I've done some searches on eBay for parts, it's pretty daunting what's available. I've cruised sohc4.net and other sites, seems to be a lot of information out there. Seems like there are more parts, but the forums are less organized then this one.
Like I said, we had a cb650. I really like that bike and working on it too. After I redid the charging system (rebuilt stator and new Reg/Rec) and rebuilt the starter it was a very dependable bike. I hope my experience here is the same. I did a little research before buying one. The early SOHC's seem to be my favorite. I love that exhaust and there are so few out there with the stock exhaust. Back in the day I think the owners tossed them for 4 into 2's or 4 into 1's like Harley owners dump their stock mufflers today.
The seller said it had good compression, I have yet to check it myself. I hope so, I don’t want to rebuild the motor. At least not at first.
I was planning on keeping the air box. Carb tuning is an art I have yet to master, 4 carbs instead of just 2 and the complexity increases tremendously. I’m relieved they are not diaphragm (CV) carbs. Experience has taught me, once I start messing with non-stock air filters and exhaust, tuning can be even more mysterious.
It will probably end up looking a lot like yours Pete. Except the color of the tins. My wife liked the upright stock handle bars and the comfy foam grips. Plus I know she’ll want a wind fairing. She said she wants in Pink, I hope she’s messing with me. She’s one hell of a bluffer.