I know that the other Suzuki twins are usually neglected here, but I have some time on my hands. Besides, this 450 has more 500 parts than people realize (and will eventually have a 500 motor as well!). I bought it last September or so from a Craigslist ad. It didn't have any pictures and was only listed for $250...... and not running. Being the Sport model, I felt obligated to check it out. And here's what I found:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-5180-1343785872407.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-5180-1343785872407.jpg.html)
The seller was extremely honest about any issues, and it was mostly complete (what WAS missing was easy to replace / getting replaced anyway). I didn't argue about the price at all, and drove the truck out a week later to pick it up. After getting it home I sorted thru all the boxes of parts and found all the important stuff: turn signals, factory bar end mirrors, stock grips, fairing and glass, etc:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-1319-1344665623970.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-1319-1344665623970.jpg.html)
The stock front wheel is only 1.6" wide, and the tire is skinny as well (3.00"*18"). The seller threw in a wheel from a GN400 that was identical other than the width - 1.85". Not a big deal to me since I planned on mounting a 19" front wheel and tire.
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-1599-1344665620759.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-1599-1344665620759.jpg.html)
More updates throughout the night.....
Hooked up a battery and the electrical system stands a chance:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-1420-1344665623442.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-1420-1344665623442.jpg.html)
Although I knew it had a bad stator, and it was missing coils. I stole some coils from my GR, and got the motor to fire up. Onto the front end...... the original had 33mm forks, an 18" wheel, and a single caliper brake. I swapped a GR650 front end that I had laying around and got a 19" wheel and 35mm forks (never mind that knobby tire):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-33207-1345185021601.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-33207-1345185021601.jpg.html)
Back to the motor - the entire thing had 30 years of crust on it. After pulling off the top end I saw the original cross hatch pattern on the walls. Figured the odometer was right at 5900 miles.
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-43807-1348967886092.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-43807-1348967886092.jpg.html)
The frame was sandblasted and painted since the motor was out. Once the motor was clean again, back in the frame it went:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-25211-1354143832658.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-25211-1354143832658.jpg.html)
Oil pump screen was removed and cleaned:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-39729-1354250056854.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-39729-1354250056854.jpg.html)
New clutch plates soaking before installation:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-5014-1354345704254.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-5014-1354345704254.jpg.html)
Stator from a GS500 bolted right in to replace the non functional stocker:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-26555-1354250058565.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-26555-1354250058565.jpg.html)
Three of the six clutch springs were replaced with aftermarket springs. Here's a comparison of stock vs new:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-31830-1354345705948.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-31830-1354345705948.jpg.html)
Everything bolted back together nicely :
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-26194-1354345706823.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-26194-1354345706823.jpg.html)
One thing that always bothered me on these 450's was the exhaust: they put the mufflers right inline with the rear axle. To mess with the rear wheel, you either had to drop the exhaust or unbolt the shocks to lower the swingarm:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-19179-1355084803726.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-19179-1355084803726.jpg.html)
I employed some friends to come out to do some welding for me:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-25011-1355084801138.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-25011-1355084801138.jpg.html)
And had some shorter reverse megaphones installed:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-33458-1355084800244.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-33458-1355084800244.jpg.html)
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-25053-1355084802841.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-25053-1355084802841.jpg.html)
Ordered a 19" wheel off of eBay:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-5013-1354345710918.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-5013-1354345710918.jpg.html)
And installed new bearings:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-28175-1354345709305.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-28175-1354345709305.jpg.html)
Cleaned both front and rear wheels, then painted with orange Metalcast paint:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-2539-1355729981483.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-2539-1355729981483.jpg.html)
Front tire mounted up (Shinko 712, 100/90-19):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-59002-1357801839743.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-59002-1357801839743.jpg.html)
And the rear tire mounted (also Shinko 712, but 100/90-18):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-22026-1358286161008.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-22026-1358286161008.jpg.html)
Started putting the rest of the bike together:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-4576-1358286202928.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-4576-1358286202928.jpg.html)
Replaced the stock R/R with one from a GS500 (since the stator is also from a 500, it wired right in):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-28495-1359095082882.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-28495-1359095082882.jpg.html)
The single fuse on the 450's is a glass one, so I replaced it with the common mini blade type:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-49231-1359193239041.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-49231-1359193239041.jpg.html)
Wiring checks out so far.....:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-40354-1359095082030.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-40354-1359095082030.jpg.html)
Another problem: the plastic frame cover on the left hand side was cracked near the mounting peg:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-41271-1359784151321_zps40b9a45c.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-41271-1359784151321_zps40b9a45c.jpg.html)
So I cut a small piece of aluminum in a square-ish shape:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-41655-1359784153026_zpsbb9f0aa1.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-41655-1359784153026_zpsbb9f0aa1.jpg.html)
And riveted it on each side of the crack:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-39933-1359784147372_zps0f537d44.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-39933-1359784147372_zps0f537d44.jpg.html)
I didn't feel like dealing with the 33 year old original carbs, so I bought some first generation GS500 carbs. They have the same spacing as the originals, but were literally 3 pounds lighter:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-5151-1362236213169_zps647c1c46.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-5151-1362236213169_zps647c1c46.jpg.html)
All I needed to do was get a GS500 throttle cable and a K&N lunchbox filter (and proper jets) and they were good to go.
