Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Technical, Bike forums > Yamaha Tech
XT600 - Head stem welding - Issue? XT600 - Head stem welding - Issue?
Register FAQ Calendar Today's Posts
Yamaha Tech Originally the Yamaha XT600 Tech Forum, due to demand it now includes all Yamaha's technical / mechanical / repair / preparation questions.
Photo by Alessio Corradini, on the Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia, of two locals

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by Alessio Corradini,
on the Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia,
of two locals



Like Tree2Likes

Reply
Page 1 of 2 1 2
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 14 Jan 2018
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
  
Join Date: Jan 2018
Location: Canberra, Australia
Posts: 7
XT600 - Head stem welding - Issue?
Hi folks,

Need the brains trust opinions.

Looking to buy a 1996 XT600 with 31k on the clock. Seller seems genuine. Bike is knocked around but rides well and seems to run well. Needs a bit of maintenance, but im thinking its a good way to learn the bike.

The head stem is my main concern. As you will see from the attached picture, the bike looks like it has had some work done to the head stem. Currrent owner reports it was done before he bought it. Not sure if it was cracked and re-welded, or it has been reinforced. First time with an XT600 and seeking some advice (even if its to 'walk away right now').

Thanks,
Matt
Attached Thumbnails
XT600 - Head stem welding - Issue?-img_6980.jpg  

XT600 - Head stem welding - Issue?-gc4615407524304870352.jpg  

Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 14 Jan 2018
R.I.P. 25 November 2021
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 688
XT`s do not need reinforcement around the headstock (trust me i know) so therefore it must be cracked from accident damage, and that has to be the worst bodge ive seen in years.

It's worth 800 bucks at best (parts) not $2200, walk away brother.

Mezo.
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 14 Jan 2018
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: Denmark
Posts: 1,417
Im really struggling to see what the wanted to accomplish. It doesnt look any strnger, just more messy.
I've seen people weld stuff to the front of the tube, to add rallytowers, fairings ect, but nothing like this.

Make sure you go over the bike fully, so theres not any other surprises.
I wouldnt nesscesarily walk away, but the price should match the condition of the bike.

I would be temped to clean up that mess, and see whats underthere if you buy it. Have a friend do a better job if it really needs welding. Bike needs to be cheap.
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 15 Jan 2018
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
  
Join Date: Jan 2018
Location: Canberra, Australia
Posts: 7
Thanks Mezo. I think you're right, time to walk away. The repair (or whatever it is), is just not very confidence inspiring and who knows what else the repair is hiding. Found what looks like a much better condition bike up in Tenterfield (and its cheaper). Just trying to work out how to get it to Canberra.

Jens, I initially thought the same thing about something being welded on to the front of the tube. But your right, noting the quality of the welds, it seems unlikely.

I was tempted to not 'judge a book by its cover', but I don't really have the equipment to do major repairs in the event I get in over my head. Plus I currently have a 1972 Honda CL350 in parts, and really don't need another project haha!
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 15 Jan 2018
zandesiro's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Feb 2011
Location: Polygyros GR
Posts: 558
Quote:
Originally Posted by mcgrath86 View Post
Hi folks,

Need the brains trust opinions.

Looking to buy a 1996 XT600 with 31k on the clock. Seller seems genuine. Bike is knocked around but rides well and seems to run well. Needs a bit of maintenance, but im thinking its a good way to learn the bike.

The head stem is my main concern. As you will see from the attached picture, the bike looks like it has had some work done to the head stem. Currrent owner reports it was done before he bought it. Not sure if it was cracked and re-welded, or it has been reinforced. First time with an XT600 and seeking some advice (even if its to 'walk away right now').

Thanks,
Matt
__________________
3mountainsadventure
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 30 Jan 2018
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
  
Join Date: Jan 2018
Location: Canberra, Australia
Posts: 7
Thanks for all your help folks. Always nice to close to the loop on threads, so id like to introduce my new bike, a 2000 Yamaha XT600. Paid $2000AUD, plus another $1000AUD to get it on the road. Not that it needed anything, the extra money is just in freight and rego etc. PO seemed like a nice bloke and to be honest, I think its a steal. Done just under 40000kms, new tyres, new battery. No major damage. Hopefully im not eating my words in a month, but im pretty happy with it.
Attached Thumbnails
XT600 - Head stem welding - Issue?-img_7003.jpg  

XT600 - Head stem welding - Issue?-img_7002.jpg  

Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 30 Jan 2018
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: UK
Posts: 4,343
Quote:
Originally Posted by mcgrath86 View Post
Thanks for all your help folks. Always nice to close to the loop on threads, so id like to introduce my new bike, a 2000 Yamaha XT600. Paid $2000AUD, plus another $1000AUD to get it on the road. Not that it needed anything, the extra money is just in freight and rego etc. PO seemed like a nice bloke and to be honest, I think its a steal. Done just under 40000kms, new tyres, new battery. No major damage. Hopefully im not eating my words in a month, but im pretty happy with it.
I like the ventura luggage system that you have on that bike: I have used it for some years, swopping the bags between different bikes just by purchasing new "L" brackets.
__________________
Dave
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 30 Jan 2018
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: Milan, Italy
Posts: 607
congrats, super looking bike! price is quite aligned to what you'd pay around here in italy for an xt, so good deal.
i can spot the rear brake tube is sort of dangling, needs to be fixed well to the swingarm.
i would remove that luggage frame immediately, in case of a crash the chances that the vertical part will hit your spine seem huge, a totally unnecessary risk. after i saw what back injury a stupid top case caused to a friend, i'm really against anything sticking upwards like that.
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 30 Jan 2018
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: Denmark
Posts: 1,417
Is that a 3TB engine fitted?

