Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

YouTube- Shinya Kimura: Motorcycle Cannonball Video Series


:bow: :clapping:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Went out for a ride with the girlfriend and about 100 scooters on the weekend....

Pics HERE and Scooter Rally sept 04 10 pictures by digitalbill2 - Photobucket and HERE Couple of vids on the second link too.

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a2...4%2010/023.jpg

That's my girl on the pink Vespa.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

maybe 6 years ago or more I had a honda like that, bobbed both fenders, lost the tail light and gave it a sweet candy paint job. cleaned the bike up real nice. lose that seat too and you'll be in business

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As mentioned in the score thread, I went down to Atlanta, GA to pick this beauty up today. 3,700 original miles, barn find. $800.

http://c4.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/i...c88bdd33b3.jpg

http://c1.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/i...9d4de7b878.jpg

http://c2.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/i...c1fb22f4b5.jpg

http://c1.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/i...cb7c3004d8.jpg

I'm going to go through the carbs, change the oil and plugs, tidy up some bypass wiring and throw some new tires on her. Then I'll be slowly but steadily moving towards a cafe racer as I drive her back and forth to school/work.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

That a 550cc? Seriously nice score and a great bike for a Cafe Style ride.:thumbsup::thumbsup:

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Yup! 550F (super sport). I'm happy as a lark right now. :dancing:


I need some tire advice... What about these? Think they'll handle ok on water? I'm more concerned with practicality than with looks.

http://www.bikebandit.com/dunlop-k70...header-amp3557

http://www.bikebandit.com/assets/pro...unlopK70MD.gif

The wheel dimensions are:
Front: 3.25 x 19 in
Rear: 3.75 x 18 in

But the rear tire in the link is 4.00 x 18. Think that'll be safe?

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

K-70s are the same stock-type tire I ran on my old BSA, sort of OK but not brilliant. On my Cafe Sporty I run Dunlop 501s bought from Bike Bandit (nice folks by the way). 110 90-18 on the front and 130 80 -18 at the rear (I'm running KZ-1000 wheels front and rear). These tires really add to the handling and feel pretty good...bike is nice in the turn, and around here they are everywhere. At any rate I'm very satisfied with them.

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Hmmm... got anything you would recommend for the stock wheel on mine? I'm pretty limited since I'm using the wire wheels... I entertained the thought of sealing the spokes on the inside of the wheel so I could run tubeless, but I don't think the bead would seat properly...

How about this for the front (100/90-19, tube type):
http://www.bikebandit.com/pirelli-mt...otorcycle-tire
Option 2 (doesn't look quite as good):http://www.bikebandit.com/dunlop-f24-motorcycle-tire

And this for the rear:
http://www.bikebandit.com/pirelli-mt...otorcycle-tire
Dang that's expensive! That hurts.

Any ideas?

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

The 501's will run fine with tubes. Buy new rim strips and tubes with the tires. On my '82 Yamaha Seca, which has similiar rim sizes to your 550F, I run a MM90-18 Dunlop Qualifier on the front and a 120/90 18 on the rear. These sizes sould be available in the 501's. I forget what the MM means but I think it's a 90. Rolling diameter of the front tire is 26-1/2" and the rear is 26." Width of the front at widest point is 3-3/4" and rear 4-3/4". The tires should look nice on your bike, work well in the water and make for good handling.
Don't forget to check your headset bearings. I run tapered rollers in all my bikes, and they really help on the older bikes which came with ball bearings. If you adjust the headset bearings and (with the wheel off the ground) they take a "set' at any point, they're shot. Your bike has really low miles but sometimes when the shop set up the bikes when new, they didn't properly lube these bearings, if at all.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

