81 CX500 yes, it's true, I lied. Build #5

Well the engine is ready, the frame is done getting welded and is off getting sandblasted.
Painting with cans as that's the best I can do.
 
Wheels painted. Here are my feelings on these Comstars, they are ugly but they are cheap, light and I love 5 spoke wheels. If you paint anything more than one color you draw attention to it so one color it is.
 
AlphaDogChoppers said:
Progressive springs are always a good choice, and it includes cutting a pre-load spacer to get the correct tension on your springs.
Click to expand...

So how much spacer is required?
 
You just follow the instructions that come with the springs. All depends on how firm of a ride you want and how much you weigh.

If the fork cap is easy to put on, you probably don't have enough preload. <G>

I like to have only about 1" of sag from full extension when I sit on the bike.
 
I got the frame and swing arm back from being sand blasted. Here is the redneck frame hanger I thought up on my way home, it worked sweet just don't let it rotate or it would come crashing down. Frame primed, no mess.
 
Well it's true, I got a roller and the engine installed. I got a new radiator fan as I didn't want to deal with used, plus I couldn't find one..

Wow I hope the rear tire isn't too wide.
 
this is what I am shooting to copy but I am wanting to retain the bracket so it will need to be a bit taller..
 
This is where I am at with the seat pan. Now HD makes his to fiberglass but I was thinking sheet metal. What are the benefits of one verses the other?
 
gas_fiend said:
Bike is coming along! Do you have a link/more info on that inspiration bike? It certainly is inspiration!
Click to expand...

The seat is what I want and I think it can be purchased at http://texavina.gostorego.com/honda-cx500-deluxe-standard-custom-made-low-profile-cafe-racer-seat-brand-new.html

I know nothing of the build but he did a great job..
 
So here is my thinking.
Having this made in metal will run me $100 plus upholstery so I may as well spend $300 and buy one pre made. Making it out of fiberglass like HD is beyond my abilities and the smell in the basement might just curtail my projects all together. But wood I can do then have it upholstered.

CAD caveman style, thanks AD & Cxman..
 
I like where this build is going.

Other than these bikes being cheap and non mainstream what's the attraction to make a cafe build out of them. They are baby GL's no?
 
HollywoodMX said:
I like where this build is going.

Other than these bikes being cheap and non mainstream what's the attraction to make a cafe build out of them. They are baby GL's no?
Click to expand...
Thanks and good question. I have a cb550 and a 78 cx500 that I was riding around this fall before it got cold. The cb550 attracted attention but the cx500 is over the top. The guys yell, stop and stare, park their car and take pictures. I can't put my finger on what it is and I am not bragging the build up but guys love this thing.
I love the way it torques over when you give it gas. It is easy to strip it down as there is no oil tank. Yes it is a half a GL after all. Did that answer your question?
 
I loved my CX. Especially when I came out of the Harley dealership and it was surrounded by HD riders trying to figure out why the engine was turned the wrong way.

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk
 
Well even without the carbs it runs, neat trick right? Waiting for the jets to show up before I can put them on along with the headlight and tail light.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

DTT Light or Dark

  • DTT Light
    • www.jadusmotorcycleparts.com
    www.lostapostle.ca/
    www.sparckmoto.com

    Spread the Love

    Back
    Top Bottom