The VintageBike Message Board > The Classic Biker Bar

Looking for a 1970s bike to start riding again after 30 years, any advice ?

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SKR01:
Hi, I'm new to the Forum. 
I rode smaller bikes, 150cc to 250 in my early 20s when it was an affordable option to a car, now 30 years later I want to get back into it.  The main appeal is riding a 1970s larger bike, a second appeal is to learn about what makes them tick as I currently have no knowledge of mechanics.  With about £3k to spend I am thinking Japanese, probably Kawasaki, and looking around a z650 seems common enough to be in my price range and able to hold it's own going up and down the motorway at weekends.  My dream bike since I was a young boy was the Z1 but that is well out of my price range (by about 7 fold).  I am looking for advice and guidance on where to look and what to look for, or if my expectations need to be reset.

Many thanks,
Stuart

Rex:
Rather confusing there, Stuart. Do you want an old Jappa hack to knock about on, or something to ride, restore and learn about mechanics on?

SKR01:
Primarily something to ride straight away, and then also learn something about mechanics so I can keep it running.

R:
Well if you fancy a Z650 and can afford a Z650 and can find a Z650, then why not !!

I always liked the look of those green ones.
And if you can find a running and registered one, then you are well on the way.

With the supreme advantage that the local (?) dealer can always assist if required.
Tuning up 4 carbs is quite a skill, which not all owners will want to acquire.

The Handbook that (hopefully) will come with it will detail most common tasks,
particularly keeping the chain adjusted, topping up the engine oil, battery water, brake fluid,
tyre pressure etc etc. After a while this all gells into a near automatic checking of everything required.

And if anything needs overhauling/repairing, you can always get a quote from that local dealer.
It can't be overestimated how important this is, keeps many a bike on the road ...
And you learn stuff along the way ...
Have fun !

SKR01:
That is a very useful comment.  I was wondering if I would get a better deal from a private sale but reading your advice I'll get in touch with local dealers instead.
Thank you

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