaked or pressure in the cooling system when a head gasket is due but usually with a head gasket you have an overheat symptom. What I at this point without see you problem am thinking is that you are having a cluster issue as in the years I have spent in the auto industry I have seen this happen more times than I count on my hands. You mention the odometer comes on and off and on some models I have seen this hand in hand with your problem. A lot of the newer vehicles no longer have a separate sensor for the cooling gauge and use the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) coolant signal as a reference through the CAN (Controller Area Network) system to operate the gauge assembly (Instrument Cluster). Companies have been doing this since roughly 2000 and this is more cost effective in production as this system uses less wires (less to have problems with), smaller gauge wires (size) and offers the ability to monitor systems (if problems can set diagnostic trouble codes). There is a self check function on these instrument clusters but I can't remember the proper sequence for your vehicle. Usually holding the odometer rest button while in trip function at a certain time and using the ignition. If we were closer I would be happy to lend a hand. The info I offer is based on the info I have been given and may or may not be accurate to your problem. If I were to see your vehicle first hand perhaps I would notice something not noticed or something another person may not think is related but in fact is. Just because x number of people say it is one thing does not make it so. Try not to fixate on their or my diagnosis as we have not seen it in person and just think of it as a possibility and rule them out one by one. Think outside the box as this has made me a strong electrical and drivability technician in the dealership. Good luck, if I can help feel free to contact me. Cheers

Great question pbjman as I was unsure what to expect either as never having heard one of these bike run. PUC, correct me if I am wrong but I think I can hear the whine through the whole video. Now not to hijack but the sound of the engine on this bike is this pretty much a stock bike? Meaning stock mufflers and roughly how most of these bike sound? If so I will use it to compare to what mine sound like once I get it back up and running again. Lastly is this considered a clutch noise of just general engine noise? Thanks to all who reply.

I have noted another scenario while working in a Nissan dealership about 10 years ago. A woman came in and purchased a brand new Xterra and we were told to watch what was coming in on trade. Well the detailer had to install personalized plates that read "PAYBACK" and when the delivery came we found out the new owner had her man ride in his month old Harley as the down payment. I am not making this up, you decide what happened, our local Harley dealer came in an hour or so later and picked up the bike to resell. Another possibility is that maybe someone bought his bike and the misses said either it goes or she goes, as I honestly have heard that story before too or lost their job after their purchase?. Either way it does not mean anything is wrong with the bike, ride it and let it speak for itself. If you feel it is a good deal for you and it looks to be a good bike as clean as you say it is maybe don't wait too long as when you finally decide it might not be available. Spring is coming up and someone else might take interest in it. Possibilities are endless without know first hand from the PO. Good luck.

I met an owner of an 85 v-max at the toronto motorcycle super show who had his bike on display. We got to talking and he claims to be the original owner of his bike from new and was telling me he pulls a trailer with it and takes it cross country with no ill effects when properly balanced/loaded. The topic came up when I mentioned I was putting a venture together for a ride to the coast and back. He told me he gets a lot of weird looks when travelling but has never been let down. He claimed to have very little performance modifications and was easy to talk to and offered me a used v-mav intake and carb setup for nothing if I came to pick it up. I do not really think I need it as from my understanding is the power comes on at 6000 rpm and I hate winding out an engine. He seemed sincere and not as if he were one to embellish or make false claims. I am only repeating what I have been told, no more, no less. If it helps I am happy, if not well at least I made an effort to assist. Good luck and I hope it works out for you.

Carl, the suggestion of braided lines is one I am considering as a future upgrade. I prefer to make my decision on link or delink prior to the purchase of the lines due to cost. So I went and saw the former owner of my parts bike who is now becoming a friend. He asked me the benefit of a 4 brush starter as I had previously mentioned to him that I was doing mine as an upgrade. I mentioned the forum and the advice I have been receiving and the fellowship and recommended he join, time will tell if he chooses to do so or not. Anyways he has asked me to find one for him and to take it out of the coin I owe him so I will. He also was interested in the rotor and brake covers I had removed from my bike and I gave them to him so he has a spare set in the event one of his gets damaged. He has been decent with me so I am decent in return and maybe the starter and a small auto repair he needs will fulfill my debt? We will see as he has given me a part or two that seem a little rare and costly on ebay. I like being fair and working it out where both parties are happy with their trade where it cost each less than it would if they were to source it alone. Okay gotta fly my appointment is coming up and I am rarely if never late. Cheers..

Thank you Bob, that is the same thing I say to others. Often it is harder to take your own advice rather than give it. If I get a chance to meet you this summer I am sure the pleasure will be all mine. Today the project had the rear wheel installed and the v-max drive fitted and filled with oil, the MKII rear brake mount and rear floating rotor installed with an R1 caliper. I have an alternative solution than that I have seen on here for the difference in the rear mount bushing and once completed will post my result. I have been thinking I might wait to delink so that when I do I really can honestly compare the braking characteristics to see which I prefer and if questioned about it be able to give an honest answer. Maybe tomorrow or Friday I hope to get the hydraulic brake system cleaned, serviced and back up and working. I might as well as accomplish something while waiting for my springs to arrive. On another note I have had an interest in my parts bike, someone I know is interested in it for a bobber project since it is pretty complete aside from plastic and has two sets of MKI forks, two sets of full MKI brakes, two used stators, two final drives, two sets of crash bars, two first gen tramsmissions, etc.... I think it is in my best interest to let it go as I really do not need much from it as most of the parts it has are upgraded on mine. I might keep the tci as a spare, spare class air pump, coils?, but can't think of much else worth saving. Any advice on what to keep? All my brakes are not MKI, my starter is a 4 brush, carbs are the best of the two bikes, my forks are MKII, my final drive is later model v-max, stereo is bits and parts of the two systems combined, hmmm....... what am I forgetting? I will have to take payments on it till it is paid but if I get a few bucks back I will invest the coin into my new tires I desire. Besides I still owe the previous owner a few bucks on the parts bike and I did receive a call from him tonight asking about come chrome accessories I removed from my bike that he may want. Time will tell as I will go see him tomorrow morning. Again anything I should keep for spare parts?

All in time my friend, perhaps when it looks more like a bike. Rebuilt clutch and master today and am toying with the idea of a different taillight, time will tell how that goes along. Internet supplier messed up my order so my parts will be longer than expected so I will possibly go tomorrow to get my brake parts and start the hopefully final assembly of the rear. Having ink finished on Thursday so that will be a wasted day for the shop, time with wife on the weekend, so this means pics may not be available till early next week. I will update every so often. And yes new tires when the project is complete before any major riding and looking at the pirelli mt66 that treated me so well on my last project bike. Affordable, good traction, and wears well.

I would like to inquire of those who have removed the front lower fairing leg on what they feel was the benefit and or what they regret or miss? I would also like to ask if anyone has blocked the front fairings air vent and again what they regret or miss? The purpose of these question is that I am still building my 85 project and am considering using the air intakes for the lower legs to mount a set of auxillary running lights in. In this forums opinion the pros and cons? I ask as I want to see if anyone else will come up with something I have not thought of or overlooked. I am considering installing a set of lamp in the least obtrusive location. Thanks in advance to all who reply and share their thoughts and opinions.