Hi Peter. It is a matter of personal preference, but I like to disassemble the bike one item/sub-system at a time. Inspect, clean and repair each piece and then store. Create a list of spare parts required as you go. For instance, remove exhaust system determine if it is usable, requires replacement, chroming, ceramic coating etc. Add new exhaust gaskets to your part list then move on to next item. Make sure you take lots of pics during disassembly, you would be amazed what seemed obvious when you took it apart becomes a Rubic cube two years later when it comes time to reassemble.
If you go at a deliberate pace you will also be able to research what parts are available where and more importantly, what is not available. You can also research how to dissemble/assemble a sub-assembly and determine what may be missing and/or worn. For instance, my bike was missing or had incorrect flat/lock washers on approximately 40% of the fasteners.
I powder coated my first restoration but I doubt if I will use powder on the next bike. There are some good rattle can paints out there now and if you can clean the frame in your shop, or send it away for media blasting I would recommend that route. This is a matter of preference though, personally I will use the savings toward new parts.
I have a '79 CB750F with a DOHC engine and they are sweet runners. You will enjoy this bike.
