First start, first ride!

Yesterday, we figured out why the ignition was not working (a short in the main harness apparently).  After disconnecting the plug (pictured), we had spark.  I had already unplugged the kill switch and ignition switch, but there must be a wiring fault in between that connection and the headlight bucket.

I had to leave this connector unplugged for now.

This morning, Kyle and I installed the carburetor, petcock, gas tank etc.  We also drained more than a quart of oil, because the PO had overfilled the crankcase.  The motor started up after just a few kicks, and sounded pretty good! 

Even though we had no bolts to hold the throttle / brake lever pod, I went for a short ride down the block.  I knew it was unsafe to ride with the throttle and brake lever moving around loosely, but it turned out okay.

Here's a video of it running

Purchased a 1978 Kawasaki KL250A

Although I should not have been looking (too many bikes at the moment) I found this bike on Craigslist yesterday and drove up to Crystal Lake, IL to get it today.  The seller was even nice enough to deliver it, and expressed an interest in my son's moped for his wife (which would free-up some space in the garage).

From what I can tell, the bike will need a 6 volt battery (already purchased on eBay), headlight ring, tail light bracket, socket and lens, tires/tubes, grips (already put some on), carb cleaning, tank / petcock cleaning, and a spark plug.  Of course, all of the cables will need to be lubed as well.

The bike at its previous 'home'

Mostly complete, needs an air filter, battery, etc...

Four stroke, 246cc single cylinder; possibly the same engine as a KZ250?

Also in need of a headlight trim ring and retainer

Non-original tail light, bolted to the original housing

Lucky Kyle, it fits him well!