I noticed the rubberplug in the sidecase for the kickstarter, and no clutch on the right side.
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 2 Feb 2018
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
  
Join Date: Jan 2018
Location: Canberra, Australia
Posts: 7
Walkabout if you happen to be in Australia and you know someone who wants one, ive actually decided to take 'turboguzzi's advice and remove it. Wasnt purely from the comments regarding injuries, but it makes a good point. Once I start doing longer distances I plan to go side panniers and a rear flat rack.

Jens, I dont think so. The engine numbers match the VIN and it says 3WR. Does that right sound right?

Took the bike to get registered this week. Got rejected on not having a rear red reflector. Had a win though. Made a new one out of a reflector and black plastic paint scraper. Ill post a photo soon
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 2 Feb 2018
Bobmech's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: BOP , New Zealand
Posts: 185
The 3WR model sounds right.
The newer 4PT model with the clutch cable on the right was never introduced to Australia (or New Zealand).

Bob
__________________
Remember that Assumption is the mother of all f**k-ups.
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 2 Feb 2018
*Touring Ted*'s Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Wirral, England.
Posts: 5,673
I would bet my last £20 that's an accident repair.

That is a bad fabrication job. Messy. I wouldn't trust that bike.

What else has been bodged badly on it.

It better be REALLY cheap or just walk away.
__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 4 Feb 2018
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: Denmark
Posts: 1,417
Awesome, we dont have the 3Wr here, cool combination with the never plastic, and beeing able to fit a kicker to it.
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 4 Feb 2018
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: UK
Posts: 4,343
Quote:
Originally Posted by mcgrath86 View Post
Walkabout if you happen to be in Australia and you know someone who wants one,
Sell it in New Zealand - it was manufactured there.

https://www.ventura-bike.com/about-us
__________________
Dave
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 6 Feb 2018
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: Dec 2003
Posts: 43
Ventura Rack
I would be interested if it is still available. Please check your PM and let me know. Thanks. Cheers.

Quote:
Originally Posted by mcgrath86 View Post
Walkabout if you happen to be in Australia and you know someone who wants one, ive actually decided to take 'turboguzzi's advice and remove it. Wasnt purely from the comments regarding injuries, but it makes a good point. Once I start doing longer distances I plan to go side panniers and a rear flat rack.

Jens, I dont think so. The engine numbers match the VIN and it says 3WR. Does that right sound right?

Took the bike to get registered this week. Got rejected on not having a rear red reflector. Had a win though. Made a new one out of a reflector and black plastic paint scraper. Ill post a photo soon
Reply With Quote
Reply
Page 1 of 2 1 2

« Previous Thread | Next Thread »

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
XT600e weird top cylinder head cover blind screw and engine noise issue arioeo Yamaha Tech 11 10 May 2017 23:11
'84 xt600 electrical issue theluckless Yamaha Tech 7 25 Dec 2016 19:04
Blown Head Gasket XT600 ajax Yamaha Tech 70 5 Sep 2015 04:21
89 XT600 (kick start) Carb issue ajax Yamaha Tech 4 25 Oct 2013 19:02
87 XT600 speedo light/ headlight issue Toasted Hoagie Yamaha Tech 0 16 Feb 2013 21:13

 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

ALL Dates subject to change.

2025 Confirmed Events:

  • Virginia: April 24-27 2025
  • Queensland is back! May 2-4 2025
  • Germany Summer: May 29-June 1 2025
  • CanWest: July 10-13 2025
  • Switzerland: Date TBC
  • Ecuador: Date TBC
  • Romania: Date TBC
  • Austria: Sept. 11-15
  • California: September 18-21
  • France: September 19-21 2025
  • Germany Autumn: Oct 30-Nov 2 2025

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

Adventurous Bikers – We've got all your Hygiene & Protection needs SORTED! Powdered Hair & Body Wash, Moisturising Cream Insect Repellent, and Moisturising Cream Sunscreen SPF50. ESSENTIAL | CONVENIENT | FUNCTIONAL.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook

"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

Your ad could be here, on EVERY page of the HUBB, or the whole website, or as many as you like!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.



All times are GMT +1. The time now is 07:57.

Contact Us - Horizons Unlimited Motorcycle Travellers Website - Archive - Privacy Statement - Top