Topic: new guy in need of advice

[crmthedomo]

hey all first post here so i wanted to introduce myself as well as post a question as im in need of advice.

first off im fairly fresh in the bike business, spent roughly a year on and off on a klx250sf. i usually work on cars but have been wanting to grab a cb550 for a cafe brat project. that being said i need some advice on purchasing a bike. i have 2 in question so if you can provide as much input as possible as i dont know what i should be looking for.

the first bike is listed at 2200 but the guy is willing to come down to 1800.

bike A: http://pages.ebay.com/motors/link/?nav=item.view&id=281713295585&alt=web

it seems like a solid bike but the 2nd bike in question is a whole lot cheaper, priced at 1200.

bike B: http://pages.ebay.com/motors/link/?nav=item.view&id=271891238312&alt=web

bike b seems like a fair price but it seems to me its just a guy selling an extra bike he has vs bike A, a bike the seller actually rides. if course those are speculations so i wanted to see what you guys think. what should i ask? i already sent out a message tk both asking for a video of a coldstart as both say the bikes run. on a sidenote i have about 2300 in my budget and i wont be able to check out the bikes in person as its too far from me. so ca 300 goes to shipping.

anyways, i hope you guys can make this decision a bit easier.

thanks



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[70CB750]

Since you are going to cut it up, get the cheaper one.

[crmthedomo]

pretty valid point. anything i should look for though? any specific issues these bikes may have?

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[calj737]

Bike B shows as "delisted" now. Bike "A" is suspect.

Seller claims bike was "restored" 2 years ago, and he's owned it for 3. If so, then theres some damage to that bike he put on it. Chain guard is cracked, side cover (L) is damaged, and theres apparent rust on the rims, and other places. Frame is scratched in a number of places, indicating the bike has at least been knocked over, but not badly...

Screws on side covers are stock, and seem unmolested; hard to do if you "restore" one of these. So I question his claim about restored.

At that mileage, with the condition of the bike, I'd be somewhere between $1,100 and $1,400 maximum to buy that bike. It would have to have a clear, valid title (seems to have a current Reg plate), and the bike better start, idle and rev for that money. Paint on tank is not stock. Looks poorly applied in the pictures.

If you're out to customize, these stock issues won't matter. But knowing what is/isnt been done should factor into your project budget. Not sure you can buy this bike for the right price from a distance, but thats my input-

Good luck and hope it turns out well for you!

[crmthedomo]

thank you for a legitimate and solid answer. i found out that the other bike is going to be relisted. the guy sold it to his dad to get quick money but his dad will relist. they want 1500 for it.

thanks for the insight on bike A. the fact that it has plates on it that seem current gives me high hopes that it in fact runs. im still waiting for a cold start video from either. will see. hope i can get a bike soon... summer months are gonna pass fast.. 

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