1963 CB77, First Motorcycle

[Minimac]

Back in September 2010, while mowing an old man's lawn, I found this bike. Asked him if it was for sale and he said it was under the condition that I do not part the bike out and I get it running again. He was the original owner and it came with all the original parts. The Sparkplugs, tires, tubes, airfilters, all original.

Last fall I cleaned the carburetors and had got it running a couple times. I purchased new tires and spark plugs, and it seems like both sides are firing nicely. The problem was the battery was dying after 10-15 minutes of running. I still need to figure out why.

The kick starter also had been re-welded a couple times in a couple spots. While I was trying to get it started it snapped off. This is just another little thing on the list http://i.imgur.com/kO2S2h.jpg This leaves the electric starter and push starting it are my only options. Since the battery is never getting recharged I pretty much have to push start it.

So it sat for the past 3 months of winter and now I am trying to get it running again. Right now it is idling really high, around 4000-6000 and I think this might be a combination of a loose throttle cable and the carburetors needing to be readjusted. I really can't work on it too well with that recharging problem though.

If you would like to see more photos of the bike I have got plenty and can take more if you want: http://minimac.imgur.com/cb77

This is my first bike and I am learning as I go. If you notice anything on it, or have any advice or comments would be most helpful because I am an absolute novice.

[cyclon36]

Welcome to the forum!

Looks like a great deal. the CB77's have a notoriously week charging system. Make sure your headlight is not on when idling or it will drain out. You might want to look at upgrading the rectifier to something more modern to help as well.

The kick starts can be found on ebay all day long. Someone here might have one they're willing sell for a good price.

In my opinion, the any old bike that's been sitting should get the carbs cleaned out and taken apart. That might have something to do with the high revs. Also, lube up all your cables as they're probably rusting on the insides. I wouldn't trust them for any long rides so if you get a chance, replace them all, especially the brake cables.

Other than that, look around the forum and soak in the info. There's lots to be learned and discovered. I'm sure others can give you more detailed info based on the pics you have.

[davomoto]

Welcome minimac! One thing that jumped out at me was that ignition switch. It looked like you have a stock one as well. Wire the stocker back in, upgrade the rectfier with a modern unit, and clean all wire connections and insure all is wired up correctly. + 1 for removing and thoroughly cleaning carbs and lubing cables.

Davo