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Feb. 17, 2010 10:08 p.m. CarKid1989 HalfDork

Before i start, i know i have a reputation for my severe Automotive ADD, but in my defense, all the projects i started have been completed. (with lots of detail, care etc.)

Secondly i already have a motorcycle that runs and can be used. (1974 CB200)

I am looking for another motorcycle. Trouble is i like em all. I have narrowed it down to a crotch rocket (under 600cc) or a 70's - late 80s cruiser. (thats a vague term) Think Kaw 440, Honda CB 350, 650, the Virago, thats the kind of bike i mean, but i want to brat/bobber/cafe it.

I dunno which to get. (which people tell me means im not ready blah blah)

Any advice on how to pick something ill like? (or have you got something for sale?)

Thanks
Feb. 17, 2010 10:23 p.m. oldtin Reader

Just keep your eyes peeled. Learn up on the few you may want and whatever pops up as a deal be ready. If you're not diggin it, move on to another one on your list. You already doubled your $$$ on the first go round by being ready.
Feb. 18, 2010 4:17 a.m. MitchellC Dork

The Yamaha XS bikes are blank canvases. Bobber, chopper, cafe, standard; they're pretty versatile.
Feb. 18, 2010 8:01 a.m. minimac Dork

The Kaw 440 already has a built in "chopped' stance. The Yamaha 650 makes a nice bobber. The Honda CBs have the lines to make a nice imitation cafe racer. Just things to keep in mind. Work with what is there, and function will follow form.
Feb. 18, 2010 8:56 a.m. ClemSparks PowerDork

It doesn't do a guy like you (or me) much good to try to decide which kind of bike, car, house, etc to buy. We'll jump on the first good deal that comes along that sparks our interest.

So...know your price range and be ready to jump on the first good deal that comes along. The good deals ALWAYS come along if you're looking and ready. Don't be upset about passing on one...there will be a better one soon.

Clem
Feb. 18, 2010 3:59 p.m. alex Dork

For the record, I like CB360s over 350s, only because they don't have a collector's tax, so they can be had for dirt cheap, and there are more out there. That's a great place to start for a brat/cafe thing.
Feb. 18, 2010 10:11 p.m. sundancevette New Reader

alex wrote:

For the record, I like CB360s over 350s, only because they don't have a collector's tax, so they can be had for dirt cheap, and there are more out there. That's a great place to start for a brat/cafe thing.

I thought they made way more 350s than 360s. The one 360 I rode didn't seem to handle as well as the 350s I've been on, but that may have been that particular bike. Either one is a good choice. The best hondas are on 2 wheels. I think for Carkid, the 350 and 360 may still seem a bit small. I'm 6' and 180 lbs and they are border line for me on longer trips.
Feb. 18, 2010 10:25 p.m. alex Dork

I seem to stumble across more cheap 360s, for whatever that's worth. And aside from brakes and engine, they're very similar.

I agree, though: I'm you're size and it's right on the edge of too small. With some rearsets and lower bars, though, you can tailor it to suit your size pretty well. It still won't set the world on fire with acceleration when it's pulling us big guys around, but less is more and all that.
Feb. 18, 2010 10:39 p.m. CarKid1989 HalfDork

oh yeah good point guys.

i have a 6ft. 4 inch 200lb frame so keep that in mind when it comes to bike ideas.

I dont need a rocket but i need enough quickness.
Feb. 18, 2010 11:41 p.m. Osterkraut Dork

Not much in the under 600cc crotch rocket dept...
Feb. 19, 2010 9:45 a.m. jwdmotorsports HalfDork

alex wrote:

For the record, I like CB360s over 350s, only because they don't have a collector's tax, so they can be had for dirt cheap, and there are more out there. That's a great place to start for a brat/cafe thing.

If I remember right the 360 is a 6-speed and the 350 is a 5-speed. If that makes and difference to you.