What is normal running temperature and when should the fan go on?

I have a 1986 700 that I am slowly putting back together. I just changed the radiator and it seems to be holding, but I am not sure what the running temperature should be. I rode the bike today and the needle moved about a 1/3 of the way and stayed there. Is this normal running temp? I kind of assumed it should sit in the center/middle of the temp gauge.?

Also, last night I was trying to get the fan to turn on, so I let the bike sit running. The needle got past middle/center and worked it's way up to 3/4, but no fan. ??

I know the fan is good cause it was working with the old radiator. I'm guessing I didn't connect it correctly. Perhaps I need a new sensor?

Thanks.

 

Excellent idea. Thanks. I also read on another post that these bikes generally run "hot". Is this true?

Someone also recommended using something other than anti-freeze. What would you recommend? I live in So. Cali and summer is comming.

 

Normal temp=1/3 scale Stop and go traffic on a hot day=3/4 scale, and fan should switch on.

The thermoswitch is not reliable, so consider setting up a manual switch wired in parallel with it so you have positive control of your cooling fan at all times.

If you anticipate traffic slow-downs and activate your fan before the thermoswitch kicks in, the engine will stay cooler.

 

I don't think mine even gets up to 1/3... Maybe my thermostat is stuck open?

 

I've been running the bike now for a few days, and in traffic, she stays about 1/3. Once I get to stop and go traffic, it does climp half way. I just put all the fairings back on, so let's see how she performs. I will consider the Water Wetter and the direct switch on the fan. Thanks guys.!!