80 gs750E tscc or 82 gs850L shafty

[buckeyemike]

Quick question, but first a tiny bit of history. Here is how it goes I have both above bikes, neither running, both probably same prob, carb rebuilds, both about same mileage around 13000, both very good shape, Which one is better bike in your opinion and which one should I try to get running first. basically which is better bike and engine. 8v vs 16v etc. I am asking because I have limited time to work on because of wife have to work on here and there and which should I devote my efforts toward. and please dont base it on looks, I like looks of both and barely lean toward one on looks. I hope you guys will be interested enough to comment on this and I hope this question is not stupid and I hope it does not stir controversy. Thanks to all who read and comment!

 

[Rat44]

First question is 'what kinda ridin' you goin' to do'?

 

[lurch12_2000]

Hey, another new one just stumbled in, BassCliff!!

Buckeyemike, do you have pics?
I would probably vote for the 750E.

 

[buckeyemike]

750 why?

750 why?

no pics currently on computer but could prob arrange something soon. how I am going to drive it who knows probably just once in a while for short road trips or just to the store. Is 16v more responsive then 8 and if so by how much?

 

[TheCafeKid]

K...my opinion on the subject.

The 750 is a sport bike. It was designed to be a sport bike. Its geared that way. Does it make a good daily rider? Sure. Is it comfy? Pretty. Geared for long road trips/workhorse type bike? Not really. And *I* have a particular hatered for that model of 750. But thats just me

The 850, as has been said on here many times, is GOOD at everything, but not particularly GREAT at any one thing. Its a workhorse tho, and its probably THE single most comfy GS there is. Its heavy, its bulky, and its arguably underpowered for its weight. But the 8v motor is RELIABLE as no other. Neigh, its BULLETPROOF. the 16v 750 motor? Not so much. I would venture to guess especially the first run of the 16v set up. There were bugs that needed to be addressed, and they DO rear their heads from time to time. Im not saying they are all bad, but I have a blown up one sitting downstairs, and there have been a couple people of the board here who have had SEVERE oil delivery problems with this motor. Seems to be a running issue. Just some things to be aware of in your considerations. Were it me? I'd opt for the 850. Its, IMO, bigger, more durable, and frankly a prettier bike. But, thats just me.

 

[Rat44]

K...my opinion on the subject.

The 750 is a sport bike. It was designed to be a sport bike. Its geared that way. Does it make a good daily rider? Sure. Is it comfy? Pretty. Geared for long road trips/workhorse type bike? Not really. And *I* have a particular hatered for that model of 750. But thats just me

The 850, as has been said on here many times, is GOOD at everything, but not particularly GREAT at any one thing. Its a workhorse tho, and its probably THE single most comfy GS there is. Its heavy, its bulky, and its arguably underpowered for its weight. But the 8v motor is RELIABLE as no other. Neigh, its BULLETPROOF. the 16v 750 motor? Not so much. I would venture to guess especially the first run of the 16v set up. There were bugs that needed to be addressed, and they DO rear their heads from time to time. Im not saying they are all bad, but I have a blown up one sitting downstairs, and there have been a couple people of the board here who have had SEVERE oil delivery problems with this motor. Seems to be a running issue. Just some things to be aware of in your considerations. Were it me? I'd opt for the 850. Its, IMO, bigger, more durable, and frankly a prettier bike. But, thats just me.

What he said. I happen to have a 1980 GS 850 myself. It is not the bike for everybody.

 

[rapidray]

I am a 16 valve guy all the way. If you get the 750 & want to go faster after you get used to it, the 16 valve 1100 & 1150 motors bolt right in. The 750, being a "plain" bearing type crank did have oiling issues. I used to roadrace one in the mid 80s & lost 2 motors to spun bearings. I have NEVER had a roller bearing crank motor fail. I did RACE the 750 but I was also a Suzuki dealer mechanic & saw other failures also. My motors were stock with just exhaust & jetting. Which ever way you go you WILL have fun! Ray.

 

[twistedwankel]

Quick question, but first a tiny bit of history. Here is how it goes I have both above bikes, neither running, both probably same prob, carb rebuilds, both about same mileage around 13000, both very good shape, Which one is better bike in your opinion and which one should I try to get running first. basically which is better bike and engine. 8v vs 16v etc.

