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Makotosun

Newby - Buying a Bike

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Newby - Buying a Bike was created by drog7

Hey y'all,

I'm a college student and have wanted a motorcycle for my whole life. I think it would be great to do a build (mind you, I have 0 motorcycle experience and a bit of experience working on cars). I found a 1970 AT1-B in not-running, partially disassembled condition for $50. The seller is providing a repair manual, and I'm sure I could get great help on this awesome forum. Is this a fool's journey and a money pit, or should I get this bike and make it into something? Here are all the pictures provided, and any thoughts are welcome!
The following user(s) Liked this Post: JayB, LongStride
Last edit: 13 Aug 2020 09:16 by drog7. Reason: Pictures didn't show up in original post
13 Aug 2020 09:14 #1

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Replied by darinm on topic Newby - Buying a Bike

Lots of help available here. Do you have somewhere indoors to work on it, and a good toolset? If it turns over and crank bearings seem ok I'd ballpark 500-700 in parts to get it roadworthy if you do the work yourself. If you're lucky it'll be a minimum of 300 just for seals, brakes, tires, fluids and what not.
1972 Yamaha CT2 175
1972 Suzuki TS185 Sierra
2000 Suzuki RM100
2003 BMW F650GS
2009 Yamaha WR250R
2013 Yamaha XT250
13 Aug 2020 10:15 #2

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Replied by Gr8uncleal on topic Newby - Buying a Bike

Welcome! from the UK.

I'd just chuck into the mix that, even as it stands, the bike could be worth $500 or more in parts alone. I just wonder if it's worth trading it on for a runner, or at least something that needs a lot less work.

Just a thought!
13 Aug 2020 10:29 #3

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Replied by LongStride on topic Newby - Buying a Bike

Great price and a great motorcycle to learn with
2ET703 Central Texas
13 Aug 2020 11:14 #4

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Replied by MarkT on topic Newby - Buying a Bike

I say go for it. You can learn a lot and probably get it running pretty cheap if no major damage or major parts missing (ignition is there, carb is there, pipe is there, has compression, etc.)

You can do a ton without spending a dime... clean it up a little, evaluate it, and if it seems like too much you can certainly sell it for the $50 again... just a few of the parts are worth that.
1963 YG1-T, 1965 MG1-T, Allstate 250, 1970 CT1b, 1971 R5, 1973 AT3MX, 1974 TS400L, 1975 RD350, 1976 DT175C, 1976 Husqvarna 250CR, 1981 DT175G, 1988 DT50, 1990 "Super" DT50, 1991 RT180, 2017 XT250
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13 Aug 2020 11:20 #5

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Replied by drog7 on topic Newby - Buying a Bike

Thanks, everyone. A bummer, but he just sold it... But, if anyone is in the southern Michigan/northern Ohio/northern Indiana area and is selling any cool little beginner bikes, please let me know! I could do cash (depending on the price) or would give lots of hours of labor doing whatever kinds of work. I'm strong, responsible, and a hard worker. I'll be starting school full-time at the end of the month, but I'll be back in MI this Sunday and would love to work something out. Thank y'all again!
13 Aug 2020 11:50 #6

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Replied by 1971DT250 on topic Newby - Buying a Bike


Welcome! Its always good to see new young people enter this arena. I actually believe you might be better off without the 125 for a first bike. The 12 volt electrical system on them takes some extra effort to get working. The other models have 6 volt magneto systems that are a little easier. I suggest you look for a 175 or 250. Any of the '68-'73 Enduros are more collectible than later years. And don't be afraid to spend more money up front for a good complete one with a clear title.
The hours spent riding my Enduros is not deducted from my life span.
13 Aug 2020 13:17 #7

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Replied by Rick C. on topic Newby - Buying a Bike

Drog, are you in So. Cal?
14 Aug 2020 09:41 #8

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