Older Rebels- good for beginner?

[devarshi]

I'm thinking of joining you all as a Rebel owner. I'm trying to decide whether I should get an older one (like 85-87) to save some money. I've seen a couple in the 5000-15000 mileage range. I was wondering if I'd end up regretting getting an older one because of maintenance problems. Will I have to worry more about maintaining an older Rebel, even though the mileage is pretty low? Or should I pay a little extra (around $1000) for a newer model?

Thanks!

[jsonder]

Do you enjoy tinkering? Are you willing to buy some new tools?

If you can answer yes to both questions and have a friend or know someone else with a Rebel (there will be some "is this right" questions about bike performance) I'd say go for the cheaper bike.

If this is your only transportation, try to find a one or two year old bike with under 10K miles. Part of the "fun" of an older bike is trouble shooting, ordering parts, and reviving it.

Hey, could you handle two bikes so you can ride one while repairing the other? ;-)

[devarshi]

I can't handle two bikes without selling the car (which I love btw). If tinkering is a big part of owning an older bike, I'm thinking I should buy a newer one. I imagine these engines are a lot easier to work on than my car, but I've found that I tend to get frustrated quickly when I work on my car.

[Art Wallis]

Three years ago I bought an 85 250 with less than 7000mi on it. It had been parked for several years. After a carb and gas tank cleaning and new tires and clean up it ran like a champ. Been riding now for three years without any problems of any kind and no more maintenance than a newer bike would require. If you find one that is in good shape and for a good price I would say go for it.

Art

[devarshi]

I'm going to go talk to someone about an 85 with 6k miles tomorrow. They bought it with new tires 5 years ago, and it has a new battery. Oil has been changed recently. I'm hoping to buy for $1500, does that seem reasonable?

[Phoenixdoll]

i would be very cautious getting an older rebel. i bought an 87 450 and it has been the biggest nightmare i have ever known. no sooner we get one thing working something else crops up and now i am currently stuck. i got the bike back in feb. and have yet to ride it. took me 2 months just to find a shop that was even willing to work on the bike. now i am hunting for a master cylinder that can't be found anywhere. just be very careful and "buyer beware" if you go with an older bike.