Topic: Opinions wanted, how much would you offer for this bike?

[manjisann]

I am looking to pick up a second bike, so that when I work on one I can ride the other. I currently have a 73 CB500 that is leaking a little oil out of the o rings between the jugs and the headers (sorry, I think that is what its called, its the usual oil leak.) I know it isn't a major issue, but it bugs me so I would like to eventually be able to redo all the seals.

http://www.ksl.com/index.php?nid=218&ad=5088174&cat=144&lpid=6

I have found this ad in the local papers and am thinking I'd like to pick this baby up. I emailed the seller and it is still for sale and the price is negotiable The seller seems to be very forthcoming in what he knows needs to be done with her. I already know how to do fork seals, so that isn't huge. So here is the question, how much would you start out offering? I am tempted to offer $400 to start out with, but unless someone else here convinces me otherwise, I'd be willing to go as high as $550 (the cash I have on hand  ) I just don't want to start with an insultingly low offer and offend him, but I figure with how long it has been up and with the economy.... Also, any suggestions on known issues to look for in this model?

Thanks everyone

Brandon

[Johnie]

I would be hesitant to buy a bike without a title.  What if it is stolen?  Then you are sunk.  I mean the guy may be up front about everything, but if he does not have the title maybe he does not even know it is stolen.  Not trying to throw you a downer here, but what good is a bike if you can not title it?  I have seen some guys here spend a ton of time trying to title a bike and come up empty.  Maybe you can have a cop friend run the serial number to see if it comes up stolen?  And maybe you live in a state where it is not a hassle getting a title for an untitled bike?  I hope it works out for you...

[manjisann]

I would be hesitant to buy a bike without a title.  What if it is stolen?

That is a good point. As far as the title goes, according to Soos, all I need is a bill of sale and $15 and I can get a title replaced. But if it is stolen, that would be a different story. I'll have to call the guy and get the VIN before I go see it. I have a relative that is UHP and he would probably be willing to run a check if I asked nicely.

Thanks for the thought.

Brandon

[Really?]

If it were me, the bike is not stolen and I can get a title that easy and cheap, I would.  I could see that as a nice project.  Make sure it will turn over though, not siezed.

[manjisann]

  I called the DMV, and apparently to replace the title would take 30-90 days, and there is no guarantee that the title would be replaced. It would all depend on what they found. That is really unfortunate, because it is a great looking bike. On a happier note, I found one that is even closer for the same amount. The seller has a title and says it ran when he put it up a few years back. I'm gonna take a battery with me and see if she'll start, or at least turn over. He said he had fixed a bunch of stuff, so we'll see. I may still be able to get me one of these great bikes for a great price!

Thanks all for the information!!

Brandon

[Johnie]

That sounds like a better deal for you title and all.  Good luck with your purchase.  Send us pics when you can...