XT600 1vj buying info wanted

[wub]

Hi All, brand new to this forum. I've been hankering after an XT600 Tenere, for the last 30 years, ever since i saw them going across the desert in Africa in my 20's. its an itch that just wont go away, and its now or never time! I now very little about these yet, apart for a few details of model changes from the 1VJ and the 3AJ. I think i want a 1AJ, prefer the looks of the older bike and rather have the kick start and rear drum brake. I am mechanically mined, restored / maintained various cars over the years,and a Bonnerville 750 T140V, always tinkering in my workshop. But i need a quick run down on what to look for when buying one of these, what are their common problems? what to look out for?

There does not seem to be many for sale in UK so i was considering buying one from somewhere else in Europe that has more around. Whats the thoughts on that? I dont want a garage princess, i do want to ride it , but i dont want a restore project either. And lastly, does any one on the forum have one for sale?

Sponge ready to suck up all the info on these!

[donnybach]

look for problems with hard to source items like bodywork etc. Although there are aftermarket parts available from aus.
It will probably be leaking a little oil from a seal or gap around the top of the crankcase, don’t worry too much.
Check the noise on fifth gear. Again no major problem for someone who knows how to spanner but it’ll cost a bit for parts. I’d upgrade to later type of output/sprocket shaft while in there if it’s an ‘86. 87 had the nut type anyway.
Electrics are fairly simple, but check charging at least. New stator is £100. Reg is £20-70. Cdi is hard to find. You might need a new spring if you’re no lightweight. Seat could sometimes do with more padding (or tougher arse).
Check running, as in how it handles low speed pick up below 2000rpm, and how she pulls. No probs rejetting though.
If not done already , I’d put tank sealer/liner in, to protect it. Tanks are rare.
Look at a carb rebuild anyway if not done, just to freshen up the rubbers for e10.
Get a manual. And ensure all is to spec.
Use the grease nipples. Especially on rear linkages. There’s not actually much to go wrong. And easy to sort. There’s a lot of experience on here too. And once they’re sorted (and they will be) they’re an absolute joy to ride. Just not for hours at 70+ on the motorway.
Earplugs.

[jibber]

Buy the best you can find

[wub]

Thanks guys for that. a good pointer, but by sounds of it, there is not too much hidden problems to be had. Let the hunt begin.