I don't get Cafe Racers

[TheDemonLord]

I'm putting this in Rant or Rave cause it's probably going to end up in a Flame war - but I don't get them

They seem to be infesting Tard me like an STD in Hamilton - they all seem to have piddly engine sizes, look ugly as sin, Claim LAMS approved (despite being altered from Manufacturer's specs which voids LAMS approval) and hideously overpriced

Maybe there is something I am missing?

[Gremlin]

Perhaps something more suitable for visiting all the coffee shops?

http://i630.photobucket.com/albums/uu21/tvpierce/bmw-r-1150-gs-StarbucksEdition.jpg

[MisterD]

What's to explain?

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GA27aQZCQMk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Erelyes]

I don't get kids that wear their jeans halfway down their ass.

I don't get the people putting ski racks and air deflectors on top of cars that are 1 inch off the ground and have five degrees of camber.

I don't get rose bushes (there are plenty of colourful plants that don't make you bleed when you do something with them).

I don't get choppers (89 degrees of rake? sounds safe).

I can see how it might be someone else's cup of tea, though.


I'm Claim LAMS approved (despite being altered from Manufacturer's specs which voids LAMS approval) and hideously overpriced

Never let truth get in the way of a sale.
I had someone contact me about my bike asking if I was sure it wasn't LAMS approved. I wonder what he'd have said if I replied 'Hey, maybe you're right!'...

[imdying]

Maybe there is something I am missing?Building stuff is a Kiwi bloke thing since we arrived here; our Maori brethren carved up all sorts of pounamu objects, built wakas, etc. Once whitey arrived he did other stuff, brought their hobbies with them.

Roll forward a while and the motorcycle showed up on the scene. Here they're been used as tools, entertainment, and of course art. Much like I enjoy Picasso's work, but find Warhol a hack, you too probably have tastes that are individual to you.

Some taste is inherent in your personality, some of it is directed overtly or otherwise) by fashion. For a wee while now the cafe racer has been the fashion. Choppers, street fighters, race replicas, they've all had their day.

I suspect that a certain amount of the cafe racers appeal is the minimal fabrication skills required, and the reduced costs when compared to building a more tarted up bike (look at street fighters or the ever popular 'restoration').

Art can be quite personal, and there is no requirement for anyone other than the creator to understand or even enjoy it. Ugly and under powered are both subjective. Take your own motorcycle for example; to me that is both ugly and underp owered, and I'd naught be seen dead on it, but you're quite happy with it... you dig?

[Voltaire]

I'm putting this in Rant or Rave cause it's probably going to end up in a Flame war - but I don't get them

They seem to be infesting Tard me like an STD in Hamilton - they all seem to have piddly engine sizes, look ugly as sin, Claim LAMS approved (despite being altered from Manufacturer's specs which voids LAMS approval) and hideously overpriced

Maybe there is something I am missing?

I don't get living in Gulf Harbour and driving/riding an hour each way to work every day.

Cafe Racers...whats not to like
http://kickstart.bikeexif.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/moto-guzzi-cafe-racer-kaffeemaschine.jpg

[Big Dog]

It's about choosing form over function. Like choosing Heidi Klum over Oprah Winfrey as your charity ambassador.


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[gjm]

I like them.

[willytheekid]

I BLAME HIPSTERS!

Love Cafe racers :eek: (well...REAL ones!<_<)

...but this new "trend" of using a GN125 or some other poor wee donor bike to build them from???:confused: da farQ??

http://www.motopsyco.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/hipsters-too.jpg


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bo1XlKNIEAAGSWr.jpg

...HIPSTERS!!<_<...in my day we just referred to them as gays (Was so much less confusing :yes:)


:dodge: (I SAID GAYS!...not aucklanders!...:shifty::whistle::D)

[Banditbandit]

Cafe racers were a 1960s thing to make a bike look more like the racing bike - add clip-ons, (the first road bike I saw for sale here with clip-ons standard was the Ducati 750SS) rear set pegs and probably a two-into-one exhaust were the basic steps.

Polished tank next, and smaller headlight - hotter cams and better carbs .. racing seat .. and you have a cafe racer.

Then you can start playing around with frames - so Norton probably made the best frame - and any Brit engine could be fitted into one ..

So here's a 1965 Bonnie ...

http://www.classic-british-motorcycles.com/images/65Tri-T120R-R.jpg

The bars are above the tank .. the footpegs are directly below the end of the tank .. almost in front of the gearbox ...

Here's a Triton (Triumph engine in a Norton featherbed frame ...)

http://sumpmagazine.com/classicbikenews/images/t140-cafe-racer-h-and-h.jpg

This is like the ultimate cafe racer from that period - the pegs are behind the engine, clipon bars, not a two-into one, but swept-back exhausts .. polished tank ... racing seat .. probably engine mods as well

Partly it was a cheaper way to make your bike look like the racing bikes (though a Triton or Norvin was not cheap) ... and, for some, aesthetically pleasing .. (also louder and sometimes faster ...)

[Banditbandit]

Here's a Vincent Black Shadow (In 1936 these bikes would reach 136mph)

<img src="http://www.bike-urious.com/wp-content/uploads/Vincent-Black-Shadow-Right-Side.jpg" width="400px"/>


Here's the engine in a Norton Featherbed frame .. some would say the ultimate cafe racer ..


<img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2516/3912998180_9fac8a870e.jpg" width="400px"/>

[Banditbandit]

But no .. I don't get the number of modern 250s etc out there being billed as "cafe racer" ... or even the CXs ...

And contemporary bikes are so well built and handle so well, they don't need that much modification ... if you buy one that does, then why did you buy it???

[Oscar]

Q: How many hipsters does it take to screw in a lightbulb?

A: Well, it's a pretty obscure number, you've probably never heard of it.

[Grumph]

This sort of "don't understand the appeal" is by no means new.
Phil Irving writing in the 1960's - probably the heyday of "real" cafe racers - lamented that a factory could produce a bike which was comfortable to ride anywhere, in all weathers,- but it would be outsold by a stripped version with low bars and a racey look which was in no way practical transport.

He didn't understand it then and i don't now. If you like that sort of thing, build a real racer and put it on the track.
The number of bastardised "cafe racers" for sale simply means IMO, the builders have discovered how uncomfortable and impractical they are - and want to get rid of them...

[Katman]

I like my cafe racers to look modern.

<img src="http://www.suzukicycles.org/photos/suzuki-history/1981/1981_GSX1100S_katana_450.jpg"/>

[willytheekid]

I like my cafe racers to look modern.


Ohh FFS :facepalm:

:crazy:HES LOST IT AGAIN!!...calm down mate...JUST CALM DOWN!!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aqL1skZY6lc
...please form an orderly Q KBers :laugh:...HAY!...No pushin!:blink: (Christ!, this rides popular eh)

[Katman]

Ohh FFS :facepalm:


<img src="http://www.social-engineer.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/you-cant-handle-the-truth-meme-generator-you-want-the-truth-you-can-t-handle-the-truth-9789dd.jpg"/>

[Voltaire]

I like red ones

http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p235/rednzep/IMAG2958_zpsanv55iky.jpg (http://s129.photobucket.com/user/rednzep/media/IMAG2958_zpsanv55iky.jpg.html)

[TheDemonLord]

I get the art arguement, I also get that art is subjective - the simple finances though of a 400cc bike that is worth maybe 1-3k, taking bits off it, and then charging 6-8 k. I don't get it.

[Paul in NZ]

Everyone sees something different. Everyone wants something that is theirs and they wont see an identical example parked outside the coffee shop... People still knit - usually it costs more to knit a jersey than it costs to buy one BUT people still like hand made. Same with bikes....

I've built café racers and it was HUGE fun. I've built chopper/bobbers and that was huge fun. I've restored bikes and that's fun too - the conclusion I've reached is any time I've done anything with a motorcycle it was huge fun but - the fun was in the doing. You won't have the same amount of fun as I did from me building up a bike... so you wont ever get it...

Café racers do NOT need a big engine. I'd like a 100cc one for shits and giggles...

Having said that - some people are tasteless morons whether it be knitting or motorcycles.... Chopping up a perfectly good bike that's managed to survive intact for 30 years to make a café racer - yeah not so cool... Taking a pile of pooh and making it useful... sweet...

[Paul in NZ]

I like red ones



Nice Mk2....

[BuzzardNZ]

Honda GB's :love:

[Paul in NZ]

I like my cafe racers to look modern.



Well it was modern once..... I guess...

[doc]

Got to add my 2c

[Paul in NZ]

Honda GB's :love:

Factory bikes other than BSA DBD Gold Stars cannot be café racers... its an ancient charter or a law or something... At best they can be café styled bikes...

[Oscar]

The addition of Dunstall clip ons and rear sets made my RD400 into a cafe racer.
The application of far too much throttle made it into a grenade.
I miss that bike...

[Banditbandit]

I get the art arguement, I also get that art is subjective - the simple finances though of a 400cc bike that is worth maybe 1-3k, taking bits off it, and then charging 6-8 k. I don't get it.

Naaa ... that's just bullshit ... a chopped up bike is still a chopped up bike ... and often worth less than the standard version ...

And "cafe racers" may well have been thrashed (that was the point after all ...)

[Banditbandit]

Factory bikes other than BSA DBD Gold Stars cannot be café racers... its an ancient charter or a law or something... At best they can be café styled bikes...

Oh yeah .. I'd love a Goldie .. the last one was on trademe for $22k ... I still can't afford one

http://www.classicstyle.com.au/images/BSA_DBD34_GOLDSTARL.jpg

[Swoop]

One of the more appealing class of bikes, just quietly.

[TheDemonLord]

One of the more appealing class of bikes, just quietly.

How so?

Are you talking Aestetics? Ride experiance? Fun Factor?

