CX500 Rat-Ca-Bob

[Crutch252]

Good afternoon, all!

New to the forum, but have been lurking for a few months. Just finished my build (for now). It's still rough and needs paint, but it's mechanicaly sound and shaped just the way I like it.

 

[Hichhkrjo]

Nice job! I reallllly wish I had done something like this with my CX500. I went the dumb way, started ripping mine all apart and got in over my head before I knew what I was even doing. Now I'm stuck trying to do things I have no idea or capability of doing (like wiring). Anyway, post more pics when you get paint!

 

[Crutch252]

Thanks. I was pretty much in the same boat. Took the whole thing apart and was left with a pile if parts for about a month. I am NO mechanic, and felt overwhelmed. I made it a point to fix and/or assemble at least 1 piece per day. It really helped me get a good knowledge base for this particular bike. Things I didn't feel comfortable doing I had done professionally (carb rebuild). After 4 weeks it started to look like a bike again and helped motivate me to keep pushing. The Clymers manual was my bible throughout the process. Along with some guidance from folks on the CX500 forum.

 

[axeugene27]

I like it sir. It's properly chunky

 

[axeugene27]

i'd prob just clear the tank and keep the indusrial look

 

[Crutch252]

The tank is currently cleared over the bare steel. Wasn't sure how long it would take me to get to painting it, so did it just to keep it from rusting. Have to say, it's growing on me. I would probably leave it, but the tank has a few dents that really bug me.

Just discovered I have to do some work on the clutch now

Never ending with this thing, lol. That's why I named her Pandora.

 

[Winston]

nicest rat bike I have seen for sure.

 

[mechdesign2k4]

I hate the term rat bike/car... I prefer work in progress...... or purpose built suicide machine.... guts not glam? Nice work, nailed it... I wouldnt change a thing....


(edit)
I lied.... wrap the side covers in expanded metal....

 

[carnegiemama]

Damn, that's a beautiful bike! I wish I knew how to do somethin like that. Congradulations on stickin to it.