Topic: 77 CB750F First time builder chick

[Bee Joenz]

ahhhh projects, projects... fun, exciting, terrifying, frustrating and gratifying all rolled in to one - am I right?

Been doing research and dreaming about a 70's model CB of sorts for over a year and in the last couple months had dialed in on the late 70's style in hopes of purchasing a pretty, running bike to call my own... About three weeks ago I got a call that changed my plans a bit, a lot really, but I figured why the hell not, I like a project

My boyfriends uncle calls telling me that if I promise not to kill myself on it, I can come pick up a 77 cb750F (that's been sitting for at least 10-20 years in his garage) for free! Excitement and intrigue prevailed and I was in.. I was well aware it'd need some TLC but every day I struggle with the confidence of extensive research and the terror of being in over my head.

Basically I'm okay if at the end of the day I spend somewhere around $4-5 grand (hopefully a lot less) because that's kind of what I was planning on spending out the gate but with this opportunity I get to really learn, fail and prevail one step at a time myself.

First steps attempted/prepped for:
-Replaced the battery and got a new battery strap as well
-Drained oil - replaced washers and filter
-Purchased new brake bleeders (which should be here this week) although after reading through some more threads on here today I'm debating on completely opening and cleaning my calipers, cause why not... But a concern is the fact that my front and back breaks have different size bleeders and after talking to a guy about it he had suggested that they may not be stock and in fact two different size tires?
-Have gone through 5 days of soaking and shaking a nut filled gas tank in apple cider vinegar only to not have equalized the acidity properly and experienced this ridiculously almost instant flash rust (about to deal with that again this next weekend)
-Didn't realize originally but when I got it, there was a breadbox installed (which I'm selling) so I now I've located and installed a stock air box with a new air filter and boots at 6:30am (in a dress) cause I was just too excited to get it done
-Replaced my ignition because it had seen one too many screw drivers
-And am currently waiting on a new stator cover which you can see was damaged and some other random things that don't necessarily deal with how the bike runs...

and that's kind of where I'm at... the wiring is ***ked. I'll add a photo of the left side soon but it's a jumbled mess - plus after installing the new battery and ignition nothing lights up.. whomp whomp so that's on the to do list as well but as I had mentioned I'm a nueb which I'm sure you guys see plenty of on here. Wiring and the actual engine work worries me - although I feel confident in doing just about anything else with the help of diagrams, threads and Youtube.. The engine itself does seem to be promising...? It definitely has compression and zero leaks as of now!

So I'm shooting in the wind with the priority list - not really sure what I should be worried about and/or what order it all needs to be accomplished in. Any thoughts, suggestions or concerns would greatly be appreciated!

Thanks for looking

[goldarrow]

Welcome bee.  They say free bike is most expensive bike, I don't know if that's true, but we'll see it here???

First thing I would do is hose the bike down and clean her up a bit.  Download manual in the download section of the forum.  Tackle one task at a time. Common metric tools, air compressor, JIS Impact tool, gallon of wd40 just to get started.  Read the manual like you read comics or bible.

And yeah, keep the rear fender stock as it is, don't convert it to chrome if you know what I'm talking about. 

[eddiebpool]

Welcome Bee, I'm doing a 76 CB750 F1 at the moment and have a thread running.  You doing a full restoration or just want a runner / rider?  You have come to the right place - I'm a rookie finding my way in the SOHC world though there are plenty on here who can lead you more assuredly to the light.  The sort of money you mention, you could do what you want - stock restoration, fancy cafe racer, whatever.  I just posted a whole load of advice based on my modest experience for another rookie, might be useful to you.

http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,137248.100.html

Best of luck.

[Bee Joenz]

Welcome bee.  They say free bike is most expensive bike, I don't know if that's true, but we'll see it here???

First thing I would do is hose the bike down and clean her up a bit.  Download manual in the download section of the forum.  Tackle one task at a time. Common metric tools, air compressor, JIS Impact tool, gallon of wd40 just to get started.  Read the manual like you read comics or bible.

And yeah, keep the rear fender stock as it is, don't convert it to chrome if you know what I'm talking about.

We shall see about the free part! Ha and yes I had that fleeting moment of what would've been a horrible choice...

I've cleaned her off, wiped, polished then re-dirtied her up within the last two weeks doing random stuff but most of the gunk is off. The gentleman in the UK I spoke of actually drop boxed me several manuals and diagrams in PDFs that I've been going through - and have spent at least a days worth of time reading threads trying to handle one task at a time as you had mentioned, just figuring which tasks take priority with multitasking too much!  I have no idea what a his impact tool is but I'll google it haha but I've been building my arsenal up in regards to tool and such.

