Honda Ascot VT500 project - need some help with tank options

[Kettle One]

Morning All!
Got this VT500 project on the go:
http://ascot500.com/index.php?topic=143.0
I want to replace the stock gas tank and am looking into other options, but the challenge with this bike is the width of the frame twin tubes. They bow outwards to accommodate the air snorkel, requiring a tunnel width of at least 7.5 inches. The only tank I've been able to find so far that has enough clearance underneath is the Suzuki GT750 (I know this because I own one), but I am looking for more of a cafe racer/endurance racer look. Does anyone have any suggestions for tanks that might have enough tunnel width?

 

[Ichiban Moto]

Have Roc City build you a bad ass custom alloy tank

 

[Kettle One]

Haha yes.....I called and spoke to Sean a couple of days ago! That is certainly an option. I have the original tank I could send him to get the underside profile correct. Just trying to flush out all possibilities before I commit.

 

[Hoosier Daddy]

What about the tank off alate 70's early 80s "E" model Suzook GS750?
Don't confuse it with the "L" model. The teardrop shape of my '80 GS750 "L" tank doesn't look very cafe'-ish but I think the "E" is very sexy... 8) They have about the widest tunnel on a tank I know of with their triple back-bone frame.

 

[teazer]

Roy, try a GS1100 tank. It fits on a GT750, so may work on the VT. It has more complex curves than most tanks and also has knee cut outs too.

 

[Kettle One]

Thanks guys! Richard, were you thinking the earlier GS1100 (pic 1 below) or the later Katana style (pic 2)?

 

[teazer]

The winner is PIC #2. I had one sitting on a GT750 frame a few days ago. If you need dimensions let me know and I'll go out into the frozen wasteland we call the shop and take some.

The issue I have with it is integrating side panels and seat shape to keep it looking slim and sharp. I went through a roll of blue tape already mocking up side covers