jreich !!!! wow, haven't been on the site in a while. that is the best looking Honda bobber I've seen in a VERY long time. GREAT, GREAT, GREAT. please dig out any other information or photos that you may have.
Love it.
Wow, I'm at a loss...thanks much for the feedback...especially considering some of the bikes you've built!
This bike has had a few different forms and various aesthetics in its life, eventually leading up to what it is now---and will remain!
I initially got it running with just the stock motor which had a 605 kit in it and rode it for sometime, however it was obvious that the rings were pretty worn so I decided to take the opportunity and simply rebuild the whole bike!
I bead blasted the cases, painted them and went through the bottom end replacing the primary and cam chains and making sure everything else was in spec. First time using Hondabond/Threebond 1194, and I am quite happy with the results. I used fresh jugs and brand new .25 over pistons and like I said earlier, put the 650 cam in. I also did some mild porting and polishing which really allows the engine to flow much better. Also had a valve job done afterwards.
While doing this, I had a painting buddy spray the frame. Used stainless bolts for all of the motor mounts and other mounting points. I welded in a spot for the battery to sit directly in front the rear tire and used less of a box to leave the battery more exposed--again because I like the aesthetic.
Bought a new gas tank which I thought fit the aesthetic and also fit the size specifications that I needed. Using the ford spare tire cover ring for the rear fender fit perfectly on the 16" rim/wheel. These firestones have a taller sidewall and really allowed me to make the fender fit the tire very tightly.
I am about 5'9", which made it easier to get create a nice tight and proportional build as far as the frame/hardtail goes. I like to ride with my feet under me so that I have more control, so didn't use mids or forwards.
If I were taller I might have cut the neck and changed the rake and used longer forks to compensate for building a longer hardtail to fit a taller height--for aesthetic sake.
This was such an enjoyable build because I was able to build exactly the bike that I wanted to ride everyday using an aesthetic that appealed to me and was unique as well as a variety of components that make it reliable enough to use for everyday transportation.
I like to build bikes that are ridden but still look good!
Again, thanks for the feedback...I work with kids and adults living with disabilities during the day so wrenching on and building bikes is my very own therapy at night!
cheers
JD
