New to the forum, new to Interceptors, first day with a new bike

Day one of my restore. I love working on things. I’ve restored bikes, boats and motorcycles. I’ve built a Norton Commando from only a frame and engine case. I’ve restored old Triumphs, BSA’s and Ducati’s.

I’ve ridden all my life. I’ve owned everything from a Kawasaki KZ400 to a 1300 cc Ducati XDiavel.

But now I’m 64 and move a little slower and my need for speed isn’t important. A fun bike to ride and own is what I was looking for.

In the 80’s I had a Honda Nighthawk S in red and wanted an Interceptor ever since.

I picked this up today for $1,000. It’s all original with no mods. It’s in nice shape but needs cleaning up.

The guy I bought it from just replaced the carbs, but hasn’t had it running.

I’m not a mechanic, I’m more of a cleaner and Detailer, but I know my way around a bike.

I’m looking forward to getting started!

 

Looks like a good project, welcome. Make sure you check the condition of the cam lobes and followers before spending too much elsewhere.

 

Thanks, I’ve been reading about that.

 

Welcome. That looks to be in decent shape. Def explore what's under the valve covers.

How many miles?

 

It has 30,000. Doesn’t sound too bad…

 

Most of those bikes that had problems, usually would have shit themselves already at that mileage. BUT, seriously take the time and inspect the cams closely. I have one engine with about 20K that had a little pitting (but no real wear) on one of the lobes. I just decided to run it and keep good fresh oil in it because it sounded so good. If / when it eats itself I will just throw another engine (or top end) in it. Fuck it. But I have quite the spares department.

 

So I actually bought a second one for $350. I’m going to tackle this one first. The red one is in nice shape and I think I’m going to keep it original. The blue one is in bad shape and I’m starting the deconstruction.

 

It’s a big project, but will be fun. What do most guys do with a rusty frame? Paint or powdercoat?