'79 KZ650D-2 (SR) Cafe Build

[oMrRobotox]

Alright guys,


So winter is coming and I really want to start the conversion of my stock '79 KZ650D2 to a cafe racer. I bought the bike at the beginning of July 2011 and I haven't done much but enjoy it all summer in Northern California. This is my first bike I've ever owned so it's most definitely a learning experience. I consider myself technically inclined so hopefully I don't run into too many snags.


The bike itself, like I said is a 1979 KZ650D2 (SR). I bought it with 11,xxx original miles. I bought it and drove it home so she is running pretty solid.


Only issues I've ran into so far:


1. Regulator/Recitifier went bad, which in turn fried one of my ignition coils and all my lights.
2. Needed to clean the carbs
3. I'm pretty sure my Electric Start is bad too


And that's about it, not bad for a 32yr old bike if you ask me.


So far I've put nearly 5,000 miles on it, have changed the oil twice, new air filter, oil filter and that's it.


Well with out further a due, here she is...


Pic #1 was the day I brought her home
Pic #2 & #3 were a few days later after a good cleaning and a polish

 

[oMrRobotox]

Let me know what you guys think or if you have had the bike any suggestions, tips and tricks to making this go as smoothly as possible. It's going to be slow going, but I'll keep everyone updated.

 

[AlphaDogChoppers]

I just closed a deal on a KZ750. It's in scruffty rat bike condition, but running and rideable. Not sure whether I will do it cafe or bobber.

 

[sbruton]

Man... sure looks in good condition!

Now starts the FUN part... hauling it all apart

Keep the updates coming.

 

[oMrRobotox]

Small update. I got my new regulator/rectifier in the mail from Oregon Motorcycle Parts and got it installed. So far it's been on for a few days and my bike seems to be running stronger, more reliable and more consistant.


But come to find out, when the old one went bad it not only fried a coil, and all of my bulbs but it also fried my flasher relay. So looks like I need to add that to the list of new parts as well.


But the part I got is solid. A bit bigger then the stock piece but feels like a much more quality part and I don't think I'll have to change that guy out ever again. I don't have any pictures right now, but I'll try to take some this week and post them. I'll show you my old and new headlight set up as well.

 

[Sunflash]

For starters go over to http://kz650.info and bum around a bit. No better source for KZ650 info.

 

[oMrRobotox]

I've been over there and have already gotten a lot of info, but thanks for the heads up anyways.