Topic: Why refinish Honda CB parts when you can buy secondhand for cheap?

[kyle750]

We spent a lot of time refinishing this CB750 shifter cover.  It turned out looking much better (but not perfect).  And then I saw this on Ebay Price is cheap, condition is very good, and no refinishing necessary. Why refinish parts when you can just buy them in better condition?

https://www.ebay.com/itm/157123078809 

[Don R]

 Sure, it's either time or money depending on which you have more of. $24.50 shipped.

[kyle750]

Labor is cheap in Thailand but I pay very well.  But she spent 2 days cleaning and sanding the shifter cover. She likes the work and likes the money but I sent her a photo of a clutch plate for sale and she replied "Look Good Better than you have" 

[seanbarney41]

For various reasons, that is one part of a cb750 that is commonly not ruined, and if it is, one of the easiest to restore...so the seller has realized that there is virtually no demand for this part.

[kyle750]

For various reasons, that is one part of a cb750 that is commonly not ruined, and if it is, one of the easiest to restore...so the seller has realized that there is virtually no demand for this part.

A very interesting analysis based on supply and demand and not condition.  Fascinating! Thank You! 

[rotortiller]

Why, because we can. It does provide personal satisfaction for many. No need to wait for the mail to arrive or find a part damaged elsewhere.

[kyle750]

Why, because we can. It does provide personal satisfaction for many. No need to wait for the mail to arrive or find a part damaged elsewhere.

I definitely understand the disappointment of a part arriving with undisclosed damage 

[BenelliSEI]

Considering the low labour rates, maybe you should invest in a good polishing kit and continue to “hire local”?

[kyle750]

Considering the low labour rates, maybe you should invest in a good polishing kit and continue to “hire local”?

A good polishing kit would be a smart next move.  I see alot of beautifully polished bikes and I just don't know if I like the look. Still Undecided    Sometimes vintage bikes look too shiney and new for my taste.  I like everything looking its age and showing some normal ageing and patina but neglect and rust is not acceptable.

[MauiK3]

There is value in having a good supply of folks willing to work for you and that like you. You never know when you may really need them.

[kyle750]

There is value in having a good supply of folks willing to work for you and that like you. You never know when you may really need them.

Very, very Wise  Thank You!

[Stev-o]

I've bought many polished parts for my bikes [Honda & Kawasaki] over the years from eBay. 

There was one particular seller in WI, that sold a lot of CB750 parts cheap, some that he polished himself and were very reasonable.  He doesn't currently have any listed...

https://www.ebay.com/itm/392298965016?itmmeta=01JZN7VSEQ0NAS3ATR5TS4XF4R&hash=item5b56d72818:g:Vx8AAOSwHi1c4JBZ

[kyle750]

Case in point

1st photo is my CB750 clutch cover
Photos 2,3,4, are a CB750 clutch cover currently for sale (cheap as chips)