I am the second owner of an 81 750E. Had 19k when I got it and I've put 11k on it in the last three years. It has been bulletproof and always gotten me home even with carb and electric "issues". Took it on a 600 mile trip last month with no problems.

I would only offer these thoughts. A chain is easy to find and replace. Some day when the gears go out you might have issues finding them. BUT, that said you indicated only occassional pleasure riding, so probably not an issue for you. Just get AAA plus with 100 mile towing.

I would suggest draining and flushing the carb bowls on both bikes using the Prime setting with new gas until the crude is gone. Put a filter inline at least until you are sure the tank is clean.

I would remove all plugs and do a compression test on all cylinders WOT. Test each plug while out for spark. If they are in spec then:

I would then attempt to get both engines running at some level. The one that runs best is the one to start with. Ignition components and charging systems can get expensive.

No point in spending anymore than you have to. For instance, if the chain and sprockets are shot on the 750 you might as well start with the shafty and save that $250 in parts right up front.

Realistically these old bikes are pretty bulletproof as mine still has the original stock ignition system and runs like a rocket on 89 octane gas.

That's my 2 cents and I'm envious that you get to make a choice It's hard to find these bikes anymore in good condition.

 

[doctorgonzo]

I'd agree with a the gist of what has been said. I've never ridden one of the 16 valve 750's, but from the way it sounds, probably a slightly more "fun" bike, but with a few more gremlins to worry about. The 850G (I have a 1000G whch is the EXACT same bike with a slightly bigger engine) Is heavy, slightly underpowered, but the most comfy ride ever, and you could probably pee down the spark plug holes then run it without oil and you'd only do superficial repairable damage to the engine.

 

[Mark M]

16 valve all the way. To me a motorcycle is a sport toy that must have solid performance and handling. I ride em fast and enjoy it. TCK got it right, if you want a sporty bike, go with the 16V, it will be sharper in every way. If you want a more relaxed ride go with the 8V. Either way, you are riding and both are great classic bikes. Just different in their intent and performance.

Mark

 

[tkent02]

No brainer, ride the one that isn't an "L".

 

[doctorgonzo]

No brainer, ride the one that isn't an "L".

Well, yeah, there is that. Not an "L" fan.

 

[Steve]

Eight different responders, all have remarkably the same thing to say. Each bike is a good bike, but with a different focus. I happen to have an 850L and an 850G here, but no 16-valve 750, so I can't tell you how they ride, but for my riding style, either of these bikes will do very well. As Rat44 asked first off, 'what kinda ridin' you goin' to do'? If you are a wanna-be street racer, go for the 750. If you want an all-around competent machine, go for the 850 (even though it is an L model). Some of the guys here absolutely detest the L for its styling and ergonomics, but much of that can be changed, if you find that it does not suit you.

.

 

[Griffin]

The 1980-1982 is an excellent do-everything type of machine. Fast, smooth, and comfortable, with a gas tank big enough to get you about 200 miles between fillups.

 

[TheCafeKid]

16 valve all the way. To me a motorcycle is a sport toy that must have solid performance and handling. I ride em fast and enjoy it. TCK got it right, if you want a sporty bike, go with the 16V, it will be sharper in every way. If you want a more relaxed ride go with the 8V. Either way, you are riding and both are great classic bikes. Just different in their intent and performance.

Mark

Well thats NOT exactly what i meant. My 1100 8v is pretty damn sneaky fast. And I'll take the Pepsi challenge vs an original (80-82) 16v 750 on my 8v 750 any day of the week. He may be rated for more hp, but they arent the motor they became later on.... At any rate, they are both good bikes, i prefer the roller bearing crank, which NONE of the 16v 750s had as far as I know. Now I'd LOVE to have a 16v 1100 And will soon, i promise.

 

[jimfj]

Hello, 1982 GS850G

I'm new to the shafty world, and fairly new to motorcycling. I don't personaly like the looks of the L but as far as the what others have said about comfort and ride I can chime in. I love the the bike. Mine has 18k on it and is tight as a drum.

Work on the 850 first. Once you get that going you will always have something to ride while you are working on the 750. IMHO you have a good problem!

