How To Plan A Bike Project

Restoring a vintage bike is a rite of passage for any classic motorcycle enthusiast, but it is one that home mechanics often avoid. There really is no reason to be nervous about taking on a bike project, though. With a little planning and forethought, everything usually goes pretty smoothly.

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“Reversed” Front Brake Calipers on Vintage Hondas?

On some bikes (including the Honda GL1000), the front calipers can actually be installed on the wrong side!  Front brake calipers on all bikes must be installed with the bleed screw “up.”

This simple requirement can get corrupted when brake parts are carelessly “mixed-and matched” or installed without care.  Whatever the explanation, this error leads to two serious issues:

  • Brake hoses will be too short and “kinked” at an odd angle creating a serious safety hazard!
  • Air bleed nipples with be rendered worthless, since they are no longer at the top of the caliper where air bubbles rise. The brake system can never be fully “bled” of trapped air.

Reversed Caliper

Caliper “Reversed” – Note Stress on Brake Hose!

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Rear Wheel Damper Replacements for Honda CBX, Honda DOHC-4 “F” and Honda VF Bikes

J.R. Luksik of CBX-tras has created superb NEW reproductions of Honda’s discontinued rear wheel dampers for Honda 6 Cylinder CBX, DOHC-4 “F” and VF Bikes.

CBX-tras Wheel Dampers 1a

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I was happy to assist with a little R&D assistance …mainly by hacking up an old wheel! 🙂

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Vintage Honda Restoration Experts

If you’re visiting my web site, you’re likely as crazy about vintage Hondas as I am. 

I no longer do restoration work. I recommend that you contact one of these skilled experts below for high quality restoration work.

1975 GL1000 Marilyn

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Engine Rebuilding for GoldWings?

Unfortunately the economics of engine rebuilding are very poor on these engines.  Here’s some advice if you think you need a rebuild.

GL1000-Engine

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GL1100-Powered Pulse Gallery

“Before and After” – Bob Hichborn’s GL1100-powered Pulse – Clermont, FL

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