Topic: First motorcycle/cafe project (UPDATED 5/6/09 with a question...)

[Ben]

Dude,

Don't worry about buying new cables. When I install clip-ons to my hondas I just cut the old cables to a new suitable length. You can get new solder-on cable ends at any good parts store. Just make sure when you cut the cable, that you the cable housing separately from the cable itself as they will need to be different lengths. A bit of stuffing about, but worth it to save 100 bucks and now you know how to make your own cables. I even use push bike cables for mikuni carbs with no problems (wouldn't use them on your clutch though!).

Cheers, good luck.
Ben.

[cleveland]

Dude,

Don't worry about buying new cables. When I install clip-ons to my hondas I just cut the old cables to a new suitable length. You can get new solder-on cable ends at any good parts store. Just make sure when you cut the cable, that you the cable housing separately from the cable itself as they will need to be different lengths. A bit of stuffing about, but worth it to save 100 bucks and now you know how to make your own cables. I even use push bike cables for mikuni carbs with no problems (wouldn't use them on your clutch though!).

Cheers, good luck.
Ben.

That is good to know.  Any chance to save a hundred bucks is worth trying!

[dminner]

So FINALLY, after like a year long break, I decided to work on the bike again  .  All that needs to be done is a seat, the wirings, and I need to replace the throttle cables.

I couldnt find a cafe seat for a 550 (at least not one I liked), plus, I wanted something that would flow with the suzuki tank. 

...SO...  I am going to attempt to build my own.  I have never fiberglassed before, so we'll see how it goes  .

I started carving the seat shape today out of some insulation foam.  It went pretty well I think.  It only took about 1hr to make the hump for the front of the seat.







Hopefully I can finish the rear hump this week, and HOPEFULLY, I can have the bike running in the next month.

[rachet]

I'm enjoying this build and look forward to seeing your progression. 

It's looking great!

Rachet~

[FunJimmy]

Sometimes a year off helps clear the mind.
Bike looks real nice.
Can't wait to see the seat finished.

Check out this link for seat foam ideas.
http://www.oneoceankayaks.com/Wshophtm/kayakseat18a.htm

Cheers
FJ

[bigsherm]

Come on, Dminner-

Give us an update on the bike!

Did you ever marry that fiancee' with the Mom that rides?  A woman (your fiancee') that understands the love of bikes is a rare thing.  Just sayin'.

Sherm

[dminner]

I wish there was an update, but in all honesty, it has just been sitting in my garage collecting dust since May 2007 last summer 

I just need to find someone to help me finish it.  I suck at electrical stuff....thats why it just sits.  Kinda mad at myself for not getting it done to ride it this summer.

haha, but yes...I did get married 

[rachet]

Congratz on getting married!

I know it seems like a lot, but don't give up on your bike.  there are endless threads on electrical (which makes searching a little difficult) and a lot of seasoned "electricians" that will help you out.  I know there are wiring diagrams available as well.

Keep at it!  I want to see finished pics and videos of a very cool bike!

Rachet~

[CaféElite]

Bike looks nice.. as far as you have got I am suprised you either just dont send your wiring to someone or at least ask around this forum for anyone in Indiana that would be will to help you out.

[dminner]

Question for you guys....

So, no new progress has been made.  The bike is still complete and ready to go, but it needs a seat, and it needs rewired.


I dont know much about this stuff, and this bike was given to me....

I have had a couple of people ask me if I would like to sell it. The wife lost her job yesterday and this has just been sitting in the garage FOREVER, so it seems like I now have a reason too.

I dont know what to ask?  What does a project like this go for?

Thank you for the help

[Flying J]

simple equation to find out what its worth.

(What its worth to you + How much you have invested) / 2 - What its worth to them = Virtual Worth

now for Actual worth there is a more simple equation.

What they will pay = What it is worth.

For me i could not sell my project because what its worth to me and what i have invested in it i would charge way to much.