75' cb500t 'the flying turd' novice viewpoints

[stemi]

With winter approaching I've purchased a 75' honda cb500t to work on during the cold months. The bike is titled and heavily worn, non running, but complete. For $400 it wasn't much of a commitment. Which leads me to my first question. Is this bike worthy of fixing, or how worthy is this bike for creating a mechanically sound cafe racer?

I own a 76' honda cb550 supersport which I love, but this cb500t model seems to be a flop by Honda standards, heavy, excessive vibration, and well ugly.

I look at the bike in my garage, partly trying to decide if this is the right project bike, and a little stuck in how to best get started, maybe try starting the bike?

The goal of this build would be simple. Create a mechanically sound bike that starts, runs, and stops with a little cafe flair. I'd rather spend my time and money on mechanical aspects of the bike that will translate into function and comfort, keeping the ugly cb500t turd appearance until all quirks are worked out.

Before I start spending money, let me know your thoughts on these honda cb500t's, good, bad, or just ugly.

 

[Flugtechnik]

I think "flying" turd is being optimistic. I will give you $200 so you don't have to haul it to the scrap yard.

 

[VonYinzer]

Well... In my opinion, the 450/500 twin motor is hands down one of the prettiest Japanese engines ever. That said, they can be an absolute bear to rebuild if you don't know what you're doing. The torsion bar valve setup leaves a bit to be desired, but can be replaced if you want to spend the money.

As far as the rest of the bike, what it looks like now doesn't really matter. With some work and some cash you can make it look like whatever you want (within reason of course).

What it really comes down to is whether or not YOU WANT to build the bike. Doesnt really sound like it. Thats all good. Just don't spend a dime or a minute on it than.

 

[Flugtechnik]

Damn it Mike! I was trying to get a deal.

 

[stemi]

Miffa, love the before and after pictures.... Skip the loads of work and tons of money, frustrating nights, and give me the beautiful end product.

Looks like a rough donor bike..Great transformation!