Topic: First Bike → 1975 Honda CB400F

[nearly]

It was free off Craigslist and has definitely seen better days. Currently I have little to no knowledge of motorcycles so this my "learn as you go" project. Not sure how much money I will be willing to invest for cosmetics, focused mostly on getting it up and running. Tires have been ordered and researching a top end rebuild currently.

[jakec]

here's a pic of it right now.

Wiring was 100% garbage so we tore it all out. Most of the electronic parts are there and look ok, though. Bike apparently ran when parked. Carbs were nasty but cleaned NICE in the ultrasonic cleaner. Nicer than mine

head gasket was really nasty so we took it down to where you see it. Now there are 3 400F engines in this state in my garage lol.

Tires are getting installed, I had a front wheel in my parts pile that he cleaned up, so we should have a roller next week.

Top end rebuild (I've not done one yet) > full rewire with new switch pods, controls, and stock handlebars > fresh carbs and battery > get it running and then see what we can do about the looks. It's detabbed a bit but I do have all the parts for a stock airbox setup.

[jakec]

oh yeah this is what it looked like when i got it home. came with a box of parts and two tanks.

[rusty2078]

Nice! How's the exhaust system?? Hopefully not too bad given that it's all covered in wrap...one of the more elegant designs of the 70's.

[marting100]

Hi Jakec! nice find, cant go wrong with Free  ....overall this bike does not look so bad, actually look like a cafe job that went bad 
With time, love and $ you should be able to get something great. Take your time and take lots of picture for reference. Lots of great info and riders here to help you out.
Good luck!
M

[jakec]

Martin I actually got the bike for free and then gave it to my friend who originally posted here. The bike was some kind of beat up cafe bike that was harvested for the front end by the previous owner. Apparently it ran before it was taken down for the front end. We are diving deep on it but we're going to try and get it back together as quickly and cheaply as possible. Deadline is April 1

[marting100]

Should be interesting to follow, ....any idea where you guys are going with it: resto, resto mod, cafe, .... have fun guys!
M

[jakec]

I think he wants something like this, for as cheap as possible. We're keeping stock wiring, airbox, and side cover though.

[marting100]

I think he wants something like this, for as cheap as possible. We're keeping stock wiring, airbox, and side cover though.

cafe/brat, Nice! good idea to keep the airbox, less trouble playing with carbs/needles adj. ;-)

[nearly]

Did a parts order last night. Still waiting on the wheels, will post another photo once they're on.

[jakec]

still need fuel filter, fuel lines, battery, maybe a few more things before we can try and start it. another $200+ free shipping order

[nearly]

Tires are on! Will be making an acid bath this week for the exhaust. Will post before and after photos once that's done.

[jakec]

show them what they really want to see 

[marting100]

show them what they really want to see 

Looking good!