Total Motorcycle Community Forums

Hey all,

I was out checking out a cycle shop that I hadn't made it to before - they seem to specialize in preowned sports, standards, and cruisers. After talking with the GM (who as it turns out was previously a motorcycle instructor in the Marine and also for the MSF) for a while, he told me about a beater bike they had that turned out not to be a beater. Its an 82 or 83 Yamaha Virago. It was raining that day so I didn't get a thorough look but from what I could tell (cosmetically) it looked to be in real good shape. He did also mention it probably needs a new battery and also have the carbs cleaned. They said I could get it for $500.

As a first time learner bike, what do you all think? I know I haven't given you all the specifics but that is all I have so far. He assured me when I leave with it, it would be in good running condition.

Maybe I can get in a little practice before my scheduled MSF (end of March) and certainly afterwards. Below is a pic of the model although not the one I'm looking (but pretty darn close)


http://homepages.cae.wisc.edu/~mjbasset/virago.html


Carl

it's always risky buying used stuff. i say get a bike mechanic to check it out 1st before you buy.

but if $500 is no big deal to you then just get it already.

That looks like it might be a 920 cc bike. Viragos, if maintained, are just about bullet proof. Mine, (a 1995, 1100) has almost around 80,000 miles on it.

Yes, you are correct. The GM of the dealship told me it is a 920 bike. I remember because I mentioned I was concerned riding a 920cc as a first bike - however (and you can let me know if you all have a different viewpoint) a 920 standard/cruiser from the 80's is about the equivalent of todays 750. Sound correct?


Carl

It'll be a little heavier but shouldn't be a problem. I'd insist upon the dealer replacing teh battery and cleaning the carbs though. If it's coming out of a shop I'd expect it to be working.

Agreed, have them replace the battery and do the carbs. As long as the charge for the carbs isn't too much, its a good beast to get your feet wet with. And who cares what happens to it for 500$?

Ask him if he would be willing to take the bike back in trade when you buy up, his reaction should tell you something.

All,

I'm starting to have second thoughts on the bike. For one, I'm thinking a 920cc may be a bit too much weight and engine for a first bike. Second, there is a "setup fee" which basically gets the bike in condition to be Maryland-inspected. An additional $300. So now the $500 bike jumped to 800....

Carl

Well bike's aren't exactly cheap. $800 is low on the scale. If it's gonna get you up to meetin inspection standards I'd go for it.

As for the weight thing. Well, that's up to you to decide. Go back and sit on it and see what you think.