Jim

 

[rphillips]

My vote goes to the 850 "L". I'm not an "L" fan, but definitely like the roller bearing crankshaft better, and as long as not road racing nor drag racing, the shaft drive is the only way to go. Before spending too much on the 16v 750, I, personally, would much rather try to find a good 16v 1100 eng (roller bearings) & put it on the 750 frame. You are the one going to ride it, 750 "E" is no doubt a sport bike, & the Suzuki "L", Kawa. "LTD", Honda "Custom", & the Yamaha "Specials" we called "Cruising for Burger bikes. I'm still addicted to the roller bearings.

 

[BassCliff]

Hee Haw Howdy!

Hee Haw Howdy!

Hi Mr. buckeyemike,

I love my GS850GT. It fits me. Which bike fits you?

Dear fellow GS rider,

Let it be known that on this day you are cordially and formally welcomed to the GSR Forum as a Junior Member in good standing with all the rights and privileges thereof. Further let it be known that your good standing can be improved with pictures (not you, your bike)![FONT=Arial, sans-serif] [/FONT]

Perhaps you've already seen these, but I like to remind all the new members. In addition to the carb rebuild series, I recommend visiting the In The Garage section via the GSR Homepage and check out the Stator Papers. There's also a lot of great information in the Old Q&A section. I have some documentation on my little BikeCliff website to help get you familiar with doing routine maintenance tasks (note that it is 850G-specific but many tasks are common to all GS bikes). Other "user contributed" informational sites include those of Mr. bwringer, Mr. tfb and Mr. robertbarr. And if your bike uses shims for valve adjustments, send an email to Mr. Steve requesting a copy of his Excel spreadsheet that helps you keep track of clearances, shim sizes and other service work.

These are some edited quotes from one of our dear beloved gurus, Mr. bwringer, with ideas on basic needs (depending on initial condition), parts, and accessories.
***********Quoted from Mr. bwringer************
Carburetor maintenance:

Replace the intake boot o-rings, and possibly the intake boots. Here's the procedure:
http://bwringer.com/gs/intakeorings.html
Here's an overview of what happens with this particular problem:
http://cycleorings.com/intake.html
You'll also want to examine the boots between the carbs and the airbox. There's a good chance these are OK, but check them over.
And finally, if things still aren't exactly right, you'll want to order a set of o-rings for BS carbs from the GS owner's best friend, Robert Barr:
http://cycleorings.com
Once you receive these rare rings of delight, then you'll want to thoroughly clean and rebuild your carburetors. Here are step-by-step instructions that make this simple:
http://thegsresources.com/gs_carbrebuild.htm
***********************************
Every GS850 (and most other models) has (or had) a set of well-known issues that MUST be addressed before you have a solid baseline for further troubleshooting. It's a vintage bike, and it's quite common (as in, every single GS850 I have had contact with) that there are multiple problems that have crept up and slowly gotten worse over the years. It's not like a newer vehicle, where there's generally one problem at a time.

These common issues are:

1. Intake O-rings (install NEW OEM or Viton only - common nitrile O-rings will quickly deteriorate from heat)
2. Intake Boots (install NEW -- these cannot be repaired)
3. Valve clearances (more important than most people think)
4. Carb/airbox boots
5. Airbox sealing
6. Air filter sealing
7. Petcock (install a NEW one)
8. On '79 models, install new points or Dyna electronic ignition (or at least verify that the old points are working correctly)
9. On all models, it's fairly common to have problems with the spark plug caps. These are $3 or $4 each, and often worth replacing if you're keeping the stock coils/wires.
10. Stock exhaust with NO leaks or holes -- good seals at the head and at the junctions underneath.
***************************************
OEM Parts/Online Fiches:

