New Commando MK1 owner

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Just picked up a 1973 Commando 850. She's in rough shape and is in for a total restoration, which I'm excited about. Sit tight, there's going to be a lot of questions in the future, but for now I'm curious if there were early MK1's with no cross over pipe on the exhaust? My bike doesn't have the exhaust cross over but it does have a fiberglass tank, which makes me think that it is an earlier MK1. Any thoughts?
 
Welcome.
There is a lot to learn. The collective wisdom here is immense.
That fiberglass tank will fail with the ethanal fuel we are fed at the pump. Swapping it for a steel one will be easier than ever, they are available from the aftermarket.
Enjoy the (restoration) ride.
 
but for now I'm curious if there were early MK1's with no cross over pipe on the exhaust? My bike doesn't have the exhaust cross over but it does have a fiberglass tank, which makes me think that it is an earlier MK1. Any thoughts?

How early is it? Can you give the engine/frame plate number (or the first four digits if you'd prefer)?

The exhaust with the crossover/balance pipe and steel fuel tank should have been there from the beginning of 850 production unless an early Hi-Rider that had a fibreglass fuel tank (see Specifications in the brochure link, below).
It's possible there may have been the odd exception, however, it's more likely the original items have been replaced.
 
Just picked up a 1973 Commando 850. She's in rough shape and is in for a total restoration, which I'm excited about. Sit tight, there's going to be a lot of questions in the future, but for now I'm curious if there were early MK1's with no cross over pipe on the exhaust? My bike doesn't have the exhaust cross over but it does have a fiberglass tank, which makes me think that it is an earlier MK1. Any thoughts?
Mine is a 1973 Interstate and does have the crossover pipe but doesn't have fibreglass tank. I've owned it since 1975.
 
That fiberglass tank will fail with the ethanol fuel we are fed at the pump. Swapping it for a steel one will be easier than ever, they are available from the aftermarket.
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Better yet, the fibe tank dissolves then sends goo thru the carbs & engine then gums them up.
 
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