Gents,
I view prospective bikes as follows:
a. The collector - a bike as original as possible with few, if any modifications... the purist's dream. A bike that, as is or when finished will continue to increase in value.
b. The custom - a bike that I purchase and build/modify for me (as the name implies). Few have the stones, know-how, and/or creativity to build customs that are or become desirable. But, who cares if resale is not an issue right?
c. The beat-around - a bike that receives just enough attention to keep it rolling. Not much emotional attachment here! But, the right person and motivation could make it an b and possibly a c. with enough time and money.
d. The dog - a bike which, well... is a heap, junk, wishful thinking, beginner's mistake, etc. Otherwise, a parts bike!
I've spent most of my life on c's and yes, I'll admit d's. I could never afford to get into the "a.-bracket". I've been trying to get into the custom stuff lately but am plagued by environmental factors which will hopefully change within the next year or so.
Orion