New member - introduction

[reggit]

Just thought I'd introduce myself.  I'm Dave from England and have a motorbike addiction....

I've just bought a cosmetically challenged, non-running, FJ1200 outfit (1991 ish), I needed 3 seats as we have a sprog on the way.  I've been assured the engine is sound by the seller - he took it apart to service it, but lost heart at all the obsitcles the authorities put up when trying to register it in the mainland UK - it is currently registered in Northern Ireland.
The bike has been modified for a disabled rider at somepoint in it's recent life with 2 front brake levers (one operates the rear) and a thumb gear change.

Not got any good photos at the moment, just a couple from my phone.

Loaded up yesterday ready for a 330 mile trip to it's new home.


Parked in my garage awaiting some TLC


The other 2 bikes are a 1996 CB1000 and a 1982 Yamaha RD350LC

[FJmonkey]

Welcome reggit, looking forward to seeing more pictures of what you brought home.

[yamaha fj rider]

Welcome Dave, good job rescuing that FJ. Keep us informed on how it goes.

Kurt

[movenon]

Welcome ! Another member to the Motorcycles Anonymous Association. I to am addicted. The 12 step plan just doesn't work !  Alcohol I can deal with but the motorcycle thing has never went away.

Looks like a fine project you have brought home. It will be interesting. The best thing about FJ's is there are plenty of them around, information after 20 plus years is abundant, most parts are still available, and lots of on line help. Take some time and explore the site. In the "Files" section I think has a PDF of the service manual plus lots of information. The "Gallery" has lots of photo's to look through. Keep us posted as you get into your project, we are a nosy bunch (but helpful)..
George

[Steve_in_Florida]

Nice find!

Interesting, all the FJ "Side-hack" jobs I've ever seen have the carrier on the right-hand side of the bike. Makes sense, though, being that you drive on the wrong side of the road and all!

Welcome to the best site around.

Steve

[racerman_27410]

Welcome to the group!


KOokaloo!



Frank

[The General]

 :hi:Welcome Reggit. Sure looks tidy. Be interesting to know if that's an original steering yolk set up for a sidecar and how she handles. It`s my dream to own an FJ outfit. Would love some detailed pics on how the chair is attached. Do they require a brake to the third wheel for registration over there? Looking forward to hearing of your progress. Here`s one of my favourite pics:

[racerrad8]

I am interested in the dual brake levers and push button shifting as well.

Randy - RPM

[reggit]

The bike is on standard suspension - the guy I got it from says it shakes its front end at low speeds, up to 15mph and really needs a damper.  It'll be a while before I can use it due to the work I need to do.

Just taken a few pics of the various modifications as people wanted.

The twin lever brake set up - this fowls the fairing at full lock, so don't know if it will be staying.


Gear change - the choke has been moved next to the fuel switch.



Sidecar mounts


Pic under tank - this is exactly as I bought the bike, the airbox and rubbers are with it fortunately.  All I've done is connect a charger in the vain hope that I can rescue the battery which was at 6v yesterday.

[reggit]

OK, I've got a question already...

I need to find the frame number, but can't find one stamped into the headstock - there is a sticker of somesorts with several numbers on, could this be the number?

It says
Yamaha Motor Co LTD
DGM 53057-OM
3XW (FJ1200)
3XW-21188-00

I suspect the bike to be possibly a Japanese market bike owning to the headlight been set up for driving on the left and a kmh speedo.

[movenon]

OK, I've got a question already...

I need to find the frame number, but can't find one stamped into the headstock - there is a sticker of somesorts with several numbers on, could this be the number?

It says
Yamaha Motor Co LTD
DGM 53057-OM
3XW (FJ1200)
3XW-21188-00

I suspect the bike to be possibly a Japanese market bike owning to the headlight been set up for driving on the left and a kmh speedo.

I have a 1990 and there is a stamped frame number under the right dash panel (you have to remove the panel) on the frame up toward the front. You will need to remove the right scoop to get to all the screws. It's easy to do.
Hope it helps.
George

[fj11.5]

Exactly what I was going to say,,, welcome mate,,

[Jakester]

Howdy and welcome, from one new FJ owner to another. I think a sidecar is cool especially since you have a need for it.  So...is it required to install a child safety seat in the UK?

Sorry, just my twisted attempt at humor.

I'm a bit confused, you mentioned the previous owner "took it apart to service it" but it looks intact in the photos in your first post.  He must not have taken down very far or put it all back before you picked it up?  Just removed the air box to sync the carbs?

[reggit]

Found it!  I'd never have located it without the help of you knowledgeable people.  I should be able to start to get the authorities to register it at least now

I think a sidecar is cool especially since you have a need for it.  So...is it required to install a child safety seat in the UK?

Sorry, just my twisted attempt at humor.

I didn't take this as twisted humour, it's exactly what I intend trying to do! - OK slightly tongue in cheek maybe.

The fuel tank and seat where just wedged on in the first picture as I didn't want fuel vapours in the car.

[baldy3853]

  welcome aboard enjoy its a fabulous place lots of great info here 
Baldy