Looks like you've got quite bit of knowledge wrapped up in these threads, I've had a lot of fun perusing over the last few days ... but now it's time for my maiden post.... here goes
I've found an '82 450L for $450 and am considering it for my first bike. She's a craig's list find (http://baltimore.craigslist.org/mcy/1748810463.html). Seller claims she starts fine but chokes out with throttle applied. Promises a road ready bike is just a carb kit away.
So I visit to the auto repair shop where she's living and see the seller's mechanic has the carb out and is giving it a clean... seems he may have beat me to the punch. Cosmetically she's a bit of a dog but oddly that makes the attraction stronger! (I'll post pics in the next post ... as soon as i figure out how!)
Here's the current plan.
- Give the mechanic a shot at getting her running
- Bring a bike savvy co-worker by to give a second opinion
- Continue to sleep on it to see if "reality" sets in and I realize I'm over my head!!
- If the bike runs "well enough" and the buddy gives a thumb up ... game on!
A little bit about me
- I'm a young guy lacking in wisdom but sure as hell love a challenge
- I'd like to think I'm mechanically inclined. I do engineering 9-5 and enjoy all-consuming hobbies.
- To be honest practicality has never been my strong suit. Passion usually wins over careful planning.
- I'll be apartment living for the duration of this project. I have a good work bench but not a lot of space. The bike will have to live outside ... covered of course.
- I've got the usual compliment of drivers, wrenches, and ratchets etc... and a little bit of extra cash flow (~$150/mo.) to throw at tools and or parts as I go along.
Pics on the way!!
Your truly in manic hobby-dom,
Brad
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