QuestionHi Jan,
I have a 1978 CBX1000 which I fully restorded basically from a pile of parts in 1993. I rode it for a couple of years without issue. Unfortunately, which I now realise was a mistake, both this bike and my 1981 CB1100RC stood in the back room of my house unridden for the last 13 years (three young kids).
I have now brought these bikes back out of hibernation as I joined the local Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club. The 1100R started and runs just fine. The CBX however had fuel pour out of the carby overflow tube. I removed them and had them professionally dismantled and cleaned. Unfortunately, they still have a slow leak which I'm hoping will go away after a few days. Of more of a concern, is after the starter engages and winds the motor over for a few seconds and then seems to disengage, spin freely and then come to stop with a clunk. I'm hoping this isn't a problem with the internal clutch/gears as I know that's a major engine dissasembly issue.
Your thoughts ?
Thanks
Steve (Tamworth, New South Wales, AUSTRALIA).
AnswerHi Steve,
The carburettor rebuild on the CBX should have resolved all leaks. If it still leaks, the source should be found and fixed. Usually rebuilders use aftermarket fuel valves on the floats, and these have been known to cause problems. The Honda ones are more expensive, but worth it. With reference to the starter issue, it sounds like perhaps some corrosion may have started on the starter gear or the rollers. In that case, it will take a long time to resolve and you may want to go in there and dissassemble. I would first start and run the bike for a nice long ride, drain and change the oil, and see if the issue resolves itself. Also don't use synthetic oil at this stage, as you are essentially running the engine in again.
Nice choice of bikes you have, and good luck getting them both back in service without any other issues. Riding them a few times a year is still better than leaving them in your front room! Good luck, Jan
