Gotta get my 1st post outta way, so here I go.
Picked up an 81 CB650 this winter. Cosmetically it's in great shape, but I didn't get a chance to ride it yet. The snow drifts here are 12 feet high so it'll be a few more weeks before I can push the bike out of the garage and see what it's like mechanically. We drained the float bowls, started it, and let it run for 30 seconds, but had to turn it off quickly because the the fumes (our garage in below the house so we gotsta be careful). There was quite a bit of banging and clanking when it was turning over so I might need to replace the starter clutch (the sound went away once it was running).
My plans for the bike - I'm thinking a subtle resto-mod, with some vintage styling cues.
Work done so far - Biltwell Kung Fu grips - installed superbike handlebars - I made some DIY tank knee pads - did some pinstriping - designed and installed a new logo for the side panels - added chrome trim around the tank - gave the bike a good cleaning.
Cosmetic stuff:
- Once the bike is running well I plan to do a custom seat which will really give it a more classic look.
- I like the fact that I can actually see outta the mirrors, but yeah they're ugly. Not sure I wanna go with bar ends on this bike.
- Might go with a headlight visor.
The tires are in good shape but would like a more classic look (not Firestones). Perhaps something like an 80/20 dual sport tire. Not too knobby though. I think I have a 130/90-17 on the back but may go a little narrower next time. Stock is 4.5-17, so I might go with a 120/90-17. Whatcha think?
The master cylinder reservoir looks funky, so I might replace it, once the bike is running well.
Battery is on a tender waiting for nicer weather.
