XS400 Bobber Build

[totalgearhead]

Hello all, I did the intro thread a while back and have had nothing to post until now!! Here are the pics and description:

I have cut the frame, but left the swing arm braced at ride height. I will add to the back bone and upper rear tubes first. I kept the axle plates, so after the rear uppers were attached to the axle plates i cut the swing arm out. Followed by the rear bottom tubes. I cleaned up the whole rear engine mount area. I am also going to add a tube for the top motor mount. I am looking for a tank that will look right, but think a deep sporty tank.

I worked this way to use the existing frame as a jig. I still have to finish welding the frame after popping the engine out, just did the last "rolling" pics for inspiration....

 

[sasquach]

nice work . Keep us updated

 

[ChopperMechanic]

Very nice. I like the way your frame is looking already! How long is the stretch? Ride heighth drop? Next winter, Im planning on doing the same thing to my cb450. Keep at it!!!!

 

[pawn]

cool work, but is there a reason you got the backbone higher than the seat stays? Kind of strange looking to me.

 

[VonYinzer]

Pretty cool so far. Couple questions though...

Wheres the jig? If any parts of that hardtail are off by even a little bit the bike will never track straight. Can be really dangerous man.

Are the rear legs, and the backbone welded at the turns there? Looks like theyre mitre cut than welded... Could also be bad. There is a massive amount of stress on the frame at those points. If theyre not slugged and welded perfectly than they could break while riding.

The rear legs are pretty small diameter tubing. Hopefully theyll be strong enough.

Im not trying to give you a hard time, just dont want to see anyone get hurt. Keep it up man.

 

[VonYinzer]

Again man... Just wanted to reitterate...

Im not tryin to give you a hard time. Just dont want to see ya get hurt.

 

[hurley209]

i agree with the questions von brought up.
and also agree that we are definately not trying to give you a hard time, if anything we think the work looks rad, but just making sure your frame doesnt fail while going 50mph down the road.

 

[Swapmeet Louie]

Agreed... Looks dangerous

 

[tWistedWheelz]

I guess you don't really need to hear it again.......So I will just say the look is there, very nice look.

 

[schlumpf]

hi

it will look good when it's done, but I have to agree that the frame won't be strong enough like that.

please keep us posted.

 

[totalgearhead]

Haven't been back for all that positive feedback ;D . The frame was NOT finish welded when the inspiration photos were taken. All tubes added are .120" wall DOM. All joints are either plugged, gusseted or both. The tubing size used is the same as stock, but .120" wall. The factory tubes are half that AND not DOM. The main backbone and rear sections are not on the same plane, which is common on sporty hardtails, unless you lengthen or "stretch" the rear section.

I appreciate the thoughts and input. The jig used was the original frame/swingarm. The wheelbase was not lengthened, but the height was adjusted before working.

The plan is to have fun, this isn't a high speed or high mileage bike......If i am not happy with the results I will scrap it.

Cheers!

 

[Swapmeet Louie]

I dont think anybody was bashing you. Just concerned I think. Anyway, I'm glad to hear you are going to, or have made it road worthy. Pics can be deceiving too.

 

[totalgearhead]

I didn't take it as bashing, gonna take more than a forum on the internet to get me upset!! This bike was the "parts" bike that didnt have a title for, so i was just messin around. I have since got a title and looking to make it ridable. I am already thinking about the other bike's Cafe makeover when this is done. I am fully aware while building a project that my ass is going to be riding this thing on the road and build it that way. I will post the next phase, finished welding and added gussets. Working on the seat, tank, fender, bars, headlight, brakes, electrical.....

 

[tWistedWheelz]

The jig used was the original frame/swingarm.

I don't want you to think I am bashing you or putting down your work/knowledge, but the frame and swingarm do not make up a full jig! Even more, the frame should have supports tacked in before cutting it to make sure it holds its correct shape. Also the frame and swinger should be tacked in place to a jig (see pic below) that holds the two in a rigid form allowing no movement of the two on any axis while you cut away the undesired parts and replace them with new.

The geometry of your frame also seem to be a bit off, but that could be from the pics themselves ( I have had that problem before and got roasted over it). Anyway, I am sure you can get it all figured out, I am just trying to help and make sure your safe. Remember, gussets are GOOD!

 

[VonYinzer]

You seem to know what youre talking about. I wont debate that. If youre happy with it, its your ass so all good! Glad ya didnt take any of it as "bashing". Just looking out for another builder.

 

[hurley209]

ok, now i want more pix of everything goin on lol.