Re-build my childhood toy?

Hi All,

I have an 1980 Suzuki TS 125 that I bought when I was 14. Unfortunately, it
suffered years of neglect and is now a lawn ornament. I've toyed with the
idea of getting rid of it, but lately I've been wondering if I should take a
shot at fixing it up myself and trying to get it back out on the road.

Having said all of that, I have little mechanical experience and wouldn't
know where to begin working on this project. I don't ever know how
available parts are for a bike of this era.

In the opinion of those that have been through this before, should I take a
shot at it and try to bring her back to life, or am I in over my head and
should just get rid of the bike to the highest bidder?

For those who are interested, pics of the bike are here:

http://members.shaw.ca/krichmond/bike1.gif
http://members.shaw.ca/krichmond/bike2.gif

Thanks for any advice/suggestions that you have!

Ken


Remove the obvious to reply.

 

Good and thorough advice there Kaybearjr. Sounds like you've done this
before. Keep him busy for a week? That would keep me busy for a couple of
months. One comment to Kenny - pulling the cylinder on a two stroke is a
simpler job than replacing spark plugs on some modern day motorcycles.

My advice, go for it. What have you got to lose? The $75 someone might
offer for it in its current condition? What've you got to gain? The
rekindling of a long dead relationship, busted knuckles, remembering swear
words you haven't used in years. Most of all experience.

Besides, it's always better to take apart something you don't HAVE to put
back together again. It'll be easier to transport to the dump that way if
you decide to give up on it.

 

Thanks for the comments guys!

Kaybear, I appreciate you taking the time to give me what appears to be a
very comprehensive list of items to tackle. I love this group already, and
with advice like this I'm really thinking of rolling up my sleeves and
digging into the project myself.

Is there a good repair manual for motorcycles? I've owned a couple of
Chilton's manuals for my vehicles but have found them to be less than
adequate for most 'wannabe backyard mechanics'.

With groups like this and places like ebay for parts, I think I may be able
to work through this one! If nothing else, perhaps I'll have the
encouragement I need... I'm already enthusiastic about tackling the job!

 

Thanks again Kaybear!

Today I begin my quest for a manual. Perhaps I'll be able to take my bike
out for a ride next spring

 

Kenny- Try to get a manual from Suzuki, most original factory service
manuals are still available from the original manufacturer. They are
usually a little bit more money than a used one $30-$40 bucks, but in my
opinion worth it. Or try E-bay if you have patience and a little luck,
it's also a great source for used unavailable parts. Good Luck with
your project. Tom.