Welcome Bee, I'm doing a 76 CB750 F1 at the moment and have a thread running.  You doing a full restoration or just want a runner / rider?  You have come to the right place - I'm a rookie finding my way in the SOHC world though there are plenty on here who can lead you more assuredly to the light.  The sort of money you mention, you could do what you want - stock restoration, fancy cafe racer, whatever.  I just posted a whole load of advice based on my modest experience for another rookie, might be useful to you.

http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,137248.100.html

Best of luck.

Eddie! I was actually going through your thread which initially made me start this one! Ahhh what a question... I eventually do want to do a full restoration, but probably not till this winter, as of now I just want her riding and riding safely - not too worried about the astethics right now. And I appreciate your welcoming, I will definitely be checking out the attached link!

Cheers!

[eddiebpool]

Get her running, brake system rebuild and new tyres.  That's where I would start. 

On the get her running part, new oil and filter before you go.  I doubt your carbs will be good so I would certainly clean them.  There are some excellent youtube videos on how to do this.  If they are badly gummed I would consider rebuild kits.  You don't need the tank done to do a test fire - below is my first start video (actually 3rd start if truth be told, I didn't have the foresight to video the first).

Once you have signs of life, check cam chain tension and check for leaks, check your oil levels.  You will probably have your carbs off a couple of times, or you might get lucky.  Listen for problems, the bike will tell you if she is not happy.  If all is good, happy days.

[JWExperience]

That left side stator cover could be a little indication as to why electrics are acting funky, looks like considerable damage there. Looks like previous owner did a wheel swap. You appear to have the f2 77 model for sure with the 75-76 wheels and brakes. The later f bikes came with the comstar wheels and dual brakes in the front.
As for parts to get, brake rebuilds are definitely a great start, stopping is important. Fork seals are another good one, easy to learn and complete but also good for safety. Steering stem bearings are also good for handling and not too difficult. Since the bike has sat for so long, get some bt45 tires or something because yours are probably rotted. That would be a good start.
Where are you located? I have a second set of comstars and brakes that need rebuilding but could cost a lot for shipping.

[goldarrow]

Isn't this model that has common valve guides issues??? Ask the PO why the bike was parked, besides that alternator electrical issues.  See if they mention anything about motor condition

[JWExperience]

Yes. The black engine had the valve issues but some of that wear was created due to excessive revving from overzealous riders looking to get all the sport they could and some or more from design. I would think the the stator cover is more to blame than anything. It looks like that cover was busted through.

[seanbarney41]

Isn't this model that has common valve guides issues??? Ask the PO why the bike was parked, besides that alternator electrical issues.  See if they mention anything about motor condition

I am sure there is some truth to the F2/3 valve guide issue, but I think it has been blown out of proportion.  My F3 has nearly 30,000 miles on it, was stuck when I got it, has not been treated tenderly by me or the previous owner, and uses less oil than any other CB I have owned...valve guides and seals are untouched...

Bee, I may be interested in that breadbox if the price is right.

[HondaMan]

Hi, Bee!
You've come to the right place for help.

I'll watch, too.

[SOHC4 Cafe Racer Fan]

Bee,

Welcome.  Nice F bike. 

The impact driver is a manual impact driver (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Impact_driver).  You can pick one up pretty cheap at Home Depot or Lowes.  This tool really helps in removing the soft and prone to stripping engine screw fasteners (many of yours look partially stripped).  Do NOT try to remove these with a normal screwdriver.  You need both torque and force against the fastener to get it to break free.  You can replace these with some stainless steel allen head bolts.

The steering bearings are roller style bearings from (no joke) All Balls Racing. 

You will also want to replace the swingarm bushings with bronze bushings (the stock ones were plastic). 

In addition to addressing the damage to the stator and checking the wiring with a multimeter for shorts, you will want to give your bike a proper tune up.

You also mentioned replacing the ignition.  If so, you should replace it with an electronic system -- Dyna, Pamco or something similar. 

There is lots of help to be had on this forum.  The search function (not the one on the upper right BUT the "search" link on the upper left, and asking questions will provide lots of help.  We all want you to get your bike to a nice riding machine. 

