TOPIC:

I know it's no Kaw, but a local guy has a 1983 cb 1100 for sale. I looked it over, but haven't heard it run or checked it out thoroughly yet. What I know:

claims 20000 miles

pod filters

powdercoated frame

2 minor dents and starter cover has a little rash

v&h 4 into 1

petcock valve leaks a little

painted engine

p/o doesn't know about what's been done inside

needs new rear tire

needs back brake and probably m/c

He's asking 1800 but knows he won't get it. assuming it runs good, what should a fair offer be?

Went back tonight and looked it over better and rode it.

I think it's actually an 84? sticker says cb 1100 f.

It has an extended rear arm.

Paint on engine is bubbling.

Paint on body is fine.

It smokes, and has some seeping in a few places. (owner says he was told it was probably valve guides.

It has no signal lights.

What do you think guys, should I try to do some horse trading, or just pass on it? (I actually prefer the look of the Nighthawk S)

The CB1100F is in great demand, and I thought they were only made in 83 (might be 84 though, what do I know).

The Cb1100F was a one year bike...1983
handled great, and they hold their value, but this one sure sounds needy.......
maybe $900?

jjdwoodman:

Well, checked the latest 'Vintage Motorcycle' evaluation chart for that bike (and sometimes they are spot on, other times thay are way off) and it gave the price range as between US$940 and US$4700. A Tier 1 bike ($4700) would be a Concours bike capable of winning the finest of shows...a Tier 5 bike ($940) would be a partial, non-running bike. You sound like you have a Tier 2 bike or so, so the asking price is pretty close to the market value. The flip side is that you'll have to dive into the motor to make it correct...that can get pretty consumptive, time and money-wise...unless you are a CB freak (personally, I'd be inclined but for the Tier 1 price (thanks, BobZ1:) ) and then rebuild it....the extended swingarm should let you know that the bike has probably been thrashed upon occasion.

I love the looks of that bike. I agree the extended swingarm is a clue it was raced at the track some or at least rode hard on the street. I've heard the motor is a good design though. Done right, I think they are one of the best looking bikes out there...next to my Z1...nothing looks as good as a Z1 in my opinion. I don't think the guy is that far off and if you decide to fix the little things on it, I think it will just get better with age.

The swingarm was supposedly changed for the looks, but you can never put money on that.

Owner says the other local guy he traded with also has an extra motor for it, but I don't know the details or if the offer would transfer to me.

The chain adjusters are nearly all the way, out, but the sprockets look about 80%. I was thinking I could pull out a link but don't know if it's an endless chain.

A word of sagely advice...when you replace the chain (don't pull a link), always replace both sprockets...it will prolong the life of the chain.

Man! It would be pretty cool if it is an F. Might want to register and ask questions here.

cb1100f.net/index.php

Thank! My wife will LOVE me to be on two forums! seriously looks like a good site. I appreciate the heads up!

Are we talking about this bike? Always like these!!

That's the one! Except for color, painted engine, and that rea swingarm. Myself I think the swingarm makes it look like a bad limo.