Picking up a 77' CB 550, have questions

[ambiguous]

Whats up guys, I am picking up a 77' CB 550 this weekend! Been trolling the forums for a while, just never posted because I never had a bike! :'( As far as quesitons, I have a ton!

1) Anything I should look for before purchasing this bike tomorrow? Any red flags as far as this bike and the year?
2) It is out of the dmv system, what's my best bet to get it registered? and will it be a hassle?
3) Any tips on getting the bike running? What should be my first steps?

Here is the my bike I'm picking up.
http://inlandempire.craigslist.org/mcd/3093466531.html
Thanks for the responses and time.

 

[nashbuilder]

Im not a pro at this at all but I would check the compression first and make sure that the motor turns over and is not frozen. If its a barn find make sure it has all the parts to make it run, ie. the carbs are on. I have heard of people sale a bike with the carbs "off to be cleaned" and then when the new owner puts them on they are incorrect to that model and dont line up with the boots.

Get a Bill of Sale signed when you buy it. In TN you can file a Cert of Ownership form from the Dep. of Revenue. In our state if the bike is 30 years old or worth under 3,000 you do not have to show much information at all.

Purchase the Haynes or Chilton manuel and read up on things before you start taking things apart. Hope the bike turns out to be a good find.

 

[2.3efi]

Check with your dmv first, every state is vastly different. Here in IL, a bike with out a title is good for parts and that's it. Don't pick it up till you know what the process is in your state first! Made that mistake myself before.