Don

[danyo]

That's gonna bee a busy thread. And I hope Bee will be busy too . Welcome and I must admit I'm impressed. Did you choose already pet name for your bike??

[Davez134]

Welcome, and nice score! I know it can get overwhelming, cause you have all these ideas in your head of what you want to do. Best thing you can do is pick one system at a time (engine, fuel, electrical etc.) and make sure it is safe and reliable before moving on. Seems, to me at least, to be more manageable that way. Wealth of knowledge here, use it, and have fun!

[Bee Joenz]

Get her running, brake system rebuild and new tyres.  That's where I would start. 

On the get her running part, new oil and filter before you go.  I doubt your carbs will be good so I would certainly clean them.  There are some excellent youtube videos on how to do this.  If they are badly gummed I would consider rebuild kits.  You don't need the tank done to do a test fire - below is my first start video (actually 3rd start if truth be told, I didn't have the foresight to video the first).

Once you have signs of life, check cam chain tension and check for leaks, check your oil levels.  You will probably have your carbs off a couple of times, or you might get lucky.  Listen for problems, the bike will tell you if she is not happy.  If all is good, happy days.

Thanks Eddie - I think I'm going to start with the simpler stuff and work my way to the carbs. I had a two stroke moped a while back I did the work on but I'm hesitant with the whole four carbs instead of one...

That left side stator cover could be a little indication as to why electrics are acting funky, looks like considerable damage there. Looks like previous owner did a wheel swap. You appear to have the f2 77 model for sure with the 75-76 wheels and brakes. The later f bikes came with the comstar wheels and dual brakes in the front.
As for parts to get, brake rebuilds are definitely a great start, stopping is important. Fork seals are another good one, easy to learn and complete but also good for safety. Steering stem bearings are also good for handling and not too difficult. Since the bike has sat for so long, get some bt45 tires or something because yours are probably rotted. That would be a good start.
Where are you located? I have a second set of comstars and brakes that need rebuilding but could cost a lot for shipping.

The stator cover should be here in a few weeks but there's definitely enough on my plate to hold me over till then - I haven't taken the current cover off (yet) so I'm not really too sure what the actually wiring looks like in there...  I know this may be a stupid question but by a brake rebuild are you suggesting that I just get a brake caliper rebuild kit? And I'm in Southern California - would love a shipping price if you're down! 

Isn't this model that has common valve guides issues??? Ask the PO why the bike was parked, besides that alternator electrical issues.  See if they mention anything about motor condition

Uhh why it was parked.. haha to say it nicely, he's kind of a multi project kinda guy. He traded it for boat or something, has about eleven different bikes of sorts on his property and started his kitchen remodeling fifteen years ago.. He's sees what he wants then gets side tracked on other projects. He said he personally laid it down about ten years ago, put it in the garage and then ended up putting three more bikes in front of it.

Isn't this model that has common valve guides issues??? Ask the PO why the bike was parked, besides that alternator electrical issues.  See if they mention anything about motor condition

I am sure there is some truth to the F2/3 valve guide issue, but I think it has been blown out of proportion.  My F3 has nearly 30,000 miles on it, was stuck when I got it, has not been treated tenderly by me or the previous owner, and uses less oil than any other CB I have owned...valve guides and seals are untouched...

Bee, I may be interested in that breadbox if the price is right.

I'm selling the breadbox for $99 bucks on ebay right now which I know is a lot less then what I've seen it go for but let me know if you're interested - you can see photos here: http://www.ebay.com/itm/251942699141?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649

That's gonna bee a busy thread. And I hope Bee will be busy too . Welcome and I must admit I'm impressed. Did you choose already pet name for your bike??

Oh I'll be busy... have been every weekend thus far but I'm expecting to be even more so as I learn more! She's got a name 

Welcome, and nice score! I know it can get overwhelming, cause you have all these ideas in your head of what you want to do. Best thing you can do is pick one system at a time (engine, fuel, electrical etc.) and make sure it is safe and reliable before moving on. Seems, to me at least, to be more manageable that way. Wealth of knowledge here, use it, and have fun!

Thanks for the words of encouragement! I think I'm going to tackle the brakes now, front end (fork seals and steering stems bearing as mentioned - possibly some new shocks while I'm in there), then I suppose the stator cover, carburetor cleaning, the tank (again...) followed by the wiring and then cross my fingers and hope for the best!

Bee,

Welcome.  Nice F bike. 

