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General Category >> Rubber Side Down! >> Considering a Savage
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Message started by pgman on 06/04/07 at 19:38:15

Title: Considering a Savage
Post by pgman on 06/04/07 at 19:38:15

Hi, everyone. New guy here. I am going to look at an 86 Savage tomorrow (Tuesday). I have the guy talked down to $1000 and he says it is in perfect condition with very low miles. I am not sure if this is the best idea, but my wife really likes this bike - the way it fits her small frame. I just bought a VZ800 Marauder for us to share, but she can't handle it - it is just too tall and too heavy. She told me she could handle it but then it almost fell on her and she won't get back on it again. So, we went to look at Honda Rebels and VZ250s, etc. We found an '02 Savage on the lot at a Honda shop the other day and she fell in love with it (not that particular bike, but the model). It feels really good to her and I thought it was probably the coolest thing I've seen in a long time (a one lunger - a big one lunger!) I think my jaw dropped when I found out it was a 650!!

My question is this - if this bike is in as good a condition as the seller says, is $1000 a reasonable price for a 20 year-old Savage? Also, being the first year, should I stay away from it or was it okay out of the gate? Are there any things I need to watch out for on an early Savage in particular. I know the tires and the belt might be bad from age, but are there other things specific to the engine, brakes or electrical and such? I read about some "kick-back" problem on some earlier model years. This, I assume has to do with the large displacement single. How do I know if this bike has that problem and is there a fix for it (it sounds serious).

This is a very interesting motorcycle (mechanically) to me and my wife is wild about it because it doesn't feel like a toy (as she described the 250s we looked at) but she can still toss it around. I just don't want to buy something that is going to be a love-hate thing (I love it because it is different and a little odd - I hate it because it is unusual and has unusual problems). I am guessing that, because it has been in production for so long, it must be pretty bulletproof (that, and the fact that there is an entire web site dedicated to it). It seems that everyone who understands the Savage / S40 loves them. I am guessing that this is not because they break down every week.

Any advice or comments would be very welcome. I know there is not much time - I have to make this decision tomorrow evening. Thanks in advance for your time and sorry about the long post. I may soon be a Savage owner so I will probably be in here a lot! ;D

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by Greg_650 on 06/04/07 at 19:58:59

I suggest that you buy the '02 Savage.

I don't think that you'll be completely happy with the '86...especially if he says that it is in "perfect condition".

Honestly, unless it's been hermetically sealed in a time capsule with the fuel system drained and fresh oil, it probably ain't in perfect shape.

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by tuxedo on 06/04/07 at 19:59:06

I got probably the best deal around on a Savage. If the 86 runs, I'd offer him 700 and pay him around 800.

I got mine, non-running, for 300. But that was from a friend.

1986 model runs rich. You're going to want to rejet the carburetor down on the main(even with a freer exhaust), and adjust the idle air screw richer(left) by about a half-turn. When you rejet the carb, buy some M6 Allen bolts and replace the Phillips bolts top and bottom.

Take a good look at the shock bolts and front forks. Check for fork seal leakage and anything that looks like a weakening shock bolt.

Check for oil on the low outsides of the crank case, around the oil inspection glass and also on the other side.

Oh yeah, if you like to wrench, like I do, buy the 86. My rear shock bolt sheared off with a light pressure from a torque wrench. Trying to tune that rich running carb is a headache, etc.

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by pgman on 06/04/07 at 20:18:09

Thank you for the quick responses. Unfortunately, the 02 is not an option because it is a disaster. I have never seen a bike so abused, neglected and worn out - especially one that is not that old. I wouldn't pay 400 dollars for it. It is a parts bike - it really is that bad. The only reason we even looked at it was to see how it fit the misses. I am a little concerned about buying the older one, and I still think that he wants too much money for it, but sometimes it is worth it to keep things happy at home, if you know what I mean. If she likes this 86 and it really is in excellent shape - well, who knows. I have been looking for Savages and I can't seem to find any for less than $2500 (even later eighties models) and I just don't have that kind of dough right now because I just bought the Marauder. I am trying to find something she can ride because she is bummed about the Marauder and I want to cheer her up. I am not afraid to turn a wrench and I have all the tools, so keeping an older bike running is not something that worries me. I just want to make sure that I am not buying a boat load of design flaws that can never be right. I get the impression that the earlier Savages had a few notable design elements that were questionable, but that they can be overcome with some retrofitting from a newer model. I figure I can scour these pages to see what fits from later years as I go. Of course, the whole thing may fall through. I haven't actually seen this bike yet and he may be delusional - it may be a heap like the 02 we just saw.

