Buying a 1981 R80G/S

[Bradd]

May buy a 1981 R80G/S in the next few days & was wondering if anyone could offer any advice. Apparently on the 1981 there is a shifting linkage issue & it has a smaller rear rim, any info on these or other issues is appreciated.
Thanks

 

[Rob Farmer]

They're all crap don't bother.


As long as the exhaust isn't rotten and it rides OK when you test ride it theres not much to worry about...Apart from the crap brakes, Dodgy electrics, iffy gearbox, weak head gaskets, uncomfortable seat, sinking valve guides, weak exhaust valves, dodgy speedo, small frame, tank stickers that wash off and strange handling and the worst side stand in the history of motorcycling...apart from that you will love it

 

[(RIP) Kaister]

what ? ! - a worse sidestand than a T3 ??

Are you sure ?

 

[Rob Farmer]

At least the T3 stand is attached to the frame. Actually you have a good point there..I can still remember that clicking of the sidestand springing up followed by a loud crunching sound as 3 grands worth of Italian bike hits the deck just after you have spent ages making sure the bike WAS secure on the stand, mine always fell over just as I turned my back and was too far away to catch it.

 

[MiGSel]

Rob is right

But still, I have a 1981 G/S and I love it. Since I bought it last November, I have ridden it a lot more than my 1150GSa.

The R80 has issues, of course. But it's light to pick up when playing off-road, easy to handle, it has character, it's easy to work on, you can easily find parts for it, ...

If you want a trouble free ride, get a modern GS. If you don't mind some wrenching & fiddling, and if you can live with less comfort and more character, go for it.

Cheers,
Michel