Unfortunately the GB500 isn't mine (or in my price range), but I saw it and thought perhaps one of you might be interested.
http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/mcy/617423975.html
My bike is, shall we say, pedestrian by comparison: '79 CM400T. I know that with its monocoque frame, fork angle and tank shape it doesn't lend itself to the cafe look or performance. It is, however, what I have and all I WILL have for the foreseeable future so I'm going to do what I can. On the plus side it has been sledgehammer reliable over the past 8 years, has a very tractable powerband for city and backroad riding, and doesn't seem to mind being wound out to 10k rpm in every gear all day long. All I've done to it is put on "superbike" bars (very mild rise) and a 2-1 exhaust. Everything else is bone stock. I don't plan to do anything to the motor, as I doubt much CAN be done to make it scream like its more sophisticated brethren. Instead, I'd like to focus on reducing weight and improving the handling and looks. With that in mind, I could use some advice:
Does anyone know if other, more attractive tanks will fit this frame?
Is it a good idea to lower the triple tree a quarter inch or so for sharper handling?
I am learning how to weld and plan to try my hand fabricating a seat/rear cowl. Any tips?
The bike is stored in a shed without electricity and thus the battery is always stone dead. I never use the electric start and would like to remove the starter and battery. There seem to be mixed feelings on battery removal and I'd like opinions and, if possible, recommendations on products to help with this.
Thanks!
http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/mcy/617423975.html
My bike is, shall we say, pedestrian by comparison: '79 CM400T. I know that with its monocoque frame, fork angle and tank shape it doesn't lend itself to the cafe look or performance. It is, however, what I have and all I WILL have for the foreseeable future so I'm going to do what I can. On the plus side it has been sledgehammer reliable over the past 8 years, has a very tractable powerband for city and backroad riding, and doesn't seem to mind being wound out to 10k rpm in every gear all day long. All I've done to it is put on "superbike" bars (very mild rise) and a 2-1 exhaust. Everything else is bone stock. I don't plan to do anything to the motor, as I doubt much CAN be done to make it scream like its more sophisticated brethren. Instead, I'd like to focus on reducing weight and improving the handling and looks. With that in mind, I could use some advice:
Does anyone know if other, more attractive tanks will fit this frame?
Is it a good idea to lower the triple tree a quarter inch or so for sharper handling?
I am learning how to weld and plan to try my hand fabricating a seat/rear cowl. Any tips?
The bike is stored in a shed without electricity and thus the battery is always stone dead. I never use the electric start and would like to remove the starter and battery. There seem to be mixed feelings on battery removal and I'd like opinions and, if possible, recommendations on products to help with this.
Thanks!