The 501's will run fine with tubes. Buy new rim strips and tubes with the tires. On my '82 Yamaha Seca, which has similiar rim sizes to your 550F, I run a MM90-19 Dunlop Qualifier on the front and a 120/90 18 on the rear. These sizes sould be available in the 501's. I forget what the MM means but I think it's a 90 (most catalogs will have a conversion table). Rolling diameter of the front tire is 26-1/2" and the rear is 26." Width of the front at widest point is 3-3/4" and rear 4-3/4". The tires should look nice on your bike, work well in the water and make for good handling.
Don't forget to check your headset bearings. I run tapered rollers in all my bikes, and they really help on the older bikes which came with ball bearings. If you adjust the headset bearings and (with the wheel off the ground) they take a "set' at any point, they're shot. Your bike has really low miles but sometimes when the shop set up the bikes when new, they didn't properly lube these bearings, if at all. Also check your wheel alignment with a string or straight edge, as the factory marks on the swing arm at the axle bolt can be 'iffy.' Having good HS bearings and the bike properly aligned make for nice handling VS. scary.
When I run around on a bike with tube tires, I carry a patch kit and small tire irons, just in case. In 49 years of riding I've needed the kit only a couple of times, but it sure is nice. And the couple of times I had a flat and didn't have one, well, they were really a pain.
Hey, have you checked out Cafe Racer magazine? Good articles and neat bikes.:thumbsup:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Right on! I'll go through all the bearings, see what's worn, and go from there. I'll make sure to read up on headset bearing adjustment and wheel alignment, although wheel alignment seems pretty straightforward.

So you're saying it'll be fine to run a tubeless tire with a tube/wire wheel? Is that safe? That would sure make things more simple... There's really not much out there for the tube crowd. How do the 501's you have on your bike wear?

Just got done ordering aftermarket signals, clipons and a bar-end mirror. It'll be nice to get the stock bars off. :driving:

I'm going to run off a top triple tree for it at school on the HAAS. Would anyone be interested in one also? Just a short run so the school doesn't shit a brick.

Thanks V8!!!

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The 501's are bias belt and shoud be fine with tubes. When I mount tube types I use talcum powder in the tires, which I've been doing about forever and may be an 'old wife's tale, but supposedly keeps intenal friction down, or keeps 'em from sticking when you inflate them the first time (which now that I think about is makes sense.). I don't know about the wear because I only have about 600 miles on mine. Bike Bandit was running a sale on matched tire sets at the time and I got a prety good deal. I mount and balance my own tires and so save a bunchover having this done (here about forty bucks a wheel) The 501's are really nice on the backroads in this area. My Sporty weighs about 500 lbs and I'm guessing that your 550 weighs about thirty to forty pounds less, which helps with tire longivity. I run 32 psi up front and 34 at the back...Progressive fork springs in the Police KZ-1000 front end (on the Sporty) and Works shocks out back.

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V8, couldn't agree more with the advice!

I'll try to keep this short:

Go over EVERY nut and bolt and make sure everything is torqued. Should take only 10-15 minutes for a solid peace of mind.

Tires: never cheap out on tires. Ever. Get the good stuff, it's worth the price. I have Avon Roadriders on mine. The front wears very slow and has awesome grip. The rear tire is almost bald only after a a couple thousand miles. Eh. I'll probably go with a metzler for a replacement. I suggest always having a spare tube in the garage along with rim strips (or duct tape... really! works great).

2nd Vote for roller steering head bearings. Nuff said. Kits are available.

Oh, GOOD SCORE! CONGRATS!

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In that case, I do believe I'll order myself a set tomorrow. :) Looking forward to riding her around a little!

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Thanks man! I'm stoked to have it. :dancing:

That was a couple of the conditions I set myself for having a bike; don't skimp on helmet, tires or brakes. :thumbsup:

I'll make sure to keep plenty of spare stuff lying around.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

What kind of helmet did ya get?

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Haven't gotten one yet. I'm planning to go look for one this sunday; my head was huge before I got dreads, but now it's even bigger! "Tried on" an XL the other day, but it wouldn't even begin to go on. Hopefully a local place has XXXL...