[awa355]

Honda GB's :love:

I loved my GB500tt. But following a friend on his Matchless 500 made the GB engine sound just like what it was, a Honda trail bike motor :gob: Nothing like the real thing I guess.

http://i1074.photobucket.com/albums/w420/awa355/GB500tt.jpg

I do like the cafe racer style tho.

[mossy1200]

Meet K100CR:eek5:
Cost less to build than most the tardme's.

[pete376403]

Probably LAMs approvable if they were ever available here

[cs363]

Probably LAMs approvable if they were ever available here

They are. On both counts: http://www.royalenfield.co.nz/continental-2


Back on topic, I'm not personally a big fan of this whole hipster inspired cafe racer/bobber/retro thing that's happening at the moment. Then again I'm not a big fan of Harley's either, but they have been consistently the best selling motorcycle brand in NZ in the over 750cc bracket for some time, so someone must like them!
For me the main thing with this trend is that it's getting a lot of people into (or back into) motorcycling and that can't be a bad thing for motorcyclists and the motorcycle industry.

[Swoop]

How so?

Are you talking Aestetics? Ride experiance? Fun Factor?

Generally: Aesthetics, history, fun, "feel".

Personally: F*cking stupidity, lunacy, cheek, noise, laughter, fun, looks.

"Ride" will be completely different from individual to individual, simply because of all of the above. Throw a leg over and ride/giggle!

[T.W.R]

Meet K100CR:eek5:
Cost less to build than most the tardme's.


:shifty: something very similar :niceone:

and a couple from the time & a nice 500 Yamaha

[doc]

Well it was modern once..... I guess...

Well everything changes . Even the modern versions are just individual expressions. :rolleyes: I like them all

[husaberg]

Oh yeah .. I'd love a Goldie .. the last one was on trademe for $22k ... I still can't afford one


Dow did it better.
Granted The Goldie was pretty special but it was a Clubmans race bike rule bender. Royal Enfield did try to do a Café bike right down to its 5 speed and Bacon slicers and fly screen.
http://weroyalriders.com/sources/media/2014/06/RoyalEnfieldContinentalGT2500001.jpg

[scumdog]

I'm putting this in Rant or Rave cause it's probably going to end up in a Flame war - but I don't get them

They seem to be infesting Tard me like an STD in Hamilton - they all seem to have piddly engine sizes, look ugly as sin, Claim LAMS approved (despite being altered from Manufacturer's specs which voids LAMS approval) and hideously overpriced

Maybe there is something I am missing?

Right-on bro, choppers where it's at!:Punk::Punk:

[carbonhed]

Yeah stupid things.

http://kickstart.bikeexif.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/norton-commando-750-625x417.jpg

http://www.bikeexif.com/norton-commando-750

[Katman]

Yeah stupid things.

Is that thing broken down?

[Tazz]

I get the history of em, but the ones people do these days are the equivalent to building a hot rod and running a stock engine, which I don't get. Each to their own I guess.

[BuzzardNZ]

I loved my GB500tt. But following a friend on his Matchless 500 made the GB engine sound just like what it was, a Honda trail bike motor :gob: Nothing like the real thing I guess.



I do like the cafe racer style tho.

Didn't stop me from owning 3 of em :D GB's I mean!

Fucking Honda g00ks should release a 2016 version, I'd be in.

[husaberg]

I get the history of em, but the ones people do these days are the equivalent to building a hot rod and running a stock engine, which I don't get. Each to their own I guess.

Style over substance .............

[Tazz]

Style over substance .............

Yep, which I can't relate to. You've got bikes that were never good to start with yet had a small fortune spent on their looks on trademe probably with the same shock oil they rolled out of the factory with, yet done to a 'style' that has racer in the name. Da faq! All show no go as you say. Would rather some ratty looking piece of shit that handled like a boss and went like hell.

There was a good thread on advrider on the same topic a few months back that had some interesting comments on pod filters, carbs, and the fact the two never work together well other than to cause frustration. Funny because almost all the ones you see for sale with them on have had fuck all K's done on them by the seller.

[husaberg]

Yep, which I can't relate to. You've got bikes that were never good to start with yet had a small fortune spent on their looks on trademe probably with the same shock oil they rolled out of the factory with, yet done to a 'style' that has racer in the name. Da faq! All show no go as you say. Would rather some ratty looking piece of shit that handled like a boss and went like hell.

There was a good thread on advrider on the same topic a few months back that had some interesting comments on pod filters, carbs, and the fact the two never work together well other than to cause frustration. Funny because almost all the ones you see for sale with them on have had fuck all K's done on them by the seller.

Yeah but think back to your misspent youth did you ever put on air shocks on your MK2 Escort with a 2 inch exhaust and Coby muffler with a ram air filter.
Or pull out the baffle out of your XR200. Kids are kids.

[Tazz]

Yeah but think back to your misspent youth did you ever put on air shocks on your MK2 Escort with a 2 inch exhaust and Coby muffler with a ram air filter.
Or pull out the baffle out of your XR200. Kids are kids.

I couldn't afford any of that after partying bills, rent, food and gas were struggles enough!
At least that shit is in the vein of performance though! Pod filters are done on bikes because after you pull everything off the stock boxes look arse, and a pod is the cheapest quickest fix. You don't see them hanging out the side of quality built ones where effort is put into the bike on the whole, not just the 'look' (and lets be real, if the cafe look involved ADDING more parts than it was pulling them off, it would never catch on :bleh: Chopper is same vein).

[Big Dog]

Only things arse about pod filters is they won't keep the rain out and if they carbs are not tuned to them they don't do anything. Also don't offer any real benefit without a freer flowing exhaust.


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[ellipsis]

...I do...

[Tazz]

Also don't offer any real benefit without a freer flowing exhaust.


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

Assuming they're actually an improvement, especially say on a bike where fresh clean air was channeled to the air box as part of the design, which is replaced by a pod sitting in a frame cavity drawing in your methane donations.
I think you can improve on almost any factory exhausts easily but air boxes/filters seem to need a bit more calculation. At least in my limited experience.

Anyway, I'll stop the thread jack now.


The amusing things is that many of the "new" cafe bikes were originally viewed as dorky basic transport items back in the day, so it's a bit like painting race stripes on your mum's runabout.

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=843936

:innocent:

[husaberg]

I couldn't afford any of that after partying bills, rent, food and gas were struggles enough!
At least that shit is in the vein of performance though! Pod filters are done on bikes because after you pull everything off the stock boxes look arse, and a pod is the cheapest quickest fix. You don't see them hanging out the side of quality built ones where effort is put into the bike on the whole, not just the 'look' (and lets be real, if the cafe look involved ADDING more parts than it was pulling them off, it would never catch on :bleh: Chopper is same vein).

Yeah but chopper are butt ugly and handle worse than stock.

[SPman]

I like red ones

So do I.....

[Kickaha]

There was a good thread on advrider on the same topic a few months back that had some interesting comments on pod filters, carbs, and the fact the two never work together
Depends on the type of carb, most muppets just put them on and expect them to work without any rejetting

[TheDemonLord]

I just thought I would pop into my thread to say that the Irony isn't lost on me that a Thread about me not getting Cafe Racers has turned into a thread about people expressing their love for Cafe Racers.

I'm sure there is a hipster somewhere who is enjoying this thread, Ironically.


Although noted that most people seem to be talking about actual vintage cafe racers (ie bikes made in the 60s) rather than taking a modern bike and sacrificing it to the gods of 'modding'

Also someone mentioned about the fun of building a project bike/car/thing - I can get that, nothing like sitting back and marvelling at the fruits of your labour.

[F5 Dave]

The bikes on TM, at least those featured in Mossys thread are all mutton dressed up as lamb, not in the age sense, just they are shit. I doubt they get sold. I get specials. I don't get the shitboxs that you are referring to,CXs et all.

[F5 Dave]

The addition of Dunstall clip ons and rear sets made my RD400 into a cafe racer.
The application of far too much throttle made it into a grenade.
I miss that bike...
From what I saw of his work he was a hack. Good idea but looked like they were made in a shed with a hacksaw, file and some letter punches.
Would love a well done 400. There was a nice one in cmm mag, spirit of the seventys a while back.

[Mo NZ]

If we all liked the same bike and colour what a boring world we would live in.

You don't have to get it. Like what ever you want to like.

Mitre 10 is a good place to pick up stuff if you need to build a bridge.
311289311290

:bleh:

[Voltaire]

just popped in from the shed to see how the keyboard bike experts are getting along, no real change:woohoo:....back to my exhaust wrap, pod filters, and see if the 5 hop beer is cool yet, bugger angle grinding and beards eh.

[Mike.Gayner]

Gee, a thread full of people who don't like bikes on KB. What a surprise.

I estimate about 5% of the members on this forum actually ride their bikes on a regular basis.

[Tazz]

I just thought I would pop into my thread to say that the Irony isn't lost on me that a Thread about me not getting Cafe Racers has turned into a thread about people expressing their love for Cafe Racers.

I'm sure there is a hipster somewhere who is enjoying this thread, Ironically.


Although noted that most people seem to be talking about actual vintage cafe racers (ie bikes made in the 60s) rather than taking a modern bike and sacrificing it to the gods of 'modding'

Also someone mentioned about the fun of building a project bike/car/thing - I can get that, nothing like sitting back and marvelling at the fruits of your labour.

Because the older bikes are actaully cafe racers, and what you're talking about are just hacks. If I put a pigeon welded roll cage and removed the front headlight from my mums Fiat Panda does it make it a race or drift car? What if I added a NOS sticker?

[Katman]

What if I added a NOS sticker?

What colour?

[Tazz]

What colour?

The exact shade of brown that a bull shits because it seems to be the best thing at making vehicles uber fast.

[mossy1200]

Take that pod haters.
No need to reprogram my fuel injection either. All sensors still accounted for.

[TheDemonLord]

Gee, a thread full of people who don't like bikes on KB. What a surprise.

I estimate about 5% of the members on this forum actually ride their bikes on a regular basis.

