goodoltup
Been Around the Block
I'm embarking on a project that I've had in mind for a long time, and finally have the funds to start. I want to make a bike that I would like to ride. A classic bike, with a standard riding position. A modern bike, with disc brakes and good suspension. A fast bike, but with torque and low end power. A bike that does not exist yet, or at least not one that I am completely happy with. I also kind of want to make a custom bike as a protest against some of the trends that see and dislike, such as uncomfortable seats, missing fenders, and rear brake lights that no one can see. I want to make a safe and comfortable bike, too. Are you with me?
A little about me.. I've been riding for 20 years, but not the whole time. I went to MMI in the early 2000's and worked as a Honda mechanic in LA for a few years. After that I switched to small engines and did that for a number of years. Now I am a mechanical engineer, and I live in England. The company I work for makes hermetic connectors for aerospace and military applications, and I am very happy doing what I do. I currently ride a 1976 Honda CD175, but have owned CB550s, CB750s, an XL350, a CB350, and a Suzuki SV650. I am mostly a Honda guy, but that SV650 was just a dream to ride.
I chose the CB550 frame because it has the classic looks that I want, and I am most familiar with Honda. I chose the KTM 690 because I like singles, and because it's a street bike, the engine will have a proper alternator, neutral light, electric starter, etc. I was considering using a CRF450 engine just to keep it all Honda, but I would have to compromise on some of those things.
Lets begin!
A little about me.. I've been riding for 20 years, but not the whole time. I went to MMI in the early 2000's and worked as a Honda mechanic in LA for a few years. After that I switched to small engines and did that for a number of years. Now I am a mechanical engineer, and I live in England. The company I work for makes hermetic connectors for aerospace and military applications, and I am very happy doing what I do. I currently ride a 1976 Honda CD175, but have owned CB550s, CB750s, an XL350, a CB350, and a Suzuki SV650. I am mostly a Honda guy, but that SV650 was just a dream to ride.
I chose the CB550 frame because it has the classic looks that I want, and I am most familiar with Honda. I chose the KTM 690 because I like singles, and because it's a street bike, the engine will have a proper alternator, neutral light, electric starter, etc. I was considering using a CRF450 engine just to keep it all Honda, but I would have to compromise on some of those things.
Lets begin!