The Bike Build!
My first build! After watching many others do it, I am going to apply my mechanical knowledge, roll up the sleeves, ditch the suit and get my hands dirty.
Concept
I've owned one, I've seen many others build their own on TV and on the web. So the decision was made to build my own after my wife agreed I could get another bike. This was a compromise as I wanted a second car (and there's just no space for another car!). I must also blame a guy called Luke Ray (
luke@fuel-press.com) and his Fuel and his Tank Moto mag's for a lot of inspiration. Though my bike is not a barn find or anything like that, I LOVE bikes (and cars) and these mags and the builds within it. Much respect to the builders out there and I haven't even started! This will be a challenge.
The build, you ask? Having owned a Softail, I wanted another in that style rear end to endure our quality roads (not!). I've also always loved the look of the Springer front-end, so one of those has been procured also. Engine. Well, one characteristic sprung to mind. I wanted an engine with enough power to lay down a thick black line (if so desired, and on the track in a controlled environment, :-)).
I'll match this monster powerplant up with a Baker 6 speed, and am yet to decide on a carb or EFI system. Open to listening to pros and cons out there. the get the grip (or lack thereof) down onto the black stuff, a 240mm rear will work. I love raw, naked and classic bikes (next project) but I do really like the phat rear ends.
We're off and running - 1st Shipment!
So after a few conversations with shops, research on the internet, the first order was placed. A shout out to Ian at VPW for all his help here.
25th August: Today the 1st shipment of parts arrived! The concept of building my own V-twin seemed all very straight forward until now! The parts are in the shed and somehow I now need a damn good meccano instruction book to start this.
So the inventory of the 1st order?
- A Kraftech Softail Style 230/240/250 Pro street frame (1 1/4" tubing, 34deg rack).
- A set of Metzeler tyres, (front-120/70/21, rear-240x18)
- Front Wheel - Max Spoke Front 21X3.5 Single .750” Black Chrome Black
- Rear Wheel - Max Spoke Rear 18X8.5 1” Black Chrome Black
- Front Suspension - Black Springer Fork Std 22'
Second hand bars and risers (from eBay), will work fine for the mock up until I need to run cables and finally decide on the bars I like.
All mounting bolts for the suspension, axles etc and the steering head stop kit also form the 1st order. So I basically have a rolling chassis without any tins (tanks, guards/ fenders etc).
The wheels are very impressive and look fantastic now, and will fit the bill nicely on the completed bike.
Let me know what you think? I know its not for everyone.