I did manage to score a jacket though. Teknic brand, full back/shoulder/elbow armor; zip up vents. Perfect fit for me.

http://c1.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/i...cb5dda1e3c.jpg

http://c4.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/i...27a99b7187.jpg

$100 :wink:

Bike's got hovercraft status until tires get in:

http://c4.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/i...269b73e21b.jpg

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Small Hi-jack :funny: My bike is still non-opp but I did buy 3 helmets.... :thumbsup: 2 are DOT (1/2 and a 3/4) and I bought a Snell full face. All 3 are brand new and I have $105 total in them :grin:

I plan on using the full face about 90 percent of my riding.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

I just got a set of clubmans for mine. Because the wires run through the stock bar I'd have to some drilling and cutting to make them work. I've decided to make my own clip ons since most I see on ebay and such are kind of scary in the way they are made.


I'm using a pair of bars from the rf600 parts bike I have and will weld them to a "cradle" I'm having a friend make for me. once that's done i'll make a bracket to weld it to so I can mount them to the top of the triple tree using the fork tube bolts. I'll post pics later once I finish the pieces and start putting it together. They're actually based on a design made back in the day.

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I've bought two sets of clip-ons from eBay - one vintage set and another brand new set. Both have great welds and the chrome is awesome. Best $50 bucks I've spent on my bikes.[/SIZE]

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Fungus, good to see you are getting yourself into some proper riding gear. This is coming from some one that's had a few get offs and proper gear has saved my ass every time. Invest in some decent armoured riding pants as well and don't forget to wear them! Gear doesn't do any one any good hanging in the closet. Jeans don't cut it! I had the same helmet woes when I first started riding way back in about '92. I had dreads when I bought my first helmet and ended up with an XL. After I cut my hair I went to a medium!

http://www.ex-500.com/gallery/1765_19_03_08_6_09_12.jpg

http://www.s13.com/MotivationalPosters/atgatt.jpg

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I've been guilty of an armored or heavy leather jacket with, um, regular jeans, for years.:ohmy: Last month I bought jeans with Kevlar lining (79 bucks). They seem to have a 'relaxed fit' compared to the Wranglers I normally wear, but should work really well when it gets cold and I have long johns underneath.:grin:
HJC makes a good helmet that got rave ratings compared to the really pricey ones (Arai, Shoei, etc) from one of the mainstream mags a year or so back (Sherrie wears one when she rides her Virago). I have an Arai (okay, I'm a helmet snob, but the fit is great) Over dreads, how 'bout an XL and a large rubber mallet for precise installation? For getting it back off, you're on your own. :grin:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Kevlar reinforced jeans like the Draggin Jeans are better than regular jean for abrasion resistance, I recall reading somewhere the Draggins are good for up to 5 seconds sliding on asphalt where regular denim is good for a whole .5 second. I still would throw some under armour on with them myself. Don't think armoured knees are a good idea? Here's a little test : Put on a pair of your favourite jeans and take a kitchen chair out to the driveway. Stand on the chair and then drop to your knees on the pavement. Now multiply that by about a billion! And if you are one of those that think "it won't happen to me"... remember that there are only two kinds of motorcycle riders, those that have wiped out and those that are going to.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

I think I'll just move to Connecticut so I can ride without a helmet and shirt with just shorts and sneakers without socks. Because we all know that those things are just too restrictive and take away from the pleasure of riding a Motorcycle. :grin::thumbsup:






Fucking idiots.:hmm:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Ha. Out here where helmets are mandatory, some wear DOT approved 'bird shit deflectors' with their tank tops, shorts and flip flops. I assume they believe that sunscreen with SPF 50 means if you dump your bike at under fifty, you're safe (All real motorcyclists know it's only good to twenty).:grin:
I believe I'll pass on jumping off a chair, these days it's painful enough just climbing up on one.:wink: But, after careful consideration, and perhaps leaning toward using some common sense, tomorrow I'm running over to Cycle Gear where thay are having some sort of sale and have a nice selection of riding pants with armor. I'd hate for you to be able to say, "I told you so.":grin:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

OR down to Palm Springs where "it's too hot to wear protection..."

