Just bought an 81 XV920RH, what should I do first?

[pulse521]

This is my first motorcycle, after getting my M endorsement over 4 years ago. It runs well, needs some carb cleaning/tuning and a general wash down. What are some of the first things I should do (if any), besides the basics?

It needs a clutch lever switch so I can start it in gear instead of neutral, and the headlight goes dim after the bike warms up. At some point I'll be updating the controls to a more modern set, instead of the factory 1-piece throttle/killswitch assembly and clutch/horn/light assembly. As well, it needs a new cam tension port gasket (what ever is right next to the front cylinder exhaust port.

[Flyingdog]

Outside of getting a manual...I'd say you're on your way. Don't wanna throw tooo much stuff, as I'm sure you'll find more than enough ..so I'll just suggest "maintenance" (valves & clutch adjustments, cleaning any/all connections). 39yr old bikes accumulate lotsa crap.

[faffi]

Welcome!

On a bike that old I personally would strip the brakes and replace the caliper pistons and seals, plus the master pump piston and seals, as well as fit new braided brake hoses. It helps little to have a well running bike if the brakes fail on you when you need them the most.

Other than that, it is well worth following the manual and perform a complete service/tune-up. You may also want to fit new tires if they are old and/or worn - the rims can run tubeless.

[pulse521]

So, I haven't been able to ride it yet :(

It's stored at some one else's house, and I have to go over to ride etc. Today I learned that I need to pull the choke out (Mikuni carbs) and not give it throttle when starting... Now it's flooded with a low battery, and the starter mocks me. Is this how they all are?

[faffi]

If you want to keep the starter as healthy as it can be with these engines, never attempt starting with a low battery. Push starting is OK, but not cranking.

[Flyingdog]

(Mikuni carbs)

Some PO put them in there? 920s used Hitachi.

not give it throttle when starting... Now it's flooded

Highly doubt twisting the throttle led to flooding. As in: CV carbs don't work like that. Something else led to flooding. As in: Fuel from pilot and/or choke circuit (aka: starter circuit) just loaded up in the heads cuz of not firing. Twisting the throttle during start "didn't". Floats stick'n open can also let in excessive fuel, to a point. But if the slides/jet needle isn't rise'n, no fuel will get in (unless the needle jet/jet needle is screwed somehow.
As faffi mentioned..the low battery led to your flooding..ie: no juice to fire the plug..(among other possibilities).