Not so much hate, more curiosity and confusion

[mossy1200]

Not so much hate, more curiosity and confusion

Half the fun is creating the bike TDL.
Some of the fun is when you realise your newish bike travels at road legal speeds with no effort that you want something a little more challenging to ride every so often.
I like the fact mines got one seat so wife has no option of coming with me.
I agree with the waste of time doing a small bike but others like small bikes.
The bikes value to the builder is normally way over the top. To the creator it represents more than a potential buyer.
My bike to me is only worth the money I spent because of my perception of the bike. Realistically it owes me more than its value to the average buyer. Saying that with stock pegs, polished ally tank, stock wheel colour, stock brakes and standard battery I could have completed it for under well under 3k including plates. Maybe that would be a break even amount.

Tell me what you would pay to buy mine. That's its market value.

[F5 Dave]

If we all liked the same bike and colour what a boring world we would live in.

You don't have to get it. Like what ever you wanattempts e.

Mitre 10 is a good place to pick up stuff if you need to build a bridge.
311289311290

:bleh:


And strangely you have posted pics of two well executed and indeed factory made bikes in the cafe style. What we are seeing lately are some dreadful attempts Which they then try to sell off for big money.

[TheDemonLord]

Half the fun is creating the bike TDL.
Some of the fun is when you realise your newish bike travels at road legal speeds with no effort that you want something a little more challenging to ride every so often.
I like the fact mines got one seat so wife has no option of coming with me.
I agree with the waste of time doing a small bike but others like small bikes.
The bikes value to the builder is normally way over the top. To the creator it represents more than a potential buyer.
My bike to me is only worth the money I spent because of my perception of the bike. Realistically it owes me more than its value to the average buyer. Saying that with stock pegs, polished ally tank, stock wheel colour, stock brakes and standard battery I could have completed it for under well under 3k including plates. Maybe that would be a break even amount.

Tell me what you would pay to buy mine. That's its market value.

Id give you 12 k for the zx14 ;)

[mossy1200]

Id give you 12 k for the zx14 ;)

You wouldn't want mine its 6tho km away from the 12k service and its had a lot of none standard parts fitted.

[Big Dog]

Gee, a thread full of people who don't like bikes on KB. What a surprise.

I estimate about 5% of the members on this forum actually ride their bikes on a regular basis.

Did you per chance mean 1%?


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[Big Dog]

You wouldn't want mine its 6tho km away from the 12k service and its had a lot of none standard parts fitted.

Golly mister, sounds like you don't get much time for riding it.
Must be all the investment in the racer.

Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[husaberg]

Take that pod haters.
No need to reprogram my fuel injection either. All sensors still accounted for.

Not café and I am not a Harley person but this one is function above form.(Posted for the POD FILTERS)
http://www.motosport.ch/media/motosport/archivbilder/gallery/61745_xr750_004harley_400.jpg

One of the best Factory attempt at a café bike was actually also Harley.
http://www.xlcrclub.com/images/home_bike.jpg
Ducatis other attempt other than the SS
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7192/6992245957_029e074dc2.jpg

One of the best latest attempts was this
Skyteam Ace
http://www.triumphrat.net/attachments/club-cafe/52625d1343121306-skyteam-ace125-ace1.jpg

Honda did this road clubmans version of the 125 CR93 DOHC 8 valve twin in 1962.
http://www.theworldofmotorcycles.com/vintagebike-images/honda_cr93_1962_sm.jpeg

[mossy1200]

Golly mister, sounds like you don't get much time for riding it.
Must be all the investment in the racer.

Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

Combination of work vehicle, house hunting, on-call and now house renovation. 6k in 2.4 years is very poor effort though. I have ridden the CR to the top of the street and back also though.

[BMWST?]

Take that pod haters.
No need to reprogram my fuel injection either. All sensors still accounted for.
great! but it looks like shit sticking out in the breeze like that IMHO.I know the aim was to get rid of the std airbox and make the whole thing look open.I bet it doesnt filter the air or perform as well as the std setup.No offense mossy

[Mo NZ]

Hey there F5 DAVE. DONT CHANGE QUOTES


And strangely you have posted pics of two well executed and indeed factory made bikes in the cafe style. What we are seeing lately are some dreadful attempts Which they then try to sell off for big money.


You put this up in that post along with an altered quote from me.

What's that about..

Quote Originally Posted by Mo NZ View Post

If we all liked the same bike and colour what a boring world we would live in.

You don't have to get it. Like what ever you wanattempts e.

Mitre 10 is a good place to pick up stuff if you need to build a bridge.
Attachment 311289Attachment 311290

What a looser.
You altered the quote.

The original post said:


If we all liked the same bike and colour what a boring world we would live in.

You don't have to get it. Like what ever you want to like.

Mitre 10 is a good place to pick up stuff if you need to build a bridge.

[mossy1200]

great! but it looks like shit sticking out in the breeze like that IMHO.I know the aim was to get rid of the std airbox and make the whole thing look open.I bet it doesnt filter the air or perform as well as the std setup.No offense mossy

It performs as well or possibly better and you hear the intake sucky also but only because its prior to the original bosh air valve and there is a secondary airbox on the other side above the injectors to cause a body of air not swirling around. I do agree most carbs are easier to get set up with a nice large airbox of controlled air. Some bike on flatslides would be the exception if your going to spend time and money dyno tuning.

Mine sticks out like a bast..d in the road of my legs but its what I wanted. The whole ride experience is uncomfortable as it should be for a home built café racer. Hard seat, poor balance, uncomfortable leg position and extremely hard on the wrists.

I should in fact list it on tardme for 8 grand and be done with it if it ever sells.

[Kickaha]

The whole ride experience is uncomfortable as it should be for a home built café racer. Hard seat, poor balance, uncomfortable leg position and extremely hard on the wrists..

If that's what your bike is like you did a crap job of bulding it or you're just old

[PrincessBandit]

Hey there F5 DAVE. DONT CHANGE QUOTES

You put this up in that post along with an altered quote from me.

What's that about..

......
What a looser.
You altered the quote.

The original post said: .................

Don't get too worked up about that. One of the things members do here (frequently to either pull someone's leg or occasionally to piss them off) is reword quotes for humorous/annoying intent. Generally if someone has been following a thread the altered ones are not too difficult to spot. Often attention is drawn to it by adding "fixed that for ya".

[Berries]

Get over it you twat.
That's a bit harsh.

[scumdog]

Did you per chance mean 1%?


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

Hey!
I resemble that remark!



Not...

[PrincessBandit]

Who is that twat looking back at me from my mirror?.

Don't be so harsh on yourself. I'm sure you're a beautiful person...

[GSF]

I guess there's cafe racers and "cafe racers". The ones on Trademe that have had a set of cheap clip-ons slapped on them, a tinny shit muffler and some bits painted rattle-can black but no attempts at improving performance are "cafe racers".

I think a lot of people would label me a hipster. I'm 25 and I'm on my second bike which is an SR500. Bought it because I had seen people do cool things with them, they're easy to work on and are fun to ride.
I'm turning mine into a cafe racer. I like bikes with a lean-forward feet-up riding position. It's going to have clip-ons and rearsets. I found a good quality stainless header and reverse megaphone muffler for it (fire sale after Deus Ex Machina closed up). But I'm also using it as a project to teach myself how to work on and improve a motorcycle. I want to get the throttle response dialed in until it's sharp enough to shave with, tighten up the handling and improve the braking power.

So I've been redoing the entire electrical system, looking at adapting VM or CR carbs to work with my intake manifold and airbox, (successfully, though nerve-wrackingly) shaving 0.50 off the throttle slide cutaway to clean up fuelling in the lower end and rejetting to suit. Got right proper Works shocks for the front and rear, looking at 11 or 12 mil master cylinders to bring the MC ratio more into line with what the caliper needs (they used the same 14mm MC as the XS650, which runs dual discs). It's gonna be loud, rattly, quite a bit lighter than stock. Maybe if I get really brave, think about a mild Megacycle cam. By the time I'm done with it, I'd like to pull the chrome off a towbar from a standing start and stop just as quick, and be a lot of fun carving up a twisty road.

And I know I'm never gonna get a cent of what I spend back when it's time to sell. I'll probably swap it all back to stock and sell the aftermarket bits individually, make more money. I'm considering it an investment in having fun and learning a lot.

[husaberg]

I guess there's cafe racers and "cafe racers". The ones on Trademe that have had a set of cheap clip-ons slapped on them, a tinny shit muffler and some bits painted rattle-can black but no attempts at improving performance are "cafe racers".

I think a lot of people would label me a hipster. I'm 25 and I'm on my second bike which is an SR500. Bought it because I had seen people do cool things with them, they're easy to work on and are fun to ride.
I'm turning mine into a cafe racer. I like bikes with a lean-forward feet-up riding position. It's going to have clip-ons and rearsets. I found a good quality stainless header and reverse megaphone muffler for it (fire sale after Deus Ex Machina closed up). But I'm also using it as a project to teach myself how to work on and improve a motorcycle. I want to get the throttle response dialed in until it's sharp enough to shave with, tighten up the handling and improve the braking power.

So I've been redoing the entire electrical system, looking at adapting VM or CR carbs to work with my intake manifold and airbox, (successfully, though nerve-wrackingly) shaving 0.50 off the throttle slide cutaway to clean up fuelling in the lower end and rejetting to suit. Got right proper Works shocks for the front and rear, looking at 11 or 12 mil master cylinders to bring the MC ratio more into line with what the caliper needs (they used the same 14mm MC as the XS650, which runs dual discs). It's gonna be loud, rattly, quite a bit lighter than stock. Maybe if I get really brave, think about a mild Megacycle cam. By the time I'm done with it, I'd like to pull the chrome off a towbar from a standing start and stop just as quick, and be a lot of fun carving up a twisty road.

