Re: Moto Guzzi V50 II Cafe Build **(MOCK-UP BEGINS!)**
Hoosier Daddy - Tricolore! Will definitely have those kind of details in there somewhere for sure.
Right. Ive had fairly limited internet access of late, and well I've also been kinda busy, as you can see:
SEAT AND TAILPIECE Part 01
(DESIGN)
For this part of the process, my objective was to create a 1:1 mockup of the tailpiece and seat taking into account the shape and functionality of the unit. From there I will be making up the final unit from fibreglass, wood and aluminium. Parts of the mockup will be used to create the unique shape from using fibreglass, but other areas, like the seat base and electrical equipment housing, a new part will be made up from a wooden frame and aluminium plating, using the model as a 3D object to take dimensions off.
The process Ive used works for me, and Ive always done it this way, Its probably not the most practical, but I like it because it allows me a lot of control, and I can build a symmetrical shape by working out and making one side, and then using that as a template for the other side.
It also allows me to break down a 3D object into 2D shapes which are easier to understand by making multiple profiles. The use of card, also allows me to quickly make tweaks and changes, and not be precious about anything because of the rapid way you can make up 2D shapes. This way, I tend to not compromise because of invested time.
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01. Tailight
So to start out, I asked my dad if he had any smallish round rear lights in his stash of parts. The last few years of his restoring life was made up mainly of British cars. He produced these two Lucas lights out of a box of NOS and restored lights! The unit I ended up using is from a 50's MG Magnette. Originally I like the finned light because of the sharper profile, but it's diameter is 10mm larger than the other unit, meaning that it would be closer to the wheel, and my design is on the limits with regards clearances.
02. Profile and tailpiece shape
I wanted the seat to follow visually from the tank. The tank design has definitive creases mixed with smooth curves. I took some profiles off the tank, (which I used throughout the design phase of the seat).
My challenge was working within the following parameters:
a. I had to get the tank profile into a round (light) profile within a fairly short distance. (I had a specific length I wanted to achieve as per the original concept art which gives the bike a definitive look).
b. I had to get the width of the tailpiece flush with the frame width, and then taper it into the round profile in a fairly short distance.
03. Electrical components
The electrical parts hidden behind the side covers all need to be moved out of sight.
Its a squeeze for the five parts, and I'm leaving plenty of ventilation.
I've managed to steal some space by using the width of the frame tube to help hide things.
I wanted there to be a specific height to the seat base, which lined up with one of the tank creases, as well as giving a more streamlined look.
04. Seat and Tail Design
Took me quite a while to get the profile right. Originally it was as per the concept art, but I ended up building it up 12mm higher for more support with regards acceleration etc. It also feels more balanced with the tank height.
More curves! At this point, I was starting to get pretty happy with the shape.
Fine tuning the shape.
Used some cellulose spot putty to fill in and sand.
Making sure everything is symmetrical and true.
05. Cutting the Frame
The frame will be losing some brackets in the side panel area. I won't be taking anything off until I'm absolutely certain. I knew this was necessary, so just got in there and cut 'em off.
You always second guess at this point. But I made this decision before I bought the bike. I don't want a stocker. This little V50 is shedding some steel.
06. Padded area
Now I wanted the padded seat area to be completely flush and seamless with the whole tailpiece, so I made it up as a singular piece. I then sliced the "padded" area off.
Just a note at this point - all the angles on the seat follow the frame angle precisely.
The original bike had a 50mm clearance on the rear fender, and I've made sure to keep that same clearance.
The final "hard" section shape. I gave it a spray to unify the colour so that I could clearly see the shape on the bike. Black recedes as a colour, and I intend for this entire unit to be covered in a black material, so it just helps visualize the end product more accurately.
And this is what it looks like so far:
(So imagine that entire tailpiece and seat covered in a black leather with double stitching along the hard creases etc).
Dale