So, thoughts.
As is the nature of these deals, the "wee starting problem for the first start of the day" is slightly more offensive than the picture that had been painted (and why I got a large discount on the asking price), and every other time I'd seen the bike start (several), it was perfect every time. So, I will either live with it, once I get a sense of the scope of the issue, or fix it if it's worth doing so. Not sure as yet, taking it to a mechanic on Monday. That being said, I've no issue with the seller on this front as they were upfront about the general nature of the problem and my own lack of experience here is also a factor, which I am happy to accept. In any event, will know more on Monday.
As for the ride itself - uncomfortable, with a caveat - I'm coming from a tiny bike, so my legs are being put in positions they are not used to at all (feels like I'm a lady of the night who specialises in cowgirling sumo wrestlers). This will, of course, pass. It feels like a tank, turns like a tank and somehow vibrates in a way that makes me wonder if something is about to fall off, or if it's just the nature of the beast. That being said, it also gives the impression of having more than enough power to dismiss this weight when necessary. It's so heavy I cannot stop it from rolling down the hill at work, due to the slope at the access-control point (don't know htf I'm going to deal with that one...), and I've already crashed into the barrier with my previous bike, not something I wish to repeat.
I've only thus far driven from pickup to home, and to work, so limited feelings so far - I will take it somewhere scenic over the weekend if the weather is good.
Condition is good (as far as I can see) for a 17-or-so-year-old bike, but now that I've spent some time with it, the age tells, as is expected, although in many respects it's doing better than my 2012 CBR. The heated grips don't appear to work. I need to remove the two crap stickers on the tank and frame.
Tell you what - I feel very differently about my CBR now; it's perfect (comparatively) for the short run to work. I don't think this bike is suited for this role, and honestly, I would keep both if it made financial sense. My hope is that this beast can fill the gap for a year or so, and I'd like to ultimately upgrade to a more modern bike that can both get me up the road while managing some longer distances.
Ultimately I am glad I did it, there will be some lessons learnt, no doubt, but that's okay; this is what life is for.
*edit*
The top-box is amazing, absolutely. Not having to take my helmet into the shop was a ****ing revelation, let me tell you. That said, it's a bit worn, and I'm not sure I entirely trust the locking mechanism. It's also got two panniers, which are in great condition, I just took them off in an effort to find space to park the damn thing.
*edit*
I've figured out the access control thing: there's presumably a foot brake... I just never use it on the Honda as it weighs like 4 kgs...