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Bike sitting for 30 years; best first steps?

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Vermonter

Bike sitting for 30 years; best first steps?

I've got a '73 CB750 that was last on the road in 1979. The bike was inside for a long time, and outside for at least a few years. The tires are flat (and original) and the gas tank is filled with old gas that's turned to shellac.

The bike isn't rolling and the drive chain is rusted. The rubber parts would all need replacing. Overall the bike isn't miserable, is totally original, and seems to be restorable. It's also olive green which is a winner for me.

What's the best place to start or does it sound like she's too far gone?

Thanks,
Vermonter

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Re: Bike sitting for 30 years; best first steps?

Administrator

Welcome to the forum. The first thing is, will it turn over/crank? If it is not stuck. Clean out the gas tank, and carbs. Change the oil, and check the points. Then put in a battery, and try to start it.
After that we can move on to other things.
Also we like pictures here.
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1976 CB 750-A X 2
1977 CB 750-A X 4
1977 CB 750-K
1976 CB 750 F
1981 CB 750
1966 Kawasaki SG 250
1981 KZ 750 LTD
1973 CB 350
1979 CM 185 Twinstar
1982 Honda XL 80
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Vermonter

Re: Bike sitting for 30 years; best first steps?

It won't turn over or crank, and trying to get it to turn over with the kick-start does nothing. Seems something is jammed. I don't have any pictures yet, but I'll take some to share. Right now I'm just trying to see if it's even worth spending time on before I start putting money into it.

Thanks again,
V