TOTALLY new motorcycle owner - 1982 GS650GL

[nboka44]

Hi all! My name is Nick and I'm a 27 y.o. living in the Akron, Ohio area. Just bought an 82 GS650GL from a friend and am looking to begin getting it back in shape. However, I have no idea what I'm doing as this is my very first motorcycle. I'm looking for the best service manual to download to begin learning all about it and how to get this thing back in shape! I've heard of Clymers, but want to make sure I pick one that is well suited for idiots like me. What would you recommend? Is there any other advice, tips, tricks, guidelines anyone would be so gracious to share?

IMG_6301.jpg

[chuck hahn]

G or GL...same manual..

http://www.mtsac.edu/~cliff/storage/gs/GS650GManual.pdf

[eil]

I recommend clicking the link in my signature below for your mega-welcome. Follow the advice (and links) found there to factory service manuals (better and more accurate than the Clymer or Haynes manuals), tutorials, and everything else you could possibly want to know about your bike.

One other word of advice: even if you would trust your friend with your life, it is still very highly recommended to go through the bike with a fine-tooth comb yourself. That means carbs, airbox, brakes, fluids, etc.

Welcome!

[chuck hahn]

Save this place and scroll down on the right side and youll see a bunch of tutorials..choose the CV CARB REBUILD. Also heres the place for the oring kit. You DO NOT need to buy rebuild kits...just be carefull removing the float seats for replacing the oring on them. Dont grip with pliers and squeeze them. To do so may make them out of round and the needles will not float in them anymore.

http://members.dslextreme.com/users/bikecliff/

Note the intake orings are on page three here...measure the INSIDE DIAMETER of yours and replace them..1 oring kit does the entire rack of carbs.

http://cycleorings.com/

[chuck hahn]

I also rebuild carbs if thats something you want to farm out. In any case, get the carbs rebuilt, check the valve adjustments per the manual, get it running and check the timing. Also see that the cam chain tensioner is working and adjusted properly..see the manual.

Clean ( actually open up the brake calipers and master cylinders ) and clean the brown gel out thats accumulated over the years. Inspect the pistons for pitting and replace them if they are showing any signs of damage. Brakes arent just something that you change the fluids in..especially if its an old bike and you dont know anything about it!!! Could be your life on the line.

[chuck hahn]

And ask if theres a experienced member close..they will be willing to come over and help get you up to speed.

[nboka44]

Thanks so much Chuck & Eil!

[nboka44]

And ask if theres a experienced member close..they will be willing to come over and help get you up to speed.

What's the best way of going about this? The registry? Send emails to those who are close?

[chuck hahn]

Just post a thread in maybe the GS Discussion area or the GENERAL maintenance area. Tell them what you need help with and Im certain that someone will be willing. We have dozens of members in the Ohio area. Get their favorite beverages and some brats and have a get together. Great way to learn about the bikes needs and meet members.

[eil]

You're in luck! In Ohio, you pretty much can't walk out to your mailbox without tripping over an experienced GS Resources forum member.