04-20-2019, 08:23 PM
Ok Stichill, the previous suggestions are really good ones for a "disposable beater", but here's a slightly different idea - I'll call it a "collectible beater". How about finding a beat up (or barn find) 1st gen SOHC CB 750 (or alternatively a Z1-900) that is at least structurally sound and rideable. At the core all you really need is a solid, straight frame, and a good motor - mileage really doesn't matter - either motor is bullet-proof. Ride it for as long as it suits your purpose, but at the end, you now have a solid platform that either you or a potential buyer could do a full restoration on. From what I've seen, I think you could find either a beat CB or Z1 for $2000 or under, and when it's done serving you as a rider, I think it will still be worth what you paid for it. It's really just an investment that you can cash in anytime you want to get your money back. If you decide early on that you want to someday restore it, you can make it a hobby to pick up parts - tank, gauges, seat, exhaust, etc as you see "deals" on e-bay or wherever. In my opinion, those 1st gen "superbikes" will always hold value, and while you ride it, you'll have a conversation piece when you're out on the road.