XS 650 or CB 400/4

[REV]

I'm thinking of buying a classic Japanese bike and there are the above two in very good shape available at almost the same price.

What are the pros and cons of each. Are there any better alternatives? I will be using the bike occasionally only.

PS- I've been off a bike for 10 years

[Searchguru]

Hi REV,
I've ridden both models but I have only owned the 400/4 and that was more by accident than design. Both models are very popular and have a good back up in parts and knowledge. The only fly in the ointment that I can see is that the 400/4 is physically a bit small. I'm 5' 10" and I felt too big for it, I didn't feel part of the bike and was perched on it. The XS, on the other hand, was a proper bike, size wise. I'm sure if I had been 2 or 3 inches shorter (and at least 2 stones lighter!) the 400/4 would have been perfect for me and the XS too big.
You might find the 400/4 a bit buzzy and the XS a bit lumpy but both are very good bikes. If you can get a test ride on both of them at least you'll know which suits your style and size.
Now I've read this through I'm not sure how much help this has been to you.

[REV]

Heh heh thanks anyway. I'll take a ride and see which suits me better. Btw any idea what a reasonable price is? Both are in very good shape!

[Searchguru]

Price is very difficult. A nice 400/4 with original mudguards and exhaust are getting pricey. I would think that the same could be said for the XS. As with most bikes, you get what you pay for. If you want total originality and perfection it will cost you. Around £1500 would get a very nice example of either model in the UK.
You have to ask yourself "What am I willing to pay?

[Grizzly]

Hi Rev

What a choice!

Searchguru is spot on. Both bikes are great and are yet totaly different.

A friend has recently sold his 400 Four F2 for £2100. Mind this thing was mint and it had many show awards to it's credit, it sold real easy.

Enjoy the test rides. Don't envy you the choice or maybe I do!!!!

Whichever you choose I think you will be chuffed.

[Grizzly]

Hi Rev.

I knew I'd read something about XS650's. The December 2007 edition of Classic Motorcycle Mechanics has a piece on XS 650's.

Check the engine and frame numbers match and this applies to the Honda as well check it has received regular oil changes as both bikes don't react well to lack of oil changes.

As for prices, Mechanics recon that an early green tanker can go for upwards of 4 grand. A good custom can fetch £1500, while a good roadster will go for£1750-2250.

Hope this is of some use