As much as I hate the look of them, crash bars are very practical. Found a decent set on eBay so I snatched them up (ignore the cable in the pic):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-5926-1362236214017_zpsb70f35f7.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-5926-1362236214017_zpsb70f35f7.jpg.html)
There was some surface rust around the edges, so I sandblasted the rust and chrome off:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-5990-1362236214844_zps69a56611.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-5990-1362236214844_zps69a56611.jpg.html)
Painted with black appliance epoxy and installed:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-57844-1362572056629_zps8bcfe6b9.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-57844-1362572056629_zps8bcfe6b9.jpg.html)
Had to buy a new petcock for the tank, as the original was leaking (imagine that.....):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-16928-1362646586006_zps3f23a9bd.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-16928-1362646586006_zps3f23a9bd.jpg.html)
And around this time is when I pulled the dual disc front end off of my GR650:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-39044-1362438796760_zpsb36d8a77.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-39044-1362438796760_zpsb36d8a77.jpg.html)
How it sat at the time.....:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-63752-1362646585205_zpsb8c72f57.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-63752-1362646585205_zpsb8c72f57.jpg.html)
Got to take it out for it's first shake down run:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-60807-1363062803324_zps09539731.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-60807-1363062803324_zps09539731.jpg.html)
Universal frame clamps:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130320_231002_zps765fd455.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130320_231002_zps765fd455.jpg.html)
And universal saddle bag supports:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130322_112256_zps4974d62a.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130322_112256_zps4974d62a.jpg.html)
Got a GREAT deal on some Hagon shocks (over $100 off):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130323_111739_zps8972760b.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130323_111739_zps8972760b.jpg.html)
Mounted up an auxiliary running light as well. It's on a relay in line with the low beam, and has a very flat beam (mostly just so cagers notice me):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130322_210618_zps3eb9cfe4.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130322_210618_zps3eb9cfe4.jpg.html)
Between the auxiliary light, and the GS500 headlight, it puts out a good bit of light. The stock headlight is a 35w (?) sealed beam light.....that didn't work when I got the bike.
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130408_020533_zps4b67003b.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130408_020533_zps4b67003b.jpg.html)
If you look at my first post in this thread, you'll see the quarter fairing already had been sanded down to primer / fiberglass. I was making a trip to West Virginia in the middle of April and wanted to use the fairing, so it got a quick spray of appliance epoxy:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130324_064310_zps227b9b2b.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130324_064310_zps227b9b2b.jpg.html)
Right before said trip to WV:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130329_125030_zps66db5f25.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130329_125030_zps66db5f25.jpg.html)
The previous owner called me up and said he found some other parts for the 450 and asked if I wanted them. Of course I did! Included were the original keys (I had a spare key that didn't always work properly):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130405_192156_zpsc778c286.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130405_192156_zpsc778c286.jpg.html)
Got around to painting the stock GS450 tining cover. Same orange Metalcast to match the wheels:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130413_142419_zps7a682ef4.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130413_142419_zps7a682ef4.jpg.html)
Bought a new fender on eBay to replace the ragged one I was using:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130416_075705_zps11937ca4.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130416_075705_zps11937ca4.jpg.html)
Which I quickly drilled to install a fender extension from.....guess what? A GS500:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130424_043922_zps9689072d.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130424_043922_zps9689072d.jpg.html)
The reverse megaphone mufflers were pretty loud for long term highway use, so I found some old baffles from a GR:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130414_080204_zpsd6f045cd.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130414_080204_zpsd6f045cd.jpg.html)
And after they were welded in, I painted the end caps in flat black:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130427_073913_zpsed3d3fef.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130427_073913_zpsed3d3fef.jpg.html)
That's the summary of the past work since I bought the bike. Just about everything had been cleaned up and replaced, but there are still plans for the future.....
In the process now of installing GS500F turn signals. The originals are HUGE! Here are some comparison pics:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130511_164439_zps72c91393.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130511_164439_zps72c91393.jpg.html)
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130510_135233_zps06a475f8.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130510_135233_zps06a475f8.jpg.html)
Before:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130516_222243_zps57a2c52d.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130516_222243_zps57a2c52d.jpg.html)
And after:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130516_231352_zpsce4c4b22.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130516_231352_zpsce4c4b22.jpg.html)
This week I've been working on the paint. The original paint looked pretty good, but it did have its share of scratches (after 33 years, you gotta expect some flaws). Plus, I wanted to paint the quarter fairing with the same red paint to match everything else.
Here is the tank when I started stripping it:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130512_090248_zpsd0634ae9.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130512_090248_zpsd0634ae9.jpg.html)
After 3 coats of aircraft stripper, and a light sandblasting under the tunnel to take care of some surface rust:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130512_162419_zps7f2896ab.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130512_162419_zps7f2896ab.jpg.html)
Completely clean steel underneath it all. Etching primer sprayed:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130515_180022_zpsce8fed1d.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130515_180022_zpsce8fed1d.jpg.html)
Wet sanded, then sprayed metallic primer:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130517_223526_zps556a6d2d.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130517_223526_zps556a6d2d.jpg.html)
Wet sanded again, and the metallic red was sprayed:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130518_001131_zps676d8e05.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130518_001131_zps676d8e05.jpg.html)
Going to start spraying clear coat soon - hopefully over the next couple days.
Just wanted to add: I got a great deal on a rear spoked hub. I already had the front wheel and tires, so I laced and trued a rear hoop. I plan on using these to go to Mid Ohio in July, but it's also nice to have a set of wheels ready to go "just in case".
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130517_153325_zps583eca77.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130517_153325_zps583eca77.jpg.html)
I think that's it for updates for now......
