Topic: Serial numbers on the bike I just bought

[climbingaz]

Not that I really care much because I only paid $100 for it, but the bike I just bought is supposedly a '78 CB 750K according to the frame ID tag.  But what has me a little confused is the ID or serial number on the engine shows CB 750E-1090125.  Is this engine a '78 or out of something much older?

[Gordon]

According to that number the engine is from a K1. 

[climbingaz]

According to that number the engine is from a K1. 

Yikes!  That's what I was afraid of.  Now I guess I've got a big decision to make.  Continue on with the restoration or part it out to recoup my cost.  Damn it!  Any suggestions?

[Gordon]

Nuttin wrong with a K1 engine.

[Spanner 1]

Why dammit ? So you have a K1 motor, torquey and fast with simpler carbs than the '78...feels more ' classic' to ride, tho'....you may or not want that...

[jx25]

i'm also failing to see the problem with the K1....
I'd say you found a deal for $100

[Spanner 1]

Found it for $100 gets irrelevant when you know how much you DID'NT need to spend on it starts to clock-up, if your smart and stay with this Forum ...!

[Dave-and-his-550]

Well, the guy is going for a restoration project, having the original engine with the bike would probably be an important matter 

[Spanner 1]

Agreed, but does he mean a 'restore it to good running condition', or restore it to spec. 78K..I thought the former ...

[climbingaz]

Thanks for comments and "pep talk".  My goal for the bike was good-running, presentable looking cafe racer, not OEM-spec restoration, so I guess the older engine isn't THAT big of a deal.

However, I was really hoping to get this thing running and roadworthy for under a grand.  It needs a lot of work...had been rotting in the guys backyard for the past 15 years!  And now that I have no idea how many miles are on the engine, I don't know if a full rebuild is going to be necessary.  All I know is it turns over using the kickstart (it isn't seized up).  Also, the carbs are from '78 like the rest of the bike.

Please keep the comments coming!  What would you do?!?!

[ekpent]

I would keep the spending as low as possible right now,concentrate on cleaning fuel system,change oil,give it a quickie timing,valve,cam chain adjustment,look for spark etc and get the engine running for an assesment as see where your at on that end. Hope she fires

[754]

Check chain alignment, to run early engine, you must change or hin the sprocket holder.

 I have a late F engine to trade for early, too basd you are not closer..