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by Fido_the_Cat on 06/04/07 at 20:20:32

She's a keeper, she has good taste. Yes, your wife. Seems the decision has already been made. I do understand your reservations. I have a 02 and those that own the 86 models will be able to give you first hand info on their bikes.
This is a bulletproof, reliable, and very forgiving cycle that has held it's place as a lightweight cruiser for many years. As with any equipment it needs proper maintenance; you seem ahead of the game in that department. I'm sure you can tell a good ride when you see it. And when running properly it will give you miles of enjoyment. Considering she likes it and is willing to learn to ride it, with respect, because it's a One Cyl. with a lot of smack. So much for my sales pitch... If it is a good buy, you will keep it for years or have a blast outgrowing it. It happens sometimes.
Good Luck, and hope to see ya around.

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by pgman on 06/04/07 at 20:32:26

Its the one-cylinder, air-cooled design that attracts me (but frightened me a little at first). I am not ASE certified mechanic, but I've changed my own transmissions before and I know how to tear an engine down if I have to. This (not so) little one-puffer seems like it would be easy enough to work on (there's a heck of alot more room to turn wrenches than on my Marauder) and simple enough to troubleshoot (only one carb, only one ignition coil, etc. I just figure that if it is a decent buy that I won't mind fixing it up a little bit here and there. She WILL ride it - that is the main thing. I couldn't get her back on the Marauder to save my life because she is afraid of it. That is no fun. As long as I can get parts (which I would think I could on a model that has been in production for so long) I can keep her running indefinitely.

By the way, what is involved if the forks are leaking (or the crank case)?

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by Fido_the_Cat on 06/04/07 at 21:08:51

We have a fix for that. Cruise the Tech pages, they cover those two topics very well. Bet you'll come out with more questions than you went in with. Just kiddin.

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by Greg_650 on 06/04/07 at 22:39:22

pgman wrote:

A disaster?

Oh well. Must have been a forum member that left :P

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by LANCER on 06/05/07 at 03:03:45

$1000 does seem a little high for an '86 but if this bike is in good running order and everything does in fact work on it then show the seller $850-900 in cash and take it home.
The seller claims it is in perfect condition so everything on the bike should be working, it should ride and run very well, without any hickups or burps. If so, I would get it.
You did take it for a test ride, yes? How did it feel to you?

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by jotrac on 06/05/07 at 03:44:11

From a woman newbie rider:

If you try it out and it runs well, $ 1,000 is not too much to pay for a bike that gives your wife confidence and gets her riding.

A 2000 Savage is my first bike. I paid $ 2,000 for it. It had 12,800 miles on it when I bought it April 2006 and now has 18,400.

Tell her to go slow letting out the clutch and easy on the throttle because it will rip!

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by pgman on 06/05/07 at 05:07:03

Thank you all, again for your input. My intent is to take 1000 cash with me and then try what LANCER said. The seller was asking $1200 and I already talked him down to 1K - even before showing up to look at it. It is a 90 minute drive to where it is and I didn't want to waste anyone's time (I was never going to pay $1200 for a 20 year old Savage - sorry). I have not ridden the bike yet (I haven't even seen it). This seller may be completely off his rocker and the bike may be a beater for all I know. At this point I am taking him at his word. If I see ANYTHING wrong with it, then we start re-negotiating the selling price. To that end, I am grateful to those who've pointed out the most common potential trouble spots on this bike.

One of the things I found (after I bought my Marauder) was that the rear brake would not activate the brake light. I found that the rear brake light cable had frozen. Since I fixed it myself, the parts were the only cost to me (about $35), but I noticed on this 02 Savage the other day that it had the same problem. Keep in mind, my Marauder is in excellent condition (and it is a 2001 model) so I know it was not subject to the same neglect as the Savage. I wonder if this is a common thing on Suzukis? Anyway, I am going to go this evening to give this 86 Savage a good inspection and the wife is going with me to test ride it. IF I buy it, I will probably have a whole string of new questions - I am grateful to you all for giving me your opinions and insights on this model.

By the way, I did already caution my wife that the Savage will probably out-run mine (it is an 800 and it weighs about 150 pounds more). She equates cylinder count with power. If she ends up riding a Savage, I believe her perception will change. 8)

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by Greg_650 on 06/05/07 at 05:49:06

I still think the price is too high. It should come down more.

Just remember that it is a 4 speed too.

