Hello everyone!
I'm transforming a CB550 K0 into a modernized cafe racer. I've had plenty of modern sportbikes (01 GSX-R 1000 being the latest) and plenty of 70's & 80's rides over the years.
The last true cafe racer I had was a Suzuki GT550 with some really extensive mods that I rode in the late 90's. That bike had GS550MZ forks, wheels and brakes, a Ducati bevel upper fairing, Raask rear sets, Lectron carbs, clubmans, hand made cables & brake lines, TR 750 inspired expansion chambers, a hand built tail section, etc, etc. I even managed to stuff a 6 speed from a 380 into the cases (that took LOTS of machining!) It was super quick, danced through the corners, had headshake like mad at the ton, and was always a blast to ride.
I intend to incorporate ideas from all generations, the 70's, 80's, and today's modern rides, into this project. The bike was in pretty rough shape when I picked it up last month for a measly $50.00 at a tag sale. It's been off the road since 1992 and, of course, improperly stored (fuel in tank & carbs, etc..) A carb overhaul and a new battery and she started right up. The vintage touring "junk" came off and went into the dumpster. A quick blast up and down the road quickly convinced me some things would need to be changed. I started looking for some rearsets and a different seat and the wheels (figuratively) started turning... My plans are including 17" wheels, inverted forks, billet clamps, either under bike (think Buell) or under tail exhaust, long tank and seat combo, clip on's, rearsets, and possibly a single sided swing arm. Paint will be either red or green base with black & white checkerboard. White frame, mixed satin black and polish on the motor and aluminum bits. This looks like a great place to document the project as it progresses.
I look forward to talking with y'all soon!
Tom
