New here, bought an 85 vf700f

Just picked up an 85 vf700f in rough shape for $325, 28,xxx miles. Its going to be a long project. It sat for a long time, needs some parts. A mechanic got it running recently so at least its a runner. Missing all the bolts to hold on the plastic, key and ignition, side panels. Needs overflow res, seat recovered, repainted, front brake handlebar assembly, mirrors, windscreen, tank cleaned/sealed, gas cap and many other things I am sure. I will be asking plenty of questions and looking for parts so any help will be appreciated. Not sure if I want to go more original or update some.
Glen

 

Welcome! That indeed sounds like a long project. Be sure to keep us updated with pics of the progress in addition to the questions! :smile:

 

Yeah....We wanna see pictures of that piece of shit J/K :biggrin:

Regards,
Rollin

 

I will get some pics tomorrow. It is a piece of shit for now.

 

Welcome aboard.

 

Welcome! we love projects here! You will find alot of valuable help on this site, post some pics of the ride when you get a chance!

 

Here are some pics. Have had good luck so far finding parts, couple of nearby parts bikes. I am going to try and acquire 1 of them. If things work out it could come together quicker than I thought.

 

WOW.....That bike is going to need alot of work! I assume you enjoy working on bikes and that is why you didn't try to find one in a little better condition? I do give you props for your high ambitions and desire to save an old beauty like that. You do realize that you could easily spend more on parts than what that bike is worth so be careful and don't get sucked in too much if it's gonna cost you big $$$ in the end. Where are you located Glen? I'm sure you could convince a few good guys on the boards to come have a beer or two with you and help get her back to her original glory!!

Regards,
Rollin

 

A project

It is a project for sure but will be worth it when your done..........Have you met Squirrel yet?

 

No I have not met Squirrel. I know it is rough, motor is supposed to run so I figured it will be worth it. I fix everything, done several CRX restores, a fair amount of work on my ST1100, and a couple of dirt bikes. This way I know all about the bike and can hopefully catch any issues while rebuilding.

 

I don't think it's too bad! Heck you can't find anything even half that complete for that price. That's definitely a bike I would've bought, too

 

First thing to do, before putting any money into it, make sure you can get it registered. You would be pissed if you spend a lot on it, and can't do anything w/ it.
Good winter project other wise.

 

That is 1 thing I need to check, Cali is not too much trouble in that regard unless things have changed recently. In my search for parts I have found a 500 for sale cheap and may be more complete. I am going to look at it Sat. Since I have an ST1100 I don't need something with big power for the long haul. I just want it to putt around town mostly. I have the bug for a VF, always liked them. What do you guys think of a 500 compared to a 700?

 

The 500 is lighter and smaller, if your a bigger person, you may want to go w/ the 700. FYI though, parts f/ the 700 don't fit the 500. I bought a parts 700 hoping some stuff will fit, other then some bolts and maybe hoses....

 

TRX, I know the parts don't interchange. I am an average size 5'9 165 so it should pull me around fine. Decisions, decisions.

 

Welcome! I think you'll find the 700 to be a pretty sweet bike.

 

Well I am not sure what to do. I think I have found most the parts I need for the 700 locally, see how much tomorrow. If the 500 is complete I may have to pick it up also. It may get it on the road quicker and then slowly fix the 700. More money, more money.