If you're dead set on it, go for it. It's only the spouse's bike anyway...

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by azjay on 06/05/07 at 06:30:48

if it is in decent shape and hasn't been abused, i'd buy it. everything else can be fixed. $1000 for anything that is clean, runs, and has clear paper work, is pretty normal by todays standards.

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by skatnbnc on 06/05/07 at 07:14:48

Greg_650 wrote:

I still think the price is too high. It should come down more.

Just remember that it is a 4 speed too.

If you're dead set on it, go for it. It's only the spouse's bike anyway...

Hey Greg, no dissing the spouse! ;) She is in for a fun ride and will probably zooming in front of her hubby in short order!

pgman - Tell your wife that the girls on this forum LOVE their little one-lung, and it kicks a$$! ;D

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by smokey02 on 06/05/07 at 13:03:12

Kelly Blue Book (kbb.com) sez $950 trade in and $1450 retail, so $1000 seems about right.

I got my 96 for $1800 year and half ago, it had 6500miles on it. Over 17,000 now. I can't stay off it - LOVE IT!

So I'd be tempted to go for it.

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by pgman on 06/05/07 at 19:37:06

Well - it was a bust. The bike is more than a little rough and it needs new front brakes, a new back tire (the side walls are thoroughly cracked dry-rotted) and the paint is chipped and faded. Also, the NEUTRAL lamp doesn't work and neither does the SIDE STAND lamp. It is obvious that this bike has been left outside a lot too, because the plastic around the speedo shows clear signs of UV deterioration and the chrome is moderately pitted in several places. On the bright side, it did start right up and idled like a little sewing machine. I took it for a short ride and it had a suprising amount of grunt. It has ten-thousand miles on it, but I would say the bike has been nothing more than a commuter appliance most of its life. It is obvious to me that no one ever really cared for it properly and so I had to pass on this one.

To say the wife was disappointed would be an understatement - to say I was annoyed would fit that description also. I don't know why someone would describe this bike as "excellent" when it so clearly is not. I guess I was giving him too much credit. I just know that I couldn't sleep if I sold that bike for more than $500 (which I might have paid). As it is - I had to walk away. The misses is bumbed, but I told her I would find her a Savage - and I will. In fact, it will be my obsession now! ;D

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by Fido_the_Cat on 06/05/07 at 20:36:47

Roger That.
Happy Hunting.
BTW, You haven't been looking for them so look around some the one you want will come around. No not soon enough for the misses. Right now your the practical one (smart). She will appreciate the wait when she has the one she really wants.

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by BornOnFire on 06/05/07 at 20:46:42

Try Craig's List . That's where I found my 2005 w/450 miles Bags and Wind shield for $2500. There are deals out there. Patience will probably lead you to them. Bummer that the wife is depressed. Just try and tell her how happy She will be with a better shaped and "Shinier" bike. She can spend more time riding and less repairing. As far as spending more for a newer bike. Repairs can add up. Maybe newer is not so much of a waste after all. Good luck.

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by wrongwayair on 06/06/07 at 15:14:24

Did you check out the Marketplace section? I think I saw a topic requesting Savages for sale in FL. I bought my 2002 (mostly stock) w/less than 11,000 miles on it for $2200.00 here in central IL. There was another 2002 available locally for $2500 that had a windshield & saddlebags with a bit higher mileage on it. I'm happy with the deal I found, so keep searching your lady will love it!

Incidentally I learned to ride on a Rebel in the MSF course, I find the Savage to be a better fit & way more comfortable.

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by pgman on 06/06/07 at 18:18:09

Craig's List - yeah. That is where this one was. I really should have known better when there was no picture. I spent two hours driving to go see the thing but at least I got some quality time with my bride - that was worth it.

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by Polar_Pilot on 06/06/07 at 18:19:22

PGMan - phone the guy in 2 weeks and offer him 500 bucks. What you are describing is all cosmetics - and easily repaired/replaced shined polished and cleaned up.

