A sorry FJ

[BarryAnthony]

Well, seven years it sat in a garage without so much as a look. Then I found it, and with a huge amount of ignorance and stupidity, I thought, 'I'll take that on as a project!'
You see, I have had bikes before, nothing like this though. My last bike was stolen, and a week after that,  so was my car. Insurance didn't pay, but that's a long story.
Anyhow, I realise that I am not really in a financially strong position, so buying a bike is out of the question. Not that this 'project' is really about riding the bike, but about being around a bike again. Sitting and reading Haynes manuals. Cursing flaky paint, and crying into hot coffee in a cold, spider infested garage. I hate spiders.

I mentioned on here before that it seem more difficult to put it back to its original state...That's not technically correct. It was a mixture of expense and also being restricted to 'putting it back together'. I had a bike I could literally do anything with, make anything off. So I thought, why not? Why not do what I want.

One of the first things that I HAD to do was, well, turn it over. I will now attempt to testify and prove the incredible build quality of the FJ.

What I applied to THIS bike after standing for 7 years was...One hotwire...7up bottle of fuel...Bandit battery...some oil poured down the cylinders...thats it. I understand the dangers of just firing the bike in that state, but now its getting an engine rebuild it was well worth it: have a look:

Yamaha FJ1200 1TX Turning over.

After that, I just started stripping. Here are some pics I have taken to document the start of a long journey. Annoying at times because I dont have as much money as I need, but I do have the patience...and friends.
I have recieved, last week, my newly powder coated frame and stuff and I will hopefully photograph all the little parts as I go...

Undoubtedly, many questions will be asked, but I'm determined to make this a bike for myself, however long it takes... 

[Steve_in_Florida]

I like the last photo *A LOT*. ("Sill Life with Caliper"?)

You're amongst friends and other "sickies" who are doing the very same thing you are.

This is the place for us. Keep us informed of your progress. It might not seem like much to you, but may be inspirational to others!

Steve

[The General]

Wow!!       I`m impressed.         The filming of a baby being born is beautiful. But to actually see one being reborn is....ahh... errrrr .....(sorry)I`m gettin a bit misty here...(sniff)..................Magnifico!!!!      She`s gorgeous. I hear what ya say`ng and can see why you would indeed have a lot of mates - and even more now.  Can`t wait ta see her take her first few steps. (psssttt........I would make Randy her Godfather) 

[I make oil]

Beautiful Barry.  Your pictures speak to me.  I am so looking forward to watching this thread.  Best of luck to you.  I'm in the process of modifying my bike.  If you need any parts speak up brother.  Maybe I can help.

[baldy3853]

  nice will look forward to the rebirth of
Another great FJ

[miked]

Well done mate, the only advice I can offer you, is to "Hang in there" you will be rewarded in the end.
The people on this forum will offer you no end of moral support, and maybe a hard to find part or two if you need them.
All the best with your project. Please don't hesitate to ask if you need any guidance or help, there are many members that started where you have (myself included) and remember we have a valuable asset in Randy from RPM, if you need parts or specialist advice.

Cheers and all the best.

Mike

[BarryAnthony]

Cheers guys, I think the best thing I have done for the FJ so far, is join this forum! I'm bloody electric about it again. I do have various bits and bobs that I won't be needing to put back on. i.e side fairings, clocks, headlight, top box rack. I will get a post together for the parts for sale section. Or pop me a PM and Ill see what I've got spare. Thanks again guys!

How about this Steve_in_Florida 

[Steve_in_Florida]

How about this Steve_in_Florida 

Work of art. I like it!

[aviationfred]

I love the "Still Life with Caliper" photo. Unless there is an objection, I would like to post that on my Facebook page.

Fred

It is a wonderful sight to see another FJ resurrected......

[BarryAnthony]

No objection at all Fred. Although...as a photographer I would just ask to be credited for it. As in, photograph by Barry Keavney. You have my permission to use the image on your Facebook page. And I'm glad you like it so much. That makes me real happy. Cheers
Barry

[JMR]

gh. My last bike was stolen, and a week after that,  so was my car. Insurance didn't pay, but that's a long story.

I'd like to hear those stories. In general....if your property isn't insured for theft you get nothing if it is stolen. I learned that in the early 70's.