Topic: Newbie just looking for info before buying CB750

[CB750Fan]

Hello,

Here is just a short intro. I am just finding out all I can before buying a CB750. I've been surfing the forum for a couple days and you all post some great stuff. Thank you. Glad to be a member. I now have to narrow down what model of CB750 I want to get. Actually, I know I want the Sandcaster, but that is way out of my budget right now.

[mystic_1]

Welcome to the site!  What sort of selection criteria do you have in mind?  Performance?  Looks?  Cost?  Originality?  Any of the 750's will put a smile on your face but they all have their little quirks.

mystic_1

[Johnie]

Here is a short list I put together to help me keep on track when I go to look at a bike. It has a number of things I will check to give me an idea what I have to put into the bike. That way I can decide how much I am willing to offer. Maybe it will help you out. Click the link below...

[CB750Fan]

Thanks mystic_1 and Johnie for the replies and thanks Johnie for the list. It is much appreciated. Mystic_1, unfortunately cost will be a major constraint. So I am looking at whats available online and comparing prices. I would like to get a model from the early 70's if possible and with as many original parts as possible. But beggars can't be choosers. Thanks again guys.

[mrbreeze]

Good list Johnny.Even with good intentions..........its easy to miss alot without a checklist.

[Stev-o]

Welcome! I suggest you start researching as much as you can about the 750, then you know get an idea of what you'll want.

Start here:   [if you haven't already]

 http://www.sohc4.net/index.php?q=content/cb750
 

[westondc]

youve got some options, the year and wether you want the "K" or "F" model. personally i like the years 69 through 76 for the CB750K. i ran across a 76 CB750 on craigslist this month for $650. it ran great and had no major problems and It's now in my possession. you need to know what problem points to look for on these bikes before you jump right into buying one. you might get a good deal on a used Honda CB but you might also end up putting big $$$ into it if it needs work and your not able to do the work on your own.

so the big question is: are you planning on doing the maintenance and dirty work yourself?

[bluezboy]

 Welcome 750 fan, i just joined this forum a few days myself and purchased my first 750 off ebay. There seems to be a few 750's coming up for auction every week, so that's where should be looking, since you're on a budget, like I was. You really don't need a Sandcast as your first bike, they are too expensive for a first bike. That's my two cents since I'm new to this also. Good luck with your hunt, be patient, your bike is out there waiting on you to find it!

[bender01]

Welcome and where are you? That will help your quest for a 750!
 Im searching the USA for the next two hours.

[Carbine]

Johnie, great checklist buddy.

Welcome to the OP!

Just a bit of advice, save up your coin over time, shop around, and then buy the nicest CB750 you can find. Rebuilding a dead old soldier you got for a cheap price will cost a lot more in the long run.

Change your mindset slightly if possible. This is how it goes:

 When you REALLY want a CB, and have got the money to swing it, there WILL be none to be found around. Then, you then finally find one (and not one your thrilled with btw) and buy it out of desperation... and guess what?  All of a sudden there are several better ones...cheaper, nicer, run well, more complete. So, change your mindset, pretend you don't really want one or have just bought one, then 'poof' the one you really want will appear! 

Also, a word the wise about buying a bike you can't see in person. Most motorcycles look much better in photographs then they do in person. So prepare yourself for that. Try to find a machine in your local area, so you can look at it in person. And for your first one, make sure it's a runner. That way you can enjoy it for the purpose intended, and not spend the next 2-3 years in your shop without even hearing it run.               

[asom]

you can save a lot of cabbage by using uship.com if you do need to transport.  A trailered trip from Wisconsin to North Carolina was only $350.  I got my 78 cb750f on craigslist for $1500.  It was all stock exept for pipes... I know plenty of folks that have gotten them for much less, but this one needed only minor carb cleaning and simple electric.  A lot of work for a newbie, but nothing I couldn't handle without the help I got on the forum and a few bucks out of pocket.  Good Luck!