WildeOne

I had total faith in my newly acquired XVS650 Custom - until a 100 mile trip down the A1(M) to London and halfway back again, when engine misfires began, increased and reduced speed to a sufficiently dangerous 30mph on the hard shoulder to get be off at the next roundabout. Gel battery swollen and drained. Overcharging? Rectifier not tested but I have bought a substitute. I'm more troubled by the misfires which to me suggests CDI issues. The bike is nearly 20 years old and has probably not seen too much top top speed travelling, being (I think) mostly used as a commuter in London.) Given that the bike is no longer in production, eplacement CDI units on eBay range from about £180 (for a pre-owned unit which could be no better than the one I have) to £500 for an aftermarket new substitute part. Bloody hell! - when I think back to gapping points.... I'm getting an auto electrician to confirm analysis but it seems a common problem with the range, Advice, anyone?

Could be rectifier but I think more likely the CDI which seems to be a common -and expensive- issue. Second hand replacements are all over eBay at about £200 / $250 and upwards. There are some aftermarket 'racing' versions of unverified compatibility for £500 / $480 and I have seen at least one for $25 but with 4+2 pin connection rather than 6+4. I would want to spend no more than £200/ $180 to get this sorted out with a reliable component. At present I am getting the system tested to see if analysis tells me anything other than I am anticipating.

You could get a 'racing' CDI to improve acceleration. Top speed will be limited by power/weight ratio. I hear that K&N filters will help but you may need to rejet the carbs. I find the XVS650 most comfortable at 50mpg. I do ride at 70mph on motorways but that's not really what a cruiser is about, is it?