Newby

[Fourplay]

Hello Everyone,

Just recently bought a 1979 registered CB400 four F2. Been perusing this site for a few days, must say there's a lot of expert advice and it seems a very friendly site compared to others I've been on.

I was actually looking for a 60s CL77 initially. But in a general search the 400/4 came up. I remember them from my youth and always hankered after one. Mates drew me into the British bike scene, so while most kids of our age were on Fizzies and rd250s we were riding (but mainly fixing!) Tiger cubs, Bantams and Ariel Arrows. I've still got my Cub, dont think I'll ever part with it. Since those days I've had various bikes. Currently own 2009 Ducati Monster 1100S, 1968 Honda SS125A (in bits), 1956 Triumph Tiger Cub. 1956 Triumph Tr5 Trophy, 1961 Triumph Speed Twin.

The bike looks cosmetically good given its age and unrestored condition. It's done 39,000 miles 10,000 of which have been done in the last 30 years. It's had 10 POs. I have receipts going back to 2006, and MOTs back to 1991, so I think the mileage is genuine. It had new pistons and rings in 2006, new exhaust system as well, though don't know if this is genuine Honda. Lots of other stuff done mainly to cycle parts, and service items.

When I bought it the engine sounded ok, but then again I'm not totally familiar with these bikes. I've ordered a new battery and service kit from DSS. The carbs will probably need a look at. A carb service kit came with the bike, purchased in 2006 but the PO never fitted it so I will dive in at some point and strip them down. The thing that impressed me about the bike is it looks like it's been serviced by Honda dealers judging by the receipts, Nuts and screws have not been mullered. Hopefully the cam chain, and the rest of the engine is ok.

Thanks for listening. Think I'm going to like it here,

Justin

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[Nurse Julie]

Welcome to the Forum Justin and enjoy your bike. If David Silver sends you spark plugs with an R in them, they are the wrong ones, you will need non resisted ones. As far as the carb kit goes, try and preserve the original brass ware which is far superior and make sure you fit Viton O rings which are Ethanol resistant. I sell lots of bits and pieces for all the CB SOHC/4 range on my ebay page but if you, or any forum member contacts me direct, I always give a discount.
Enjoy, that's a nice looking bike you have there.

[philward]

Welcome Justin, hope you enjoy the forum (its virtually a 400/4 forum, there's that many on here!). As you have already identified, a great bunch of friendly and knowledgable members.
Plus one with regard to what Julie said about the aftermarket carb kit - they vary so much, some good and some bad. The ones I have fitted to my 750's have been good (a branded make - can't think of make right now) but the ones for my 500 were miles out when, for example I mic'ed up the needles - fortunately before I fitted (cleaned and re-fitted originals). Go for the quality viton o rings that Julie sells.
Looks a great bike by the way

[Fourplay]

Hello Julie and Phil,

Thanks for the warm welcome and the advice. The carb kits are unbranded so I may leave them on the shelf. Julie I will definitely be wanting those Viton seals. I'm also presuming it might be good idea to change all the hoses for nitrile ones.
There is a Petrol station that sells ethanol free fuel a few miles away but there may be times when I fill up that I'll have no choice. I want to use the bike this summer. At the moment back issues prevent me from using the centre stand (caused by clearing a space for the bike!).

My plan is not to get too carried away buying cosmetic replacement parts otherwise I'll find myself stripping it down completely.

Although buying some new genuine spares for future restoration could be on the cards.(I'm a bit of a Part Tart).

So I think I'll read up all I can and give everything a check over, get it started and make sure all's well. Ride it and take it from there. I'm sure I'll have lots of question too so I get it right first time.

Cheers,

Justin