Old transalp as a daily

[Wildmalta]

Hi all

Finally looking to get back on a bike.

Found a '89 Transalp 600 that I love. Super comfortable riding position, consistent power delivery and stable yet nimble enough.

My only concern is the age. It's in good nick overall but am I looking for trouble using it daily?

The reason I didn't look for a younger one is obviously budget.

Thanks
Steve

[Alpineandy]

The age is far less important than the condition, especially as it's low on electronic aids.
My XL650 is a great little bike. Easy to ride, comfortable and economical. Not especially fast (but can be hustled along) and not a great motorway bike, but pretty good at everything else.
I don't know much about the XL600 but I understand they can have an ignition issue but there's a simple'ish fix for that. Try reading https://www.xrv.org.uk/forums/forum.php for more detail.
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The above comment isn't necessarily the truth and anyone that says it is, is only correct if it's the truth or they're bigger than me.

[Monkeywrenche...]

Had an 87 given to me for a project, had to put a new cam chain in, rattling, but it was basic and easy to work on, so things may go wrong but there are fixes and parts are still readily available (check the wheels for corrosion though as they are harder to source).

As said, they can knock out CDI units due to the place they are mounted, there's an updated bracket to move it 90 degrees, i just put some standoffs under the seat to give it clearance though.

lots of wind buffeting at anything over 40mph, probably fixed by a tall screen though.

Also, and this is the most important, they wear out the output shaft where the front sprocket goes on, Big problem lots of drama. so take the cover off (couple of 10mm bolts) and have a look before parting with cash, Google it and see the many fixes and failures.
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2001 Aprilia RSV Mille R -dead, 2016 XSR 700-gone, 2018 Dorsoduro 900

[Alpineandy]

[yen_powell]

This is the same basic engine as my old Africa Twins which I did 280,000 miles on in total. One of the most reliable bikes going.
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Blackmail is a nasty word........but not as nasty as phlegm!
XT1200Z and a DR350 in bits

[Wildmalta]

Thanks for your help all.

This really is the best bike forum around!

Some more research then

[Wildmalta]

I bought it, thanks all for your advice.

Happy weekend


Does anyone know if there's a site where I can check chassis (VIN) and engine numbers for an '87 Honda?

[yen_powell]