I got a text from a friend of my Son saying that he wanted to sell his old airhead. I’ve been looking for a project bike for a while now but I’m not sure that this is it. The bike is a 1978 r80/7. 1000 cc jugs installed 40 mm bings. Matching ratio rear drive. The transmission is out. Needs replaced or rebuilt. Input shaft splines are worn. And a clutch and rear main seal. She's rough. What I’m wondering is if this is worth the time and treasure to restore or is it to end up a parts donor.I would also need to get some idea of what a fair offer would be for this bike. My last 3 bikes have been oilheads that I took into high miles. This would be my first airhead and would be a long-term project as I have a RT that I’ll use day to day. Any advice from those that have been there would be appreciated. Thanks guys The picture thing is giving me some trouble but I'm working on it https://www.dropbox.com/s/xabq8m228m2cbqb/IMG_20121204_205909.jpg https://www.dropbox.com/s/9mhdflmcve394s9/IMG_20121204_210015.jpg https://www.dropbox.com/s/m3sow338mvt6b25/IMG_20121204_210058.jpg https://www.dropbox.com/s/260de6zs364zbug/IMG_20121204_205934.jpg
There's a lot to consider here, modified engine and blown tranny. I'd be calling Mark at RePsycle in Ohio and getting a price on a used transmission before I'd make an offer of $1250 for the straight frame, running engine and decent tins. Just sayin' Edit: I see you got links to pix now. Having seen the pics I'm not sure the subframe is straight so maybe I'd pass on this one.
It could be a decent project, but don't plan on completing it, then selling for a profit, because that's not going to happen. If you enjoy wrenching on motorcycles with the result being an airhead you can ride for awhile, then by all means, go for it. Parts should be available for what you need to do.
I would just think of it as a basket case .. with improvements. Tanny rebuild will last 20 years. Other parts are around. The joy you have in rebuilding would be fun. Spent a few nights a week in the garage kicking the nut and bolts around. They project will keep your mind working and that will help you from getting Senile dementia - Alzheimer's. I have 4 projects all sitting in pieces. Get one started.. while waiting on parts .. start the next.
I would pull the clutch and see if it close to being in spec. If it is I would put the transmission in it and run it. I wouldn't pay more than $1200 for it.
I'm going to pass on this one and keep my eye open for somthing in a little better condtion. The kid told me he wants $800 for it as is. Bike is in bloomington IN. PM me if you want contact info. Thanks for all the replys
