Marshall Brunson, checking in

marshall · Posted: May 3, 2009, 9:21 pm Post subject: Marshall Brunson, checking in

Ahoy there,

About 5 years ago my brother invited me to help clean out his garage. As payment, he would give me an old motorcycle that was taking up space.

I didn't ride at the time, never did. Didn't know how. Didn't think I wanted to know.

The bike didn't run, and I was no mechanic. Although I knew how to hold a screwdriver without ruining screw heads.

By the grace of some good-natured god, the bike that was bestowed upon me that day was a '78 Special. Carburetors, glued shut with 5-year old gas. Tires, petrified. Tank, rusty.

Little did I know at the time that nearly every single part for this bike would be available for purchase if needed. And that hordes, nay, manic swarms of enthusiasts do exist and gather for to share their upsets and triumphs vis-a-vis the XS 650.

Could there have been a better motorcycle to be given to the young I, who was at once the greenest gearhead and a clueless cyclist? I think not.

---

Where the bike is now: Running, but not pretty! I'm still learning a lot, and look forward to having time to restore her one day (when she's not my sole means of transportation!)

Thanks so far to:
y dad
650Central (mercury is the man!)
ikesXS
650 Garage
Fred, the parts guy at my local bike dealership. He put up with me bringing in ziplock bags full of miscellaneous and tiny parts... and having no clue what I was doing.

arshall Brunson out!

Retiredgentleman · Posted: May 3, 2009, 9:36 pm Post subject: Re: Marshall Brunson, checking in

Welcome to the site Marshall. Your bike is looking good. The 78SE is one sharp looking stock bike, although I may be a little biased Smile

Keep it stock and it will increase in value.

gordo · Posted: May 3, 2009, 10:02 pm Post subject: Re: Marshall Brunson, checking in

welcome Marshall,I read that you' been in touch with the 'guru' Merc.There are alot of knowledgeable people here as well. I do have a suggestion, though.The google search here work's very well, & alot of tech. post's are there.But, of course, if & when you encounter a problem, don't hesitate to ask.The answer's will come, sometime's after a little politically orientated rant. Good luck, & happy motoring!! Gordo

Barbara · Posted: May 3, 2009, 11:06 pm Post subject: Re: Marshall Brunson, checking in

Very nice bike, Marshall! (Not to be compared to the just-short-of-heaven that is the 1977 Standard--RG and I disagree on the "ultimate XS"...) Laughing

But nonetheless, it's a beauty, and shows the result of lots of love and labor. Congratulations and welcome to the site!

oldbikenut · Posted: May 3, 2009, 11:45 pm Post subject: Re: Marshall Brunson, checking in

Retiredgentleman wrote:

the 78SE is one sharp looking stock bike, although I may be a little biased Smile

Welcome!
I agree with RG! The only really change you may want to consider is replacing the handle bars. I personally find the buckhorn bars a little uncomfortable and akward! Even RG changed his bars!

marshall · Posted: May 3, 2009, 11:53 pm Post subject: Re: Marshall Brunson, checking in

Yeah, those bars are soon to go. The horns are a nightmare in parking lot maneuvers! Crampin' my u-turn skills, you know?! Very Happy

What Happened to 650rider.com?

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