Topic: 1972 Cl350 opinions

[Bagpype]

What is everyones opinion on the cl scramblers? I found a 72 cl350 panther gold, runs but needs carbs cleaned and battery, but then again every bike in my price range needs carb work and a battery. It looks like it's in very good shape from the pictures. My question, is this a suitable bike for a guy who's 6'1 190 pounds? He also has a 74 cb550 at looks terrible but complete.

[Zaipai]

I am thinking at 6'1 it will be a small bike and maybe uncomfortable, however its a great starter bike. As for the 550, my brother in-law also 6'1 took it for a ride and wanted to buy it from me, so he found it was quite comfortable ride. Its also going to depend on if its going to be ridden out on open roads or in the city, a 350 in the city may just be perfect.

.: Scott :.

[Trav-i]

For what it's worth, I have a CL350 and I'm about 5'7" and have a 30" inch inseam and it fits me pretty well.  I'm not sure that it would be real comfy for some 6 foot or over.  However if you can get it cheap, and then fix it up I would sell it.  They seem to be pretty hot sellers.

[Bagpype]

It's 900. Is that a goos price?

[2wheels]

Of course it depends on many things.
If your going to spend any time on the bike the 350 will be small.  I used to have that same bike, it was my first bike so it has a special place in my heart.
It's a perfect commuter though. Easy to handle, good on gas.

Edit to comment on price --  900 is better than many prices I have seen for a bike that's in real good shape.  I have also seen 200 for a bike that's been outside and neglected for many years.

[KingCustomCycles.com]

$900 buys a CL in good running order, new paint, new seat cover, new battery, with everything lubed and adjusted.  That is what my last buyer got anyway    They are really fun to ride and quite a big framed bike for a 350.  I am 6' and 195 pounds of pure muscle  and I loved mine.  It easily ran 55 mph and was quick to get there.  I would not ride two up very far, and it would be light for extended highway use, but I thought it was surprisingly powerful and fun to ride. 

[Stev-o]

The 350's are good bikes and popular, may be a little small for you though, more of a "toy".

[Bagpype]

I got enough info thanks guys! I'm going to pass up the 350 as it's in Florida, I'm in Atlanta and I actually want a cb550. I love the way the cls look however, I'm too big for it I think. If anyone want to know about it I pm me and I can forward the ad to you.

[Zaipai]

Probably a good call. I don't think you would have like the stance given your hight.

.: Scott :.

[Trav-i]

Hey Bagpype, where in Atlanta are you?  I'm up in Gainesville and so is my brother-in-law Fabricator.  Not sure if you saw the blue 750 for sale in Snellville on CL, but I just picked it up last night.  Anyway keep an eye out in the event section when the weather turns better, I'm sure Fab and myself will get our mountian rides going again.  We already get a good turn out, but we're always hoping for more.

Travis

[Stev-o]

Probably a good call. I don't think you would have like the stance given your hight.

.: Scott :.

+1. It would be fun as a second bike, but not your main ride. Keep looking, you'll find one.

[Bagpype]

What does it mean when a cam chain is broken? Found a 750 for cheap.

[Trav-i]

IF the chain is broken, it probably means your gonna have to some serious engine work or find a replacement.  Usually when the cains break it leaves some of the valve down and it lets the pistions smack them back up into the head.  It's usually not very pretty.  Sometimes you can get lucky and end up with only minimal damage.

[Stev-o]

What does it mean when a cam chain is broken?

Major repair or new engine

[camelman]

You can even bend a piston connecting rod with bad enough valve contact.  It is usually a bad sign if you have a broken cam chain (think "timing belt" in a car engine).

Camelman