From a guy who's restored dozens of m/cycles (no REs but many early Euro and Japanese) I think you need to decide: are you a "process" guy or a "product" guy? I'm, fundamentally, a process guy that enjoys the project as much, even more, than the final product. I don't think I've ever restored a bike that I couldn't buy restored for less than or just a little more than it cost me to do it. Figure time and they're all upside down in cost vs. value! With age I'm becoming more of product guy where I'm buying more bikes that are intact and roadworthy or restored such that I'm only adding my own finishing touches. Mortality thoughts lead me to want to ride more and restore less. A lot of folks who are not "process" oriented, however, buy a project bike because they don't have or want to spend the $ to get a road ready specimen. They assume they'll restore them as time and money allows. These often lie dormant in the garage never finished. You've got to love the PROCESS to see a project through. If you're not sure what you are....start small with something inexpensive like a moped, scooter, radio wagon. See it to completion and then you'll know without putting big bucks at risk.