ALT-2 A Guide to Buying Antique Motorcycles
You found it! The perfect vintage motorcycle. The main problem is that it is rusted and needs to be restored. This sounds like a great hobby. You buy it, take it home and begin restoration. After removing most of the old, rusted paint with paint remover, you realize you will have to sandblast it to get the rust and paint off. Your original motorcycle has been reduced to small parts. The engine, which has not worked in many decades, is next. You disassemble it, and there, it lays on the floor. You label the parts, put them in boxes, and store them. You have literally become a “basket-case” (a slang term amongst cyclists) when the complete motorcycle is left in pieces.The following guide will help the vintage motorcycle enthusiast to buy an original or restore a classic.Remember this golden rule when restoring a motorcycle: “You can restore a motorcycle many times, but it is original only once.” (source unknown – but applied towards anything being restored.)There are four terms that need to be understood before purchasing a classic motorcycle.1. Original means it has all its original parts, and finish – The outside loses its luster and it is dull.Nonetheless, this is the most valuable motorcycle a person can buy.2. Restored motorcycles – this is the one you need to be careful in picking. They look new and have a coat of fresh paint. The motorcycle must have parts that were used in the model and year it came off the assembly line. It may be advertised as “restored” but not have all the “correct” parts. If verified that the parts are “correct” makes this the next best thing to an “original” and is valuable.3. Runner is a restored motorcycle and runs well, but alternative parts are used as replacements. This motorcycle is fun to ride and gives the feeling of yesteryear.4. Remember the “basket case”? The original was broken down into parts that are no longer original because the “original” has been changed. It is called a “Rolling Basket” and has been loosely reassembled. This is sold as a “rolling basket” and can be improved by the buyer.“Basket case” can become a “Rolling Case” if you are handy and want to reassemble the parts. This is the cheapest type to buy.Before you begin restoring, talk to others who have the same bike as you. Study your motorcycle, get to know it, understand its workings. The following should be the information you seek.CostFind the cost of parts needed for the model and year of the classic you choose. Some little plastic piece that looks like it shouldn't cost much, can end up costing a lot. Antique motorcycles have no warranties. If something breaks, it will have to be replaced. An engine for an antique motorcycle can cost up to $2500. Rebuilding an antique carburetor is expensive. As are electrical systems, magnetos, generators, and alternators, if you have to rebuild or replace them.Before giving the cash for the motorcycle of your dreams, ask questions. Why are you selling this bike? If you had to spend money on this motorcycle, where would you put your money?Check over the motorcycle carefully before you buy. Remember the rule of “buyer beware” before buying an antique motorcycle.
