Worth Restoring???

[expressway]

I've recently picked up a new project, and kind of wanted opinions on what I have, no pics yet, I'll have it home next week. I found the very first 1972 cb500 k1 not just a low production but #1, its a complete basket case but the important parts are there, and the numbers do match on the frame plate and the neck, and there are no numbers on the engine. There are no production numbers on the engine what so ever and there is not even the normal spot in the casting where the numbers should be stamped. I was wondering if anyone had any opinions on what course of action I should take with it. Its not going to be for sale and I do plan on restoring it. I also kind of wondered if it is really any more valuable than any other 500/4 or just an interesting find?

Any help is appreciated

 

[expressway]

One more question, production date is 72/2 and I can't remember if it started with a 2 or a 21 so not sure if it is first k1 or k2.

thanks

 

[rudy]

Interesting...... Don't know much about Honda's, but I'd say that if it was the first of the K1's, then it should be worth something to someone. Maybe Honda themselves. I say take the time and money and restore it to original.

 

[Canuck Plumber]

I agree. Its not just a bike. Its a piece of motorcycle heritage.

 

[DrJ]

Cool find and yes, it's worth restoring. But don't expect it to fetch big bucks. It's no sandcast CB750.

 

[ridesolo]

I have heard, a few times from different sources, that Honda makes a habit of doing pre-production run machines for test purposes. Supposedly they are guarded fairly closely and are supposed to be destroyed when the testing is complete but occasionally they have been known to "escape" and spend a somewhat normal life until someone buys it and starts doing research into the VIN and are told by Honda, "That VIN number does not exist." Sounds like maybe that is what you have found?