New kid on the block with a new (old) bike!

[tannerman917]

Hi all,

I'm a 21 year old machining student here in Atlanta, and I purchased what I think will be the perfect CBX for me! (see: really cheap and probably not a total basketcase). I've wanted one of these things since I was 16, and have been religiously checking my Craigslist searches across the country looking for one of these bikes that was attainable. I really wanted something that wasn't too nice, because I'd feel bad modifying a really clean original and don't have $7k to drop on a bike at the moment. I'd all but given up after one guy ghosted me when this bike was posted in MS where I've got family, and 3 days later I was the owner of another project bike. It's seen better days, but it's complete and the engine turns over. I'm certain it's going to require a complete rebuild (or at least disassembly to assess the condition), but it'll give me the chance to start on some of those mods I'd like to do. If anyone's got thoughts or suggestions I'm open; at the moment I'm tentatively thinking about swapping a VFR1200 front end and possibly a different rear swingarm/monoshock to get some wider meat on the wheels, and I'm still deciding what to do with the engine. It seems a shame to put it back stock if it's needing new pistons or cylinders anyway... Here's some pictures of her as she sits now (excuse the quality, I haven't had the chance to go out and see it personally).






(also is the above bulge in the pipe a sign that the inside is rusting out?)

Thanks for reading and let me know if there's anyone I should contact in the ATL area as a resource!

[Rick Pope]

Welcome. The bulge doesn't mean the muffler is rotted, though it likely is. You have taken on quite a project, but I've seen worse turn out well.

If you don't already have a set, get some JIS screw drivers. These bikes DO NOT have philips heads, but rather the Japanese Industrial Standard heads. It really does make a difference. Good luck.

[daves79x]

Welcome as well! Great to have a few younger guys interested in these things. The bike looks perfect for what you are looking to do. Whatever you are contemplating had likely been done before, do put lots of feelers out for tips on what you need to do. Bill at TIMS CBX is in the greater Atlanta area. He doesn’t do many custom restorations any longer, but is one source for many parts you’ll need.

All I can say is read, read, read. Get a shop manual and spend a lot of time with it. Know exactly what you’re doing BEFORE you do it. Can get pretty expensive if you don’t. It’ll be expensive enough doing it right.

Keep in touch and let us know how it’s going.

Dave