I love old cafe racing type bikes, really cool project. Ever think of some more aggressive handlebars? Keep up the good work! :thumb:
Thanks Jacob! I have thought about them, actually. I ditched the stock bars for the current Superbike bars so I got a little more drop and less pull. The next step down are drag bars, then clubmans. Without rearsets, clubmans and clipons are out of the question. So maybe drag bars once I get everything else done.....
And besides, I have clipons and rearsets on my GR650 - that bike forces you in that position anyway. :)
Nice job on the bike, :D
Neglected? Nah not here Rich! Our 450's rock :thumb:
Haha very nice. My first bike was a Yamaha xs 750, i tore it down completely and built a cafe racer. It had clipons but i swapped em out for some club mans. I still had the stock rear sets which i regret, but once i get the engine put back together and start riding it, maybe i will change the pegs. Got any pictures of your 650?
All the pics you could want:
http://www.dotheton.com/forum/index.php?topic=18045.780
If you look towards the end of the thread, you can see it's getting rebuilt again. But that's what it looked like last season.
Thats a nice looking cafe. I love the clip ons! and the color is a nice choice too. :thumb:
Thanks for the props fellas.
I got the clear coat sprayed and let it cure for a couple days. It still needs wet sanded and buffed, but I put everything back together so I could ride! It's 80+ degrees outside.....
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130520_183653_zps9aa9a7a3.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130520_183653_zps9aa9a7a3.jpg.html)
Sometime this week I plan on pulling the exhaust off. The headers and crossover pipe have some rusty spots, so they will get sandblasted and painted black.
Excellent Rich, she looks good! Did you apologise to her after parking next to the hog trike? Makin' the hog look good...
Ha! Pete, you'd love the owner of that trike if you met him. He's on the verge of retirement and has been riding 50+ years. The first new bike he ever bought himself was a Suzuki T500 2 stroke.
And yes, everybody has busted his chops for getting a trike. He actually had to push his retirement back 6 months to afford it! :)
Hahaha bet I would too! I gotta confess to having a "thing" for trikes quite some time ago... :oops:
Great job Big Rich! Where's that damn smiley,.....?
:bowdown: sub'd!
Thanks CBR!
I pulled the exhaust last night - with any luck I'll get the chance to blast & paint them today.
Like I said, sandblasted and painted:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130523_142355_zps0bd0ec1c.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130523_142355_zps0bd0ec1c.jpg.html)
I installed them and began the curing process, but didn't get any pics yet...
Headers painted, installed, and cured:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130524_152745_zps4bafa4df.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130524_152745_zps4bafa4df.jpg.html)
That's a sick little bike, and so obviously the direct ancestor of the GS500. Just look at that timing cover! It looks like a direct bolt-up. I just installed drag bars on my GS500 to replace the stock, which were bent and needed to be replaced anyway. Make sure to put some Stomp Grips or Tech-Spec Snakeskin on the tank cutaways-- absolutely necessary with any low bar setup, They allow you to grip the tank with your knees and take pressure off your wrists, using the bars to steer instead of supporting your body. Definitely makes for a safer and more controlled ride, as well as giving you confidence in the turns.
Is it fun to ride? It looks like a demon. Have fun!
Thanks man! Some tank pads are in the future, but it's part of the process. And yes, it is fun to ride - it is pretty tame compared to my other bike though. Which is a good thing in it's own way. :)
Started making an air box to fit the GS500 carbs, and it will use a stock GS500 filter (actually, a K&N drop in filter):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130603_153046_zpsf35d3312.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130603_153046_zpsf35d3312.jpg.html)
Still needs some work, but it's getting closer.....
It looks really good, but why not just use a lunch box filter -> Save a bunch of work ?
That's what I'm running right now actually. The biggest reason: the lunchbox filter interferes with the frame when mounted directly to the carbs. So I actually have some rubber tubing (think "house plumbing") to extend the filter back past the wishbone in the frame. Unfortunately, now the filter is between the plastic frame covers and the intake noise is Un-f'n-bearable at speed. Seriously, it's deafening even with ear plugs in after 30 minutes or so.
The S model is still my favorite bike of all time. I miss those gear indicators soooo much.
Well Zithro, you're in luck! The 450's bottom end (with connections for the gear indicator) bolts into a GS500 frame. That is a pretty big project just to figure out what gear you're in though.....
I'm proud to say that I have the air box installed and running properly. HUGE difference as far as noise levels go, which was my biggest concern. Right now I have the stock 37.5 pilots in, 2 shims under the needle, 127.5 mains, and the mixture screw is at 2.5 or 3 turns out (can't recall exactly). I'd like to get some larger pilots and mains just to try them out, but that can wait til later.
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130610_174101_zps61399565.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130610_174101_zps61399565.jpg.html)
Good work Rich :thumb:
While I know you have the 500 carbs on there, I reckon you're not going to need to touch your pilot. I tried that with mine and just rich rich rich... a turn or two on the mixture screws, needles raised one notch, and 145 mains and I'm a happy chappy :thumb:
Thanks Pete! I'm actually working on rebuilding another set of GS500 carbs right now, and they are getting the works: new o rings, soda blasted exterior, boiled in water, soaked in carb cleaner, new jets, etc, etc.. The current carbs just got a quick "blow out the passages with air and cleaner" cleaning. You're probably correct about that pilot jet though: the current one might be too lean for a 500cc motor, but it does seem to work just fine so far with the 450.
