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safety concerns

  • Thread starter Thread starter Anonymous
  • Start date Start date
A

Anonymous

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I'm currently bringing back to life an 81 GS550 that I got for free after helping someone move. It was in his basement half taken apart, screws stripped, bolts missing, etc. I've just about got it to the point where it's rideable.

What parts should i check/replace for safety reasons considering this is a 24yr old bike? I've never rode a bike before, so I plan on taking a "safe riders" course, but I'd like to get this thing road-worthy and safe so I can start learning.

I'm thinking things to check are suspension? chain? what are your thoughts?
 
Suspension, chain, brakes, steering...just about everything. I would recommend (I did this) find someone who is an expierienced rider or a bike shop to check it over before you take it out. I got lucky with mine because between all of the help I got from the people on this site and the local chopper shop...that was more than happy to share their knowlege for free, believe it or not. We also have state inspections in my state so I downloaded a copy of the regs and used that as a guide. What part of the world are you from? If you're near Pittsburgh, PA I'll see what help I can give. Main thing is, make sure all is in order BEFORE you ride.
 
i live in connecticut, and i'm sure it'll need to be inspected though i don't know the details yet. I think i'll be taking your advice and visiting a good repair shop to give it the final tune-up and once-over. i don't mind paying to repair the minor things after i get it pieced together and running.
 
Good luck. If you have any questions...no matter how stupid you think it is, post it. The people on this site helped bring mine back to life and we all learn from eachother. Get a Clymer manual, I use it as my Bible. Ebay is a great source for parts. Keep us posted on how its coming.
 
if it has been sitting in that basement for a while you will need new tires. three years is as old as you want bike tires to get, the rubber looses the compounds that make the tire soft and sticky so they get hard and don't stick well.
also replace the wheel bearings, clean and repack/ or replace the steering head bearings.
flush the brake fluid. brake fluid is hydroscopic and absorbs moisture from the air, this causes corrosion and rust in the brake system and eventual brake failure.
 
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