And I know I'm never gonna get a cent of what I spend back when it's time to sell. I'll probably swap it all back to stock and sell the aftermarket bits individually, make more money. I'm considering it an investment in having fun and learning a lot.

There is a tingate pic posted somewhere above the tank is im pretty sure a 70's early 80's gsx250 looks pretty cool.
http://classic-motorbikes.net/images/gallery/1980-gsx250e.jpg
They had big cutouts for the knees or it might be off a X7 Gt250 of similar era.
I have an old mag here that done one as a project pretty sure it had the jetting in it for a VM Mikuni.
But Sudco for sell kits for them anyway.

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=311280&d=1289160916

[Laava]

I should in fact list it on tardme for 8 grand and be done with it if it ever sells.

Yep. Then we can post your listing on this thread and lambaste you for it. Just for fun you understand?

[98tls]

Dont understand what there is to "get" about so called Cafe racers really you either like that look or you dont simple,will add that the only motorcycle mag i buy on a regular basis is bi monthly mag called "cafe racer":niceone:simply love seeing some of the creations and having just 10 miutes ago picked up the Feb/March issue am once again in awe of what some that tinker come up with,at my age walking into a shop that sells new bikes is about as exciting watching golf.

[F5 Dave]

Hey there F5 DAVE. DONT CHANGE QUOTES




You put this up in that post along with an altered quote from me.

What's that about..

Quote Originally Posted by Mo NZ View Post

If we all liked the same bike and colour what a boring world we would live in.

You don't have to get it. Like what ever you wanattempts e.

Mitre 10 is a good place to pick up stuff if you need to build a bridge.
Attachment 311289Attachment 311290

What a looser.
You altered the quote.

The original post said:


If we all liked the same bike and colour what a boring world we would live in.

You don't have to get it. Like what ever you want to like.

Mitre 10 is a good place to pick up stuff if you need to build a bridge.
That is because my tablet has an annoying habit of starting and then continuing part way through the quote bit, it will probably do it again. So that's what its about. Thanks for the red rep and calling me a looser, although I'm not really sure what a looser is. Is it better than a tighter?


And I'm getting green rep for these posts quicker than you can ever red rep me.

You seem to have anger issues.

[husaberg]

Dont understand what there is to "get" about so called Cafe racers really you either like that look or you dont simple,will add that the only motorcycle mag i buy on a regular basis is bi monthly mag called "cafe racer":niceone:simply love seeing some of the creations and having just 10 miutes ago picked up the Feb/March issue am once again in awe of what some that tinker come up with,at my age walking into a shop that sells new bikes is about as exciting watching golf.

Aren't you the golf target market age though:bleh:
I have always loved café style and I certainly wasn't around in the 60's and I have no recollection of the 70's either.
The coffin style tank RD400's still look bloody awesome now. even when updated a little.
https://2strokebiker.files.wordpress.com/2010/12/rd400.jpg

[F5 Dave]

http://classic-motorbikes.net/images/gallery/1980-gsx250e.jpg[/IMG]
They had big cutouts for the knees or it might be off a X7 Gt250 of similar era.
I have an old mag here that done one as a project pretty sure it had the jetting in it for a VM Mikuni.
But Sudco for sell kits for them anyway.

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=311280&d=1289160916
I had one of those. It truely was dreadful. See? Tablet has done it again.

[FJRider]

... You seem to have anger issues.

If that Member reads the rest of the thread after her post ... I cannot see any improvement in this regard ...

[husaberg]

I own Hondas but pretend they are Yamahas cause I am insecure in my masculinity.

I used to ride a mates Alloy tank TT500 bet he wishes he never sold that now.
PS I see what you mean KB has a mind of its own tonight with quotes

[F5 Dave]

Aren't you the golf target market age though:bleh:
I have always loved café style and I certainly wasn't around in the 60's and I have no recollection of the 70's either.
The coffin style tank RD400's still look bloody awesome now. even when updated a little.
https://2strokebiker.files.wordpress.com/2010/12/rd400.jpg
Now that is cool

[98tls]

Half the fun is creating the bike TDL.
Some of the fun is when you realise your newish bike travels at road legal speeds with no effort that you want something a little more challenging to ride every so often.
I like the fact mines got one seat so wife has no option of coming with me.
I agree with the waste of time doing a small bike but others like small bikes.
The bikes value to the builder is normally way over the top. To the creator it represents more than a potential buyer.
My bike to me is only worth the money I spent because of my perception of the bike. Realistically it owes me more than its value to the average buyer. Saying that with stock pegs, polished ally tank, stock wheel colour, stock brakes and standard battery I could have completed it for under well under 3k including plates. Maybe that would be a break even amount.

Tell me what you would pay to buy mine. That's its market value.

Bike looks fantastic M and a shitload of fun to ride i reckon.You have hit the nail on head really,new bikes are no doubt wonderful...well as wonderful as the gazillon getting about that are exactly the same as the one your sitting on and lets not forget that bikes these days have far exceeded most mortals riding ability on real world roads no matter what most of the owners will admit.As for the $ who gives a fuck its your money and if the result makes you smile then its money well spent.

[F5 Dave]

I used to ride a mates Alloy tank TT500 bet he misses he never sold that now.
Spooky. After I sold my RD350B (with 250 stickers over the originals) I bought the GSX so I could do my licence proper. Next was an ally tank TT500.

[98tls]

I used to ride a mates Alloy tank TT500 bet he wishes he never sold that now.
PS I see what you mean KB has a mind of its own tonight with quotes

Had one myself mate and yep wish i still did.As for golf...never.

[FJRider]

If that's what your bike is like you did a crap job of bulding it or you're just old

I see few (ok ... no) Cafe Racers touring with hard luggage. (or soft luggage for that matter)

[husaberg]

husaberg you're a beautiful person..

Cheers I think?.....................
<img src="http://sd.keepcalm-o-matic.co.uk/i/keep-calm-and-love-husaberg-.png" width="200px"/> <img src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41qJHVxnbML._SX342_.jpg" width="230px"/> <img src="http://i1.ytimg.com/vi/oVea5ks2E88/mqdefault.jpg" width="260px"/> <img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XPrjfJl0oNI/UJK6YukX9KI/AAAAAAAAP_4/B3VCSxptkkM/s1600/husaberg+team+hotel+2+540.jpg" width="260px"/>

[98tls]

Spooky. After I sold my RD350B (with 250 stickers over the originals) I bought the GSX so I could do my licence proper. Next was an ally tank TT500.

:2thumbsupGood on ya gave me a chuckle,i to did same though it was on an early XL350 with 250 stickers,rode it 30 miles to the Cheviot council office did the question bit then the cop said "no point in you doing the practical bit as i know you rode the bike here from your old mans place",he never asked for my birth certificate (which i didnt have anyway)just as well as i still had 2 years to go before i could legally sit the test,he passed me and all good though the age thing caused me some grief years later...

[FJRider]

Had one myself mate and yep wish i still did.As for golf...never.

I tried Golf ONCE. I played a dud shot ... and the fucking caddy wouldn't go and get the ball so I could have another go ...


Something about "The Rules" .. apparently ...

[carbonhed]

Mine sticks out like a bast..d in the road of my legs but its what I wanted. The whole ride experience is uncomfortable as it should be for a home built café racer. Hard seat, poor balance, uncomfortable leg position and extremely hard on the wrists.


:laugh: You're going to have to work on your sales technique. Honesty may not be the best policy.

[F5 Dave]

What so you rocked on to set it when you were 13?!? Fuck I can hardly type this for laughing.

[husaberg]

Spooky. After I sold my RD350B (with 250 stickers over the originals) I bought the GSX so I could do my licence proper. Next was an ally tank TT500.

Yeah at least we both don't have multiple NF4 frames.............or stingers and Wolfs.

[F5 Dave]

I don't have a wolf. Well, only the tank.

[98tls]

What so you rocked on to set it when you were 13?!? Fuck I can hardly type this for laughing.

Indeed i did,we lived way out in the wops ie north of Parnassus Nth Canterbury,the old man was bike mad Nortons/Tridents etc all over the place and i started riding pretty young,as we lived in the middle of nowhere i spent much time on un regoed tralies complete with knobblys sliding through the Hundaless having a ball,few funny storys along the way one that springs to mind was catching a couple of guys on big road bikes aboard an XL250 powered (had a from memory 305 kit) CR framed traillie then pulling over at the Conway store (long since gone)these 2 fellas pulled up then when i took my helmet off the look on there faces was priceless,i was pretty young.Anyways back on track it was the old mans idea to get the licence as he was sick of ferrying me about:laugh:just put the 250 stickers on the thing and told me to bluff my way through the age thing,cop knew the old man and just didnt question the age thing,he had a funny relationship with the local copper who managed to write off a cop car or so chasing him,sounds like shite but true.I think Warwick ie member on here Kickhaha can confirm that to be true.Gotta remember though that back then there wasnt all this bullshit to go through,just turn up at the county council office and do the test with the local copper back then.

[husaberg]

Now that is cool

I posted it before all people would say is about the welding on the exhausts....
there was a pretty cool Kawa three in the same vein. I will find it in a minute.
Ok longer than a minute.

[mossy1200]

:laugh: You're going to have to work on your sales technique. Honesty may not be the best policy.

Nothing wrong with my sales pitch. If my wife asks me to sell it ill still own it 20years later? Honesty is always the best method.
When I am ready to sell it ill tell some porkies to do it like everyone else on tardme.