The impact driver is a manual impact driver (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Impact_driver).  You can pick one up pretty cheap at Home Depot or Lowes.  This tool really helps in removing the soft and prone to stripping engine screw fasteners (many of yours look partially stripped).  Do NOT try to remove these with a normal screwdriver.  You need both torque and force against the fastener to get it to break free.  You can replace these with some stainless steel allen head bolts.

The steering bearings are roller style bearings from (no joke) All Balls Racing. 

You will also want to replace the swingarm bushings with bronze bushings (the stock ones were plastic). 

In addition to addressing the damage to the stator and checking the wiring with a multimeter for shorts, you will want to give your bike a proper tune up.

You also mentioned replacing the ignition.  If so, you should replace it with an electronic system -- Dyna, Pamco or something similar. 

There is lots of help to be had on this forum.  The search function (not the one on the upper right BUT the "search" link on the upper left, and asking questions will provide lots of help.  We all want you to get your bike to a nice riding machine. 

Don

I've ordered the impact driver! hah thanks for the info on that - and I also appreciate the explanation behind it. The more knowledge and the less things I break, the better! I've also tacked on the parts you mentioned onto my shopping list, so thank you again  Do you have an example to the electronic ignition system you had mentioned - I just replaced the key switch I suppose.

Thank you again to all of you!

[Bee Joenz]

Ya'll wana see my horrific wiring??

Not even sure where to start in here - suggestions always welcomed!

[SOHC4 Cafe Racer Fan]

Electronic Ignition
A basic Dynatec Dyna-S system will directly swap in place of your points system.  Dynatech makes a more sophisticated Dyna 2000 system (allowing for tuning and a rev limiter), but it is not necessary.
In addition, Pamco makes a similar system to the Dyna-S.  There have been some reports of Dyna 2000 failures. 

As for your wiring, you should probably start that system when you are ready to tackle looking under the left side rotor cover.  Your wiring harness is crusty, but that's not to say it isn't functional or repairable.  If you use your existing harness, I would suggest replacing the tube fuseblock with a modern "blade" style fuseblock.  (http://www.amazon.com/Shipping-Lumision-Automotive-Terminal-Mounting/dp/B00X34UJWE/ref=sr_1_36?ie=UTF8&qid=1431033040&sr=8-36&keywords=blade+fuseblock)  The modern fuseblocks use more readily available blade style fuses and may even carry spares and have a water-tight cover.  You can purchase repro harnesses, but the colors and connectors are not always a direct swap.  You can re-wire your bike from scratch or even go so far as to use a modern Motogadget M-Unit system (pricey but very well made) as the controller for your wiring. 

Where are you in SoCal? I'm in Long Beach.  There are lots of resources between Orange and Los Angeles.  In addition, lots of riding clubs/organizations that focus on vintage bikes.

[SKTP]

Wait until you open up the headlight (in reference to wiring)

[madmtnmotors]

Ya'll wana see my horrific wiring??

Not even sure where to start in here - suggestions always welcomed!

Try attacking the electrical one component at a time. Some obvious failure there along with half hearted attempts at repair. New connectors, connector blocks, and tools can be had from Vintage Connections or Oregon Motorcycle Parts:

http://www.vintageconnections.com/

http://www.oregonmotorcycleparts.com/connectors.html

As for the bullet connectors, these old Hondas use the smaller one, so be sure you get the right ones. I highly recommend the crimp tool, it puts a double crimp on the wire as well as the double crimp on the insulation too. Looks like a factory connector when done:

http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,146874.msg1673371.html#msg1673371


I have refurbished the entire harness (including switches) on a few 750's. Well worth the effort:

http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,137351.msg1549191.html#msg1549191

Welcome aboard. There's no hope for you now!

[Bee Joenz]

Electronic Ignition
A basic Dynatec Dyna-S system will directly swap in place of your points system.  Dynatech makes a more sophisticated Dyna 2000 system (allowing for tuning and a rev limiter), but it is not necessary.
In addition, Pamco makes a similar system to the Dyna-S.  There have been some reports of Dyna 2000 failures. 

As for your wiring, you should probably start that system when you are ready to tackle looking under the left side rotor cover.  Your wiring harness is crusty, but that's not to say it isn't functional or repairable.  If you use your existing harness, I would suggest replacing the tube fuseblock with a modern "blade" style fuseblock.  (http://www.amazon.com/Shipping-Lumision-Automotive-Terminal-Mounting/dp/B00X34UJWE/ref=sr_1_36?ie=UTF8&qid=1431033040&sr=8-36&keywords=blade+fuseblock)  The modern fuseblocks use more readily available blade style fuses and may even carry spares and have a water-tight cover.  You can purchase repro harnesses, but the colors and connectors are not always a direct swap.  You can re-wire your bike from scratch or even go so far as to use a modern Motogadget M-Unit system (pricey but very well made) as the controller for your wiring. 

