Blowing my own horn a little...pics update 11/03

[ronboskz650sr]

Well, I know pride goith before a fall...so I want first to thank you guys again, particularly BuzZz, and Techbmw for the contiuous support while I fiddled around with my bike in ways I was truly unqualified to.

Now for the gloat. The bike is just drop-dead gorgeous! This is the first time since I've owned it that people look to see what's coming, then turn as a group to watch it go by. Now people are taking side trips in the parking lot to get a closer look at this old 26-year old UJM! The paint is blinding in the sun, and the look is unlike anything around. I must admit, I'm very happy with the outcome. I'll post some pics in a while..the seat ended up being Navy Blue! The gallery pic is way out of date. The front fender is a work of art now, too (thanks BuzZz). I'm finishing up some details, and have the bike apart again, so I need to reassemble and wash, and Il post pics. And the ride is fantastic! Never would have suspected a lower (almost 3 inches in the end) seat would affect the handling that dramatically, although it does make sense, cg-wise. And the weight reduction is even noticeable when I push it around in the garage...almost 10 pounds lighter, final tally.

Thanks again everyone for being Totalmotorcycle!

Teaser pic with front fender still off and test seat, tail not final painted...

[Joe Mc]

Nice job Ron. It looks fantastic!

Here is that closeup photo of my bars that I promised oh so long ago.



And a front view.



I'm going to attempt to build a new seat and tail over the winter. Thanks for the inspiration!

[ronboskz650sr]

Now that looks great! I need those...do you remember the center width, drop(rise), and pullback on those, Joe?

[Joe Mc]

Here's a link to where I got them. https://www.mikesxs.net/mikesxs-chassis ... ory_id=1.4

They say rise/drop is 4" but they are pretty much 0. My hands are about level with the mounting point.

I bought these particular bars because they don't drop too much. Most other clubmans I've seen are lower which I think would be a bit uncomfortable.

Center width is 8"

They are probably similar to what you have but you get the angle which pulls your elbows in a bit.

[ronboskz650sr]

I need that wide center section to clear my fork ends, they are up 1 inch in the triple trees, to lower the front. Any bend at all in the first five inches or so, and The bars won't rotate very far down to get the position I want.

[ZooTech]

Looks awesome, Ron! Congrats on all the hard work paying off in spades! Even buying a complete custom from OCC or JJ doesn't compare to riding your own creation.

[ronboskz650sr]

Thanks, Zoo! One of my favorite things lately is when someone asks me where I got the seat/tail. Then I say "I made it", and they say "made what?", or "right, no really, where?" That makes it all worthwhile.

[BuzZz]

Don't thank me, Ron, you did it all yourself. And a dam fine job you did, too. Don't give me none of that 'un-qualified' crup either, I can piont at your own bike as proof of that.

I'm almost as stoked about your bike as you are(well almost...), I'm useing it as inspiration when shopping for a bike for my wife to start on.

You have every reason to do a little horn tootin'. Enjoy......

[ZooTech]

You have every reason to do a little horn tootin'

Errr....assuming the horn still works, that is!

(sorry, couldn't resist!)

[ronboskz650sr]

Thanks BuzZz! I'll be able to post some pics tomorrow...The cropped front fender is on! And you will like it, i'm sure. I mimicked the tail point on the front, and the effect is subtle, but very cool in gloss black.

I still haven't totally finished the seat, but can say with confidence that I can do it, now. I figured it out. A few tweaks to the pan, some batting material, and a couple of new sewing techniques later...I'm ready to make a permanent cover when the weather crumps on me. For now, it's still looking pretty darned good for a temporary. I must ride, and I have been...hence the delays in the project lately.

BTW, Krylon fusion is very tough paint, and CAN be buffed to a custom quality shine. I think someone was wondering about that, and I used it on the side covers with outstanding results. I plan to repaint my tank with Krylon Rust tough to test its gas resistance (can you tell my riding hobby goes deeper?), and I'll post that when I do it. I've learned a ton doing this, and will lurk so I can pass on anything helpful. I will also paint the exhaust with rustoleum high temp and report on it.