Saw a guy cruise by me today wearing Dockers shorts, velcro sandals (yeah, NO socks), and a polo shirt. Probably just left his law firm for the weekend and decided to haul ass downtown.

I thought I was bullet-proof as a kid riding motorcycles around the dirt wearing just shorts. That changed my mind when my dad brushed up against a cactus. I put on protective pants and full leg pads after I saw my dad grab the needle nose pliers...

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Turbo, as I was looking at the stock handlebars the other day, it looked almost like you could turn the stock bar upside down, then around so that it's once again pointed back, but downward. You'd have to drill new wiring holes and patch the old ones, but it looks like it'd be cheap clubman bars. Just wouldn't have much drop.

Bill, I had no idea you used to have dreads man! My head used to be too big for any hat (cap at full adjustment MIGHT go on) but now there's no way anything fits hat-wise. I really love my dreads, but I'm afraid I may have to part with them to fit in a helmet. :crybaby:

Speaking of helmets, I really like the idea of modulars for daily driving (getting stuck in traffic, etc.) I've heard some people say they're not as safe as a full helmet, but at the same time, it'd be better than a 3/4. Any opinions?

I'll look into a set of pants. I had no idea about jeans only lasting 0.5 seconds... :blink:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Oh yeah, forgot to mention... The clipons kind of worry me too. If the welds look in real life like they do in the pic, then I think they're completely structurally sound; but the idea of losing one while in traffic or a hard turn on the blue ridge parkway...

I plan to gusset them. I'll basically make another clip for the fork, have a short tube coming up from it, then a clip for the bar itself (7/8" diameter). It might widen my grip a little, but it'd sure give me peace of mind.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Ok, one more post. :funny:

Recommendation on tubes. I don't plan to race, just driving backroads, highway and interstate.

I need a 100/90-19 and a 120/90-18... These are the only ones I could find those sizes in:

http://www.bikebandit.com/metzeler-motorcycle-tubes

http://www.bikebandit.com/bridgestone-motorcycle-tubes

Personal preferences? I'll be ordering 2 of each size for backup. :thumbsup:

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V8T, did you find anything at the sale? I'd really hate to have to say I told you so!

If it's too hot you're wearing the wrong gear.

Fungus, if you cut off the dreads, have a look inside them. I gaurantee you won't ever grow them back! Blech. :funny:

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Only photo I could find online... 1989 or 90.


http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a2...2/comet003.jpg

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Fungus. I have bought two sets of those clip ons from eBay. One set has lasted two years of everyday riding and still work and look perfect!
The new set only has less than 5 miles on them, but I have no doubts of the structural integrity. Have you ever heard of clip-ons breaking or seeing/hearing of a set that needs gussets? I haven't either. Just buy the stinkin' things and run 'em!

@ Bill: dude, post a pic with the dreads! EDIT: nevermind. already did.

I wanted dreads sooo bad when I was a youngin' after watching

Cool Runnings.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

That reminds of last weekend. Some guy on a stripped down hunk of shit that thought it was a bobber riding out of town wearing -sit down- a pair of cut off jean shorts, a pair of flip flops ( honest to God, thingy 'tween the toes, flip flops) and one of those old German Kaiser helmets, You know the ones, the non-DOT approved with the spike. I felt bad for him, we were about 5 cars in front of him going from my side of the state, up and over the cascades to Portland when we hit the biggest torrential down pour I have seen in a long time.

:Idunno: guy shouldn't have been riding like an asshole the whole way over and karma might have smiled on him

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Like the man says, "There ain't no cure for stupid !"