[F5 Dave]

Indeed i did,we lived way out in the wops ie north of Parnassus Nth Canterbury,the old man was bike mad Nortons/Tridents etc all over the place and i started riding pretty young,as we lived in the middle of nowhere i spent much time on un regoed tralies complete with knobblys sliding through the Hundaless having a ball,few funny storys along the way one that springs to mind was catching a couple of guys on big road bikes aboard an XL250 powered (had a from memory 305 kit) CR framed traillie then pulling over at the Conway store (long since gone)these 2 fellas pulled up then when i took my helmet off the look on there faces was priceless,i was pretty young.Anyways back on track it was the old mans idea to get the licence as he was sick of ferrying me about:laugh:just put the 250 stickers on the thing and told me to bluff my way through the age thing,cop knew the old man and just didnt question the age thing,he had a funny relationship with the local copper who managed to write off a cop car or so chasing him,sounds like shite but true.I think Warwick ie member on here Kickhaha can confirm that to be true.Gotta remember though that back then there wasnt all this bullshit to go through,just turn up at the county council office and do the test with the local copper back then.
Kicks so senile he`d never remember. Worst id done was lie about having a wof on the gsx when i did my practicle. A mate from school was told to ride around Pierce house and come back while the cop waited, supposedly he slide off, dusted himself and returned to pass. Never sure how true it was.

[BMWST?]

It performs as well or possibly better and you hear the intake sucky also but only because its prior to the original bosh air valve and there is a secondary airbox on the other side above the injectors to cause a body of air not swirling around. I do agree most carbs are easier to get set up with a nice large airbox of controlled air. Some bike on flatslides would be the exception if your going to spend time and money dyno tuning.

Mine sticks out like a bast..d in the road of my legs but its what I wanted. The whole ride experience is uncomfortable as it should be for a home built café racer. Hard seat, poor balance, uncomfortable leg position and extremely hard on the wrists.

I should in fact list it on tardme for 8 grand and be done with it if it ever sells.

all good mossy...its your bike and you did a good job on it.!

[mossy1200]

all good mossy...its your bike and you did a good job on it.!

More like a job on it.

It doesn't need behave well or have huge power. It is was it is. A touring bike with about 70hp on old school tire sizes about 70kg lighter than it was originally. But its fun to own. Its like an ugly guy with lots of money. Still pulls a target audience that a skint good looking guy couldn't attract.

The fun factor is having a modern bike and an alternative with some personal touch. If I decide im not happy with a piece of it I can alter that piece accordingly.

[husaberg]

More like a job on it.

It doesn't need behave well or have huge power. It is was it is. A touring bike with about 70hp on old school tire sizes about 70kg lighter than it was originally..

Was it originally built like a shit brickhouse...........
Mossy will get what I mean.

[mossy1200]

Was it originally built like a shit brickhouse...........
Mossy will get what I mean.

The original long drop version. Be careful of blow back and wipe before you begin.

[Kickaha]

:just put the 250 stickers on the thing
Friend of mine who worked for your Dad did the same with his RZ350 when Roy took him for his test


Kicks so senile he`d never remember.
I do remember him writing off a couple of cars chasing bikes and I know he chased 98tls dad a few times

[husaberg]

The original long drop version. Be careful of blow back and wipe before you begin.

I also like the Spanish version

[mossy1200]

I also like the Spanish version

Yes its nice but its more brick motor and hand made bike. Slightly above my garage build skill level.

Maybe the 300hp turbo kit?
https://www.rbracing-rsr.com/bmwturbos.htm

[Big Dog]

Combination of work vehicle, house hunting, on-call and now house renovation. 6k in 2.4 years is very poor effort though. I have ridden the CR to the top of the street and back also though.

I know the feeling. Were it not for the riding to work thing I raw maths says my riding would amount to 4000 pa. 30000-26000 traveling to work and back.

Mind you if I worked closer to home I could probably squeeze more riding in. Or do more renovating. I suspect until wife is happy with the cave it will be the renos.


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[Big Dog]

It performs as well or possibly better and you hear the intake sucky also but only because its prior to the original bosh air valve and there is a secondary airbox on the other side above the injectors to cause a body of air not swirling around. I do agree most carbs are easier to get set up with a nice large airbox of controlled air. Some bike on flatslides would be the exception if your going to spend time and money dyno tuning.

Mine sticks out like a bast..d in the road of my legs but its what I wanted. The whole ride experience is uncomfortable as it should be for a home built café racer. Hard seat, poor balance, uncomfortable leg position and extremely hard on the wrists.

I should in fact list it on tardme for 8 grand and be done with it if it ever sells.

If it's what you like everyone else is wrong.
Knees in the breeze and a smile on the dial.


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[Big Dog]

Hey!
I resemble that remark!



Not...

That's us. The kb 1%ers. :rofl:


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[mossy1200]

If it's what you like everyone else is wrong.
Knees in the breeze and a smile on the dial.



Its only 137metres to the closest café from my place but you feel like a twat walking there in leathers so ill put up with the ride position.

[Big Dog]

Its only 137metres to the closest café from my place but you feel like a twat walking there in leathers so ill put up with the ride position.

Shame no bling from tapatalk. Almost choked on my apple laughing.


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[mossy1200]

If you were going to buy someone else CR then wouldn't this be money better spent instead.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/classic-vintage/auction-882708164.htm

[Big Dog]

I am unlikely to ever own a traditional cafe racer due to the fact it would look like I was inserting a tampon every time i sat on it.
Never mind the fact it would look like I had pinched a kids bike.
I do however appreciate them.
Every time I see my CB from the side I wonder about either getting another commuter and converting my current one or getting a messed up one and applying the cafe racer styling to it.


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[Big Dog]

Summink like this Yamaha. http://smg.photobucket.com/user/dieffe123/media/XJROwners/nothing-else-matters-yamaha-xjr-1300-cafe-racer_zpsaa6a0e39.jpg.html


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[mossy1200]

Summink like this Yamaha. http://smg.photobucket.com/user/dieffe123/media/XJROwners/nothing-else-matters-yamaha-xjr-1300-cafe-racer_zpsaa6a0e39.jpg.html


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

I like that. Lots of money spent on that.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=879396608

I was bidding on this but my wife caught me. Im tempted but the pushing it to and then onto the ferry is bringing out the lazy in me. Problem is its likely better off put back original but would also be great CR donor.

[Tazz]

I like that. Lots of money spent on that.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=879396608

I was bidding on this but my wife caught me. Im tempted but the pushing it to and then onto the ferry is bringing out the lazy in me. Problem is its likely better off put back original but would also be great CR donor.

Can push it on for you if you like man, no bother, although I have to get back off again :laugh:

You might be able to hook up with someone bringing a trailer over. I've dropped a few of them off for people to Bluebridge. They don't need a passenger with them.

[Big Dog]

I like that. Lots of money spent on that.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=879396608

I was bidding on this but my wife caught me. Im tempted but the pushing it to and then onto the ferry is bringing out the lazy in me. Problem is its likely better off put back original but would also be great CR donor.

Aye. And that is why I won't be doing that until house finished. Renos take up to much time and money for a man with 2 under 3 at home.


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[mossy1200]

Can push it on for you if you like man, no bother, although I have to get back off again :laugh:

You might be able to hook up with someone bringing a trailer over. I've dropped a few of them off for people to Bluebridge. They don't need a passenger with them.

Father in law lives there and guy would deliver to his house. I will see what bidding does as im expecting now a few have seen and the counts up more will follow. I search the parts by most bids and I assume others do also. Easier than sifting through the crap that's listed. Wouldn't be surprised if it goes north of 1k now.

[mossy1200]

Can push it on for you if you like man, no bother, although I have to get back off again :laugh:

You might be able to hook up with someone bringing a trailer over. I've dropped a few of them off for people to Bluebridge. They don't need a passenger with them.

Went a little big for me to escape castration.

[mossy1200]

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/classic-vintage/auction-882803009.htm

Heres one for all you CR wanta builds. The big monies been spent.

[husaberg]

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/classic-vintage/auction-882803009.htm

Heres one for all you CR wanta builds. The big monies been spent.

Anyone know where that tachos from?
Scratch that is a speedo WTF.
311351

[Tazz]

Anyone know where that tachos from?
Scratch that is a speedo WTF.
311351

http://thirdgear.com.au/cafe-racer-led-mini-speedometer/

They're out of the fetching white though.

[GSF]

Anyone know where that tachos from?
Scratch that is a speedo WTF.
311351

Daytona 60mm speedo, they do them with or without warning lights. Lots of lookalike knockoffs of them too. Also can get a tacho, different coloured faces too.
Looks kinda weird on the bar clamp like that... :/

[husaberg]

Daytona 60mm speedo, they do them with or without warning lights. Lots of lookalike knockoffs of them too. Also can get a tacho, different coloured faces too.
Looks kinda weird on the bar clamp like that... :/
it does look a bit lopsided.
I was looking for a 14000rpm plus tacho they are not that common.


http://thirdgear.com.au/cafe-racer-led-mini-speedometer/
They're out of the fetching white though.
thanks shame they only go to 12000.
Close enough
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/400828781080?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&fromMakeTrack=true

[mossy1200]

Anyone know where that tachos from?
Scratch that is a speedo WTF.
311351

Google Kege . They have some classic style rev counters.

My speedo is Koso. They also make combo units.

[Laava]

it does look a bit lopsided.
I was looking for a 14000rpm plus tacho they are not that common.


thanks shame they only go to 12000.
Close enough
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/400828781080?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&fromMakeTrack=true

You are overthinking it. This guy has a brilliantly simple solution.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhMvtw5BoRE&sns=em

[husaberg]

You are overthinking it. This guy has a brilliantly simple solution.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhMvtw5BoRE&sns=em
What ever happened to the thread I used to subscribe to it.

[MisterD]

Here's something for you to really not get then:

http://i39.tinypic.com/uroev.jpg

[ducatilover]

I like mine.
https://scontent-sjc.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/11001842_10153037213277593_1555691652007629332_n.j pg?oh=c602c9abedcffe02a95dcdca900d55a9&oe=55DB33E1
I think it's a Cafe racer. Too bad if it isn't, it makes me hard.

[Banditbandit]

Too bad if it isn't, it makes me hard.

That seat would make me sore ...

[Big Dog]

That seat would make me sore ...