Forgot to post this earlier: I took the mag wheels off and mounted up some spoked wheels. They have Kenda dual sport tires installed for my trip to Mid Ohio next month.
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20130617_132648_zpsde1fcd22.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20130617_132648_zpsde1fcd22.jpg.html)
Quote from: Big Rich on June 19, 2013, 04:57:35 PM
Thanks Pete! I'm actually working on rebuilding another set of GS500 carbs right now, and they are getting the works: new o rings, soda blasted exterior, boiled in water, soaked in carb cleaner, new jets, etc, etc.. The current carbs just got a quick "blow out the passages with air and cleaner" cleaning. You're probably correct about that pilot jet though: the current one might be too lean for a 500cc motor, but it does seem to work just fine so far with the 450.
Cool Rich, are the other carbs from a newer model or anything?
Really nice work! A GS450 was my first road bike, will always have a soft spot for them. How did the carbs work out? I recall my local dealer saying you have to change the rubbers too?
Thanks Bryan!
The carbs are working out well - I don't have a single complaint. I got "new" intake boots and orings with the carbs and haven't had any issues. I say "new" because they aren't 33 years old like the originals. I recently found out though the the stock 450 intake boots are identical as far as I can tell though. The stock GS450 throttle cable needed to be swapped out for a GS500 cable due to different travel on the carb end, and the air intake sides between the two models are different as well - so I had to use filters for a GS500 (makes sense, huh?). Other than all that, I just followed the jetting on the wiki here and have zero issues.
Well, the air box is going to have to go on the back burner for a while. I took a day to try and nail down the jetting....and the box imploded before the end of the day. The problem I was having has to do with the physical side ofthe air box & frame: I need the largest internal volume I can get, but am limited on how to get that volume in & out ofthe frame (any larger than what I had would mean literally pulling the head off the motor to get the air box in). So for now, it's a K&N lunchbox filter and earplugs.
And as a side note, I started buffing the paint on the tank and quarter fairing, only to realize I didn't use enough clear coat. So I'll be spraying more of that over the next couple days.....
And the winter upgrades begin......
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20131102_030536_zpsdbf2a1cc.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20131102_030536_zpsdbf2a1cc.jpg.html)
I'll give more details later, but this is where I'm at right now.
You did a great job working on this bike :thumb: I like it.
Thanks DB! That's quite a compliment after seeing your work. :thumb:
I have some other minor things to work on over winter, but the wheels / suspension are the most noteworthy.
Speaking of wheels:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20131126_021658_zps2e80cea7.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20131126_021658_zps2e80cea7.jpg.html)
Polished the lips and painted the rest with gold Metalcast paint. Also installed new bearings after the paint fully cured. Over the next couple weeks I'll rebuild some forks with .85kg Sonic Springs and 15w oil. I still need to order up some Avon tyres too......
The fender got painted red to match the rest of the bike:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20131126_021922_zps218ad00d.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20131126_021922_zps218ad00d.jpg.html)
Spot on Rich, those should look good on there in the gold :thumb:
Thanks Pete! I was surprised when my wife complimented the wheels - she always thought my red body work with gold wheels looked silly. She doesn't understand that red and gold makes a good 10hp! :)
I'm excited to get this thing back on the ground (so I can work on other projects....). Gotta get those forks done and get the tires mounted first.
Great work Rich! I normally don't like polished lips, but those are going to look great with the current scheme
Whaaa ... gs450 had a twin disk FE ?
Cool.
Buddha.
Quote from: Big Rich on November 27, 2013, 04:37:14 AM
Thanks Pete! I was surprised when my wife complimented the wheels - she always thought my red body work with gold wheels looked silly. She doesn't understand that red and gold makes a good 10hp! :)
I'm excited to get this thing back on the ground (so I can work on other projects....). Gotta get those forks done and get the tires mounted first.
Hahaha yeah I can't get a compliment on mine either! Keen to see her done and back in one piece :thumb:
Thanks Steezin! I don't like polishing wheels at all, but I hate trying to scrub them when they get dirty even more. At least polished aluminum wipes off fairly easily.....
Nah Buddha, the stock front end on a 450 is pretty weak. Single solid rotor, 33mm forks, and a 3.00"-18" tire. I had a dual disc front end laying around with 35mm forks so I bolted it on. The 500's wheel and rotor are an upgrade all around: modern tire selection, less unsprung weight, etc.
Got some work done on the front end last weekend...... first was the Sonic Springs rated for .85kg:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20131127_202647_zps9d89da7a.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20131127_202647_zps9d89da7a.jpg.html)
Tore apart the stock GS500 forks:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20131202_160900_zpsbe714279.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20131202_160900_zpsbe714279.jpg.html)
All assembled with new seals, 15w oil, new springs, and polished lowers (I use the word "polished" loosely......more like stripped the paint and shined up the aluminum):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20131204_005053_zpsc70548f3.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20131204_005053_zpsc70548f3.jpg.html)
Overall pic from the other side (sorry about the mess!):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20131204_005111_zps4c5487c3.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20131204_005111_zps4c5487c3.jpg.html)
Oh yeah - just ordered a front tyre tonight (Avon Roadrider, 110/80-17") but I won't be able to order the rear for a couple weeks. Once it gets both tyres mounted up, I will need to set the preload / sag on the front end. In the meantime though, I got a box of goodies from Adidas: hand controls, miscellaneous cables, clutch perch, etc, etc. I'll be wiring all that stuff in and hooking up the proper cables while I wait for the rear tyre. Still need to get the front brake sorted out as well since I can't roll the bike off my workbench with no brakes......
