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So the story is long and beautiful about how a boy fell in love with a motorcycle. As it goes, a serendipitous conversation with a friend reveals that the bike is a little closer to home than previously thought. Years went by and the bike sat. I was in other countries riding other bikes, but my mind always wandered back to the 1972 CB750 from the Stovetop Lofts apartment complex parking lot. Finally, an alignment of stars and planets in the northern hemisphere allowed for the bike to be mine.
Unfortunately it seems that this is just the beginning of the story. The years that it sat uncovered have resulted in the engine being locked up. After exhaustive reading all over the internet it is yet inconclusive as to whether or not this is a death sentence. When I removed the carburetors, about a cup and a half of stale rusty water came pouring out. I have removed the plugs to release compression and the engine will not turn over. I have plans now to remove the left lower engine cover and attempt to turn the crankshaft directly as opposed to in top gear or through the kick start (both failed attempts).
If I cannot get the engine to turn over, I fear there will be nothing I can do to bring this bike back to life short of getting a new engine. If it does turn over, I am fairly confident that the bike will be up and running in no time.
On the plus side, in my frustration I have been cleaning every little crevice I can get into and the bike looks fantastic. It is sad to think that such a beautiful machine can hide such dark secrets.
More details and photos to follow.
Filed under: Adventure, celebrating, Motorcycle | Tagged: 1972, 1972 CB750, 750, CB, Dream bike, Honda, motorcycle, restoration | Leave a Comment »
Era is an online shop featuring a wide range of carefully curated vintage home accessories and other items. Our goal is to offer a selection of both high end as well as affordable collectibles with a focus on pieces from the 1950’s, 60’s, and 70’s.
