Jump or Run???

[JFootman]

(I apologize if this should be listed under "Links to Classifieds, Craigslist, Ebay, Sales, Etc." Please move if inappropriate here!)

First time post here but hopefully not the last depending on responses. Hair's breadth from the big 5-0 and between that and the likely future gas prices I checked on a whim to see what FB Marketplace had listed for motorcycles nearby. You'd think after 50 years I'd have learned if a deal's too good to be true.... Found an '83 Venture for $500 nearby with this description: "Runs great, decent tires, needs brakes, speedometer fixed, 2nd gear does not work". 58k miles reported & seller has title in hand. "Runs great" is often a subjective description and I tried to get more details out of him but other than "it's rideable" I couldn't get much so figured it's an excuse for an hour road trip tonight. I had a new 2001 Suzuki Volusia for a short time and loved it and I'm aware the Venture is a beast by comparison but I've always missed the ride and excited about the possibility.

I'm not naive enough to think that $500 is the end of the investment and of course no one knows how she was cared for previously. I'm no mechanic but I'm good with my hands and perform most of our "minor" automotive repairs and service. I've read about the 2nd gear issues but assuming it can be skipped for the short-term (I've read it's OK but wanted y'all's expert opinions). I'm a little concerned about the odometer accuracy with the non-functioning speedometer but I've read these'll run till the cows come home if cared for. I'm more concerned about the potential for internal frame rusting on the first gens but have no idea how to evaluate for this. I found a post earlier tonight (can't find it right now) that listed all the "issues" with the first gens and recommended upgrades/replacements which doesn't scare me as long as parts are available and I'm not looking at a $3000+ investment by the time she's road worthy.

In a nutshell, what should I be looking for and what issues would be a deal-breaker? I'm driving over with $500 in hand but willing to walk away with just a memory of a pleasant drive with the missus and an excuse to leave the 6 kids behind!!! Thank y'all in advance!

Edited May 13, 2021 by JFootman
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[luvmy40]

If the bike will go up on the center stand, the frame is not broken. That doesn't mean it won't break later. You cant see the rust issue as it rust from the inside out.

At he very least, you will need new brake lines and rebuild kits for the MCs and calipers. I'd bet the tires are too old to trust, even if they have good tread. The carbs will likely need cleaned at the very least and will probably need rebuilt.

If she starts up and idles with no choke, you are probably OK. Keep in mind, these bikes sound good and will still feel powerful running on three cylinders.

 

[BlueSky]

If you can repair the stuff that it will need, buy it.  If you have to pay someone else to repair it, buy a newer bike.  One member bought a cheap not so good 83 and had about $5,000 invested by the time it was finished because he paid someone else to repair what it needed. He seemed happy with the end result.  And most shops won't work on a bike this old.  Another member bought a clapped out 83 and did a frame up repair himself and it looked great afterwards.  They are fast, fun bikes after you get them roadworthy.  

[JFootman]

Thank you, gentlemen for your input. Pulled up tonight and he already had it up on the center stand. Started immediately and purred without choke. Could have been lying through his teeth but said didn't burn oil, no oil leaks & reiterated the issues listed in the ad. He's been driving it to work regularly 80 miles each way on her and said he was still doing it up until last week. Appears to be very well maintained. Lotta cosmetic issues as can be expected but all things considered I'm pleased thus far with the $500 investment. Looking forward to taking the first cruise of many tomorrow! Thx again!

[SpencerPJ]

Sounds like you got a great deal.  Welcome to the Venture gang.  Hang around, there are many on this site that can fix anything you come across with the bike.  Enjoy.