84 vs 82 Virago???

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• July 2, 2010 at 3:53 am #4079
  skippersusie

  Participant

  So, I am going to be looking to purchase my first bike this weekend. After a few YEARS of sitting on almost every cruiser from the big 4 manufacturers I have my heart set on an older Yamaha Virago. Two possibilities that are in my price range that I am checking out this weekend are:

  a) 1982 750 w/ approx. 25K miles on it- has some scratches on the tank, has had the funky starter problem resolved and has been maintained with records.
  b) 1984 700 w/ approx. 53K miles on it – new TCI (?) 2 years ago, ripped double sat at a seam across the saddle and was laid down by the previous owner.

  Both bikes are selling at the same price – 1150. I am leaning towards the 750 due to mileage, stater and records. Any opinions out there on whether it is a good idea to purchase a bike this old? Am I thinking the right way?

  As always any advice or opinion is more than welcome and much appreciated!!!

  SS

  July 2, 2010 at 4:41 am #27295
  Munch

  Participant

  of the 2 -A is the no brainer…. would not even consider B. However….. before you jump in with both feet…. might want to check parts houses and catalogs for availability if something happens and you need to repair it. Also need to check local shops to make sure they can/will work on what you cannot. Some local shops here will not go any older then 10 years back.

  July 2, 2010 at 8:13 am #27296
  skippersusie

  Participant

  You’re the man!!

  July 5, 2010 at 11:38 pm #27349
  skippersusie

  Participant

  Followed your advice, turns out the local Kawasaki deaer/shop is willing and able to do the work, when it needs to be done and has a line on hard to find parts. The Yamaha dealer wasn’t willing to touch it. Previously, all the work that had been done was through a V-twin shop about 30 minutes away that specializes in Harleys. That was a great piece of advice.

  I am nervous about the power (750cc) but it was a great fit and felt comfortable both standing still and on the ride. I had a friend go with me and he test rode it with me on the back. For the price I feel like it is well worth it. The guy I am purchasing from was able to answer all our questions about maintainance and what will need to be done over the next few months.

  So, I will be picking her up on July 16th… looking forward to it. Will post a pic as soon as I do!!

  And if anyone has an opinion, for, against or other.. It would be welcomed!!

  July 6, 2010 at 12:16 am #27350
  Munch

  Participant

  Congrats…. def can’t wait to see the pics. Don’t worry much about the extra …. power. Just make sure you take you time learning the bike at your own pace and always remember not to have a death grip. Other then that it will all come together … easier each time you go out consistently. Just spend extra time on day one to learn where everything is. Sit on the seat and find the reserve switch…. find it sitting up and then repeat reaching for it without looking. Will save your butt if you forget when the last time you filled up was and your hauling it down the road.

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