New Bike...A Few Questions (1982 KZ650 CSR)

So, I got this bike for free and it is in AMAZING condition for what it is. This guy had it sitting in a garage for 2 years and it really only has surface rust. I am polishing the chrome pieces and washing everything else. Of course there are a few places where the chrome was eaten a bit, but all in all it is in great condition.

There are a few things that concern me, and hopefully someone has an answer.

When my buddy and I looked in the engine, there was absolutely no oil in it. Is there any way that this is normal for a bike that has been sitting for 2 years? What should I be checking in order to find out whether there is a problem?

Also, what kind of oil should I use? 10W30, or is there a combination of things I have to use?

If the engine is sound, I will be restoring and customizing this bike over the next year or two. Anyone have a checklist of things to check out?

Are the 1982 KZ650's good bikes?

THANKS!

del

Also make sure the bike is centered when you check the oil. If it is on the kickstand you won't see oil in it. But it shouldn't matter since you have to change the oil anyway.

Ok I'm lazy and don't want to type so check this thread. I've pretty much outlined my SOP on these old bikes.

kzrider.com/index.php?option=com_kunena&...d=2&id=219890#219890

Okay...so I was wrong, there is oil in the bike. I didn't even know about the little window! Well, I feel better about it.

Thanks for all the replies.

I think there are maybe one or two others on here with 82 KZ650's, they don't seem to be real common.

Now for the good news, what you have is essentially a KZ750 motor with a smaller bore, so the 750 top end will bolt right on giving you a KZ750 motor. Lot easier to do that on yours than the 1980 and prior models.

First try to get a Factory Service Manual or atleast Clymer or Haynes manuals for your bike. And read them through to get an overall pic of the bike you have. Then start prowsing this board and you´ll find lots and lots of info on all Kawi bikes.

Most of the info is relatively usefull regadless of model and when you get to know your bike then you can start finding model specific information. In general basic maintenance is pretty much the same in all these oldies so I´d start from there.

And good luck, these old Z´s are just plain fun!