1999 ST4 - another Craigslist addict

[d3vi@nt]

I've posted a few Q's on the ST's and have been poring over the forums for all relevant info.  Was leaning toward an ST2 or 3, but saw this today: http://denver.craigslist.org/mcd/2793621128.html

NADA shows retail around $3000, so it seems pretty high given the amount of plastics missing (assuming the damage is only cosmetic). Mirror missing, too. The bent rim caught my eye, but honestly don't know if it would be unrideable. Saw a wheel on e-bay for close to $200. I imagine it will take a lot of hunting to come up with all the plastics, but you never know.

Comparisons between the ST2/3/4 aside, I'm just looking for thoughts and feedback on this bike based on the limited photos and no idea of service history. I'm kind of looking for a project bike, but I'm not sure this is the one...

[Speeddog]

Will you be doing the repair/refurbishment yourself?

[d3vi@nt]

Will you be doing the repair/refurbishment yourself?

That would be the idea. I've got the space and am fairly handy, though my skills pale in comparison to many of the DMF'ers.  That said, I may have more ambition than common sense 

[d3vi@nt]

That would be the idea. I've got the space and am fairly handy, though my skills pale in comparison to many of the DMF'ers.  That said, I may have more ambition than common sense 

I guess I should clarify that; I have no painting or bodywork skills, so any plastics I found that needed refurbishing or painting would go to a shop.  Mechanically speaking I'm reasonably competent.

[Speeddog]

OK, that's in your favor.

Depends on the condition of the consumables, and when the last valve adjust was done.

It's pretty common for the 'just bought' used bikes that come into my shop to need a set of tires, chain and sprockets, and cambelts.
For an ST4, that's ~$650 in parts alone.
If the PO's took good care of that driveline, it may still be serviceable.
I'd wager it's the original parts and is 90% shagged out.

Nearly everyone has more ambition than common sense.  
But admitting that is half the battle.  

No idea what the bodywork and mirror is going to run you.

I'd recommend getting a 5-spoke wheel to replace that 3-spoke front, they're lighter.

[d3vi@nt]

No idea what the bodywork and mirror is going to run you.

I'd recommend getting a 5-spoke wheel to replace that 3-spoke front, they're lighter.

Most of the used parts I've found (fairings, wheel, mirror) are between $100-$200 each. With the parts you mention, plus probably fluids, looks like it will take around $1500.

Does the rim look repairable (or able to be ridden) in it's current state? I don't think I'd gamble riding it like it is, but honestly I don't know how minor or major it is.

Thanks again for all the feedback.   

[ducpainter]

The rim can be straightened.

www.mcwheel.com

[d3vi@nt]

The rim can be straightened.

www.mcwheel.com

Hmmm. $120-$150 plus shipping both ways. Cost is quickly going up.

Thanks for the info.

[ducpainter]

Hmmm. $120-$150 plus shipping both ways. Cost is quickly going up.

Thanks for the info.

Probably not worth it for a 3 spoke wheel.

I have one off a 748 that has some scuffs, but is straight. The color is the same too.

pm me if you're interested.

[Speeddog]

From that picture, if I were buying it, I wouldn't plan on riding it away.

My opinion might change upon seeing it in person.

[d3vi@nt]

Probably not worth it for a 3 spoke wheel.

I have one off a 748 that has some scuffs, but is straight. The color is the same too.

pm me if you're interested.

Thanks. I'll do that if I pull the trigger. Most likely will depend on whether the dealer will come down at all. And if they transport (based on Speeddog's recommendation), since I don't have a truck or trailer at my disposal.

Thanks, all, for the feedback. Much appreciated.