Update 3
So its been much longer than I planned since my last update, so what's new?
Well completed the strip down, wasted a day extracting two engine mounting bolts which was a bloody nightmare. You can see the end result below:
Next up was to check valve clearences luckily they weren' too bad, only one or two needed replacing. Once that was completed I started the dry build replacing the front wheel with an 18" front from a XS400 (the original was 19") this also required some hunting around on fleabay for a new set of seals and bearings in order for it to fit the 850's front axle. As part of the dry build I also replaced the headrace bearings, again not the easiest of jobs as getting a purchase on the lower set to extract it was tricky to say the least.
the Ohlins rear shocks came off a Yamaha XJR1300 vand were a bargain. They're near a damit an exact match for the existing Hagons but look trick and will perform much better than the old ones. I got a pair of clip-ons from Ebay, word to the wise, always triple check measurements and on different parts of the forks to ensure you don't order the wrong guage that one millimetre makes all the difference... with clip on's i've a Tommaselli quick action throttle and Brembo master cylinder to go with the NOS Brembo caliper, but i need to fabricate a bracket fit it to the forks. I've also picked up a secondhand full exhauset system as the old one was rotten, and after much deliberation swapped the original tank which didn't fit wih the cafe racer aesthetic for one from an XS750 (this is a straight swap).
The tank's not in the greatest condition so i'm going to get it cleaned, repaired and sealed, I've also taken the plunge and started de-tabbing and dressing the welds next up is to cut the rear sections of the frame and mock up a tray for the electrics to go under the seat. On that subject I've splashed out on an Motogadget M-Unit & M-switch to simplify things, the current debate i'm having with myself is regarding the headlight and speedo, i'm really drawn to the old style integrated units but finding one that's right is a challenge.
through BikeEXIF and The Bike Shed I found out about a chap who goes by the name of Hollographic Hammer and who does first rate renders, I'd wanted to get something on paper to try and concentrate my mind (its way to easy to get side tracked and loose focus) and after a few emails back and forth here's what I'm aiming for:
If I can get it anywhere close to looking that good I'll be dead chuffed. The Ox Blood red frame wasn't something I'd thought of but when HH sent me the render with the red frame I was sold on it. Depending on how much work is needed on the tank I might have to rethink the bare metal tank and seat unit, but I'm hopeful. I promise the necxt update won't take so long as I've gotten a number of parts delivered that need fitting!
© 2012 by Tom Harrington.