That's what makes him hard?
Question is are we talking prostate stimulation? Or is he suggesting he's a hard bastard because he can live with that seat?


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[ducatilover]

:lol: it has foam now.

[husaberg]

I guess there's cafe racers and "cafe racers". The ones on Trademe that have had a set of cheap clip-ons slapped on them, a tinny shit muffler and some bits painted rattle-can black but no attempts at improving performance are "cafe racers".

I think a lot of people would label me a hipster. I'm 25 and I'm on my second bike which is an SR500. Bought it because I had seen people do cool things with them, they're easy to work on and are fun to ride.
I'm turning mine into a cafe racer. I like bikes with a lean-forward feet-up riding position. It's going to have clip-ons and rearsets. I found a good quality stainless header and reverse megaphone muffler for it (fire sale after Deus Ex Machina closed up). But I'm also using it as a project to teach myself how to work on and improve a motorcycle. I want to get the throttle response dialed in until it's sharp enough to shave with, tighten up the handling and improve the braking power.

So I've been redoing the entire electrical system, looking at adapting VM or CR carbs to work with my intake manifold and airbox, (successfully, though nerve-wrackingly) shaving 0.50 off the throttle slide cutaway to clean up fuelling in the lower end and rejetting to suit. Got right proper Works shocks for the front and rear, looking at 11 or 12 mil master cylinders to bring the MC ratio more into line with what the caliper needs (they used the same 14mm MC as the XS650, which runs dual discs). It's gonna be loud, rattly, quite a bit lighter than stock. Maybe if I get really brave, think about a mild Megacycle cam. By the time I'm done with it, I'd like to pull the chrome off a towbar from a standing start and stop just as quick, and be a lot of fun carving up a twisty road.

And I know I'm never gonna get a cent of what I spend back when it's time to sell. I'll probably swap it all back to stock and sell the aftermarket bits individually, make more money. I'm considering it an investment in having fun and learning a lot.

Ten carrots

[OddDuck]

OK, it's a bit late down the track now but here goes... an attempt to reply to the OP:

Cafe Racers were 40's / 50's / 60's / maybe 70's era standard motorcycles home-tweaked for street racing. That's the guts of it.

The style evolved in an era before superbikes. You got some british made single or parallel twin (or just maybe a V-twin) with appallingly low compression (because they had crap gas back then) and you did whatever you could to keep up with the rest of the delinquents. It was all done on basic salaries in some backyard shed or garage. Your status was equal parts how you rode, what you could build on a budget, and who you could score on a Saturday night.

Most of the modifications followed from it being a standard motorcycle: you wanted to reduce windage at speed, so lowered handlebars allowed the rider to tuck down. Raised footpegs or rearsets helped. Bench seats meant you could slide your arse back to get even lower, tucking right into the tank for the last couple of extra mph.

Taking weight off meant faster acceleration / better braking, so off with heavy fenders / grab rails / bash bars / chainguards etc.

Engine mods were usually limited to open carbs with jetting tweaks and opened exhausts or sometimes even completely open pipes. The really keen would fit hot cams and so on, but mostly it was about going fast with basic kit.

Personally I think it's a really appealing style - utter simplicity if you will - and I really like it. Check out Returnofthecaferacers for a look at some seriously keen modern work.

[TheDemonLord]

OK, it's a bit late down the track now but here goes... an attempt to reply to the OP:

Cafe Racers were 40's / 50's / 60's / maybe 70's era standard motorcycles home-tweaked for street racing. That's the guts of it.

The style evolved in an era before superbikes. You got some british made single or parallel twin (or just maybe a V-twin) with appallingly low compression (because they had crap gas back then) and you did whatever you could to keep up with the rest of the delinquents. It was all done on basic salaries in some backyard shed or garage. Your status was equal parts how you rode, what you could build on a budget, and who you could score on a Saturday night.

Most of the modifications followed from it being a standard motorcycle: you wanted to reduce windage at speed, so lowered handlebars allowed the rider to tuck down. Raised footpegs or rearsets helped. Bench seats meant you could slide your arse back to get even lower, tucking right into the tank for the last couple of extra mph.

Taking weight off meant faster acceleration / better braking, so off with heavy fenders / grab rails / bash bars / chainguards etc.

Engine mods were usually limited to open carbs with jetting tweaks and opened exhausts or sometimes even completely open pipes. The really keen would fit hot cams and so on, but mostly it was about going fast with basic kit.

Personally I think it's a really appealing style - utter simplicity if you will - and I really like it. Check out Returnofthecaferacers for a look at some seriously keen modern work.

This I get - what I don't get is taking a modern bike, 'modding' it, and selling it for the same price as a decent used 1000cc bike

[OddDuck]

Yeah, I see your point. I hadn't realised how bad it had become.

Bright news: nobody's bidding. Seems the sellers are bigger dupes than Joe Public.

Reading the text in this ad: http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/classic-vintage/auction-883715167.htm is pretty revealing.

[mossy1200]

Yeah, I see your point. I hadn't realised how bad it had become.

Bright news: nobody's bidding. Seems the sellers are bigger dupes than Joe Public.

Reading the text in this ad: http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/classic-vintage/auction-883715167.htm is pretty revealing.

Some bits on that bike are well done but I hope hes not expecting much more than 3.5

[F5 Dave]

It actually doesn't look too bad, but another- I just built it, realised it's still a piece of shit maybe I could sell it to some sucker and get a Hornet.

[98tls]

Kinda like the thing myself,as for what its worth i couldnt give a fuck it looks sweet and would probably put a smile on ya dial come a hot Sunday arvo.Didnt read his ad but good luck to him whoever he is.

[mossy1200]

Kinda like the thing myself,as for what its worth i couldnt give a fuck it looks sweet and would probably put a smile on ya dial come a hot Sunday arvo.Didnt read his ad but good luck to him whoever he is.

Not sure what he is expecting but last time listed was 5k starting bid and that wasn't reserve.

[98tls]

Not sure what he is expecting but last time listed was 5k starting bid and that wasn't reserve.

Nothing wrong with trying your luck eh....that said reserves been met,for that sorta money its a Gem.

[OddDuck]

OK, still learning how to do quotes:

This I get - what I don't get is taking a modern bike, 'modding' it, and selling it for the same price as a decent used 1000cc bike

I think there's a lot of emotion tied up in these. Looks like the major pitfall is where they start - take something old, cheap, and not particularly good even when it was new, then throw hundreds of hours and thousands of bucks at it. Then wonder why other people aren't going crazy about it.

This Honda GL400 is probably a good example: http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/other/auction-862960639.htm

8K he wants for this. Granted, aside from the carbs needing refinishing, it's immaculate, but still... it is and always will be a Honda GL400!!

[F5 Dave]

Worse than that; it won't be a GL400. People get the best money for std bikes.

[husaberg]

Worse than that; it won't be a GL400. People get the best money for std bikes.

To tell you the truth I rode a CX500 once it was a decent bike (ugly as fuck) but kind of like a 70's RC31 Bros/Hawk engine wise.
I used to give the guy who owned it shit but he convinced me to ride it one day.
Someone in the South Island on KB has quite a few of the Honda Ugly Duckings. Can't remember who?
They had a few teething problems but when those were fixed they were one of the most reliable bikes ever.
I thought of one of the best factory Café Racers the other day. I would still love one.

[TheDemonLord]

OK, still learning how to do quotes:

This I get - what I don't get is taking a modern bike, 'modding' it, and selling it for the same price as a decent used 1000cc bike

I think there's a lot of emotion tied up in these. Looks like the major pitfall is where they start - take something old, cheap, and not particularly good even when it was new, then throw hundreds of hours and thousands of bucks at it. Then wonder why other people aren't going crazy about it.

This Honda GL400 is probably a good example: http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/other/auction-862960639.htm

8K he wants for this. Granted, aside from the carbs needing refinishing, it's immaculate, but still... it is and always will be a Honda GL400!!

[ quote ] what you are quoting [ / quote]

(just remove the spaces)

but yes - this is what perplexes me - people spend lots of time and money polishing turds and think that when they are finished they have something that is not a Turd...

[mossy1200]

but yes - this is what perplexes me - people spend lots of time and money polishing turds and think that when they are finished they have something that is not a Turd...

My turd comes out shiny.

[Banditbandit]

My turd comes out shiny.

I'd be getting medical help if I was you ...

[doc]

It was all done on basic salaries in some backyard shed or garage.


:shit: Isn't that about what this thread is all about ? different era and different resources. Idea still there,now called something different

but still the same

[eldog]

:shit: Isn't that about what this thread is all about ? different era and different resources. Idea still there,now called something different

but still the same


Much like the Harley Bobbers I suppose, Born after WWII when returing officers wanted to experience that adreline rush, got rid of all the unnecessary bits and bobs. but what do I know.:no:
Am I right? Bobbers and Cafe racers born out of wanting to have something better than what was currently available

[ellipsis]

...who fucking cares...that's not complex at all...

[FJRider]

... Am I right? Bobbers and Cafe racers born out of wanting to have something better than what was currently available

No.


Far from it actually.

[eldog]

No.


Far from it actually.

bugger got it wrong again.....

more research required. must be the alcohol affecting my memory.:drinkup:

FJRider point me in the right direction, so I can fix up my retareded memory.

[FJRider]

bugger got it wrong again.....

more research required. must be the alcohol affecting my memory.:drinkup:

FJRider point me in the right direction, so I can fix up my retareded memory.

http://classicmotorcycles.about.com/od/historicaldevelopment/ss/Caferacer.htm

http://www.bobberrepublic.com/motorcycles/Bobber_History.php

[eldog]

http://classicmotorcycles.about.com/od/historicaldevelopment/ss/Caferacer.htm

http://www.bobberrepublic.com/motorcycles/Bobber_History.php

thanks. I will be more informed now:niceone:

Similar goals-speed and looks, different styles/purposes

Interestingly driven by a goal of speed , there is a set of 'rules' as to how each type looked.
Surpurised full fairings frond upon due to 'look' and hiding engine etc.

