Yeah that bike was pretty narrowly focused to a single person's vision. From looking, the bits used were very desireable upgrade parts. But those seldom add much value cuz so many want nut n bolt restorations, a decently presenting 850 was just on bring a trailer, didn't meet reserve at 5500 which seemed a bit low.
Locally "nice looking" bikes are listed in the 8500 to 15,000 range. $4000 to 6,000 "need work" bikes sell quickly.
Mine was a shed bike that ran with a promise of a "just completed" overhaul. Cheap at 3700 It's this winter's victim. I've dropped another 2500? into it (NOT keeping track) and am just getting warmed up. It's getting a restomod treatment and I may well end up with two versions. A long distance light tourer and a "more correcter" back road bomber.
Front end is the focus this winter; new fork tubes, seals, all bushings guides etc. New headlight bucket, ears, LED headlight, stock appearing turn signals added. full brake overhaul with MC sleeved down. rough castings smoothed, polished. New paint, new steering and wheel bearings Several versions of wheels being considered but SS spokes, new tires, rims likely in any case.
If I get through the front end the list is still VERY long Engine, tranny, the Isolastic suspension, swing arm all need attention.Speedo off for an overhaul. I'm no mailman but this is a labor of love and a trip down memory lane as I recreate one I had in the 70's
Forks are back on now.
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I've ordered a custom painted Interstate (bigger but slightly bulbous appearing) tank and side covers from India for the touring version. No doubt that will be an
interesting unwrapping.
Lack of an electric leg may become an issue in the not so distant future. Been working a guy over his shed bike, 850 electric start Commando but he's getting cold feet. The Nortons are mostly owned by enthusiasts that bought, rode them new but the ranks of guys like that who ride are thinning. Perhaps more likely than the XS's to remain in the garage til the owner "goes to the home" or dies.
Edit: new fender also.
Turns out this was just an "assembly model" of a Norton motorcycle.