Impressions of the 850 T
Impressions of the 850 T by Joe West
I recently aquired a '75 850T. Over the years many parts have been modified. With over 68K miles on the clock, it had been sitting for a couple of years. During that time a tree limb fell on it and damaged the console and instruments. Regardless, I made sure the cylinders were free and lubricated. Then after changing the oil, plugs, and fuel I put in a fresh battery and started it up. Pretty impressive! Then I checked the tires, brakes, all the fluids, oiled the cables, and cleaned out the carb bowls. After that, I took it on the road. Amazing!
No smoking, no leaking, runs smooth and strong and all the electrics work. I've brought other bikes back to life before but this was the easiest to get running. The cosmetics are going to take awhile but the bike runs and handles well.
It's a pleasure to ride. I've been told a lot of negative stuff about the T model. But the previous owner did good maintenance and I think the design is outstanding in it's simplicity. I like it a lot. Anybody who has an 850T that is being parted out, please drop me an e-mail. I need a decent gas tank and some other misc stuff.
Thanks,