Didnt realise Bobbers where involved in hill climbing (its big in the US) as well.

Apart from 'rules to as how they look' In my opinion both good examples of bikes and a fixed purpose/style
cafe racers subset of racers?
bobbers subset of sport/cruiser/adventure?

I like looking around at bikes like at Southward Car Museum, nice to see the effort and design of each and everytype of bike and how things have progressed during the years.

A little goal in my short (mostly completed) bucket list is finding bike/car museums about the country and paying a visit.

[husaberg]

Much like the Harley Bobbers I suppose, Born after WWII when returing officers wanted to experience that adreline rush, got rid of all the unnecessary bits and bobs. but what do I know.:no:
Am I right? Bobbers and Cafe racers born out of wanting to have something better than what was currently available

Yeah but bobbers were more pose than performance.
There seems to be quite a few of those about now too its infecting the café racers as well.

[doc]

FJRiders link mentions that a ...

"café racer is a motorcycle that has been modified to race from a café to some other predetermined place."

So whats different from most of the KB rides ? maybe they now do it with different bling fitted

[FJRider]

FJRiders link mentions that a ...

There were TWO links ... :shifty:


"café racer is a motorcycle that has been modified to race from a café to some other predetermined place."

The "Original" Cafe racers knew where they were going .... :shifty:


So whats different from most of the KB rides ? maybe they now do it with different bling fitted

The "Originals" timed (or were timed) their ride ... their reputation was enhanced/at stake ... Many KB'rs have little at stake. And a lot to (yet) prove ... :shifty:

[eldog]

There were TWO links ... :shifty:



The "Original" Cafe racers knew where they were going .... :shifty:



The "Originals" timed (or were timed) their ride ... their reputation was enhanced/at stake ... Many KB'rs have little at stake. And a lot to (yet) prove ... :shifty:

timed their ride to return before the record had finished
was it a short ride, an LP 45 or 78?

[FJRider]

timed their ride to return before the record had finished
was it a short ride, an LP 45 or 78?

You're learning ... :killingme

[eldog]

You're learning ... :killingme

a late begineer and a slow learner, only learning by mistakes.

[Big Dog]

Myths or legends?
I have heard the original cafe racer scene was based around The Ace Cafe. To be part of the group you had to be able to do a loop set by the group you wanted to join within the time it took to play a specific song on the juke box. From seated no helmet on to kitted to done the lap to seated no lid again.
I have heard a few tales from various riders of appropriate vintages of all piling out the door to do the lap with the last one back picking up the tab form the next round.


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[speights_bud]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/11/b23adc905ea6f0d34c1cc3268a8e0dce.jpg

[neels]

I can kind of see the appeal behind this, but I'm probably to OCD to actually do it.

The old GT185 I've got in the garage would be a perfect candidate, full restoration would be bloody expensive so to go cafe racer would be a cheaper alternative, and it would still be fun for the boy to ride to school. The problem is that I would struggle to bring myself to bastardise a complete original bike, and would still want to leave the option of putting it back to original so it would be stuck in no mans land and probably look like crap.

The thing that always interests me is that people build these things and then want to sell them almost finished, so it would seem they're either not building them for themselves and think the buyer will pay a premium for a shitbox bike that's been customised, or it gets to the too hard point when it comes to making it legal and try to recover what they've spent and make it some other sucker's problem.

[mossy1200]

The thing that always interests me is that people build these things and then want to sell them almost finished, so it would seem they're either not building them for themselves and think the buyer will pay a premium for a shitbox bike that's been customised, or it gets to the too hard point when it comes to making it legal and try to recover what they've spent and make it some other sucker's problem.


Leave off the front mudguard and say it requires a mudguard to be completed is CR for $500 is going to double my budget I am better off just collecting my 7 grand straight away.

[F5 Dave]

I can kind of see the appeal behind this, but I'm probably to OCD to actually do it.

The old GT185 I've got in the garage would be a perfect candidate, full restoration would be bloody expensive so to go cafe racer would be a cheaper alternative, and it would still be fun for the boy to ride to school. The problem is that I would struggle to bring myself to bastardise a complete original bike, and would still want to leave the option of putting it back to original so it would be stuck in no mans land and probably look like crap.

The thing that always interests me is that people build these things and then want to sell them almost finished, so it would seem they're either not building them for themselves and think the buyer will pay a premium for a shitbox bike that's been customised, or it gets to the too hard point when it comes to making it legal and try to recover what they've spent and make it some other sucker's problem.

Funky 70s Suzuki, give it what they call these days, a sympathetic rolling spruce up. Would look and be far better than an attempt to café it.

My T125 Stinger is going to be a resto, although they were std probably the closest thing the late 60s had to a streetfighter, through no fault of its own. It will be a resto, but not a rivet counter's resto, it will end up with the size up rims so I can run 2.75" tyres rather than 2.25" & a twin leading shoe brake, but it will all look like factory fitment, what they could have made for another market. And of course it won't run the plastic like grips or tyres.

[husaberg]

Funky 70s Suzuki, give it what they call these days, a sympathetic rolling spruce up. Would look and be far better than an attempt to café it.

My T125 Stinger is going to be a resto, although they were std probably the closest thing the late 60s had to a streetfighter, through no fault of its own. It will be a resto, but not a rivet counter's resto, it will end up with the size up rims so I can run 2.75" tyres rather than 2.25" & a twin leading shoe brake, but it will all look like factory fitment, what they could have made for another market. And of course it won't run the plastic like grips or tyres.

I would say the were a street scrambler styled. High piped high wide bars.
For what they were and when they were made they bloody handled well.

[F5 Dave]

They were sod weird, indeed part street scrambler yet stretchingly marketed as some sort of GP replica & not like anything in the T range, even the funky Invader.

[Paulo]

I get cafe racers but agree with the OP about prices expected for a chopped up shitter. I got my Guzzi for way less than that GL400 on TM.


she's not done yet just I glassed up the tail section and am waiting for my mates missus to do the upholster the seat pan I made (the one in the pic is the back rest off a computer chair from the dump)
http://i437.photobucket.com/albums/qq94/pablo_obscura/Mobile%20Uploads/20150416_090626_HDR.jpg

[Banditbandit]

Pretty Guzzi .. I think they make the best cafe racers now ... I'd have one like that the day after me missus said "yes".

[Crasherfromwayback]

I like red ones

]

I like a little bit of black with my red.

311841

[Voltaire]

Myths or legends?
I have heard the original cafe racer scene was based around The Ace Cafe. To be part of the group you had to be able to do a loop set by the group you wanted to join within the time it took to play a specific song on the juke box. From seated no helmet on to kitted to done the lap to seated no lid again.
I have heard a few tales from various riders of appropriate vintages of all piling out the door to do the lap with the last one back picking up the tab form the next round.


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

If it had been 1968 I'd have picked Hey Jude

[husaberg]

If it had been 1968 I'd have picked Hey Jude

Which would have got you a kick to the gollies and immediately relegated you to the Vespa/Lambratta section of another café with the rest of the Mods.

[F5 Dave]

You spelt Lambretta wrong, but that isn't a criticism.

[Voltaire]

Which would have got you a kick to the gollies and immediately relegated you to the Vespa/Lambratta section of another café with the rest of the Mods.

Oh well....I'm more Who, Small Faces:rolleyes: than Stones...

[Voltaire]

I get cafe racers but agree with the OP about prices expected for a chopped up shitter. I got my Guzzi for way less than that GL400 on TM.


she's not done yet just I glassed up the tail section and am waiting for my mates missus to do the upholster the seat pan I made (the one in the pic is the back rest off a computer chair from the dump)


Nice, I like the spoked wheel models,Square Carbs...T3?

Here is my latest purchase. Goes but awaiting new timing parts.

http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p235/rednzep/IMAG2962_zpscph5ikdq.jpg

[merv]

Funky 70s Suzuki, give it what they call these days, a sympathetic rolling spruce up. Would look and be far better than an attempt to café it.

My T125 Stinger is going to be a resto, although they were std probably the closest thing the late 60s had to a streetfighter, through no fault of its own. It will be a resto, but not a rivet counter's resto, it will end up with the size up rims so I can run 2.75" tyres rather than 2.25" & a twin leading shoe brake, but it will all look like factory fitment, what they could have made for another market. And of course it won't run the plastic like grips or tyres.


My bro' had a beautiful gold coloured Stinger 125 from new and what still hangs in my mind about the Stingers is how smoothly the engines ran without any great power band type power hit and the noise they made was fabulous - such a great sound when they were at full revs - even though redline was at (these days) a lowly 9,000rpm the twin cylinder sound was just magic making them sound like they were revving twice as fast.

The Yamaha AS3 of the day had more of a power band hit but they didn't sound cool and they were nowhere near as reliable and where the Stinger seemed to have a fuel cooled engine that wouldn't take it further than about 70km (40 miles) on a tank of gas it was still likely to pass the Yamaha rider sitting on the side of the road with a holed piston. They ran well, never seemed to foul plugs, though we did get carburettor icing with it occasionally, and all this with an engine with cast iron cylinder blocks.

Must find some photos of that Stinger and scan them sometime.

[mossy1200]

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/174563-Cafer-Racer-K100RS-BMW

Then there is this guy.

[Tazz]

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/174563-Cafer-Racer-K100RS-BMW

Then there is this guy.
Nooooo! You've joined the trend of untested backyard builds!

Your mother and I are not angry, just disappointed in you [emoji12]

[mossy1200]

Nooooo! You've joined the trend of untested backyard builds!

Your mother and I are not angry, just disappointed in you [emoji12]

Its most likely unless a KB buys it ill be riding it for a while. If 1290r SuperDukes go down in value ill get a bit more urgent or keep it if they go down a lot. Wifes saying no budget to get a Duke while 14 and CR are in garage. If they drop prices that might change.

