Selecting the cornerstone...

[flatblack850L]

I have a GS850L - shaftie -1981, great bike now that I am finally getting it fixed up.

I need some opinions. I'd like to start a GS + GSXR project, what is the best model to start with for compatibility?

I was thinking GS750G chain drive maybe 1981 ish? I'll need to find one first, but I'd like to start with the right chassis to make the project go smoothly. Anyone have anything in Canada?

I would like to buy a 2008 GSX650F but I don't want to have to be committed to financing and payments and the bike wouldn't be unique.

My plan in a nutshell - buy and old GS of the best possible configuration, add some GSXR for handling and fun factor, stir and enjoy. This strategy works for me as I have something to ride already while I build the new bike, if I have a financial glitch, I stop working and no harm done right?

Before I get started it would also be nice to find out what years, sizes of GSXR to look for for pilfering parts.

I want a sportier, lighter feel and better handling than my L model with maybe a little more power, bare bones, no extras, just the essentials. I basically go for day rides / bomb around town, no cross country trips.

Last question, are engine parts still easy to come by for the early 80's GS's? Don't want to start something I can't finish. I know Gixxer parts are everywhere.

I am at your mercy fellow GS'ers please steer me straight and let's get some more GS's back on the road.

My skills: welding, Journeyman Auto tech, general fabrication with access to advice from a machine shop for complex stuff.

Thanks in advance
Jason

[Billy Ricks]

Being a shafty would make it tough to do much in the back of the bike. You could always use GSXR stuff up front if you really wanted to. I've always thought the most appropriate donor for a shafty would be this bike, http://www.suzukicycles.org/GSX-series/GSX1100G.shtml .

The way Suzuki liked to keep many specs the same from model to model it wouldn't surprise me if with a little resourcefulness you couldn't swap wheels and suspension components from the GSX1100G to an old GS shafty.

[catbed]

couple things:

you cant really swap anything aout on a shafty, except the front forks.
there is no such thing as a GS750G chain drive. The G at the end means shafty.