Hey folks! Been reading through for a month or so, and let me say, “what a help and thanks!” to all that have posted and taken the time, I appreciate the info. Tho I haven’t directly asked for help these threads have already got my bike running.
I recently bought my first motorcycle a 1979 Honda Cb650. I got it from the second owner who stoped riding due to age in 2009. The bike has sat in his garage for 11 years un used. It ran rough when I got it, but after sifting through the forum I relatively quickly had a few major things resolved. Surprisingly enough the tank was absolutely rust free inside. Par from a few gummy spots in the float bowls, there wasn’t really much to deal with from old gas. The carbs however where rather dirty internally and a few of the air cut off vale’s were pooched’ and the boot on the accelerator pump was gone. So after replacing all the rubber diaphragms and a good cleaning the carbs were ready to rock. Except Now only cylinder 1 was firing. What a headache of trouble shooting before I pulled the carbs once again, and realized I had 3 of 4 floats installed upside down (I know! Please be gentle). After finally putter her back together and a fresh set of plugs, it fired right up! I plan on doing a few more basic things. Like break lever switch is t lighting up the tail light and left signals are just staying on without blinking. I assume it’s just a bulb as the front one is out on signal, but still works as a running light. That! And an oil change and new air filter. Probably change the break fluid too.
So, my next move?
I originally bought the bike to build a cafe racer as I’ve loved them since a kid. Coming from Britain as a child that’s just how I thought motorcycles where supposed to look! and I absolutely adore the style. But I’m having second thoughts. This bike is in immaculate condition, except for a second tank and a recovered seat, the bike is all original. Except for obvious maintenance parts. It only has 28000k and for a Canadian bike, is totally rust free. All Chrome is in great shape and no pitting. So do I really want to cut up such a fine specimen of a single production year bike!?
I did put a set of low Handel bars on it, but I kinda like the way it looks now. I am considering changing the signal and break lights to something a little more elegant. But I think I might just ride it like that and see how I feel. But if down the line I felt so, would it be sacrilegious to start cutting into her?
Cheers!