She's really lookin' good Rich! Can you ride in winter where you are or too much snow? Can't wait to see her standing on her own rubber again...
That work bench wouldn't happen to be a section of a bowling alley? Sure looks familiar.
Thanks Pete! We are having some very strange weather here lately. A couple days ago it was about 20° (Celsius) but right now it's a couple degrees below 0. The low for Tuesday night is -25°! But regardless of the temperature, the roads get covered with so much salt that it makes riding kind of sketchy. The moderator here GSJack lives relatively close to me, and I don't know how he rides so much!
Good eye Adidas, but it isn't made from any wood from an alley. The majority of the bench is made from scrap wood I had around (2x8's, particle boards, and 4x4 posts) but the top layer is made from scrap vinyl decking. The vinyl decking won't absorb oil like normal wood, and can't be "punctured" by a kickstand. A friend of mine in Canada has a normal workbench in his garage that is made from a bowling alley though.....his looks great!
Forgot to update this.......
Got my Avon tyre in the mail and actually mounted it myself. Normally I take tires to a shop to get mounted, but didn't have time when it came in. I was really surprised at how easily it went on! I didn't even need tire irons - just pushed it on by hand.
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20131211_231635_zpson7pvgcw.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20131211_231635_zpson7pvgcw.jpg.html)
Also got the master cylinder & caliper filled with brake fluid and bled the air out of the system. Still working on a fender brace, so that's why the fender isn't mounted up.......
Good stuff Rich! Gotta be getting close now?
Hmmmmm......closer definitely. But still plenty to do. Here's a quick rundown:
Order rear tire and mount it.
Weld bracket to frame for master cylinder
Hook up brake hose and run fluid
Order 520 chain, finish lining up front and rear sprockets
Paint frame and swingarm where they were welded
Install headlight, signals, etc
Wire in GS500 hand signals
Install choke cable
I think that's pretty much it? I'm sure I'll find a couple more though......
Ah, forgot about the 520 conversion... still that's not so much to do... at least there's no "assemble engine" in the list :D
Wow. I need to update this more often....... Tires and brakes mounted:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20131228_151421_zpsomp0covr.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20131228_151421_zpsomp0covr.jpg.html)
Rear brake setup:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20140303_093204_zpsh1oidjhj.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20140303_093204_zpsh1oidjhj.jpg.html)
That's a GS500 rotor, caliper, and master cylinder mounted to the Bandit 400 wheel. Had to mount the fluid reservoir behind the plastic sidecover and have a custom brake line made.
Chain side:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20140303_093306_zpsr9kgynqq.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20140303_093306_zpsr9kgynqq.jpg.html)
Not much interesting here. Did a 520 chain conversion (stock chain is 530) , and the 130/70-17 tire was rubbing on the chain guard so that got cut down a little bit. I do have to say however, the GS5's caliper and tire is a million times better than the original drum brake and 100/90-18" tire.
Luggage rack welded, painted, and installed (you can also see the rear brake fluid reservoir):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20140228_132114_zpsv0uctshw.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20140228_132114_zpsv0uctshw.jpg.html)
Quarter fairing from a 1983 Katana painted and installed, along with a Model 44 ADVMonster led light:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20140321_100119_zps0bsm9qmm.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20140321_100119_zps0bsm9qmm.jpg.html)
Comparison of lighting - stock high beam with the led light is the top picture, standard low beam in the bottom pic:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20140320_100615_zps14rwrrd4.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20140320_100615_zps14rwrrd4.jpg.html)
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20140320_100606_zpskv0ainpb.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20140320_100606_zpskv0ainpb.jpg.html)
Very nice, looks like a good upgrade! I would like to upgrade my lighting on my CBR as well haha. Looking for some HIDs but I have some other more important things to buy lol.
Thanks man! The vast majority of my riding is during the day but I wanted more light for the few times I do ride at night. Hopefully in a week or so I'll be adding an led fog light from the same company.
Spanking pics good sir! :bowdown: Looking good!
the bike looks great, any idea where to start jetting wise for a set of the 500 carbs on a 450 with pods and open headers?
Yep - start here:
http://wiki.gstwins.com/index.php?n=Upgrades.Rejetting
It depends what model carbs you have, and what intake you are running. The chart will get you in the ballpark. That being said, I have to tell you running open headers is one of the worst things you can do. The short length of the exhaust is robbing horsepower from the engine, and even if you extend the exhaust you'll only gain any power at a very short range of rpm's (which is why drag racers use them). Not to mention it's like putting a sign on your bike for police that says "asking for trouble".
Quote from: Big Rich on April 05, 2014, 04:44:57 PM
Yep - start here:
http://wiki.gstwins.com/index.php?n=Upgrades.Rejetting
It depends what model carbs you have, and what intake you are running. The chart will get you in the ballpark. That being said, I have to tell you running open headers is one of the worst things you can do. The short length of the exhaust is robbing horsepower from the engine, and even if you extend the exhaust you'll only gain any power at a very short range of rpm's (which is why drag racers use them). Not to mention it's like putting a sign on your bike for police that says "asking for trouble".
eh, there not really headers, we built a set of pipes with out baffles. http://imgur.com/FuxFs i wish i had a better picture, but the pipes continue all the way back to the footpegs.
