The Search and The Deal

I've been checking all the usual suspects the last couple of weeks - Craigslist, eBay, etc.

Finally I found an ad on Craigslist for two 1978 GS1000s in Torrance - the ad said they had been sitting since 1982. Seller wanted $400 each, which seemed fair.

When I went to check out the bikes they were pretty much as advertised. One was nearly 100% complete, the other was missing turn signals, grab rail and had an aftermarket seat. Apparently it was originally fitted with a Vetter fairing (also included). Both had rusty chrome and corroded alloy, but nothing looked too serious. The paint on both looked like they had been stored inside as claimed, but of course the tanks were rusty inside.

Ultimately I bought the better one of the pair - the second bike was just missing a few too many parts and the seller wasn't willing to deal. I may buy it later if we can work something out.

It's a 1978 GS1000 "E" model with cast alloy wheels and triple disc brakes. It differs from other pictures I've seen in not having the "skunk" white stripe, and having black lower fork legs. Odd, but apparently some came that way.

Here are some pictures that the seller took: