Author Topic: Buying a CB/CL 350, what to look for?  (Read 1559 times)

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3ur0Tra$h

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Buying a CB/CL 350, what to look for?
« on: September 07, 2007, 05:56:14 AM »
First a bit of an introduction.  My name is Jason, I am 25 years old and sit behind a desk all day.  I am not new to motorcycles, I have been riding for the past 8 years.  I have previously owned an SV650 which I still miss, and a wicked little pit bike that was in pieces a few times (obligatory pics):



I am also involved in the water cooled VW scene and have done about 98% of the work on my 337. (everything but paint)







That said here is my dilemma.  I want to build a bike using a CB/CL 350 as the base platform.  The engine will be all Todd Henning and I will adopt an older "British" race inspired look.  I would love to build a couple all in different styles, but I need to pace myself.  I have been looking to get a bike for cheap and have missed out on a few auctions through eBay.  I recently found an add for a "bunch of vintage Japanese bikes" in Philly and plan on heading up there this weekend with cash and a truck.  The bikes are SUPER cheap, however, from the guy's description of the bikes on hand they may not even roll into the truck.  I am planning a ground up restoration/customization of the bike so as long as the frame is straight and not rusted and the engine will turn over I am happy.

What are some known problem areas on the bike?

What should I look for on the engine?

Do the frames rust in a particular spot beyond repair?

Thanks for any help.  I will make sure to take some pics and if I am lucky enough to come home with something and expect a full write-up in the coming weeks as the bike comes apart.  I plan on building the bike over the winter and heading to the track come spring.  I have been looking at possibly entering some WERA races as well but I would like to get the bike first and start building before I let my dreams get too far ahead of me.  Thanks again!



Offline mikedialect

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Re: Buying a CB/CL 350, what to look for?
« Reply #1 on: September 07, 2007, 09:34:14 AM »
well, if you're going to do a 'ground up customization' job I would look for the cheapest bike that turns over and has compression. Cam tensioner and carbs are the biggies on the 350's.
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