Topic: Few Questions before I Buy a 71 750K...Need expert opinions

[KilgoreTrout]

I'm on the fence with this one. Partilly because of my own ignorance in these models of bikes. Here's the deal. The bike is really clean. You can tell the owner takes nice care of it. Sounds like it runs well, no leaks, forks look good, tires are fine, chain and all of the parts look good. My only concern is with the mileage. The odometer reads 43K which is a little high. But is that too high? Like I said it's a 1971. It has been cafe modded. Bars, fairing, lowering kit. The paint is not orig and is sort of fugly so, I keep it that color if I buy it. The seat would also have to go. The lowest price he will go is $2k how does this sound? Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

[KilgoreTrout]

Anybody want to help the new kid? 

[Bob Wessner]

There is a poll here on highest mileage as I recall. 43K is not low, not the highest either. Two thousand $$ sounds high to me, maybe others will chime in.

[USN20]

Well, I'm no expert but I did purchase a nice '74 CB750 last month. I'm a 51 year old newbie with my fair share of ignorance as well. Buying a used motorcycle is a calculated risk no matter how you cut it. Personally I prefer as close to bone stock as possible avoiding the modified ones. If there is significant doubt involved then it's far better to pass then suffer buyers remorse. When you find the right bike you will know it. Patience has it's virtues in more ways then one. In the meantime, continue to learn as much as you can about these bikes.

[KilgoreTrout]

Thanks guys. I appreciate the help. I'm still keeping my eyes peeled. Thanks

[Carbine]

....I wouldn't be scared of the mileage, if the motor runs quiet when it first starts from cold, and makes good power, it is probably going to be OK. I friend of mine bought a '71 a few months ago, a stocker candy brown one with original paint, with well over 50,000 on the clock. It runs fine, uses no oil, and makes good power. However, a concern could be on your particular find could be the lack of original parts? Cafe bikes are cool, but not everyone's cup of tea, (old chap)  Unless they are really well built and tasteful IMHO, they are not worth as much a a stocker, and could be harder to resell, too. My guess is he won't be able to sell it for 2K. Keep his number and call him in  6 months, after the riding season, see what he says. That will give you time to look around and test the waters.   P.S. oops..... sorry just saw you wanted an expert opinion......yikes   ( I have stayed in Holiday Inns lots)

[bowhunter]

A cafe job can be a mystery depending on the abilities of the cafe-er. Replacement parts can be nightmare situation in the best of times for these older bikes. What do you do about limited run aftermarket stuff? What are your mechanical abilities? Try getting service done on it. You may be looking for a long time if you can't or won't do it yourself!

Bowhunter

[KB02]

The bike sounds fine. I wouldn't worry about the milage. At least you know it's a good runner. $2K sounds little tall, though. Then again, it depends on what mods were done to the bike. I mean if he had swapped out the front end for a new sports bike fornt end cmplete with name brand brakes and stuff, then that would be one thing. If he just changed some body work out, then he's asking too much.

My 2 Cents