Now, the explanation....
The rear part of the Yamaha frame has the ugly integrated ring turn signals. Also, the rear hump support was in the way for the flat seat I had planned. I went forward and trimmed the rear part of the frame as far back as possible so I have the most straight tube after the rear shock mounts to join the new rear hoop to the structure. I kept the rear lift handle for now, since the center stand will stay. I prefer the center stand over the kick stand, even if the aesthetics can be worse.
I will be making a custom seat pan for the flat seat to match the complex shape of the frame rails. Hondas have very simple rear frame structures, sometimes stampings but Yamaha's have trussed tubing which is both stronger and better looking.
If anyone wants a seat and rear frame hoop combo for an XS360, let me know. I'm also going to make a setup for a Honda since I have the CB frame right there.
So now the good story....when I was working on the frame, a guy came by and asked if I would be interested in his old bike. He didn't know much about it, but he had bought it twenty years ago and it had been sitting in his shed since. He said he would bring it by and I could look at it. A few hours later a car shows up with a rope behind, pulling this guy on a motorcycle. The motorcycle turns out to be a complete 1974 Honda CB750 with no dents in the tank, rips in the seat, etc. Oh, he also gives me the title.
Does anyone need a 1974 Honda CB750 righteous cafe racer?