Motorcycle Repair: 1979 Honda CM400T, headgasket, exhaust pipe

Question
My 1979 Honda CM400T is leaking oil from around the left exhaust where it connects to the motor.  What causes this and how can I fix it?

Answer
It's doubtful that it's coming from the exhaust unless there's oil pumping out the exhaust pipe too.  More than likely, the headgasket is leaking near the exhaust and is blowing or wicking over to the exhaust pipe.  You're probably looking at a headgasket replacement.  To check it, clean it up good, start the bike and pinch off the breather hose.  It won't take too long before you will see where it's coming from.  Don't close off the breather too long or you'll be putting all new seals in the engine too because they will have blown out.  

Regards,
Rich