I decided about a year and a half ago that since it had been taking me so long, and was not looking like a quick and easy back on the road repair, that I would do a complete re-build of the bike. I took everything appart. Well, things happened (marriage, house, etc) and the bike sat neglected for quite some time.
Last year for my birthday my lovely wife paid to have the frame powder coated. Basically this is a process that covers all the metal of the frame with a layer of plastic, that is much more durable than paint and provides a longer life. Well, after that money was tight and the project went back burner (well, make that no burner).
I have recently started doing some consulting on the side which has brought in a bit of extra income, some of which I'm now devoting back to this project. I've already started getting bits that I at one point planned, then unplanned to replace.
Anyway, with the parts (bearing kits) I just purchased, and a little more prep time on my part here (need to paint a couple of pieces) I should have the bike back into a rolling form in short order. After that there is still a lot of work that will need done, but I think if it is starting to come back together I'll get motivated to stay on the ball.
Here is a list of what I"m updating/changing:
- Re-building the engine with a 650 top end and 550 bottom end (basically putting a larger engine in, while maintaining the 6 speed transmission of the 550)
- New Bearings everywhere: Wheels, steering stem, etc
- Stainless allen bolts to replace cheap phillips on the engine
- Progressive suspension for the rear (maybe front eventually as well)
- Cleaning all the surface rust and road grime from the bike to make it as "pretty" as possible
- Repairing/replacing the torn seat
Once it is back and operational I am going to look into getting customized tags for it, which I'm still working through some ideas.
Anyway, so this project is going to be taking over my spare time till I complete it, as it has been an ongoing project for far too long now.
Amos
