The classified ad reads like the often-repeated urban legend of someone selling a family heirloom worth thousands for chump change. A Honda CBX from an estate sale for $1400? That bike is worth 15 times that. Steal that bike before the seller realizes what a horrible mistake they’ve made. But wait. Scrolling down the ad reveals the photo used for the main image is an example of what a pristine, fully-restored CBX looks like. But it is not the bike the seller is trying to pawn off. The actual bike for sale appears to have been stored in a swimming pool filled with salt water. All of a sudden, the $1400 does not look like such a sweet deal. This bike is missing parts and the parts that are there look rough. These CBX bikes are not easy to work on or service when they are in good shape. This one would be a nightmare. Unless your business is restoring CBXs, I wouldn’t touch this for any price.
The phrase “running when parked” (RWP) is code for a once treasured possession that has been neglected in the corner of the garage or tool shed for far too long. Lacking the energy, time or resources to bring the little beauty back to life, the owner lists it for sale in hopes that a new owner will massage it back to health. Our collection of RWP bikes fall into two distinct categories; treasure or trash. And you are the only one who can properly judge which category the bike belongs in.