buying not running bike?

[quadracer351]

Hey guys. I'm a complete newb when it comes to road bikes. I've been riding two stroke atvs (built myself a race ready 88 Trx 250r:) ) and dirt bikes due year's but just getting into purchasing a motorcycle. I came across an ad on craigs of someone selling a 1980 cb750f with 22,000 miles on it. He's asking 500 now I know that's a low price but problem is the bike has been sitting in storage for a year and "won't start" from my research I read some cbs had electrical issues. Could this be the problem. I'm looking to turn this into my first cafe racer but I don't want to buy a bike that's going to require me to spend most my budget to get running again.

Thanks for the help!

[rrgunslinger]

Chances you take when buying an old bike but if the bike has been in storage inside and looks ok I would buy it.  If worried about money then pass.

[Half-Caf]

If its got a title and is in decent shape I would pay $500. I paid $750 for the same exact thing running rough.
Just know you may very well become addicted

[quadracer351]

I'm waiting to get a response to find out if the bike was running before it went Into storage

[Lucky 1]

You need to go look at the bike.
Meet the person and talk a little and get a feeling if the guy is honest or takes care of his things.
If his garage is a complete mess, the bike probably is too.

Just because you go look does not mean you have to buy it.
And what about the paperwork?

IF he says the papers are lost etc., Do not buy it.

You have all winter to work on it.

[motogrady]

These bikes take work.
If you don't know how, or are unwilling to learn,
and invest the time, pass on it.

That being said, you do know what you have a line on don't you?
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, only made them for 3 or 4 years.
Strongest running Honda 750 4 of that era.