[Zeb1]

Hi,
Been eyeing a 1975 cb250 that's been sitting out in the elements down the street from me and got me thinking about a restoration project....I am a newbie to working on bikes (change oil, change brake fluid, replace shocks is all I have done). I have been thinking maybe a restoration project just to learn more about motorcycle mechanics and learn how to wrench and eventually have a cool old bike to tool around on occasionally (this would not be my daily rider; I have two other bikes for that).
I talked to the guy and he said I can have it for $100 and he has the title. Last year he said he replaced the clutch and had it running but it wouldn't shift out of 1st gear.
Would this be a good project for a newbie to start on? I realize I will need to put $$ into it...$1500+?? and looks like a tear down and rebuild...
Thanks

 

[Zeb1]

Airbox, side panels are missing, front fender's on backwards (not a deal-breaker ) kickstarter, headlight is missing. Battery, chain, see if the tank is full of rust, etc. You better go into this knowing you'll likely spend way more than it'll ever be worth, and you'll not make a dime for your labor. It IS a Honda, so I'm thinking parts are available. A project like this can be a major time-suck, but can be incredibly rewarding, especially if you plan on riding it. The internet is your friend...

Thanks for the reply! Yeah this would be more about learning than making money. I'm thinking around $1000-1500 in parts. If I got it in running shape, I would be happy.

 

[Zeb1]

I agree with Gbudzien, even if your an experienced mechanic, that might be more of a project your willing to complete.

Parts may or may not be available, you might want to make a list, then do some looking.

My '85 Honda 650 Nighthawk is sometimes hard to find parts for, as an example, the original air filter is NLA. Luckily I found a foam replacement, but now I need to re-jet the carbs. Ebay and on-line motorcycle resellers just might be your best friends.

BTW, not shifting out of first gear might simply be a clutch adjustment, or something much more serious in the gearbox.
I think there are better ways to get started working on motorcycles. But, it might be a good parts bike, either to part-out or to fix a better CB250 you acquire.

Good luck!

Thanks for the reply! Good points...