Buying advice

Hi everyone,
I'm new to this site so go easy on me!

I'm sure you have all been asked this 1000 times but what should I look out for when buying an original ST70?

I have owned many different bikes over the years mostly off roaders, and for a long time now I have fancied an ST70. I would like an original model from the 70's, and I don’t mind if it is not immaculate. I just want a useable classic just for very occasional use and maybe the odd Rally or show. I like things to be original but the odd alteration as part of the bikes history/use wouldn’t be a problem.

Where is a good place to buy? I have seen them come up on ebay.

What are the biggest problems to fix due to scarce parts etc?

What sort of price am I looking at? I am not expecting any bargains!

Any advice would be appreciated.

Paul.

Hi Paul
I am one of the least able to give advice but as you will see by some of my posts I dont give in, the one bit of advice I can give due to experience is make sure you see it running also there are a few scarce parts but these are mainly cosmetic, IE flowery seat on the Lady Dax if you go on the CMS site and scroll through the parts fiches they have a wish list or a difficult to come by list but there also appear to be alot of parts which go across the minibike range. It also depends if you wish to own a show pony or enjoy riding your m/c, Ebay is quite a good source but the prices and quality vary a lot, to give you an idea there is a CT70 on Ebay America 43 miles original 4500 dollars but alot more are under 1000 dollars, the other thing to take into consideration is how mechanical are you or friends who can help, also as the summer draws ever nearer prices will increase and i suspect more bikes will start appearing.
Anyway best of luck in finding a m/c,
Regards Tufty

It all depends what you're looking for.
A runner can be bought for less than 1000$.
A shower can cost you easily >2000$.

Renovating a wreck to a shower: Ask James , but it's very expensive.
Going from a wrek to a runner: budget!

Local is always the best place to look.
Eldery without much knowledge of the value or internet,...

My advice would be to buy a bike already restored or one in near perfect condition! Restoring a bike (which I am doing) costs an arm and a leg and takes up so much time.

If I was in your position I would scout eBay and also Gumtree for a bike in original but very good condition. You then have the option of keeping it as it is or restoring it further down the line.

Because the bikes are so old and susceptible to rust etc you will find it difficult to get a bike in great condition with a low price tag. By the time you get it painted etc it actually works out cheaper to get a bike that doesn't need the work.

You are probably looking at £1000+ for a bike in a condition where it doesn't need any work. Obviously, if you want a white ST70 (Lady Dax), you are going to be paying quite a bit more.

Good luck with your search - they are great little bikes and you will enjoy owning one

Thanks for the advice,
I've got my eye on one, I'll let you know if I get it!

Paul.