Motorcycle Repair: 1983 HONDA CXR REBEL?, case restoration, model bike

Question
Hi Chris,I just bought a 1983 250 Honda and am putting on a new seat and gas tank.The old gas tank was pretty much toasted with rust from the inside out.The bike runs great,but needs new tires as well.I got it for 350$,which I thought was a steal.My question is ...Will the parts for the rebels from 85 and up fit this bike?I think they will,but I have not worked on bikes that much and do not want to buy something that will not fit.I really appreciate your advice and input!Thanks A bunch,AMIGIRRRL

Answer
Hi Ami.

Welcome to the wonderful world of motorcycle repair and (in your case) restoration.

It is rare for women to work on their own bikes, so you respect level has just gone up amongst real riders, like me.

As you will soon discover, not all parts from one year make/model bike will fit the next or previous year make/model bike.  Sometimes they will, but more often than not, they won't.

The only way to be sure, one way or the other, is to check with a shop about the specific parts.  As I said before, some parts will work, but most often they won't. This occurs mostly due to design changes in the bike.

Now if the tank is not full of holes, then resealing the tank will seal out the rust and prevent further rusting of the tank from the inside.  This process is simple and takes about 1/2 an hour to do and 24 hours for the sealant to dry afterward.

Seats can be restored cheaper than replaced if you know where to shop (www.jcwhitney.com and denniskirk.com)(hint, hint).

Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON