Points of concern when purchasing vintage bikes?

[kyle91987]

I'm looking into a 1965 Honda Dream and was wondering if there's anything I should pay special attention to when I look at the bike. The bike has roughly 13,000 miles on it and seems to be decent shape. The owner claims the motor does turn over but he hasn't gotten it to start. The engine does hold compression. I would like to very much work on the bike but I would like to be able to ride it too without extensive work. Any advice will be greatly appreciated.

[Kevmcp]

If the engine holds compression that is a good thing. The main problems I had with mine was all the electrical system, points, and a dirty carb. If it runs funny it could be many things, one of the main thing is a carb that needs to be replaced or cleaned (easy) if someone has gotten into the electrical system, that could be something best left to a mechanic you trust. Have someone look at it before you buy it, because you could be in for more than you expect in repairs.