81 CBX on ebay

[rayserra]

There is an '81 CBX on ebay with 15K miles, no reserve auction. The current bid is $2,500, and it doesn't seem to be getting much attention.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayI ... 1423.l2649

I've wanted a CBX for most of my riding life, which is since they were first introduced, although I don't know a lot about them technically. I am a honda guy through and through, currently riding a VTX1800C, with 5 other hondas in my garage (2 late 70's CB750's, a '75 XL100 that my father bought new, and my wifes Rebel 250 and Metropolitan scooter), not to mention a '75 Husqvarna CR250 that I purchased when I was running motocross. I like collecting them, not very good at selling. I've been actively looking at Goldwings (GL1500s) because the wife doesn't feel safe on the back of the VTX (my fault more than the bikes), but I saw this and find it hard to ignore.

Does anyone know anything about this bike? I've had some correspondence with the seller, who says the leaks are likely due to dried out gaskets, and doesn't think the head is warped or that there any cracked cases. Below is the latest correspondence.

"You may go ahead and bid, thanks for asking, I also wondered why this has no bids yet we are good sellers with great feedback. I believe the oil is coming from the valve/rocker cover and the aluminum cover on the left front of the motor. It is a tiny leak not like it is pissing oil out of it. I think just old gaskets. I honestly do not believe that it is a warped head or cracked case or I would have just parted it out."

Deep down I feel there must be something wrong. I also wonder if it is any condition for the 1000 mile ride back to Cleveland.

I appreciate any response.

[steve murdoch icoa #5322]

Welcome to the site, Ray.
The seller has 2600 E-Bay transactions, runs a cycle salvage business and isn't sure where the oil is coming from or what the area/part is called? Dried out gaskets? Sounds sketchy to me.
The second to last pic shows some rust up under the front right side of the tank, an odd place to see rust.
No way i would want to ride that one down the street let alone 1000 miles.

[rayserra]

Thanks for the input Steve.

I was a little concerned and ultimately decided not to bid on that machine.

It did end up going for just over $4K, a good amount I think, considering all the unknowns.