Looking at a good used Velorex 562 with universal mounts to add to our 1982 Yamaha XJ650 Maxim. What can I reasonably expect to NEED to make this a safe, workable rig? Subframe? Specific mounts? The car purchase price will stretch our budget to the limit but I'd rather hold off and buy another with any needed parts later rather than end up with something unsafe. We're looking at getting back into a hack so that my daughter, who has health issues, can ride with us. Any advice would be welcome!
We've done dozens of 650 XJ/562 conversions and they work great using part of the OEM mounting kit and 2 design parts.
The XJ650 is a bit small for all around 3 up usage in my opinion. An 1100cc model would be a better choice.
Attached are pix of the special mounts I use.
Lonnie
Northwest sidecars
Hack'N,
Thanks for your insights! I guess I did make it sound like it would be the whole family on the hack but it'll just be me and the 16yo. I appreciate you adding the photos, now I have proof for the wife that it can be done! How much do your custom mounts run and how can I order them?
Thanks for your time!
I don't know how big your daughter is or what her special needs are but a Velorex can be difficult for someone of larger than average size or less than average flexibility.
You might want to see how well she can get in and out before putting more time and money into it
Phelonius,
I appreciate the insights. Right now, neither is a concern but I will definitely keep these things in mind.
Ride safe!
I built an 1981 XJ650/Velorex rig a couple of years ago. I used special brackets similar to those described by Lonnie (he sent me pictures that I used as templates) In addition, I made a bracket out of 1/2 inch steel plate that I hung from the rear shock for the rear upper mount.
In addition to mounts, you might consider heavy duty shocks and fork springs. I also added a steering damper and Avon tires (triple duty sidecar tire on the front). The result is a great handling and riding rig. I agree that a 650 is a little small for extended freeway use, but for state routes and back country riding it is fine.
Good luck with your build.
Larry
Sorry Mike,
We are not a manufacturer. I build on the bike. Any fabricator or weld shop can duplicate these mounts.
Our HD suspension upgrade to allow early 15mm axle Velorex's to support larger bikes, heavy loading or off road use is the only prefabbed kit we offer.
Lonnie
Northwest Sidecars
