First bike purchase - thoughts on these pictures? 68 Yamaha

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a_gunslinger
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First bike purchase - thoughts on these pictures? 68 Yamaha

#1 Unread post by a_gunslinger »

I know all the reasons NOT to get an old bike :lol: but if I can get this cheap any know issues with these. I know the image doesnt help that much. Its a barn find and havent seen it yet in person. I know the super long list of things to look for and parts that can go bad after all this time, but if I can get it for $150 should I step into this crazy new hobby? Love tinkering and cleaning stuff up ;^)

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Image

Thanks for all input!

GS_in_CO
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Re: First bike purchase - thoughts on these pictures? 68 Yamaha

#2 Unread post by GS_in_CO »

That won't be motorcycling. That will be restoration. Which is a fine hobby. But it's not motorcycling.
I suspect that restorers have gotten projects like that one for free. Or been paid to take it. (sorry)
Ron

Current: 1988 BMW R100GS (the 'numberplate' model)

Past: 1987 Yamaha XT350
1983 Honda CB900F
1980 Honda XL185S
1979 Suzuki GS425E

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Gummiente
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Re: First bike purchase - thoughts on these pictures? 68 Yamaha

#3 Unread post by Gummiente »

$150 is a good deal, but there are other things to consider. As you seem to have no prior experience with motorcycle restoration you might want to tackle something a bit newer instead, something that has more readily available parts. But if you're bent on diving head first into the scene with this bike, I'd suggest doing some research on the internet to see if there are owner's groups out there for it. Also, check the vintage motorcycle club websites/forums, you can get a lot of valuable info for free that will help you determine if the project could be worthwhile or not. Certain bikes are highly desirable once restored and you can easily make back the money you spent on it once it is sold. Others, no so much.
:canada: Mike :gummiente:
It isn't WHAT you ride,
It's THAT you ride

a_gunslinger
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Re: First bike purchase - thoughts on these pictures? 68 Yamaha

#4 Unread post by a_gunslinger »

Thanks folks. All good advice. I have a lot of dirt bike engine experience, but no restoration experience. I will try and talk him down. I mightmight go 100 just for the f7n and fiddling factor. Even if it just becomes yard art.

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NorthernPete
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Re: First bike purchase - thoughts on these pictures? 68 Yamaha

#5 Unread post by NorthernPete »

Remember that parts are goin to be a nightmare to find for that.
1988 VN1500
2009 GS500F

a_gunslinger
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Re: First bike purchase - thoughts on these pictures? 68 Yamaha

#6 Unread post by a_gunslinger »

Thanks for all the advice! I decided to past. Thanks for the guidance.

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