March 2007 I purchased the bike off of craigslist as an upcoming winter project to keep me busy during the cold months. It had been stored in a barn, "ran when parked" of course with a missing battery when I bought it. I noted the bike was complete with a ding-free fuel tank and no obvious external signs of abuse or neglect. Engine rotated easily with the kicker which was another good sign.
Winter '07 passes me by with too many other things going on, and we get to April 08 where I start assessing the project and what direction to go in.
At first it was going to be the BCR-type bare bones cafe racer, a rolling engine and fuel tank with a tiny seat. Then I thought "full restoration". I saw bikes here that inspired (and disgusted) me. After doing some more reading here and elsewhere, I felt that the bike was too nice to completely cut up and that a full cafe would detract from my enjoyment of it. I would move forward with rebuilding the bike while modifying some key components to match my wants. Drag bars, modern switchgear and other electrics, some performance modifications, etc.
Rebuilt carbs and got the bike running - immediately noted #2 cylinder was burning oil bad.
As I knew at least the head and cylinder would be coming off I moved forward with some fabrication/cutting which I unfortunately did not document. These changes will be shown in future posts as the bike is readied for reassembly.
Present state
Engine case covers and wheel hubs were dropped off at the polisher's yesterday. The frame and rims went to the powdercoater's today. While the polishing is being done, I'll be working on the engine and rebuilding the top end with a cam. Those of you with sharp eyes will note the GL1000 aluminum hoops in the above pic. Hope to keep you interested with more surprises in the future as I make progress
Also before I get too far I would like to thank everyone on the board for all the unbelievable information you provide.