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

I have a set of Telefix clip-ons I used to run on the Sporty (with the 38 mm Kawi forks) until my wrists began giving me grief. They are alloy at the clamps and adjustable, but still too low at their highest point. I currently run a set of 'Euro' style bars which are just right and still have the 'look' I'm after.:smile:
I'm running into to Santa Rosa in a bit to look into armored shorts and Kevlar flip flops..you just can't be too safe.:wink:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

When I start riding my Harley I think I'm gonna go with the Ass-less chaps :funny: :funny: :funny: Seriously....... but I will be wearing jeans under them. I figure the chaps will give me some skid protection on the outside and the Fruit Of The Loom's will give me some skid protection on the inside. At least I will have some protection until I find a decent pair of leather pants.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Okay. I rode over to Cycle gear and after taking a pass on their huge selection of Frank Thomas crap (I bought a pair of FT boots a number of years back and they literally fell apart within a few months:yelling:. Imagine riding along at about seventy in heavy commuter traffic and the sole starts flapping, you lift your foot from the peg to see what the hell is going on and the whole sole blows off....:yelling::yelling:) I tried on some racing style pants whic didn't fit so hot, and several pairs of denim style pants with armor at the knees (removeable for washing)and Kevlar in all the right places and bought a nice fitting pair of RedRoute brand...likely made in China. Price; at under a hundred bucks plus tax.:grin:
I asked the very helpful young lady about Kevlar socks to go with my carbon fiber filpflops for when I'm riding my old Sporty, and oddly enough she didn't think that I was funny.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

That's fucking awesome.... I am going to have to use that one:funny:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

So, what are your plans for the clip-ons?

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

They are hanging in my shop. They only fit 38 mm forks and are for 3/4" grips and controls (To fit the Sporty's 1" controls I made up a couple of simple tube sleeves, slit lengthwise so that they compress, which are still on the Sporty with the 3/4" Euro bars). I suppose you could make up a similiar sleeve to get 'em to fit smaller dia. forks, as they clamp in place. If they are something you could use on you bike, I'd be willing to part with them.
I'll run up to the shop and get 'em down so I can give you a better idea of how they work.:grin:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

I'm replacing the stock CB750 front end with one from a '77 GL1000 (Gold Wing). It has 37mm forks vrs the 35mm. Shimming 1mm would be easy. The problem would be the 7/8" grips and controls on the CB's but Like you, I could also make some sleeves.

Let me know, thanks.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

The control shims are easy. I found a mild steel tubing with a 7/8" id and cut a lengthwise slot an eight inch wide so the sleeve would 'compress.' The clip-ons are pretty much infinitly adjustable...Obviously they pivot fore and aft at the fork tube, but also at the bar tube mount, and you can change the angle in relation to the fork. Plus, at no extra cost, they telescop an inch or so, and have bar end weights.:ohmy: I shelled out about 75 bucks when I bought 'em in '89. Chrome inboard of the part where the controls mount has some minor pits but otherwise they are pretty nice. How about 40 bucks including shipping?:grin:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Wait a minute. If you're using the CB controls, they should be 7/8" and the clip ons are for 7/8". Am I missing something here?:ohmy:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Sounds like an awesome deal to me. I'll have to wait until Friday to shoot you the cash.

I thought you said they were for 3/4" controls. If they are for 7/8" then they are perfect.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

3/4" controls?...oops, I can't recall ever seeing that size. Yup, these are for 7/8".. I guess that I should clean my glasses more often.:hmm:
I've got a couple of slow days and will be installing my Safari windows (after only four years...sigh) and searching for a short in the single cab.
Anyway, PM me your address and I'll get 'em headed your way tomorrow.:grin:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Turbo, why replace the front end?
Seems kinda pointless when the stock front end works just fine from the factory.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

"Seems kinda pointless when the stock front end works just fine from the factory."

Uh, what?:blink::blink:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

:funny::funny::funny:

Looking at the pics he posted in the score thread, it's got dual disc brake, aluminum rim, stainless spokes, and it may have stock taper bearings...

It may just be a beefier suspension. :Idunno:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Yup, better braking, less flex and the other non-carodable features listed above. Plus it pisses off you purists out there. ;)

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Bastard!