Hey Rich, have you seen this?
http://vimeo.com/88550134
I had not sir, thank you. That video makes it look like a bike takes a day or two to build......
It does :D
Good site though, they seem to have worked on a few GS project bikes. They look great!
http://www.thefourfifty.com/
That site's cool and all but... I don't get it when people do "cafe's" like that and go and put dual sport or "period treat" tyres on that obviously won't handle any twisties... just my opinion though because they've done a top job on that bike... I just think some proper rubber would make it far more awesome.
I know my 450 is great to throw around in the twisties but I wouldn't be confident with rubber like that...
Ok, enough of my crap, resume normal thread activity :D
Ha! I agree with you Pete. I've been leaning to "function over form" very much lately. Some projects are great to look at, but I'd be scared to ride a lot of stuff that shows up randomly on the net.
Haha glad I'm not the only one Rich :)
I do get it if it's a concept or something, just not when it's supposed to be ridden...
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20140620_152147_zpsklsitfqw.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20140620_152147_zpsklsitfqw.jpg.html)
Got back from a good 150 mile ride today, and I'm saying this project is complete. Suspension is good, jetting is good, so now it's just time to ride the tires off!
Some bolts will be swapped out for stainless ones, the gas tank might get a fresh coat of paint this winter, some parts might get some powdercoating, etc.. But all of that can wait. Besides, I have to get back to work on my GR650.....
Great Thread. Love the older bikes! I noticed (I think on page 2) that you installed an auxiliary running light along with your low beam.
Any chance you can post a pic on how it's mounted? I'm wondering if that's a OEM part or aftermarket?
I've been looking at TONS of older bikes for almost exactly the same thing! I'd like to see if I can convert something like that and mount them in the same location on my GS500E. (I'd love to be able to convert them to LED if possible. That housing and mounting location is exactly what I'm looking for.
Awesome Job on the restoration.
It's the housing and the mounting points
Thanks man!
I believe you are talking about the light on page 1. It was mounted on a case saver bar (crash bar) with some 3 piece frame clamps, and hooked up to a relay thru the low beam. I have to say though, it was a pretty weak light, so for me just a waste of power. I looked into converting the H3 (?) bulb housing to an led unit, but it really wasn't feasible. I can take pictures of the housing tomorrow though...... I still have it taken apart as a matter of fact.
Hey thanks,
I was kind of thinking that. I really wasn't "too concerned" about light output (per se'), I was just looking for a way to install (2 if possible) AUX Lights like some of the older bikes had - just for a little extra "visibility" as far as oncoming vehicles, people looking in the rear view mirrors etc.
Initially (and I still may), I was trying to see if I could possibly use a pair of these , or other lights from an older bike and fabricate mounts to my headlight area.
It's not a "must do" mod but I think I've narrowed it down to either that, or something like you have on your bike (and possible a matching one on the other side too).
Great build thread; would love to get another GS450 someday...
That's a beautiful restore.. :thumb:
Thanks gentleman.
just a side note what panniers are those?
Those would be Seahorse 520 cases in ....guess what color? Gunmetal gray. Although they are very greenish.....
The good thing about the 520 cases is that they make 540 cases that are identical in height and length, but the depth is about 3" wider. Here's a link to one of the sites that sells all of them:
http://www.seahorsecases.net/index.php?csid=7ce40841efa75cd7e02584434c47ec8e&sl=EN¤cy=
custome madde mounts? would like something some what small for my gs and these look like they fit the bill
Oops - sorry Mar. Yeah, the racks themselves are custom made from plate steel and 1/4" square tubing. I'll post a picture of them if you'd like without the Seahorse cases installed.
That would be great..PS your bike looks amazing. great job
Thank you sir!
Here's a pic of the square tube frame with a couple mounting points:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20140324_003606_zpstrpblsh9.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20140324_003606_zpstrpblsh9.jpg.html)
And here it is with the other mounting points welded on, painted up, and right before the cases went on:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20140402_230056_zpsbfhbsup5.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20140402_230056_zpsbfhbsup5.jpg.html)
Not professional by any means, but it gets the job done. I might make a cleaner version next winter if I get the chance, but I'm not terribly worried about it.
I like it. Looks clean and does the job I take it. Will have to look into some one welding for me as um well I am awful at it.
Bought these rad preload adjusters from Steezin (who got them from the legendary Mr Knopf):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20140721_122043_zps9dmb1tco.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20140721_122043_zps9dmb1tco.jpg.html)
And here is a stock fork cap, along with the new cap (w/ a solid steel disc):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20140722_132324_zpsx6ozvbjd.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20140722_132324_zpsx6ozvbjd.jpg.html)
The adjustment bolt w/ solid disc are about 20mm deeper, so I cut off 25mm from the PVC spacer inside the forks. Here they are installed (on a filthy but well ridden bike....haha):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20140723_112717_zpsxi3w1cyf.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20140723_112717_zpsxi3w1cyf.jpg.html)
Now that winter is pretty well setting in here in western PA, it's time to do a couple smaller things to the ol' GS. A couple months ago my plastic chain guard broke:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20140809_012707_zpsn5ref9vx.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20140809_012707_zpsn5ref9vx.jpg.html)
Finding a replacement plastic guard from the "Sport" model proved to be fruitless, so I had to retrofit a chrome guard from the standard / cruiser model:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20140809_012725_zpseucul4wc.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20140809_012725_zpseucul4wc.jpg.html)
Now, the chrome guard is made to fit to the swingarm differently than the plastic guard. That and the fact that I hated seeing all that chrome bugged me. So I cut the rear mount from the chrome chain guard and used rivets to hold it to the plastic guard:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20140926_043327_zpsianfrwx4.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20140926_043327_zpsianfrwx4.jpg.html)
There are some other updates coming over the next couple months, but I'll be concentrating on the GR650 - with money and time.
