Hi guys! As the title suggests, I'm looking for some general tips and maybe even some more specific info on some old bikes. My brother is on the look out for a cafe racer project, and gumtree turned up with these beauties, a gs 850 and a gsx 750; http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/hend...uzuki-gsx750-cheap-retro-big-bike-/1043145890 and http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/lewiston/motorcycles/suzuki-gs-850/1043450498 Does anyone know some particular things to look out for for these bikes like common faults etc? And I guess just some general tips regarding any old bike would help. The gsx 750 seems really cheap at that price... I've talked with the gs850 owner and he seemed somewhat genuine, owns a harley and the gs was gonna get a side car but it just wasn't the bike for him etc but also spun the 'Missus told me to sell it' story or something along those lines. Also I don't really plan on paying the asking price, I was going to offer between 2000 to 2500. What do you guys think? Thanks in advance! Regards, Ed.
Hi Edwardo Nice choice of bikes, both look to be in decent condition considering the age. Although the same manufacturer, totally different machines. 1) GS850 Considered by many as one of the great cruisers of it's time. Top engine, shaft drive full instrumentation. All in all a great bike that cruise the highways effortlessly forever. It is however a very large motorcycle and with largess come weight, it is a big bike. They still are popular and fetch some decent $$$$. Is it ideal for café racer project??? not sure. 2) GSX750 are great bikes, the one in question looks decent enough and the price seems reasonable but of course closer inspection is mandatory prior to commitment. If the mandate is CAFE RACER then I would certainly give serious consideration to this bike. My advise to you is check the net and do as much research as possible on both machines. There is plenty out there to peruse. Good luck with it and keep us posted, could be some interesting times ahead.
Nice choice, I'd go the 750 as well - more of a personal preference though. In terms of your question, you can research the machine specifically and it's often good to know a bit about the most common faults of that particular bike. What will probably help you more at the beginning though is general mechanical/electrical knowledge. My advice is to see the bike running if you can, even better if you can take it for a short ride (even if it is around a front or back yard). Change through the gears, see how the brakes/clutch feel. Look for leaks (oil/coolant), check the colour/smell of the oil... listen to how the engine runs and what is coming out of the exhaust (both at idle and at a higher RPM eg 5000-6000). Minor things shouldn't worry you if it's going to be a project but it's the major things that will eat up $ or your time (or both) and these are what you should learn to recognize. I've listed just some basic things to do but the internet has plenty more knowledge than I have so google up and enjoy! (and in your particular case, see if you can get a hold of the service history or the receipts of the work done. Paperwork builds trust!)