:funny:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Sorry man, I didn't mean you.:huh:





:funny:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

If you love stock parts, you'll really hate the clip on's which went out FEDEX about a half hour ago.:hmm: Tracking # is 273389815000929. Package I.D. is 0125412. and someone will have to sign when it arrives in 5 days. The nice lady at the local Package Store asked if I wanted insure the package, but since she'd already taken all my money and wouldn't accept an iou, we'll have to risk it.:grin:
I was going to PM you and then realized, I don't know how...:Idunno:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

I'm looking for a petcock. I need one with 3/8" external threads and the outlet faces to the rear when mounted on the right side of the tank. So far all I can find is one made by Milwaukee twins on the J&P Cycles web site. The only problem is it's going to cost me $50 with shipping. Anybody know where I can find one cheaper? Or is the Milwaukee twins a decent quality item and I should just pony up the cash and buy it?
Thanks in advance :thumbsup:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

V8T, to send a private message just click on the username above the avatar and a menu drops down. Click on "send a private message to....". Easy peasy.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

I got a chopper and it is way cool... and I need to sell it... dang.
http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n...r/SDC11913.jpg

http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n...r/DSC00010.jpg

http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n...r/DSC00008.jpg

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

nice ... shame u have to sell it

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Thanks Steve. That was waaay too easy.:thumbsup::thumbsup: And now I am hopping on the Sporty to run into town to help my 88 year old mom on her computer. I wonder if this is genetic?:blink:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

I have been working on a 1975 kz 400 that I picked up for FREE (which is always the best price). Here's a few pics of the build as it is comming along. Since these I have painted the frame and am fabricating a 2 into 1 so I can run a single carb instead of the stock dual carb. After that I should be pretty close to done.

http://i703.photobucket.com/albums/w...dbarconst2.jpg

http://i703.photobucket.com/albums/w...dbarconst1.jpg

Here is the tank after paint alot of masking and a little hard work...

http://i703.photobucket.com/albums/w...1258404298.jpg

hopefully I will have it all together soon. But bouncing between this and my Volksrod (with most time being spent on the volksrod) makes progress slow.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

This bike has mad swag. I love it.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

will the one from Flyrite work? $18. click link and scroll down
http://www.flyritechoppers.com/Pg/FRCParts.html#

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Thanks. I really think it's cool.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

That tank looks way cool! :thumbsup:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Hey thanks for the link, I bookmarked the site for future reference. The petcock I need is just like the one shown but with the fuel nipple pointing to the left. Thank you for trying though :thumbsup:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Me love stock parts? Don't think so.:wink:


Thanks man, I'll send the money order out on friday.:bow:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Actually, I was refering to the comment by Max16v about tossing perfectly wonderful stock factory forks for a non-stock item.:blink::blink: With my Sporty I went a similiar route to what you're doing. The 35mm items went in exchange for an entire 38 mm front end from a `79 Kawi Cop bike, including the 18" front wheel and brakes. This was kind of funny because the Sporty is an `83, the Kawi was a `79, and both forks were maunfactured by Showa....go figure. The change in braking alone was worth the price of admission. I also run an 18" Kawi Cop wheel at the rear. One thing to check if you're running the Gold Wing brakes is the bore of the master cylinder of the 550. If you're running the Wing cylinder, all is well. The bore of the Sporty master matched the Cop item so there was no problem. If the bore of the 550 is slightly smaller (than the 'Wing) you'll be applying more pressure to the brakes; larger and they might feel kinda 'wooden.' It all depends on how much of a difference in bore.:smile:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Anybody got a good source of stainless spokes for stock '77 CB550 wheels (18", 19")? Having trouble locating any.

I found a good deal on some on ebay, but it lists them in the following sizes:
20x147mm
20x149mm
20x205mm
20x207mm

And bikebandit.com lists the sizes as:
8x144.5
8x144
8x202.5
8x203

Pretty close on the length, but I have no idea what the first number is... They have it listed as fitting on a CB550, but no years. Help?

