To settle an argument - is the GS500 an 80's motorcycle?

[Rallyfan]

Are oil filters available for the XS650? The GS was made this century so parts are usually easier to find. Still, that choke lever gives it away as a living fossil.

[W201028]

Yes, as are almost any part needed to restore one. Mikesxs.net was my home for years. Although if I remember, the xs just has a screen filter which occasionally needs cleaned, not replaced unless blocked.

[gregjet]

The xs650 is a 70's bike... and bloody dangerous. We used to call them the hinge because it felt like they had one in the middle.

[chornbe]

The xs650 is a 70's bike... and bloody dangerous. We used to call them the hinge because it felt like they had one in the middle.

And, that bike invented ABS brakes...

Almost Barely Stops

[gregjet]

Good one centurion...LOL...LOL...LOL

[W201028]

1968, actually, for the XS. I believe the motor goes back much farther, if I remember it was one of the first produced OHC bike engines.

Yes, the street bikes dont handle so well, and the flintstones brakes dont help. But it is a fun bike to ride, and for me a great first bike.

Dont forget Kenny Roberts beat the snot out of the harley guys with a modified XS!

[gregjet]

Yeah I thought there was a guy that had an xs650 when I went to uni ( in 1971) that was not new. I stand corrected. 60's.  It is supposed to look like a Triumph I suspect. Never could of course as there was never a puddle of oil underneath it.

[Janx101]

Or the smell of burnt insulation from the Lucas electrics!