Yamaha XT 600 Z Ténéré: 34L or 55W?

[arkad471]

Hello everyone,
My name is Riccardo, I am a 27 year old guy from Italy and I am a new member of the forum. Very nice to meet this community

I am planning to buy the Yamaha XT 600 Z (Ténéré) first series, that is the model produced from 1982 to 1985 (please correct me if I am wrong).
I recently discovered that the first series is divided into two models: 34L and 55W. I prefer the 34L aesthetically, but since the 55W has some small advantages (longer saddle, better fork and external chain adjusters), I could evaluate it since the aesthetic differences are minimal.
My doubt about the 55W is that since the latter was produced for a shorter time than the 34L (and I believe it is also much less widespread), I am afraid that there may be problems finding spare parts. For example, I know that the front disc is different from 34L series as well as there is a slight modification to the engine, as well as the fork. What do you think? Is my doubt well founded and therefore would it be better to stay on the 34L?

Thank you for your attention.
Riccardo

[donnybach]

Essentially the same bike, just get whichever best machine takes your fancy when looking around. And don’t be bothered when modern 125s sail past you. They are the prettiest machines around though. And sound amazing.
Good hunting.

[cadno]

I own a white 34L and love it to bits.
The real difference is the longer seat, the internal chain adjusters are cool and unique, and make zero difference when adjusting the chain. The front disc is the same although the bolt sizes can be different in reality it's only aesthetic. Like Donny says buy the best bike you can afford.
I quite fancy a blue 55W

[donnybach]

Do it.
Could do with another build read.
I have noticed I couldn’t find the spares lists on cmsnl or fowlers for the 83-85 bikes. But still listed 500 and 550 XTs.

[cadno]

I use a PDF for the 34L and then just put the number in Fowlers, a lot of parts were carried over to the 1VJ with a 34L prefix

[cadno]

If you decide to buy one, they're fairly simple machines.
I'd be looking either for one that's completely done with maybe one or two things to sort to make it perfect or one I know if have to totally rebuild, at least you know what you're getting into. Those nice looking middle of the price range bikes can hide lots of issues, which will end up costing you more than buying a sorted initially more expensive bike.
If it's completely done I'd be wanting to see the following:
New rims as they're always corroded.
A tank with no liner in it.
Original bodywork, especially the front mudguard lip and the oil cooler cover. Front mudguard should have vents in the rear.
A good starter with serious compression at top dead centre.
New consumables like tyres, chain and sprockets, grips etc as it shows its been well maintained.
No nasty or odd noises when running, and check 5th gear rolling on and off.
Oil tight motor.
If you're buying a machine to rebuild the following:
As complete a bike as you can find.
Certain things like the bodywork are really difficult to get hold of, and the tanks will always have damage on the sides, and watch for pinholes on the inside left side where they sit on the side stand.
If you can hear the engine running it's a bonus but beware they can still run with some serious issues which you'll find on disassembly.
But like NASA is reputed to have said, we can achieve anything given enough time and money.

[arkad471]

Hello everyone, thank you very much for your answers!

What problem could there be in the fifth gear? I read that some Ténérés have had problems with the gears (I read that they "whistle"), could you please explain to me better what it is and what tests I should do?

I would like to ask the current owners of this model of Ténéré, if there are spare parts that are difficult to find and which ones they are.
Thanks

[donnybach]

When you ride it, in fifth, you’ll notice a small “howl”, different from the quiet fourth gear. Just a bit of wear. Parts are available. Just bought a set myself. Two gears for about £300. Then there’s the engine strip. I’ll do mine in winter when I do the rings etc. But must say, I’ve ridden mine for 9 years in this condition so far. It’s a bit like a timing belt, you might be fine for years ignoring the change, or it could snap and wreck the motor.
Either way, give it a good look over and service when you get it. Get a manual. Fresh lube. Enjoy.