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

For what it's worth I found a petcock from Debrix.com

Looks like the same one from Milwaukee twins but it's only $22.99 so with shipping it comes out to $35 total instead of $50
So I went ahead and ordered one. After I placed my order I found a thread on a Harley site saying that they suck to do business with so I'm crossing my fingers that I get it and that it is what it is supposed to be :wacko:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

This is my 78 Sachs Moped,this is how it looked after I got it up and running.
http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k1...6/DSCN1075.jpg

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

got to this point,65 Garelli 2-stroke tank,N.O.S.1957 italian,cafe bars,59 Caddy light
http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k1...6/DSCN1237.jpg

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Had to paint it,didnt wanna spend too much! Spraypaint from Wally-Martian!
http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k1...s/DSCN1574.jpg

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Some 20 dollar craigslist bags,schwinn mudflaps,99cent pedals from Goodwill
http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k1...s/DSCN1596.jpg

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

You need to put a "Ton Up" sticker on there. hahaha

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

that is most excellent

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Very nice indeed.:thumbsup::thumbsup:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Oh, for spokes check Bucannans (no doubt spelled wrong) SS are about $80, for a set of 36.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Ok, I've about had my fill of spoked wheels. :hmm: The maintenence on them will be high, still not fully comfortable with running tubes, and they aren't cheap to keep up. Besides, these are pitted like crazy. Had to fill up several holes with JB weld.

Any chance the rims off of an '83 nighthawk would fit? The '83 was a shaft drive, but if the mounting holes are the same, I can just bolt on my sprocket... Even if just the front wheel will fit, the front wire wheel is the one giving me the most trouble.

I don't really dig the look of alloy wheels, so I'll make up some moon discs for it (kind of like this):
http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_kr...dhymo1_500.jpg

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Some inspiration for the CB folk...


http://i749.photobucket.com/albums/x...0/DSC_0214.jpg
http://i749.photobucket.com/albums/x...0/DSC_0273.jpg
http://i749.photobucket.com/albums/x...0/DSC_0256.jpg

There's even a blog about it:
http://cafefabrications.blogspot.com/

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Bill...... Thanks for posting. That bike is bad ass :love:



I guess you get what you pay for.........Don't buy from Debrix Cycles. The fuckers charged my credit card when I placed my order then send me an e-mail the very next day saying that my petcock is on back order with no due date of arrival.....
Fuckers :finger:

Now I will see how good they are about refunding my money. If not I know my credit card company will.

EDIT: 1 nasty phone call and 2 e-mails were fired off and within an hour I got an e-mail saying they are refunding my money.........

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

damn... I don't really like cafe's but that is sweet. The attention to detail is incredible.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

I'm surprised but I like those rims. Wonder how they would look on a rat bobber? Probably not good.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

HAHAHA!!!

@ Bill, bad ass bike. The detail is astounding.

@ Fungus, going with spokes or alloy wheels is up to the style you want. Spokes is always the best way to go for an old school look, and contrary to belief, are very very low maintenance.

You can find good chrome, used rims off ebay and contact Buchanans for spokes.

@ VWZOMBIE, I'd roll that bike. So fucking cool!

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Hmmm, did some more research. I found a '79 CB750 alloy rim with drum brake, and it has the exact same bearings as a '77 CB550, which means that the shaft is the same diameter. :dancing:

Also, the front wheel off of an '82 CB750 has dual disk brakes, which wouldn't work with my single disk front on the '77. However, the bearings are identical between those two also, which means that the shaft is the same diameter. I can make a spacer to fill in the gap of the disk that I'll remove, then possibly make an offset plate for my caliper on the side that I retain. :thumbsup:

Does this sound completely stupid?

Here are the ones I'm talking about:
http://www.vintagebike.co.uk/Bike%20...50-Cafe-81.jpg

Of course, the rear will look a tad different since it has a drum brake.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Nice CB 750s. Ive owned 3 single cams through the years. Bullet proof.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

these are comstar wheels though, not alloy

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Hey Max! Yeah, they would be low maintenance if I found some that weren't butchered in the first place. Relacing them will be a bitch, and if I'm going to buy a new rim, might as well go the whole nine yards and get something really practical. No tubes, won't rust, a lot lighter, etc.

