Thanks Dan...great info, appreciate the time. I am thinking an older Wing--the Vintage stuff is what i really like, decent miles, not worried about "wrenching" to get her back in shape. I know my timing sucks as I'd probably get some better deals at end of season. I'm just wondering if there are certain years to stay away from? I know that many times mfrs had made changes (in certain model years) or overlooked incidentals that dampened reliability or rideability. Also, was looking for info on major service repairs that are reccomended based on mileage...seal, gaskets, timing, water pumps etc. So i know what i should/could expect. The forum is great and alot of help for us newbies!!!
I had a friend who was moving and he gave me a running 78 Wing with matching saddlebags and fairing. Clear title and all. I already had my good running clean 1500 in the stable. He sold his house and was moving to Arizona and just didn't want to deal with it.
I hope you find a great bike that only needs a new rider and enjoy the summer! Good luck with your search.
The bike was a very nice and clean looking bike but it just needed too much vs the end value of the bike. It needed a battery, tires, fluids, belts and carbs rebuilt.
I ended up selling it to a mechanic guy like yourself who could do most of the work and was very experienced at it bringing these bikes back to life for $300. After we loaded up the bike and he was ready to leave, I asked him if I sold it too cheap. He said he would have walked away at $500. He said there are quite a few of these neglected bikes around the country.
Last week there was a naked 78 on Craigslist that had been stored inside, ran well, maintenance records available and newer tires and a custom seat for $1000. Someone got a good deal on a nice bike.
If you have good patience, and put your ear close to the ground, there will be one pop up that is in excellent condition, and ready for the road.
You are still gonna have to work on them as time goes by..... I am just saying that I would not buy someone else's neglected bike without full knowledge of the costs.
I bought my 94 Interstate with 27,500 miles on it for $3500. I replaced the fluids and tires and I now have 46,000 and the only thing I have done besides wearing out tires is a new gel battery and a few personal additions.
For personal preferences, I added a Corbin Seat, luggage inserts, trunk and saddlebag organizers, rack bag, ram mounts for gps and phone, rack mounted flag pole, two coffee cup holders, trailer hitch and trailer.