Some of you seemed interested in my final decision,
so I thought I'd throw it up.
A co-worker of my mom's had a 1980 Kawasaki 440 Ltd for sale for $400.
So that has been my selection.
I finished welding up a luggage rack for it, and some highway bars.
Just now got back from a 1000 mile test ride to Minnesota,
and all seems well!
Even held up to a little tumble on MN Hwy 30.
But I think I'm nearly about ready to head south.
Not sure how far this 30 year old machine will go, but for the price I have a little extra left cash to pay for the inevitable repairs...or who knows, maybe I'll buy something new along the road.
Here are a couple of process photos, a glamor shot, and two from my trial run.
Thanks for all the advice!