I do enjoy the look of wire wheels, but I try to never let form come before function.

By the way, Bill, that 750 is gorgeous. :love:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Hmm, to my knowledge, the only steel part is the "rivets" holding the two parts of the wheel together? The rest is cast aluminum, I think... :Idunno:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

A BIG advantage to 'mag' style wheels is the ability to fix a flat without pulling the wheel, the side of the tire and tube. I've done both and pulling a nail, installing a plug, and airing the tire up with the pump or CO2 I carry is much easier. On the other hand my in years of riding my old BSA, I never had a flat. But with my Seca and Sporty with mags, two each, all on the way to or from work...go figure.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Fungus, get a pair of alloy rims....not wheels. Buchanan sells both spokes and will punch your rims to match.
Excel sells alloy rims that look just like steel rims, or you can get a set of shouldered alloy rims, like I got on my Enfield.
The shouldered look bad ass, and old school, along with weighing absolutely nothing. Those are definitely more expensive but look trick.

The standard rims also look good. I replaced the rusted out 16" rear wheel with an Excel aluminum.

Shouldered alloy rim :love:
http://www.britcycle.com/products/images/554001.jpg


Standard alloy:

http://durelleracing.com/store/image...l_assy_sun.jpg


You should replace the both wheels with 18"s as they are cheaper than 19"s and give the bike a cooler look. Just my .02

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

true, but the 'spokes' are kinda ugly pressed steel things. only good side is that they hold loads of power.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Do what I did, look into '76-'77 GL1000 (Goldwing) wheels and front fork assemblies. Not only do you get aluminum wheels with stainless spokes, you also get dual disc brakes and a beefier front end. The only problem is with the rear wheel. I believe the GL is shaft drive so you would have to look elsewhere for a compatible rear wheel.

I just got my stuff yesterday and will be assembling it today to see what all I need before instalation. I'll take some pics.

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Saw this BMW today at Cabella's.........WTF?:huh:

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b1...k/SNC01083.jpg

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Ok, after a late start I was able to mock up the GL1000 front end. Seems everything is there. I will buy some rebuild kits for the brakes and new seals just for the piece of mind.

Here is what I did today, it's not much but it's something.

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b1...k/SNC01085.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b1...k/SNC01086.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b1...k/SNC01088.jpg

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

there is whole lot of levels of fugly going on there :funny:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

In the motorcycle world that is a tank. That's a bike that can take you around the world, literally. Take a look at the DVD "Long Way Round" with Ewan McGregor if youd like to see some real adventure riding.

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f1...Adventurei.jpg

Doc

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

:huh:

Just because you can, doesn't necessarily mean you should...

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Fugly is in the eye of the beerholder! I think the R1200GS is fucking beautiful and if I ever have an extra $30,000 lying around it is definitely on my list of bikes to own.

http://www.johnvalkbmw.ca/images/myp...0gs-adv-02.jpg


Me and my girl were just in a BMW showroom yesterday and there is a very good possibility that her first "real" bike (she has a Vespa now) will be a G650GS. I'm hoping to sell the Buell next spring and get myself into a F800GS.


G650GS (for her)
http://www.johnvalkbmw.ca/images/myp.../g650gs-01.jpg


F800GS (for me)
http://www.johnvalkbmw.ca/images/myp.../f800gs-01.jpg


:love::love::love::love::love::love::love::love::l ove::love:

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Gimmie!!!!
I think Alton Brown (Food network, Feasting on Asphalt, Iron Chef, Good Eats...) rides one of those.
Jeff

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

Hey Bill, what's your input on the Buell? I've heard both sides.
Jeff

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

heh bmw boxers, to me they look like guzzi's with saggy tits. and i dont like saggy tits :P

Re: Motorcycle Thread
 

I always saw them as 2 cylinder VW engines....:smile: