To paint or not to paint?

[robertcains]

I'm interested in opinions please as I'm seriously divided in my own mind!

I've recently purchased my lifelong dream of an 89 Exup which I plan to keep forever, I really wanted a basket case to rebuild from the frame up into a near concours machine which I would cherish but still ride regularly during summer months.
My dilemma is that I luckily managed to find a very tidy example so have done all the major jobs & intend to enjoy it this summer before tackling the more minute jobs over the forthcoming winter.
The big question is whether to paint the old girl? I have lovingly restored the original bodywork which is in good condition by cutting, machine polishing & touching any small marks in & it looks very clean now,
Would I be mad in considering a full repaint & new decal kit over the winter? Or is it best kept original with a few very minor imperfections for a 25year old lady?
Thoughts please,
Cheers Nick

[undeadhairy]

id say keep her as she was, she might object and start giving you problems if you change her

[Archangel]

I thought the same with mine, but I like the idea of 27 years of history being on show. I've cleaned the bodywork, done some touchups and given it a good polish with Mer.I think the Retro car guys call it Patina, or it could just be an excuse not to shell out a load of dough

[robertcains]

Fair comments but as a painter it won't cost me much & I'll be assured it will be done right.... Maybe makes the dilemma worse lol

[nugget]

I'd leave it as it is.

There's nothing wrong with a few small scars on a beautiful woman.

[banner001]

nope, restore it to factory condition if you plan to keep hold of it in my opinion. if you are going to do it, do it right.

[robertcains]

I was trying to ask myself which is more desirable? I suppose the opinions are split really & my main concern if I do paint it is peeps thinking it might be a complete shed with a makeover.

[jonny bravo]

I'm in exactly the same predicament - The only thing to bear in mind is - it's your bike and your image. If you plan on riding it til "death do you part", then keeping it original for the sake of history / value etc is irrelevant.

At worst - buy a tatty fairing and have that patched and painted, and keep the original panels should you change your mind - that's what I've chosen to do!

Good luck!