Hello,
I am new and from MN.
I am interested in the following bike.
Even though I have owned 2 bikes previously, I dont work on bikes and ride part time so no clue on what to look out for in this bike I am interested in.
I have always loved goldwings and am looking for ideas and suggestions on the bike below.
Thank you for your time.
Odometer: 25000
Cost : $2000
Below: ad in paper + pictures:
" 1986 Honda Aspencade GL1200. Well maintained garage kept, battery less 1000 miles on tires trailer hitch, AM/FM /Cass radio, CB. Extra chrome ,back rest floor boards, heal toe shifter "
I'll wade in here. 1200 is a great bike, when operating well, can't really be beat.
You need to learn how to work on these bikes, get manual(s), or find a good mechanic first.
There are several forums regarding these older GWs, this one, Classic Goldwings, Naked Gold Wings and Steve Saunders. The bike regardless of what the add says will need maintenance/work. Browse through these forums for maintenance/work recommendations. First recommendation will always be new timing belts - these engines are interference engines and if a belt goes, so will valves and such. Check the stator wiring connections. Need to flush all the fluids, and such.
Check the air suspension before buying, make sure it works. Any fluid leaking from the forks. I mentioned to check the stator wiring connection. Take off the left side panel where the battery is and look for three yellow wires just forward of the battery. Check condition, is there a 3 prong connector or are the wires soldered together. Check the starter solenoid on the rear side of the battery. Has it been changed with the newer blade style fuse, or not. Check the condition of the connector that fits the starter solenoid. Looking for burnt or discoloured wiring.
Take the right side panel off. Take off the rear brake cylinder reservoir cap and check the condition of the fluid. Is it clear, or look gummy. You may also see floating pieces in the fluid that would indicate the fluid has not been changed for a while. Take off the clutch and forward brake master cylinder caps and check the fluid as well, should be clear with no floating bits.
Take a look at the tires for a date stamp. Anything older than 5 years and you are looking at replacing the tires.
Take a flashlight and look at the front and rear brake pads. You should be able to see them, should have some pad left on them. If buying would recommend new pads.
Check the rotors. If these are ridged may be close to replacement tolerance.
Ask when the front fork oil was last changed. Will let you know more about the maintenance of the bike. Would recommend fork oil change if bought.
Have the owner start the bike and check all lights.
Not a fan of heel/toe shifter.
Having mentioned the above, there may be hidden gremlins that you will/would not find until you purchase and start doing some maintenance.
Mention to the owner what you want to check, make a list of these items and additional questions so you get all the answers you can.
Good luck. Cheers
"When you write the story of your life, don't let anyone else hold the pen"
