I first thought I would simply arrest the Mach 1's cosmetic decline and focus strictly on a mechanical restoration, retaining both its originality and its vintage 'patina'.
As I continually examined the Mach 1 in the light of day, every problem uncovered caused me to look harder at the reality of the bike's cosmetics. The tank was in worse condition than I had originally thought and I'd discovered the ugly frame repair under the oil-impregnated dirt.
The concept that an old motorcycle is most valuable when it is "original and un-restored" begins with the premise that you have a mechanically competent machine to start with. Of what value is an 'original' motorcycle whose bone-dry bearings have solidified throughout the engine?
I've come to the conclusion that the concepts of restoring a motorcycle and keeping it original are not exclusive. Every decision I make about refurbishing the Mach 1 will pay very careful attention to the partnership of both concepts.