What do you think about this deal?

[Magna86]

Found this V65 on craigslist. Looks good needs some work. Calling the guy today for more detailed info. Bike has 103K Whats the mileage we can expect from a motor that was taken care of? Or what are the common issues when that high of mileage? http://dallas.craigslist.org/ndf/mcy/977988834.html

[trapper]

I think it's a great deal, but then again, I've never been 'afraid' of high mileage vehicles.  This particular bike appears to be in good shape from the photos.  Obviously, you'll know more about it after talking to the guy and/or looking at it.  The rear tire replacement and carburetor rebuild are very very minor fixes.  Listen to the engine for evidence of valve or cam noise.  Check for smooth operation of the transmission.  Certain noises may indicate the need for valve/cam adjustment or replacement or drivetrain repair.  Very worst case is that you may need to replace the engine or transmission.  There are usually always some available from bikes with less mileage, so that shouldn't really be a problem either.

I'm hoping, however that you find this very affordable motorcycle to be in good, serviceable condition, and that you can ride and enjoy it for many more miles

[hootmon]

I don't believe you see many V65's with this kind of mileage.. They had top end oiling issues.. There is an oil mod that helps.. If it had the oil mod performed, then that would explain the longevity.. I'll let the V65 guys jump in at this point.. With that kind of mileage, and the need for carb work and tire, I wouldn't pay in more than he is asking and probably less..
V65's also seem to have a 2nd gear issue, so make sure that it does go into 2nd gear and doesn't pop out of 2nd gear in change from accelleration to de-cell.. IMHO

[screamin meme]

I don't believe you see many V65's with this kind of mileage.. They had top end oiling issues.. There is an oil mod that helps.. If it had the oil mod performed, then that would explain the longevity.. I'll let the V65 guys jump in at this point.. With that kind of mileage, and the need for carb work and tire, I wouldn't pay in more than he is asking and probably less..
V65's also seem to have a 2nd gear issue, so make sure that it does go into 2nd gear and doesn't pop out of 2nd gear in change from accelleration to de-cell.. IMHO

I agree with with the above. I have had 2 of these bikes, not saying it isn't a good deal, just be very observant. I see you have a first gen 700. They should sound and run very similar,basically. Ride it and check out that 2nd gear. Put it in gear and ride it like you just stole it. You will know quickly if it has a gear problem.

[Greg Cothern]

I have seen several V65's at the 100K mark...  And still running strong.

[Magna86]

I'm going to look at it tomorrow and if it looks good I'm gonna take it home. Spoke to the guy and he is the original owner! Bought it brand new in 88 with 0miles. He said isn't going to fix it because he's going to buy a new VMax! Been garage kept whole life, regular maintenance including valve lash, never had a trans issue. He has all the docs with mileage of all the service the bike has had it entire life. Said stopped riding it because carb kept flooding out the motor. Original carbs have never been jetted or even off the motor! Talk about some good care. Even if the motor goes the whole bike is there just needs a little cosmetic love or if all else fails part it out and get my money back. Even better is will trailer to my house. (doesn't run) Will look good next to the V45. Just gonna tarp it and slowly buy the parts it needs then tear into it in like 4 months.

[hootmon]

Even better is will trailer to my house. (doesn't run) Will look good next to the V45. Just gonna tarp it and slowly buy the parts it needs then tear into it in like 4 months.

Better yet.. Trailer it to the Wrench session on the 10th and ride it home from there!!! Sounds like a good find if the guy is the original owner and made it to the century mark...

[dgc67]

Looks like a good deal from the ad.  Good luck with it!!

Hey, I sure would like to see some larger pics of your V45 please. 

[screamin meme]

85 model bought brand new in 88? Anyway, you will love the bike.

[roboto65]

Back then some bikes sat in the showroom that long not like the market we have today!!!

[Magna86]

I would love to come to the wrench session in general but I sell cars and Saturdays off don't happen This is going to be a project that will take awhile like my V45. I bought my V45 Dec 07 and didn't get it on the road until May 08. Like that one I plan on just going through the entire bike except I don't think I have to paint this one. The bike with 103k still has the original rotors! New parts he mentioned was a new seat, rear shocks, cltuch, waterpump, stator, voltage regulator, and has a super trap exhaust. But he even kept the original exhaust! Will post pics when I get it home. Here a few of mine from when I got it to finished.

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[screamin meme]

How far is Argyle from Abilene?

[Magna86]

Argyle is about 3hrs away. I'm just south of Denton, TX. The bike is officially in my driveway! Gonna post some pics soon!

[Magna86]

here ya go. He gave me all the records including the original bill of sale. $3750 out the door in 1988. Bike looks great only 2 issues waterpump oil seal leaking which he gave me the o-ring and the new stator/regulator melted the connector. He said not sure why and even asked the service guy about. What would cause the connector to melt where the regulator and stator connect? Other than that some good elbow grease and a paint job.

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[Magna86]

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