Starting the hunt for my dream bike
My neighbor was selling his Ducati last month when I first got this wild idea. Thought why not check if I could score a classic Honda Fireblade instead? Started simple – just typed “old CBR1000RR near me” into my phone while drinking coffee.
Where I actually looked
First hit was the obvious online marketplaces. Damn, 90% were scams or beat-up trash! Kept seeing ads like “mint condition” with photos showing cracked fairings. One guy even tried to tell me those were “custom vents”. Yeah right!
Then I remembered Barry from bike nights mentioning specialty forums. Signed up for two big ones where old sportbike geeks hang out. Way better! Actual owners posting maintenance histories with real photos. Found three 2004 models within driving distance – but prices felt steep.
My lightbulb moment: Started hitting small-town dealerships on Fridays when they get trade-ins. Found this dusty mom-pop shop near the state line. Owner says “Got something in back you might like” – there she was! 2004 with just 8k miles and all original parts. Best part? Old dude thought it was just “another red bike” – didn’t even know it was a Fireblade!
What actually worked
- Checked print classifieds in racing mags (people still do that!)
- Posted “WTB” flyers at local tracks
- Asked mechanics to put out feelers ($50 finder’s fee offer)
Deal I finally grabbed
That mom-pop shop wanted $500 less than forum prices. Played it cool – said I’d think about it. Called back Monday acting unsure about the carburetors. Owner goes “Fine, take it for $X,XXX cash today”. Nearly dropped the phone! Paid extra for professional inspection anyway – no way I was trusting 20yr old rubber hoses.
Took delivery last Tuesday. Lesson? Everyone checks websites – real gems hide where people don’t bother looking anymore. Sometimes you gotta get literal grease under your fingernails to find good deals on these classics. Worth every damn minute though!