Installed a steering damper from an 06 GSXR 750, along with a new aluminum fork brace (I made one from steel already, but had some aluminum around.....):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20141121_040754_zpsv55cwzii.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20141121_040754_zpsv55cwzii.jpg.html)
Another shot of the stabilizer :
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20141121_040834_zpseriaww77.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20141121_040834_zpseriaww77.jpg.html)
I like the steering damper!
Nice Rich! Can't say I've ever felt the need for a damper on the 450... maybe I'm not pushing hard enough? :icon_twisted:
Thanks Rallyfan! It was kind of a pita to get a decent spot for it. It has to clear the speedo & tach cables, brake line, main wiring harness, and the led auxiliary light throughout its travel. Matter of fact, I mounted it for full travel to the left so I can retain my steering lock but lost a little bit of travel turning to the right (it does bump the auxiliary led light).
Pete, I'd go out on a limb and guess you push your E harder than I push my S. I noticed last season there was some....unusual steering at certain times. Usually entering the highway trying to merge with traffic at high speeds, with the cases loaded up, and hitting just the tiniest imperfection would cause a little sway until I backed off the throttle. I really think it was caused by multiple factors - GS850 triple tree, GS500 wheels, back end loaded with weight, etc, etc.. Time will tell if the damper helps!
Aaah yes I forgot you have some different components! I think my motor cross bars may help a little with leverage too...
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It's been bitter cold here in PA the past couple weeks, but today it hit about 55°! Sadly I am in between shifts at work, so I only got to take a 30 minute ride - little bit through town with a couple short bursts of higher speeds (not thru town). The damper didn't feel heavy around town by any means, but I can't say it made a huge difference at higher speeds only because of the limited riding time.
And Showbiz - that jacket is awesome!
AWESOME!! Wow I am so glad you like it and it is getting use :-D :laugh: :icon_mrgreen: :)
Took some stuff into work to get shot blasted:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20141231_195113_zpsqpk6pr1r.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20141231_195113_zpsqpk6pr1r.jpg.html)
Crash bars and passenger peg mounts - they were either rusting underneath the paint or the paint was flaking off. Next update in a few days...
Aaaaah nice Rich, keen to see them painted up :thumb:
No painting here Pete:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20150108_032106_zpsnk4pyoeg.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20150108_032106_zpsnk4pyoeg.jpg.html)
My wife got me this powder kit for Christmas. All I have is a tiny toaster oven to bake the parts at the moment, but I'm keeping an eye out for an electric oven I can stuff in the garage..... Here are the parts after powder (haven't got them installed yet):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20150108_031404_zpsysua3idd.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20150108_031404_zpsysua3idd.jpg.html)
Aaaaaah very nice Rich! A powder coating gun would be way cool, and an oven to bake stuff in even better!!! Something to contemplate when the shed is done maybe... hmmmm...
Quote from: Big Rich on July 23, 2014, 09:06:50 AM
Bought these rad preload adjusters from Steezin (who got them from the legendary Mr Knopf):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20140721_122043_zps9dmb1tco.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20140721_122043_zps9dmb1tco.jpg.html)
And here is a stock fork cap, along with the new cap (w/ a solid steel disc):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20140722_132324_zpsx6ozvbjd.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20140722_132324_zpsx6ozvbjd.jpg.html)
The adjustment bolt w/ solid disc are about 20mm deeper, so I cut off 25mm from the PVC spacer inside the forks. Here they are installed (on a filthy but well ridden bike....haha):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20140723_112717_zpsxi3w1cyf.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20140723_112717_zpsxi3w1cyf.jpg.html)
Who makes those adjusters?
The legendary Jim Knopf. He is a member here on the Twins - send him a pm with a link to this page just so he knows which adjuster you're talking about.
Ok, so what's new...... well, I had to make a new luggage rack since mine vanished somehow. Worked out since I like this one more:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20150311_234226_zpsuv1n4a17.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20150311_234226_zpsuv1n4a17.jpg.html)
It was just painted in this picture, but I sandblasted it and powder coated since then.
Also bought some new Seahorse cases:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20150324_090259_zps0xg0yrmy.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20150324_090259_zps0xg0yrmy.jpg.html)
The old 520 case is on the right, and the new 540 on the left. The new cases are only 2.75" deeper, but the amount I can pack in them is amazing. Here they are on the bike (pardon the hand guards and windscreen - the pic was taken when the night time lows were in the 20's):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20150326_233251_zpswxsccc4y.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20150326_233251_zpswxsccc4y.jpg.html)
I decided to sandblast and powder my 2-1 exhaust as well. But the more I'm running it, the more the powder is flaking off towards the engine. Then again, I didn't use specific high temp powder so I'm not terribly surprised. Once I do it right, I'll snap a pic of that too.
Wow they're some serious cases Rich!!! How do they attach? I've started (very slowly) work on making some brackets so I can do something about hard luggage on mine. The throw over saddlebags are driving me crazy.
I like the rear rack too, nice work!
PS Did I tell you I scored a ridgy didge fair dinkum factory option rack for mine?
