Low mileage 1st Gen

[Iowa Guy]

I stopped in at Iowa City Motorsports to buy gloves, glasses etc and sitting out front was this 1985 in really good condition with low miles. I wouldn't promote a dealers bikes but these older bikes seem to be getting scarcer all the time. Here's their web page if you want to take a look. Sales guy showed me a blond 83 in back that has even fewer miles and in even better condition but they haven't put up on the site yet.

 

http://www.iowacitymotorsports.com/pre_owned_detail.asp?sid=02512628X9K8K2010J9I33I44JPMQ841R0&veh=1799554

 

Iowa Guy

[mrich12000]

It's been in a Vacum chamber? wow that is nice:shock3:

[friesman]

It looks great, but they dont show the trunk or tops of the side bags. Most of the 85s ive seen have the clear coat peeling. But it looks like it would be a nice ride for anyone if it runs as good as it looks. I didnt see the VIN to check and see if it was made after the 2nd gear issue was fixed.

 

The ad says engine size 1300cc,,,,need to see the side of the engine case to see if someone swapped out thr engine or if the dealer doesnt know his stuff.

 

Brian

Edited September 9, 2010 by friesman
engine cc

[Yammer Dan]

Does look sharp!! Like to see the 83.

[coy55boy]

Here's a couple of pics of the '83 I just picked up off fleabay. Almost 3700 miles and mine all mine!

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n163/coy55boy/83%20Venture%20Royale/CIMG4200.jpg

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n163/coy55boy/83%20Venture%20Royale/CIMG4201.jpg

[Yammer Dan]

I saw that ad and couldn't believe it!! Was it all true?? If it was you got a great Bike!!

[Black Owl]

Very nice. Don't know if it has cruise control, but if it does, I would strongly recommend removing the wrist whips as they can cause problems with the cruise control.

Other than that, it looks like a real sweet machine.

[coy55boy]

No, it didn't come with cruise control...or a CB. And the seller removed the lever covers before shipping it. But, that's OK. I like it anyway!

 

I've since found a couple of minor flaws. The right side lower fairing was cracked all the way through and repaired with screws (ugleeeee). But, I already found a replacement part and once it's painted the right color will be OK. The other was a defective bag lock on the right side. Not the one that keeps the bag shut, but the one that keeps it on the bike. I already figured out how to swap the cylinders if I can find a replacement mechanism. Looks like it failed due to poor manufacturing tolerances. Anybody got one layin around?

 

Overall, the bike was as described. Perfect in every detail. Everything functions like new. And since I found this forum, I can take advantage of decades of experience to make my experience with the bike the best possible. I've already ordered the 'group buy' fork brace and I'm working with Butt Butler to get the seat reworked. This winter, I'm going to take down the shocks and replace the stock springs with progressives. I'm also very impressed with the work some have been doing with different tire brands and sizes to improve handling characteristics.

 

It's so nice to find people that share your passions and can help to smooth the way. With both of my previous bikes (Honda CB360T and Yamaha Virago 750), I had to learn by trial and error. LOTS of error! But, now I feel that others who share my passion for this beautiful bike will be my friends and neighbors sharing stories and tips and advice. It's been 18 years since I've been in the saddle, so I can sure use it!

 

Steve

[skydoc_17]

Hey Coy,

Welcome to the site! You sure did find an excellent example of an 83'VR there! Take some time and spin that baby around in a parking lot so you can get used to the weight and get a feel for her. Those Dunlop E2's are a good dependable, long lasting tire, I would wear them out before spending a bunch of cash on new ones.

I hope you have many "miles of smiles" with your new VR!

Earl

[Yammer Dan]

If you clean that lock carefully they can usually be brought back to life. Sure is a purty one.

[coy55boy]

If you clean that lock carefully they can usually be brought back to life. Sure is a purty one.

 

Thanks, Yammer...I tried that. Completely disassembled the lock (with the exception of removing the tumblers in the cylinder). It looks like there was enough slack inside the unit to allow the cam to slip on the end of the cylinder when it turns. Over time, the inside of the cam got wallered out (southernism?). Now it just spins round and round without ever turning the cam.

 

But, it's OK. Thanks once again to the VentureRider community. I sent an email to PJ who has a classified ad up for first gen parts and he's got one! Can't believe my good fortune. I thought I'd have to buy a whole bag just to scavenge a lock! In the meantime, I jimmied the lock so it will hold the bag on the bike securely. I just have to remove 3 screws if I want to take it off.

[Dano]

I'd rather go for a ride and think of God, than sit in church and think about riding...

Best sig line I've ever read!