[Ocean1]

Its most likely unless a KB buys it ill be riding it for a while. If 1290r SuperDukes go down in value ill get a bit more urgent or keep it if they go down a lot. Wifes saying no budget to get a Duke while 14 and CR are in garage. If they drop prices that might change.

They're starting to turn up 2nd hand on TM for $24ish.

Have you had a play with one?

[mossy1200]

They're starting to turn up 2nd hand on TM for $24ish.

Have you had a play with one?

Not yet but ill be stopping in for good look now that I have left the wont be happening stage of negotiations.
Im happy to wait for a new one especially if the price comes down a bit to the 25-27 area or they do a run with akra exhaust systems. Needs be the black one also. Prefer that colour scheme.

[husaberg]

Its most likely unless a KB buys it ill be riding it for a while. If 1290r SuperDukes go down in value ill get a bit more urgent or keep it if they go down a lot. Wifes saying no budget to get a Duke while 14 and CR are in garage. If they drop prices that might change.

What's the wife worth as a trade in?

[mossy1200]

What's the wife worth as a trade in?

High millage and temperamental. Ridden in the wet. Not much but will consider offers.

[Ocean1]

Needs be the black one also. Prefer that colour scheme.

Oh aye. The only thing letting my black one down is the lack of a nicely highlighted gloss black frame.

I'd have liked the white/orange wheels the prototype sported though, the black ones look shit unless you've just cleaned all the brake dust off them. In fact now that I think about it I've seen the decals advertised...

[Crasherfromwayback]

Tasteful. NOT.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-887819331.htm

[husaberg]

Tasteful. NOT.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-887819331.htm

Mossy's wifes looking like a better deal..........

[Big Dog]

Tasteful. NOT.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-887819331.htm

Good starting point for a project: something to ugly to leave it that way.
I like these but not stock and not with his... styling?
There is a good reason not many men decorate their houses.

A very good example of the further from stock the less it's worth.


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Good starting point for a project: something to ugly to leave it that way.
.

I have one...and eventually I'll be doing this to it...

311885

[Katman]

I have one...and eventually I'll be doing this to it...

311885

You should probably consider a Maltese Cross tail light for yours though.

I'm sure Pops would have if one had been available back then.

[Paulo]

Nice, I like the spoked wheel models,Square Carbs...T3?

Here is my latest purchase. Goes but awaiting new timing parts.

http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p235/rednzep/IMAG2962_zpscph5ikdq.jpg

Nice new purchase Voltaire : ) I'm still running the stock VHB30's runs like a dream so I havn't felt the urge to fiddle.
The rims are Akront (they were on the bike when i purchased it off another TM member about 5 years ago.

[Paulo]

Tasteful. NOT.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-887819331.htm

hmmm taste is a curious thing aye ;) Those XR69 kitted GS'ss look amazing, there's a japanese website that has a couple listed at 24-30 USK !!! I wonder if they fetch that , pretty amazing for an unappreciated (in NZ) bike.

[Crasherfromwayback]

You should probably consider a Maltese Cross tail light for yours though.

I'm sure Pops would have if one had been available back then.

Lol. Got one sorted mate.

[Tazz]

Its most likely unless a KB buys it ill be riding it for a while. If 1290r SuperDukes go down in value ill get a bit more urgent or keep it if they go down a lot. Wifes saying no budget to get a Duke while 14 and CR are in garage. If they drop prices that might change.

Well, enjoy it while you can in that case :Punk:

[Big Dog]

I have one...and eventually I'll be doing this to it...

311885

Nice.
I hear Hayabusa USDs are bolt ons, to give it some handling.
You'd be a better judge than me ( I have only looked at them and thought they looked nice) as to the handling but most people are either in one camp or the other:
Suspenders are crap.
Or
Suspensions part of the experience. You have to ride around it.


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[Banditbandit]

Tasteful. NOT.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-887819331.htm


That looks pretty standard - apart from the paint job ...(which is crap) ..

I want one of these - to play with - fettle the engine up to 160 horses and a better paint scheme ...

[Crasherfromwayback]

That looks pretty standard - apart from the paint job ...(which is crap) ..

I want one of these - to play with - fettle the engine up to 160 horses and a better paint scheme ...

It's the tail light that really turns me off. I'll be fucking with mine when money/time allows. Although time won't be a problem soon!

[F5 Dave]

That light would have been De rigueur in the 70s if you were trying to look scary on your Triumph whilst pushing it back to your gang headquarters.

[Banditbandit]

It's the tail light that really turns me off. I'll be fucking with mine when money/time allows. Although time won't be a problem soon!

I'd change the tail section a bit too ...

So when you don't have a job you'll have the time .. but not the money ???

Sell it to me ??

[Crasherfromwayback]

I'd change the tail section a bit too ...

So when you don't have a job you'll have the time .. but not the money ???

Sell it to me ??

311935

Lol. I'll get a reasonable handshake from this place when I finish next month. But if I can't find a job, I'll have to be a bit careful with it! But no...don't want to sell mine. It only owes me 4k, and it's a tidy one.

[F5 Dave]

Yeah I don't like the tailpiece, the pipe/muffler or the forward brakes, but the rest is uber cool & could be tweaked to get the look close enough without doing obvious non period things like USDs (although it will never handle properly without them. . . - channelling Skidmark or whoever).

[98tls]

I get cafe racers but agree with the OP about prices expected for a chopped up shitter. I got my Guzzi for way less than that GL400 on TM.


she's not done yet just I glassed up the tail section and am waiting for my mates missus to do the upholster the seat pan I made (the one in the pic is the back rest off a computer chair from the dump)]

:niceone:Nice that very nice,have at times pondered the cafe thing with my old TLS ie bin fairings headlight etc find some spoked rims off one of those retro Ducs etc etc but couldnt bring myself to doing it.Old Motorsport in the shed would be a fun place to start i guess,305 kit blah blah but it deserves better methinks.

[husaberg]

:niceone:Nice that very nice,have at times pondered the cafe thing with my old TLS ie bin fairings headlight etc find some spoked rims off one of those retro Ducs etc etc but couldnt bring myself to doing it.Old Motorsport in the shed would be a fun place to start i guess,305 kit blah blah but it deserves better methinks.

Don't do it as it looks in pretty reasonable nick unless you just use the motor and sling it in another frame.
There is someone in CHCH that has the Mould for the VIC Camp bikes which were taken from the works Ducatis
Grumph will know who has them.

[FJRider]

:niceone:Nice that very nice,have at times pondered the cafe thing with my old TLS ie bin fairings headlight etc find some spoked rims off one of those retro Ducs etc etc but couldnt bring myself to doing it.Old Motorsport in the shed would be a fun place to start i guess,305 kit blah blah but it deserves better methinks.

The TLS is your bike. To change as you so desire(d) .. as you have ... already ...


Would such changes be an improvement or detriment ... <_<














And leave the XL alone.

[98tls]

Don't do it as it looks in pretty reasonable nick unless you just use the motor and sling it in another frame.
There is someone in CHCH that has the Mould for the VIC Camp bikes which were taken from the works Ducatis
Grumph will know who has them.

Damn:corn:They are just beautiful eh...

[Grumph]

Don't do it as it looks in pretty reasonable nick unless you just use the motor and sling it in another frame.
There is someone in CHCH that has the Mould for the VIC Camp bikes which were taken from the works Ducatis
Grumph will know who has them.

Everyone and his dog has copied the Vic Camp Ducati single fairing. Eurodave I'm pretty sure has a mould. I actually have a bikini fairing here which is the top half of a genuine Vic Camp one. It was so light and thin it broke up easily so it was rapidly copied. i saw it hanging in rafters and asked for it as part payment for some engine work. Been on two bikes now...

One of my stalled projects is an XL250 powered pre 72 race bike. Got enough engine bits but still need a rod kit - and yes, husa i know they're available...
I was going to build two frames and the late Eddie Ridgen was also going to build one up as he was a big Honda single fan - and lived a few k's down the road.
I've recently sold the wheels i was going to use so I suppose I should also sell up the motor bits soon.

FWIW Wallace - marsheng - is building a replacement frame for his 250 Ducati and could well be interested in doing another for the XL250. Given they use engine plates at the front and there's plenty of latitude for rear mounts, it wouldn't be a bad fit. Again, eurodave has moulds for suitable seat and tank.

[98tls]

Everyone and his dog has copied the Vic Camp Ducati single fairing. Eurodave I'm pretty sure has a mould. I actually have a bikini fairing here which is the top half of a genuine Vic Camp one. It was so light and thin it broke up easily so it was rapidly copied. i saw it hanging in rafters and asked for it as part payment for some engine work. Been on two bikes now...

One of my stalled projects is an XL250 powered pre 72 race bike. Got enough engine bits but still need a rod kit - and yes, husa i know they're available...
I was going to build two frames and the late Eddie Ridgen was also going to build one up as he was a big Honda single fan - and lived a few k's down the road.
I've recently sold the wheels i was going to use so I suppose I should also sell up the motor bits soon.

FWIW Wallace - marsheng - is building a replacement frame for his 250 Ducati and could well be interested in doing another for the XL250. Given they use engine plates at the front and there's plenty of latitude for rear mounts, it wouldn't be a bad fit. Again, eurodave has moulds for suitable seat and tank.

Interesting stuff,any idea where i could find a set of shocks for the old Honda Grumph?

[98tls]

Been having a look through here...http://silodrome.com/category/cafe-racer/

[mossy1200]

Been having a look through here...http://silodrome.com/category/cafe-racer/

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=889203109

You don't need look that far away.

[Grumph]

Interesting stuff,any idea where i could find a set of shocks for the old Honda Grumph?

Never heard of that model Honda...Wallace is actually building a batch of replica Duc frames so they will be available if anyone wants to build a small - but perfectly formed - cafe or race bike.