Guys - need your advice...

[AZCycle73]

I'm still a lurker around these parts, and have my eye on an 82 Silverwing. I don't know a whole bunch about this bike so I need to tap into your collective wisdom to ask the owner some good questions.

http://tucson.craigslist.org/mcy/1314210839.html

What do you think? Price seems a bit high, and no details are given.


Let me know your thoughts, fellas... Thanks!

[ph70s]

Hi AZCycle73,
I do not really know what the prices are in the US, but I know these bikes. First of all you need to see it, the general condition is a first element, and pictures are often deceptive.
The 500 engine is extremely reliable if maintenance is well done (oil change, cam chain tension, rockers setting...), so check the bike history : how many previous owners, maintenance invoices available or not...
Then listen carefully the engine running, and check the alternator is working (with the headlamp). It is one of the biggest weaknesses of this bike. At the same time you can control everything electric is working well (dash-board, lights, winkers, horn...).
After a couple minutes stop the engine and check that no water is dropping (specially on the right side where there is a chromed water pipe). Changing the water pump gasket means moving the engine out...
Mileage is another element, but high mileage is not a real problem, if you have evidences the bike has been well-kept. In that case just use it as a price-adjustement variable...
Good luck !