I'm not sure about my GB500's origins as I bought it from a girl in Seattle in February 2010.  The little CB-1 is still for sale and while the money would come in handy, I'm also kind of happy no one has expressed any interest.

Eric

Regrettably, I must consider selling my CB-1 that I've owned for 8 years.  The bike is in wonderful condition with some nice modifications: Hagon rear shock, Hepco-Becker tail rack and expandable day bag, full stainless steel Beet exhaust system, smaller rear sprocket for easier cruising, Michelin Pilot Power tires, X-ring chain, voltage indicator to monitor battery, chrome headlight and gauge covers (originals included for easy return to stock look), carb overhaul with Litetek Viton seals, stainless brake lines, EBC HH pads, color-matched Rifle fairing with two shields.  Just under 22,000 miles and always with synthetic oil (I use Amsoil 10w-40).  Lots of spare parts including extra set of original wheels.

Much more to mention but I'll leave that for further communication with anyone interested.  This is an exceptionally clean bike that I'm reluctant to let go but I need the money to pay some unexpected bills.  Looking to get $3,500 for a bike that needs nothing other than gas and a twisty road.  Lots of other photos available upon request.  Bike is located in Bellingham, WA area.

Eric

35878608 by Eric Freeman, on Flickr

You can change sprockets to get taller gearing but will have an inaccurate speedometer since it's driven off the trans sprocket instead of the front wheel like many bikes.  I dropped about 4 teeth on the rear sprocket and it has helped and the accelerations is still good.

Eric

Are your gauges actually damaged or just the plastic housings they fit in?  I ask because I recently fitted some chromed plastic gauge covers on my CB-1 for a little bling and they fit pretty well for Chinese parts.  If your gauge internals are OK, this would be an option.

Eric

Wow, what a little jewel!  I'm jealous!  What RPM will that beauty turn?

Eric

I took the little CB out for a mountain run today in the 80 degree heat.  Very nice run up the mountain to where the air was cool.  Great ride on an exceptional bike.

Eric

35878599 by Eric Freeman, on Flickr

35878600 by Eric Freeman, on Flickr

35878605 by Eric Freeman, on Flickr

35878608 by Eric Freeman, on Flickr

Check out Webbike Japan website as they list a bunch of CB1 exhausts.  Not sure about shipping but since they're brand new I'd think it would be possible.

Eric

I've fixed a number of broken pin controls on various bikes over the years by drilling a hole in the damaged area and gluing in a small metal pin.  Saves replacing the entire control and is a cheap fix.

Eric

What kind of budget do you have?  Prices can vary a lot depending on condition and it would help to know what ballpark you're thinking of.

Eric

Welcome to the CB1 brotherhood!  Hope your bike came with all the parts since they're getting very hard to find.

I also have a 1989 GB500 (now a 601cc!) and it's a great companion to the CB1.  Essentially the same size and weight, nearly identical riding position but a unique riding experience.  Virtually no vibration due to the balance shaft and amazing torque and power (especially with the upgrades).  When I ride my CB1 it seems like the bike is going much faster than it really is whereas the GB is just the opposite.  It never seems stressed and pulls like a freight train.  I really enjoy both, although my bad knee is making me think these close-coupled bikes might be better off in someone else's stable since it's getting more painful to ride them these days.

Eric

L1000314 by Eric Freeman, on Flickr

Very nice writeup and pics that are sure to help lots of CB1 owners who do their own work.  This is on my list of things to do this spring when I take my CB1 out of winter hibernation.  I use a set of calibrated vacuum gauges to set the initial synchronization of the carbs to get them close and then use a 30" water tube manometer for final adjustment.  Very accurate but tricky to use.  I've been using this method for years to synch the twin Weber DCOE's on my '75 VW Scirocco so I'm accustomed to the technique.

Eric

No, that was the CX 500/650 that had it's two cylinders arranged like a Moto Guzzi.  My 1979 CBX is an inline six cylinder, 1047cc, twin overhead cams, 24 valves and six carbs!  Absolutely smooth as glass and plenty fast as well.

Eric

Now that you've mastered the CB-1, you need to get a CBX so you can synch all 6 carbs!  Yes, I have one of those...

Eric

The platypus mod!