I started taking apart my 800 for some OVERDUE maintenance.
I purchased the bike last year with 46,000 miles on it.
The handling was so bad I decided to check the steering head bearings and figured while I was at it, I would strip it down, and make a few upgrades.
So far I found the PO was running 17/42 gears.
The steering head bearings just about fell apart when I removed them.
I don't think the rims have been cleaned since the last time the tires were changed.
The upper fork tube covers were both badly damaged
The handlebars are bent
2 dents in the gas tank.
Brake pads paper thin.
Spark plugs black.
1 exhaust stud broke off.
I can only imagine what else I find.
Glad I ordered a shim kit for the valves
Please keep us advised.
WOW! Too bad.
I think that if you don't care about your bike, well you didn't deserve her.
Take good care of her and good luck with your fixing.
Sounds like you bought yourself a job.
Be careful, LOL... When I tore down the 800, it took me about 2 years to get it finished.
It?s all painted and put back together. After a 16 mile shake down test ride, I found out that I sanded a pin hole in the gas tank when I was getting it ready to paint.
That's a bummer - I saw your other post as well on gas tanks. Better check for used tanks from another Drifter or classic.. Got pics of it after it's painted???