Topic: 81 cb 650

[trebot]

interested in '81 CB 650 saw on c-list.  Any reason to stay away?  From pics, think its 4 cyl.  Is that right?  Thanks 

[DaveBarbier]

They're fine bikes. Not as popular as the 70's bikes in this forum but I have an '82 650 motor in my 550 frame. So I like them.

Yes, it's a 4 cylinder SOHC4. The last SOHC4 is the 650 from '82.

Nothing inherently wrong with the bikes, per se. They are prone to ignition issues, but other than that they're a good bike.


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[TwoTired]

There have been many charging system post tracked back to the rotor itself on Cb650 SOHC4s.  It has a wound rotor instead of the metal lump used on other SOHC4s.  The heat and centrifugal force tend to damage the wire insulation in the rotor.  It also has alternator slip ring brushes that are a wear failure point after long service.

I think when the alternator is in good condition though, it puts out better system power than other SOHC4s.  I believe the rotor and brushes are in the $300-$400 range to refurbish.

No kick start on these.  If your electrical system gets weak, you are pushing the bike. Or, staring at it with eyes of longing.

Cheers,

[b1jackson]

I just picked up a 82 650 that I am freshening up abit to re-sell.  Yes, the SOHC engine is familiar to me but I'm not going to sink too much $ into it.  Some stuff I have found are 1 or two year model  parts (like tank and exhaust flanges half moons) so some parts can be tricky to locate.

Not bad looking bikes for 80s style.