Topic: Wannabe mechanic with no wheels :(

[Jerv]

Hi fellas, n00b from Norway making his first post

Some of you might already have figured out I don't own a bike, yet.... I used to ride a CBR600 and had lots of fun almost killing myself every single day for two years.

Then a lady came along and that old story needs no more introduction I'm sure.

Lately the hunger for a bike has returned, but this time I want something I can work on and the CB 550 café's and customs I've seen on this forum have convinced me that the 550 is my destiny. All I need is a bike, proper tools, ABC 'How To' books and hours spent on this message board...

So, is there a CB 550 guide to building your own bike laying around and how hard is it to build a decent looking and running CB? My history as a mechanic can be summoned up pretty quick:

-changed sprockets and chain on the CBR600

Other than that I've done some small work on a couple of old Volvo's, but there ends my mechanical history. However, I'm not all thumbs and I bet I can get it right with just a little help!

[Johnie]

Welcome to the board...try to hook up with some cycle enthusiasts from your area.  They will help steer you on the right track.  Visit the bike shows and swap meets and take a look at what it there.  That will help you decide which way to go.  You will also meet a lot of great guys with the same interests at those swaps.  Tap their knowledge and find the right bike.  You may want to start out with a bike that is not a total piece of junk so that you at least have something to work with.  I know the old money budget comes into play here too.  Take your time and do some research.  Good luck and remember it is a hobby not your life...well not all the time. 

[SteveD CB500F]

First of all, welcome...

You may want to hook up with SOHCers in your region. Look here:

http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?board=82.0

Or get in touch with Egil, who is the only Norgewian Fireman on the board!

[Jerv]

Thank you guys for both welcomes and tips!

There's a MC 'junkyard' not too far from where I live that specializes in 70's and 80's Japanese bikes, I've sent them a mail and hopefully they can locate a decent bike for me.

[griff6-5-zero]

well, you found a place with allot of info and good ppl. That's very good start my friend. Here in the states we have craigslist.org, basically a garage sale for every city. Look into something like that also. Good luck..

griff

[Jerv]

well, you found a place with allot of info and good ppl. That's very good start my friend. Here in the states we have craigslist.org, basically a garage sale for every city. Look into something like that also. Good luck..

griff

Thanks mate. I've only browsed this site for a few days and it really looks the dog's bollocks! I e-mailed my local garage sale and they said they were putting up some CB's for sale pretty soon, gotta keep a close eye on that.