Where are you in SoCal? I'm in Long Beach.  There are lots of resources between Orange and Los Angeles.  In addition, lots of riding clubs/organizations that focus on vintage bikes.

I should've googled before I asked - ha I've literally been researching and perusing all the terms, parts and suggestions after posting my last reply.  I think I'll tackle the wiring towards the end of my to do list because it is definitely one of the most daunting things. I'm in Ventura!

Ya'll wana see my horrific wiring??

Not even sure where to start in here - suggestions always welcomed!

Try attacking the electrical one component at a time. Some obvious failure there along with half hearted attempts at repair. New connectors, connector blocks, and tools can be had from Vintage Connections or Oregon Motorcycle Parts:

http://www.vintageconnections.com/

http://www.oregonmotorcycleparts.com/connectors.html

As for the bullet connectors, these old Hondas use the smaller one, so be sure you get the right ones. I highly recommend the crimp tool, it puts a double crimp on the wire as well as the double crimp on the insulation too. Looks like a factory connector when done:

http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,146874.msg1673371.html#msg1673371


I have refurbished the entire harness (including switches) on a few 750's. Well worth the effort:

http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,137351.msg1549191.html#msg1549191

Welcome aboard. There's no hope for you now!

Oh wow - I definitely think these links will come in handy, thank you!

[SOHC4 Cafe Racer Fan]

Taking on wiring last is a logical strategy.

I agree with Wilbur in addressing one system at a time.  Brakes, front suspension, rear suspension, wheels/bearings, stearing head bearings, swingarm bushings, starter, engine, etc.

Another electrical component you may wish to look into upgrading is the voltage regulator for a modern solid state regulator/rectifier.  Most parts sellers have them and you can buy one directly from Rick's (http://ricksmotorsportelectrics.com/) or Oregon Motorcycle Parts.

Ventura places you in the backyard of Alicia Elfving aka Motolady a blogger who promotes woman riding motorcycles.  Her fella Jeff Wolf does some great metal fab work and they both know how to turn a wrench.  You are also a stone's throw (hour) from Ian Halcott (http://twinlinemoto.com/) a custom builder; he's a great resource if you end up wanting to customize your bike and need some metal fabrication (seat, tank, etc.).  As you must know, there's great riding up that way through Santa Barbara and Santa Ynez and up the coast through Morro Bay, Cambria, etc.

[Bee Joenz]

Taking on wiring last is a logical strategy.

I agree with Wilbur in addressing one system at a time.  Brakes, front suspension, rear suspension, wheels/bearings, stearing head bearings, swingarm bushings, starter, engine, etc.

Another electrical component you may wish to look into upgrading is the voltage regulator for a modern solid state regulator/rectifier.  Most parts sellers have them and you can buy one directly from Rick's (http://ricksmotorsportelectrics.com/) or Oregon Motorcycle Parts.

Grr... I hate how long this is going to **potentially** take hah 

[seanbarney41]

Taking on wiring last is a logical strategy.

I agree with Wilbur in addressing one system at a time.  Brakes, front suspension, rear suspension, wheels/bearings, stearing head bearings, swingarm bushings, starter, engine, etc.

Another electrical component you may wish to look into upgrading is the voltage regulator for a modern solid state regulator/rectifier.  Most parts sellers have them and you can buy one directly from Rick's (http://ricksmotorsportelectrics.com/) or Oregon Motorcycle Parts.

