XV750/1100 mongrel

The image shows the current state of what began as a 1982 XV750 Virago.

If we begin at the front, I have added gaiters and added more preload to compensate for disabling the air pressure gadget. Next modification will be to cut the springs down to make them stiffer overall, and fit YSS emulator valves for better damping performance.

Lower handlebars with a more horizontal layout mandated a new, non-angled master cylinder for the brakes, so I bought a NOS OEM one made for the old XS400. Braided brake line gives better feedback. The caliper was rebuilt with new piston and seals.

Rear shock is off an XT600Z Tenere. It works well when not worn, raising the rear of the bike 15mm and adding 50% to the wheel travel. Now tired it will be retired and replaced with a brand new YSS shock that will give the exact same rear end lift. But the spring is stiffer (than that of the XT), so actual riding height under load, ea during brisk cornering, will be higher still.

Engine is from a 1990 XV1100, that also offered up most of the electrical system and wiring harness. However, I wanted to retain the stock instruments and fuse box, so I modified the harness accordingly. In order to be able to use the stock footpeg position on the RHS, I had to revert to the stock 750 clutch (using stiffer springs) and engine cover, as the diaphragm clutch and cover of the 1100 are too wide.

The engine runs really well, virtually matching my son's lightly leaned on MT/FZ 07 in acceleration through the gears as well as top gear roll-ons, but the kid's bike has a much higher top speed. Which is totally irrelevant.

Exhaust is stock XV750 with the final internal mufflers gutted, and the chamber plate inside that drilled for better flow. Louder than stock, but not dramatically loud. I am old and prefer less racket.

Crash guards are for the XV750, but did not work with the 1100's starter system on the LHS. I used an hydraulic press to force it into a shape that worked for both frame and engine. Not sure if I am going to retain them when I go from scrambler to standard theme, but since they do not drag when cornering I may leave them.

The rear wheel is off a Seca 650 or 750. That meant a new brake shield to retain the larger brake shoes for the bigger diameter brake, something I could take off the Virago 1100 I used to donor engine and electrics.

Rear fender is some cheap generic one from China. Front fender is stock, but I have a painted fender off a Seca 750 that I expect (read: pray) will fit, as it will be much easier to paint than the chrome fender.

Seat has been built on the stock base, where only the lower edge has been cut to give a straighter line. This was done before the Ducati Scrambler brought back the cruiser-style lower seat edge into vogue. I still do not like how that seat looks, so I am happy with my alteration. The foam have been shaved off the rear portion to almost nothing, while the stock foam was also cut back up front, then replaced with much firmer - and taller - foam for more comfort and a straighter top-line. Seat cover was made by me.

Nothing will happen to the bike until winter, but for once I am actually looking forward to wintertime, and making the bike looking good and working well for next spring.

Sorry for the lengthy diatribe.