Motorcycle Repair: vintage honda dirtbike, honda dirtbike, check ebay

Question
Good afternoon,
I have a 175 honda dirtbike, given to me from a man who wanted to get rid of it and I wanted to make this my guinea pig to get started in repairing, could you give me some pointers in what to look for in getting started?  Gas tank is rusted on inside, and there is no key...

thanx

Answer
Nathan, there were several Honda 175s that are "dirt bikes" and each has different ignition systems and characteristics.
MR175.... 2 stroke dirt bike with magneto
CL/SL175 twin ...4 stroke engine with battery ignition.
XL175 single... 4 stroke engine with magneto ignition.

Generally magneto ignitions don't need a battery and you can make them run by disconnecting the key switch.

Battery ignitions are just like a car... they need a battery and an ignition switch to create an ignition switch.

Go here to help identify the model..
http://100megsfree4.com/honda/

Most Hondas have a number stamped on the ignition switch, which can usually be copied at a locksmith. Sometimes Honda dealers have a supply of old pre-cut keys for older bikes.

Try KREEM, POR-15 or Yamaha Gas tank cleaner/sealer systems. You will have to clean the petcock, Fuel valve, carburetor carefully to be able to flow and meter gasoline into the motor.

There is a lot to do and a lot of it depends on what kind of condition the engine and chassis are in.... Honda parts are not inexpensive, so check Ebay auctions for parts possibilities, once you determine what model it is...

Bill Silver