Grr... I hate how long this is going to **potentially** take hah 

That is actually a really good consideration and brings up another...a CB750 is a terrible bike to try and learn to ride on.  Mainly because it is a very heavy son of a gun.  I really can't recommend for anyone to try and learn to ride on a cb750.  (I am assuming here that you are totally new to riding.  If that is not the case, bear with me, for I will try and include useful information)
The CB750 has terrible brakes, even when they were brand new and working correctly.  Old ladies talking on cell phones while driving 15 year old minivans can literally out brake you.  Some of these minivans can even out accelerate you, but the cb750 is still fast enough to get you into lots of legal and/or life threatening trouble.
    Literally every component of this motorcycle needs to be, at least, inspected before it will be safe to ride.  Few here have the free time or the budget to finish a project of this nature in less than a year.  If the motor needs just a "top end" rebuild, you are looking at over $1000.  I guarantee that bike needs a chain, sprockets, and tires without even looking at your pictures...bam $500 easy.  I suggest you source a modern, small motorcyle to learn to ride on and enjoy while you repair this cb750.  You will learn more, faster on a small, dependable modern motorcycle.  A motorcycle safety class will teach you safe riding habits and get you your license fast.
     Vintage motorcycles are a wonderfully fun thing, but require a huge amount of mechanical knowledge.  My first bike was a neglected cb350k.  Within 2 years time, I still had not learned how to keep it running reliably, despite being able to build Chevy's from the ground up, and did not feel safe or in control even when it did run.  This soured me for several years on motorcycles in general and it was several years before I returned to the hobby....thus not a way I can encourage anyone to start.
     Whatever you do, good luck.  Riding motorcycles is awesome fun  and, I feel, worth almost any effort to experience.

[SOHC4 Cafe Racer Fan]

Sean: good concerns.  A CB750 is a heavy beast.  That said, I have seen many women taking on Harley Sportsters as their first bikes.  IF it is her first bike, a more modern running bike would be a better option with this one on the back burner -- or a lighter 550.

I wonder IF this is the builder's first ride.  There are a couple of dirt bikes in the yard where she has set up shop.  She seems mechanically inclined and unafraid to get her hands dirty.  There's something telling me that this is not her first rodeo.  This might just be the first bike she has undertaken to re-build. 

I'm hoping she's in it to win it.

[Bee Joenz]

Taking on wiring last is a logical strategy.

I agree with Wilbur in addressing one system at a time.  Brakes, front suspension, rear suspension, wheels/bearings, stearing head bearings, swingarm bushings, starter, engine, etc.

Another electrical component you may wish to look into upgrading is the voltage regulator for a modern solid state regulator/rectifier.  Most parts sellers have them and you can buy one directly from Rick's (http://ricksmotorsportelectrics.com/) or Oregon Motorcycle Parts.

Grr... I hate how long this is going to **potentially** take hah 

That is actually a really good consideration and brings up another...a CB750 is a terrible bike to try and learn to ride on.  Mainly because it is a very heavy son of a gun.  I really can't recommend for anyone to try and learn to ride on a cb750.  (I am assuming here that you are totally new to riding.  If that is not the case, bear with me, for I will try and include useful information)
The CB750 has terrible brakes, even when they were brand new and working correctly.  Old ladies talking on cell phones while driving 15 year old minivans can literally out brake you.  Some of these minivans can even out accelerate you, but the cb750 is still fast enough to get you into lots of legal and/or life threatening trouble.
    Literally every component of this motorcycle needs to be, at least, inspected before it will be safe to ride.  Few here have the free time or the budget to finish a project of this nature in less than a year.  If the motor needs just a "top end" rebuild, you are looking at over $1000.  I guarantee that bike needs a chain, sprockets, and tires without even looking at your pictures...bam $500 easy.  I suggest you source a modern, small motorcyle to learn to ride on and enjoy while you repair this cb750.  You will learn more, faster on a small, dependable modern motorcycle.  A motorcycle safety class will teach you safe riding habits and get you your license fast.
     Vintage motorcycles are a wonderfully fun thing, but require a huge amount of mechanical knowledge.  My first bike was a neglected cb350k.  Within 2 years time, I still had not learned how to keep it running reliably, despite being able to build Chevy's from the ground up, and did not feel safe or in control even when it did run.  This soured me for several years on motorcycles in general and it was several years before I returned to the hobby....thus not a way I can encourage anyone to start.
     Whatever you do, good luck.  Riding motorcycles is awesome fun  and, I feel, worth almost any effort to experience.

What's insane is the fact that all of these things have literally ran through my head today... there's no point to sell her but I have been slowly realizing the time frame that's going to be involved and along with everything else you've mentioned I agree a hundred percent.  I definitely do not have a death wish and I know I want to bring THIS bike back to life but I'm thinking at the same time I'll probably learn how to cruise on a 350 while restoring the bike of my dreams without cuting corners. Makes sense.

Ps love the description of the grandma

[SOHC4 Cafe Racer Fan]

If this is your first bike, then I think riding a smaller bike and getting some seat time is a GREAT idea.  Keep this as a slow burn project.