I have a 1989 that I bought in 1999 for $1500 = best motorcycle money I ever spent -

So sorry the wife is disappointed - but it is likely the right bike for her - wait the two weeks and give it a shot - nothing ventured nothing gained

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by pgman on 06/06/07 at 18:51:19

I thought about doing this but the guy was just kind of a dork and I don't want to waste any more of my time with him. I think maybe I am being too cheap, that is all. Maybe I just have to spend a little more to get the "right" bike. Today I saw a 2003 with 3000 miles on it at the nearest Suzuki dealer (the one I mentioned earlier in the thread). They are asking $3100 for it. Do you all think this would be a better deal? I am thinking I might be able to talk them down to $2900 or so - THAT would probably be a much smarter purchase. The trouble I am having with this is that I just bought a 2001 Marauder with fairly low miles for $3000, and it has almost $700 worth of exhaust and carb mods on it. In my mind, I should be able to get a Savage for less than that (although I know it doesn't always work that way). I am going to call and put a deposit (hold) on it so I can go look at it on Friday. I'll bet it looks a lot better! ;)

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by verslagen1 on 06/06/07 at 19:28:29

I gave a deposit once for a car, that was a big mistake. Took me a month to get it back. I gave him a check and he said he wouldn't cash it. The next day I called and told him I had a better deal send me my check. Oh we cashed it.

Besides, the last thing you want to do is look excited. Like posted above, go in, look around, be totally dissatisfied with what's there (wrong color, too big, too small, wrong tires, terrible chrome) make him an offer way too low and walk out. Call in a week or 2 and see if it's still there. Meantime, tell the wife to get in back and stop screaming. ;D

I did this once cause I wasn't ready to buy a car, still shopping. They said ok to my lowest offer cause I was walking. I still wish I'd found out what their next pitch was.

The moral to this story is... as long as you have the money, you have the advantage. Give them even a little bit, and they got you. And don't give them your license either! For some reason, they like to hold it while they're talking to you.

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by Fido_the_Cat on 06/06/07 at 20:30:01

verslagen1 wrote:

The moral to this story is... as long as you have the money, you have the advantage. Give them even a little bit, and they got you. And don't give them your license either! For some reason, they like to hold it while they're talking to you.

They want you on their Christmas Card List. They're like that, ya know.

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by pgman on 06/10/07 at 18:41:09

Well, I found the perfect ride for the Mrs. It is a 2003 and it has 2800 miles on it. It had its first "normal" oil change early (right before I bought it) and all the original service records were intact (break-in oil change, adjustments, etc.). She took a ride on it and immediately said she loved it. I think this was probably the best thing to do - all the older ones I looked at were pretty well worn. I am trying to get a tachometer for it, though. The thing is so quiet that she can't always tell what gear she is in. I also mentioned that there are options for exhaust but she doesn't want a loud bike so the tach is probably the best option.

I must admit that this bike is a blast to ride. My Marauder definitely has more attitude and sound effects but the Savage just quietly goes about its business - and quickly. I found myself laughing out loud as I twisted the throttle full bore in second gear (from around 15 MPH) - this thing just takes off - whomp, whomp, whomp! It is definitely an awesome choice for people of smaller stature, and those that are not comfortable on a heavier cruiser. It is amazing that, though the seat height on my Marauder is actually a tiny bit LOWER than the Savage, the width of the frame and the weight balance made all the difference to her. She is thrilled (and so am I)! Thank you, everyone for your help and suggestions. I wil be around.

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by LANCER on 06/10/07 at 21:38:53

Well done, you are a wise man. The personal equity you just made on the home front is priceless. A happy wife makes for a wonderful life.

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by Max_Morley on 06/10/07 at 21:58:24

Noticed several tachs on eBay in the savage section, Max

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by pgman on 06/11/07 at 05:08:56

I got a tach on e-bay - thanks for that heads-up, Max. Yes, the misses is thrilled and that makes me happy. To be fair (and un-selfish) - while I agree that a happy wife makes a happy home I think the real point is that a wife who is alive makes for a much happier home than one who is not so alive. I seriously was worried about her riding a heavy cruiser from the beginning. She was so determined to start riding that I think she would have eventually tried it on the Marauder again (she can be VERY stubborn sometimes) and, though I think she may have been able to do it at some point, I am MUCH less worried about her now - even though it cost me an extra $1500. To me, the (relative) piece of mind is worth every penny.

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by LANCER on 06/11/07 at 05:17:32

Yep, absolutely correct on all points. :)

Title: Re: Considering a Savage
Post by justin_o_guy on 06/11/07 at 11:04:09

I dont know how you folks dress to ride, but for now, since I cant afford a nice airy textile jacket & riding pants I am wearing the leather chaps everyone laughs at for being exposed in the rear & a winter jacket, leather, lined & insulated. Hotter than the dickens BUT, I did fall & got no injuries, & I was going all of 10 MPH, but I was gonna go to town today without that stuff & felt so uncomfortable being so vulnerabe I came back & got dressed. I want & need better stuff, but till the kid gets hers I am stuck with what I have, since she has nothing.