My first bike, the 1974 XL100

An orange paint pen did the trick on the highlights.

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Wow, nice job.

Looks very professional.

Wish I had the skills to do stuff like that to my little CB100.
 
Thanks. It may look pro, but I'm a bona fide amateur; if I can do it, I'm sure you can, too. That CB would make a sweet ride!

The switch works mostly as it did in the 100 setup, except that the headlight remains off when the main (key) switch is on unless the bike is running, regardless of the lighting switch position. Initially, I wanted to make the headlight power come from the battery in this state, so the light could be on when the engine was off (just like the 100), but I'm not sure the extra complexity or risk of setting everything on fire trying to achieve it is worth it. Maybe one day when I have nothing better to do.
 
I figured I'd paint the skid plate black to match the stock piece, but it looks pretty good unfinished. Haven't made up my mind.

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Since the pipe and step bar came off to finish fitment, I gave them each a respray. I wish I'd done the brake lever, too.

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Just in time for the next oil change.

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Unfortunately, that new 35W/35W German bulb only lasted a few rides.

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The double bummer is it took my high-beam indicator LED with it. The filaments must have shorted when they melted; I only turned high on a couple times to check it out and that was a while ago.

For now, I reinstalled the old Stanley sealed beam with the blown low. It's held up for quite a while under power of the new motor, so I wonder if those sealed beams are a lot more durable. Should I just buy an OEM 185 unit, or does it make more sense to get technical and install a regulator? I like carrying a spare bulb, and the sealed lamp takes up a lot more space in a pannier.
 
yep, love it too.

Wish I could get my little CB100 going seems every time I touch it worsens.
 
Thanks, guys. That's nice to hear. Obviously, my fab skills can't even approach those required to deliver on the safari tank, but when I win the lottery, I'll commission a pro to build one for sure!
 
Inspired by a question ridesolo recently posted, I got in touch with Motion Pro regarding a custom-length clutch cable- the XL185 cable I installed with the new motor is just a little longer than ideal. They charge $70 for a basic black vinyl cable 3" shorter than stock. Maybe one day when the bike is mounted on its bronze base at Barber! Until then, a couple zip ties seem to do a fine job of keeping the cable away from the fender.
 
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