Got a new to me bike

Ok. Got the last part today. Installed and air box back on.


Tested bike and it fired without even cranking. Perfect.

Now two more things:
Get gas and fill tank to test petcock. I did end up rebuilding it.
Second and last thing: adjust chain and tighten up the rear wheel.

After I don't know how many weeks, the time has come to test ride this baby.
Tomorrow is supposed to be nice out, so it's perfect.

 

She's fueled up, petcock works.
All that's left is the chain adjustment once she's on the ground. Had to stop to take care of a few things. Ride will be in a few hours.



I really have to find a left tail cover. It's cracked and fuel stained. Only issues on this bike.
Also have to Google on how to clean the seat. I cleaned it and it's good but can be better.

Also placed a $50 order just for new screws and bolts for fairings. I guess I got a bit carried away. But that lady needs nice jewelry.

 

Just found a new left tail cover and ordered. Sweet

 

Maybe what you're seeing on the seat is the original leather color bleeding through the green dye?
Hard to tell from the picture, and would have to do a closeup in person.

Since you can't stop buying jewelry for her, any NOS seats out there, or is that aftermarket?

Tony

 

Don't know, I think the seat comes like this. I only saw one other on the internet somewhere, but in poor condition.

Anyway, just came back from first ride.
I need to bleed the brakes one more time. They stop but feel a bit spongy.
Second issue is that I can't get it into neutral when the bike is on.
Since every part in the transmission is new, I'll just wait until all parts have worn in a bit more.
I always had neutral difficulties on brand new bikes. It always resolved itself after first oil change.

Here a video from right after the ride.

 

Weld the cracks shut (either with heat or ABS cement). Sand smooth. and repaint.

IIRC the seat on the Kawak is the stocker for that year and color scheme.


As far as the boxer goes....pull the engine. The piston would have left enough small bits in the bottom end that you will be better off inspecting everything and making sure it's all cleaned out.

 

On the BMW, it blew a 2x2 hole into the roof of the crankcase. I will have to swap out the entire crankcase.

 

Second ride. No issues and neutral is now a bit easier to get into.

 

Very nice. An example of the proper application of patience and attention to detail. Nicely done and very pretty.
John

 

Thanks. Speaking of detail: I put the new tail fairing on which comes with the original ZX-6 decal. Someone in the past removed those decals which means the right side is now missing it.

Will be difficult to find that decal to put back on and make the bike fully original.

 

Kawasaki looks great. I will be watching progress on the BMW.

 

Yes, and she rides nicely too.
I have to finish up a triumph thunderbird before I get started on the BMW. But definitely report on that one. The BMW is cool but will not be a keeper

 

Never tried a BMW mabe one day.

 

That BMW malfunction had to make a hell of a noise when it went! I know you were not riding it but that PO had to know it was really messed up.

 

Agreed, can't imagine riding and it just blows up, especially with the damage it caused. Glad the guy didn't get hurt. Good thing is that parts are available and all it needs is the engine and probably a seal for the drive shaft. Rest of bike is good.

As for the kawasaki, this is the decal I am looking for... can't find it anywhere / nobody has it. This will be a challenge.

 

This place could have it, a white one though....hmmm
https://www.etsy.com/market/ninja_zx6r_decals

 

I reached out to a decal reproduction company.

 

Pictures of the Thunderbird? One of the 3 cylinder models I hope. I love the look of those and have a latent desire but have resisted the urge to actually spend the money to acquire one.
John

 

yes. this one is actually kicking my butt a bit. spoke to an old school triumph guy and he actually advised to not bother and just scrap it.
here is a pic. 95 Thunderbird, 3 cylinders.

i got it running again, did valve clearance, carb clean, replaced fork seals etc but there is still a lot to do. doing it for someone who pretty much gave up on it.
those bikes do look great, but after this one i am not sure i would want one. and a shame someone just took a can and sprayed the entire bike in one go.
if it was mine, i'd disassemble completely and clean everything.

 

Yes looks like it should b3e in Mad Max I bet that was a great looking bike at one time. I see lots of parts missing and that flat black for a bike with that great of lines is just too bad. That front fender stock? Seems to be cut down a little to even cover the time as it should, from the sides I mean. It could be very nice again, but than again to you have the time?? Thanks for the pic.