Topic: Stock Paint or restore (re-paint)?

[smokeygold]

Which is more desireable? Stock paint with some superficial scratches no dents or a high quality re-paint to the original factory color.
I am looking at 2 bikes and am having a hard time making up my mind. Both are about the same mechanically, while the restored bike has less miles. Both are about the same $ give or take $200.

[KB02]

As resale (or appaissal) time comes around, the stocker will be worth just a bit more than a restored bike given that they are both about the same quality.

At least that's what I understand.

[Bob Wessner]

Wow, a tough one. It's like asking how long is a piece of string? You probably have to mull that one over yourself and decide. I'm not sure the opinion of others will count for much. What are your end goals? How will you feel about either choice a year or two down the road?

[smokeygold]

I plan on keeping it as I wanted one as youngster! I guess I am not interested about re-sale as much as for showing it at vintage meets!

[ProTeal55]

I dealt with this question allot when I was building my CB450.

The paint was in decent shape for it's age (few scratches here/small dent their/etc), but it was indeed the factory/original paint. Whenever I said I was gonna strip it and redo I got attacked from all sides saying I should keep what's on there, how it is only original once, etc...

All in all it is your bike and your decision...

[736cc]

If it ain't broke, don't fix it.
Original paint is cool, scratches and fade no problem; dents totally suck. I couldn't live w/ a dented tank (dings MAYBE, except on black). And how's the rest of the bike? Is it all-original or what?

[dusterdude]

its only original once.

[Kevin D]

I have not regretted, not one little iota, repainting my bike. It was previously less than presentable. The faded color was vague. There were the beginnings of knee rubs on the gas tank like an old dirt bike has. I did the repaint for my own satisfaction, and it was a quality job. You are welcome to look at my gallery photos for the before and after.

Which is more desireable?

Thats a question only you can answer. But I know what I prefer. Mine is a rider, not a show bike. Its the only bike I have. If I can keep it running and looking good, maybe it will carry me for a loooooong time.

I plan on showing it at vintage meets!

Well, then maybe the original is the greatest. Can you put some photos up?