This is my first project thread even though I have been a member here from the early days. I have had a great riding season this year even though the start was delayed due to lockdown. My day rides on my Honda was about the only recreational activity open to me in 2020 so I made the most of it. For 2021 I have a couple opportunities for next level riding: overnight travel to Ohio’s Windy Nine and a visit to Benellis in Ontario for a vintage MC party. Either trip will be hundreds, maybe 1000 miles. So, the CB at 91000 miles has to be in tiptop shape and as comfortable as possible for me.
- I replaced the original rear shocks with Hagons several years back. They are fitted with 23kg springs and set at the minimum preload. It’s tolerable, but harsh. I’m working with Hagon GB to get a lesser spring. I have to fashion a spring compressor. I don’t have lathe mill drill press to make this kind of stuff.
- At the front end, I have unusual tire wear, scalloping and off center. Maybe not unusual for BT45. I have had some input at the 20/100/2020 thread that others have noted this same type of wear, thanks guys. I try to run about 37/38psi, and not the 30psi? that was standard in 1970.
- Also at the front end, I’m picking up some minimal kind of vibration through the handlebars:
B-d-d-d-d-d-smooooooth-B-d-d-d-d-d-smooooooth-B-d-d-d-d-d-smooooooth- on a few seconds interval.
It happens even on expected smooth pavement. I have never done any upgrades on the front suspension, only the occasional fluid change with ATF, one time leaky seal replacement, and tapered roller bearings in the triple tree. I’m thinking I need more dampening, maybe new springs? A 1” preload spacer? emulators?
- I have a small fluid seep from the front brake piston that must be addressed. At the last brake service I got new pads, seal, phenolic piston, holding arm from godffrey, and it has been good for several years. Prior to that I got a new seal and pads, reused original piston with minor rust divots and it was also good for several years until a seep began.
- My starter clutch is acting up just the tiniest bit. I have the roller/spring kit from Yamiya and a rotor puller, but not the $150? gear. I hope to refinish the chatter marks on the gear and avoid the $150? cost of a new gear. It’s only occasional misbehavior, but it won’t get better without service, it will only get worse.
Also have the oil seepage at the alternator wires. That seep might be stopped while I’m into the starter clutch.
- I have a K2 luggage rack to fit, it came without its hardware kit, and as my CB is a K1 the turn signals don’t have have the correct mount. I will be seeking some used parts here, new $100? ouch!
That’s most of it, a lot for me, probably not too much for all you builders. I have to start rounding up material. Anybody in US getting parts form Yamiya in a timely manner?