Thanks Pete! The new 540 cases are identical to the older 520 cases except for that 2.75" depth difference. So I was able to use the same mounting system as before. I did beef up the pannier mounting frames a little though - so far just a couple "L" shaped arms welded to the pannier frame to support the undersides of the cases. If you look at the luggage rack in the first pic above, you can see the luggage rack tube has a flat piece of steel welded to it where it attaches to the passenger grab rail. I added those flat plates so I can run a support plate from the luggage rack to the pannier frames. Bigger cases = heavier loads inside = needs more support.
I've heard that about your OEM rack. I've only seen a couple of them on Google image searches..... Congrats on the score!
Cool yeah I see what you're talking about there.
So far I just have some steel tube ready to bend to shape and some flat steel plate to weld to it to make some mounting points.
I'll probably mount to the upper shock bolt and indicator mount to start with and may run a third point to the passenger peg yet.
Take a look here Pete:
http://adventure-motorcyclingh.com/2012/07/15/building-an-overlanding-rack-1/
Let me know if there's anything I can help with!
Cheers Rich, I'll have a read!!
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Little bit of catch up.... here's the cases mounted and outside (pardon the fox terrier in the grass):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20150511_092451_zps08f2u45a.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20150511_092451_zps08f2u45a.jpg.html)
And the typical "camping load". The right case has a quart of oil, rain jacket in the lid, rain pants rolled up next to the oil, misc tools in the red bag, and wool socks & fleece jacket in the yellow bag:
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20150528_091309_zpsctysi6fz.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20150528_091309_zpsctysi6fz.jpg.html)
And the left case:
Lid: Grand Trunk micro stool, extra Rok straps, fleece balaclava, led headlamp, spare rag
Case itself:
Camp shoes in plastic bag (with tent stakes inside the shoes), cooking stuff in the blue bag, personal hygiene stuff in the green bag, bottle of dish soap in a Ziploc bag, and a bottle of dry gas for stove fuel.
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20150528_091334_zpsjnnbaecd.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20150528_091334_zpsjnnbaecd.jpg.html)
I had mentioned a little while ago that I powder coated my exhaust with normal powder and it didn't hold up well at all. Here is a pic that you can see the powder flaking off (bare steel at the top of the headers and more flaking off half way down):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20150511_092354_zpsli6lhv3u.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20150511_092354_zpsli6lhv3u.jpg.html)
Well, I finally got some high temp specific powder and redid the entire exhaust. I have about 200 miles on them so far and not a hint of any problems yet. Time will tell though....
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20150602_095523_zps63uvc3bt.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20150602_095523_zps63uvc3bt.jpg.html)
Good stuff Rich! Those hard bags look like you got plenty of room for all the essentials plus more :thumb:
Hopefully the high temp powder sorts those pipes out for you too.
Cheers Pete! Yeah, there is plenty of room. I made sure there was some excess space because I don't like to just cram stuff in there. And I can pick stuff up along my way and know it can fit as well.
If the powder holds up as well as it is, I'll be using it on many future projects.
Excellent Rich, good planning!
I'm not sure how expensive it is to get powder here but it's something I've thought of for when I get my shed done so I can blast and spray safely. If I can powder coat as well I'll be all set!
The high temp powder is going strong.....
A couple weeks ago I noticed some grinding from the front end as I would come to a stop. Nothing terrible, the first couple times I felt it I thought I was rolling over some gravel. The more it happened I started thinking about what it might be.... and I dismissed the front brake pads at first since they had less than 2 years / 4k miles on them. Back at the garage I checked - yep! Bad brake pads. After getting some EBC pads in the mail, I pulled the old ones (which I bought from an unknown company on eBay), and they were almost down to the back plates.
Moral of the story: sometimes it doesn't pay to be cheap.
Brakes and suspension... two things I don't like going cheap on!! Good call to check them out and replace them.
Mine's due for a service this weekend so I'll be checking my pads again... so far all the stuff I've gotten from Metal Gear (pads, rotor, chain, sprockets) are lasting incredibly well... I think over 18,000km's and I haven't even had to adjust the chain yet!
Well, it's time to close the chapter on this story..... loaded up the bike today and I'm meeting the buyer tomorrow. Seems like a really good character who will take care of it. Hell, he is driving up from Georgia so I'd like to think it won't end up as a hard tailed chopper or anything. Ha!
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/20151107_083122_zps6zweaqyp.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/20151107_083122_zps6zweaqyp.jpg.html)
Bye bye little GS that could!
Oh my goodness... :cry: Good luck lil GS!!!
Awwww so sad :cry:
Hopefully we'll see another GSR and/or GS Twins member soon :thumb:
Glorious work, man, sad to see it go. :cry:
GA ???? no not hard tailed chopper - but will be stretched and slammed and chromed.
Cool.
Buddha.
Thanks fellas. The guy said it was for his girlfriend, so I can't imagine any drastic changes to the bike itself. Unfortunately for me, somehow the front tire went flat and a fork seal blew in transport.... so I knocked some off the selling price.
The good news: I've already put some of the $$$ to GR parts.
Quote from: Big Rich on May 18, 2013, 10:18:06 PM
Ordered a 19" wheel off of eBay:
And the rear tire mounted (also Shinko 712, but 100/90-18):
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt70/rmyers104/GS450%20S/photobucket-22026-1358286161008.jpg) (http://s598.photobucket.com/user/rmyers104/media/GS450%20S/photobucket-22026-1358286161008.jpg.html)
Was the original rear a 16" and if so did you have to replace the swing arm?