Anyone have any experience with A V65 Saber? Nice looking ride on CL for $1800 38k on the clocks. Looked at and rode it this weekend Pulls like a freight train kind of heavy but just kind of feels right. Any Known problems to look out for?? Think the old lady would be comfortable on the back with plenty of power to cruise both of us around.
I'm very familiar with them. I've owned five. They do have bottomless torque, great highway machine too. Bulletproof drivetrain except for 2nd gear. The Hondaline fairing is wonderful, hopefully one comes with the bike. They're very rare now, especially with a good set of lowers. I don't want this to sound like these bikes are a complete crapbox - they really aren't - once you get them set up right they'll run well for a loooong time. Anyhow...here's the problems I've had in my 15+ years of ownership: Carbs are a complete bitch, just like every other Honda V4, but you knew that already. Cams can be a problem. The rear exhaust cam is the worst, keeping revs up over 3K as often as possible can prevent the problem entirely. Cam adjustments aren't a lot of fun with those forked adjusters. No storage space, since the seat is bolted on. Be sure the gauge cluster is pristine - they can't be replaced for any kind of sane money these days. Be sure 2nd gear doesn't pop out under load - it's very disconcerting. Common problem for the 2nd gear dogs to get seriously worn on the V65s. Be sure the starter clutch isn't rattling on startup. It's easy to replace, but they're spendy. Spark boxes on these bikes tend to flake out at high mileages. Check the fork brace for cracking. Usually the crack at the rear bolt-holes and can make handling pretty vague. Check the three-wire alternator connector under the seat. They get really crispy...I've seen a V65 Magna actually burn from them shorting out. Check the main fuse on the starter solenoid, and the four-pin wiring connector. It's not a blade type, it's a strip of metal. It will leave you stranded if it fails...it should be replaced with an inline 30A fuse in a waterproof case. Also be sure there are no loose fuses in the front fusebox. You have to remove the front trim (two hex screws under the headlight ears) to get the horn cover off. The little internal spring clips tend to fatigue, and then you get problems like no electric radiator fan power...not good... As far as the 2nd gear problem goes, the bike has so much torque you can skip 2nd gear entirely, but it's the worst problem these bikes had. The gears can be undercut to resolve the problem, but splitting the cases on the big Sabre isn't a fun job at all.
