Re: What to look for when buying a CB750

Posted by LukeM on Aug 10, 2011; 10:04am
URL: http://vintage-and-classic-hondas.81.s1.nabble.com/What-to-look-for-when-buying-a-CB750-tp3227766p3242041.html

Is it possible to push start the bike?  That way you can assess its running condition (if you haven't done so already).  Also, is it the switch on the handgrip that's "bad" or the starter solenoid?  The switch is easy enough to diagnose: remove one of the leads of the motorcycle battery, connect a VOM to the switch, and it should go to zero ohms when you press it.  If it doesn't, there may be dirty contacts, or it's just broken.  If it does show zero ohms, then it's a wire problem back to the starter solenoid (should be under the seat, with a pair of small wires, and a couple of large ones going from battery and starter).  When the switch is working, the small wires energize a coil, which pulls the large current contacts closed, connecting the battery to the starter. The solenoid should click when everything is working right.  Again, dirty contacts could be the problem here.  You can find solenoids on EBay regularly.

If it were me, buying a used MC, I would look for the one that runs the best, or the one that needed the least repair to get running.  Appearance is secondary to me, as I'm a form follows function kind of guy.  Although I did lay a coat of wax on the tank, fenders and sidecovers yesterday.

Good luck with your shopping.  I'm sure we'll hear from you again. :-)
Luke M