77 pant
As someone who actually rides trails on vintage sleds, I can give you the straight answer: not very reliable.
Ok, on the day it was sold, it was very reliable. Great simple design, one of the better motors. But, like 40 years later, it will only be 'reliable' by most people's standards if you completely restore it. New electrical system, fuel, and suspension. Not financially practical, but you asked.
So what you can do, more optimistically, is give it a good tune up, bring along a tow rope and cash, and have fun with it. Every once and a while a completely functional component will just suddenly die. Coil, fuel pump, suspension part, etc. You never know. I have ridden 300 perfect miles and then bang, a big snap from below and you cant move. (twice last year actually). I have also had 'clean' gas tanks suddenly produce a bit of dirt sufficient to clog a carb, half way through the season. Also had the fan 'hub' on an old yamaha break, causing the fan belt to spin without spinning the fan - overheated and ruined a jug. No warning, had 200 good miles that season.
So, have fun, $200 is good price for an intact vintage sled. But dont head for Hudson Bay without a buddy and a strap
