Want a '73 CB 750

[rvnkontum]

I ride a 2010 HD Electra Glide Ultra Limited and a 2005 BMW K1200LT.  When I was a kid, everyone rode CB 160's, everyone but me, all I could afford was a '59 JAWA 175 CZ, I'm not  knocking the bike, but always loved the Hondas.  I'm looking for a 1973 CB 750, why that year, I don't know, except somebody had something nice to say about it on CAFE RACER.  I am not mechanically inclined, everything I do to my bikes is done at the dealer.  My local Honda dealer assure me they could service the bike, and hat Honda had a great supply of original parts for this bike, and if not, they would be happy to replace, install any aftermarket part I could supply them with.  My question to you, is this a reasonable way to maintain this bike, or does the word exorbitant enter into the picture.  I'm used to dealer prices, not that I like them, but if they could keep this bike running for me at reasonable costs, I'd be willing to go along with it.  I really like this bike, and I will get one, just like to hear what you have to say, and if you think another year might be suitable, I like the earlier ones, and as stock as possible.  Thanks!  I am also not adverse to getting a mechanical guide for repair and maintenance, and try to do some work on the bike, or at least attempting to figure out what goes where and why.

[TOOLS1]

You are on the right track. The 69-78 CB 750s are great bikes. There is not really much difference between the 60-76 K models. The 77-78 K had a different tank, and seat that made them a little more modern looking. Then there are the 76-78 A models with the automatic transmission which look like the 77-78 K models. Then there are the 75-78 F models. These were the high performance models. The thing I really love about these bikes is how simple they are. Any body can work on them, and no special tool are required. Also parts are available. Either through Honda, or aftermarket. I have taught several friends that were not mechanically inclined to do maintenance work on their SOHC Honda's, and they are always surprised how easy they are to work on. I have taught them everything from adjusting the valves to changing fork seals. I myself feel that most of the fun in owning one of these bikes is maintaining it.
TOOLS    

[shinyribs]

I have to agree with Tools.These are VERY easy bikes to work on.I just got mine back around September and it was the first motorcycle i had ever owned.I know nothing motorcycle related.Within 3 months i tore mine completely down to the bare frame and put it back together with no problems.Yes,parts are readily available at reasonable prices.Yes,dealerships can be pricey,but some people feel more comfortable with a pro working on their bike.The reality of that is,unless you find an old timer that has been at it since these bikes were first sold new,chances are you will be just as capable as the "pros" when learning to work on your own bike.Don't let maintenance on these SOHC's bother you.If you can turn a screwdriver you will be fine.

Welcome to the forum and good luck on your endeavors!

[Piute]

Already having an Ultra And A K12 ,can understand the need for A bike you can just ride,Will not be like the beast you've been riding,Sure can put more of yourself into this build IF you do it Yourself,That Yacht,and luxurey speed cruzzer Know ya have to take to "Pro"Shop ,Had A 05 FLSTCI,yard and half just to m.a.p.the dam putter.had my KZ 750B at same time ,was my "local" (crazy) runner.Seem so small and nimble after that Phat HOG.Great bunch of guys and Gal here.

[rvnkontum]

I notice that the 75-78 F models, at least the two I was able to locate on Cycle-Trader, have a four into one exhaust.  Is this typical for these years and models?  One of the things that I really find attractive on the CB750, is the four into four.  Is this configuration only typical of some years and models, or were they all
four into four until someone modified them?

[Piute]

                   
                                              My 77  came stock with 4-1


believe the 1st few model yrs came 4-4 ,stock pipes (4-4)hard to find but out there $$$$$$$

[TOOLS1]

All the K models had a 4 into 4 exhaust. The F's had a 4 into 1, and the 76 A also had a 4 into one, but the 77-78 A's had a 4 into 2. Most of these old exhausts have been replaced. An original 4 into 4 is worth more then the bike.
TOOLS