I would definitely double and triple the recommendations to use Cycle Recycle II and Z1 Enterprises as much as possible. These guys are priceless resources. Z1 tends to have slightly better prices, CRC2 has a wider range of goodies available. If you're near Indy and can bring in an old part to match, CRC2 has a vast inventory of used parts.
http://denniskirk.com - Put in your bike model and see what they have.
http://oldbikebarn.com - seems to be slowly regaining a decent reputation, but it's still caveat emptor. They don't have anything you can't get elsewhere at a better price anyway.
http://www.babbittsonline.com/ - Decent parts prices. Spendy shipping. Don't give you part numbers at all. Useful cross-reference if you obtain a part number elsewhere. Efficient service.
http://bikebandit.com - Fastest. Middlin' prices. Uses their own parts numbering system to obfuscate price comparisons -- can be very confusing for large orders. Cheapest shipping, so total cost usually isn't too bad.
http://flatoutmotorcycles.com - Slow. Cheapest parts prices, crazy shipping costs. Don't expect progress updates or much communication. Real Suzuki part numbers.
http://alpha-sports.com - Exorbitant parts prices. Different type of fiche interface that's quite useful at times, especially with superceded part numbers. Real parts numbers. Shipping cost and speed unknown due to insane, unholy pricing.

Stainless Bolts, Viton o-rings, metric taps, dies, assorted hard-to-find supplies and materials, etc:

http://mcmaster.com - Fast, cheap shipping, good prices. No order minimum, but many items like bolts come in packs of 25 or 50. Excellent resource.
http://motorcycleseatcovers.com - Great quality, perfect fit (on original seat foam), and available for pretty much every bike ever made. Avoid the textured vinyl -- it's perforated.
http://newenough.com - You DO have riding gear, don't you? Great clearances, always outstanding prices and impeccable service.
***************End Quote**********************
Additional parts/info links:

GSR Forum member Mr. duaneage has great used upgraded Honda regulator/rectifiers for our bikes. Send him a PM.
New electrical parts:
http://stores.ebay.com/RMSTATOR or http://www.rmstator.com/
http://www.ricksmotorsportelectrics.com/index.php
http://www.electrosport.com/
For valve cover and breather cover gaskets, I recommend Real Gaskets (reusable silicon):
http://www.realgaskets.com
The Rice Paddy (salvage/used)
http://www.ricepaddymotorcycles.com
Carolina Cycle
http://www.carolinacycle.com
Ron Ayers Motorsports
http://www.ronayers.com
MR Cycles
http://www.mrcycles.com
Moto Grid
http://www.motogrid.com
If all else fails, try this:
http://www.used-motorcycle-parts.org/
Used bike buying checklists:
http://www.amadirectlink.com/roadride/Riderresc/checklist.asp
http://www.clarity.net/~adam/buying-bike.html
Lots of good info/pictures here:
http://www.suzukicycles.org
http://www.cyclechaos.com/wiki/Motorcycle_Wiki
http://www.bikepics.com
Basic motorcycle maintenance/repair:
http://www.dansmc.com/mc_repaircourse.htm


Thanks for joining us. Keep us informed of your progress. There's lots of good folk with good experience here.

Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff
(The unofficial GSR greeter)

 

[buckeyemike]

L bike

L bike

That was an interesting list of replies. I figured most people would like the L on this site. Guess I was wrong! I bought the L last week for Three reasons, one I let my brother take the 750 because he showed interest and did get it started after a few days with problem of it dying after about ten minutes. I think carb but all pipes are nice and hot so not sure, saw somthing on here about starter?? not sure but back to my other two reasons, 2nd the 750 has always been one to two inches to tall for me since I am only 5'5", and third I really like the L look, they had the custom look down when harley and everyone else could not get it right!! and this last thing goes along with the look it feels so much better sitting on the L for me. now that being said I have not driven the L yet. All I know is the 750 is very fast alittle to fast and hope that the 850 isnt much slower. Thanks to all you guys for the replies.

 

[tkent02]

That was an interesting list of replies. I figured most people would like the L on this site. Guess I was wrong! I bought the L last week for Three reasons, one I let my brother take the 750 because he showed interest and did get it started after a few days with problem of it dying after about ten minutes. I think carb but all pipes are nice and hot so not sure, saw somthing on here about starter?? not sure but back to my other two reasons, 2nd the 750 has always been one to two inches to tall for me since I am only 5'5", and third I really like the L look, they had the custom look down when harley and everyone else could not get it right!! and this last thing goes along with the look it feels so much better sitting on the L for me. now that being said I have not driven the L yet. All I know is the 750 is very fast alittle to fast and hope that the 850 isnt much slower. Thanks to all you guys for the replies.

If you go with the L, change the bars to make it safe to ride, the stock ones are scary.