GStwin.com GS500 Message Forum

Main Area => Projects / Builds, Racing and Tech => Topic started by: moto on March 19, 2017, 03:42:08 PM

Title: GS500 Brat (Cafe now...)
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 03:42:08 PM
Hi so first thing i better so is introduce my self, my name's  Rob, and I thought I would post up my new project, having changed jobs recently where i can viably ride to work, i thought it would be a good excuse for a new bike build.

I want this to be a much faster build than my last one (cb200) http://www.dotheton.com/forum/index.php?topic=43873.6  as I want to be riding it to work in the late spring! we'll see how this pans out.

Im basing this build on a GS500 because they are cheap and plentiful, so parts are easy to come by and I can do a decent enough resto of the rest of the bike as i go without breaking the bank!

I've been posting this elsewhere but figured this would be a better place for it, so I'm going to quickly bring this thread up to speed.

This is the inspiration:
(http://i1036.photobucket.com/albums/a441/Rob_Whittle/IMG-20160820-WA0004_zpsifrnahyu.jpg) (http://s1036.photobucket.com/user/Rob_Whittle/media/IMG-20160820-WA0004_zpsifrnahyu.jpg.html)
(http://i1036.photobucket.com/albums/a441/Rob_Whittle/IMG-20160820-WA0005_zpssdukpo0y.jpg) (http://s1036.photobucket.com/user/Rob_Whittle/media/IMG-20160820-WA0005_zpssdukpo0y.jpg.html)

I have no idea who built this, but i love the simplicity of the new sub-frame and it has inspired me to build something similar.

And so it begins...

(http://i1036.photobucket.com/albums/a441/Rob_Whittle/IMG_20170120_202131_zpsp0uhsxpj.jpg) (http://s1036.photobucket.com/user/Rob_Whittle/media/IMG_20170120_202131_zpsp0uhsxpj.jpg.html)


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 03:45:18 PM
So ive started with a project bike and a spare frame, first thing that ive done is cut the nasty rear sub frame of the back of the bike, it really is a nasty bit of box section! Ive then welded some plates to fix up the frame and am currently waiting on some plasma cut brackets to weld on to it. Its looking better already!

(http://i1036.photobucket.com/albums/a441/Rob_Whittle/IMG_20170128_211833_zpsupakcyys.jpg) (http://s1036.photobucket.com/user/Rob_Whittle/media/IMG_20170128_211833_zpsupakcyys.jpg.html)

(http://i1036.photobucket.com/albums/a441/Rob_Whittle/IMG_20170128_211841_zpsmnqzvenc.jpg) (http://s1036.photobucket.com/user/Rob_Whittle/media/IMG_20170128_211841_zpsmnqzvenc.jpg.html)

8mm steel plate Brackets:

(http://i1036.photobucket.com/albums/a441/Rob_Whittle/seat%20frame%20bracket_zpspfw4edls.jpg) (http://s1036.photobucket.com/user/Rob_Whittle/media/seat%20frame%20bracket_zpspfw4edls.jpg.html)


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: ShowBizWolf on March 19, 2017, 03:46:27 PM
Welcome to the site Rob! Awesome thread, I'll be following along for sure :cheers:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 03:48:05 PM
knowing the limitations of my metal bending capabilities I found a friendly fabricator who made this seat frame up for me on eBay to my dimensions. You can see it below on the parts bike to give an idea of scale, its more rounded than the frame on the inspiration bike but i wanted it to be a softer look and a narrower seat to make the Tyre look wider.  :D

(http://i1036.photobucket.com/albums/a441/Rob_Whittle/IMG_20170128_211908_zpsrqwegarx.jpg) (http://s1036.photobucket.com/user/Rob_Whittle/media/IMG_20170128_211908_zpsrqwegarx.jpg.html)

(http://i1036.photobucket.com/albums/a441/Rob_Whittle/Motorcycle%20seat%20tube%20REVC%20Low%20Res_zpsbm50rown.jpg) (http://s1036.photobucket.com/user/Rob_Whittle/media/Motorcycle%20seat%20tube%20REVC%20Low%20Res_zpsbm50rown.jpg.html)

(http://i1036.photobucket.com/albums/a441/Rob_Whittle/IMG_20170128_212038_zpsu0ea9jmf.jpg) (http://s1036.photobucket.com/user/Rob_Whittle/media/IMG_20170128_212038_zpsu0ea9jmf.jpg.html)

(http://i1036.photobucket.com/albums/a441/Rob_Whittle/frame_zps6fa6cu3o.jpg) (http://s1036.photobucket.com/user/Rob_Whittle/media/frame_zps6fa6cu3o.jpg.html)


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 03:50:02 PM
Ive also machined up some brackets on lathe for the new bolt on subframe. I made these at HACKSPACE london, if any of you guys are UK / London based you seriously need to check out Hackspace, I cant praise it enough.

(http://i1036.photobucket.com/albums/a441/Rob_Whittle/mount%20lugs_zpsrnr6qrvd.jpg) (http://s1036.photobucket.com/user/Rob_Whittle/media/mount%20lugs_zpsrnr6qrvd.jpg.html)


(http://i1036.photobucket.com/albums/a441/Rob_Whittle/MmsCamera_2017-02-04-14-25-44_zpsyzjanzou.jpg) (http://s1036.photobucket.com/user/Rob_Whittle/media/MmsCamera_2017-02-04-14-25-44_zpsyzjanzou.jpg.html)


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 03:51:47 PM
I've also rebuilt the carbs with a 147.5 main jet, new seals etc - I'll be putting on a Delkevic full exhaust system and pod filters so hopefully it won't be running too rich!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170208/b6f8639b6b3e687ba7da73d4f825b356.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170208/fa2cc28cdca129655cb16af74eacb987.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 03:52:47 PM
So I've welded up and ground down the lower subframe arms this evening, due to the angles involves they couldn't be bent in the garage so I've made them out of schedule 10 stainless bends and pipe - my first time working with stainless and probably my last 😂

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170208/a104e545b30f812594c46de4082557c5.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170208/108200383aa0b01ad11f9c27d4d651ae.jpg)

I did buy this little badboy the though, worth its weight in gold! And did a great job of finishing up the welds.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170208/07052758032313f5455cca3d677f2456.jpg)


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 03:53:53 PM
This arrived in the post today too - A katana (gsx750) rear wheel for a wider rear tyre!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170209/cad8042d549c41979bdbbc691ae10207.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 03:55:39 PM
Brackets have turned up, I just need to get them tacked up and get the subframe notched and mounted up.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170225/1cee72532f5764b1a8c363874d305c22.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170225/612fb971fa852f4af10bf3a9770fac8d.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170225/2b4a546d50b1f78feceb69ba2e731b47.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170225/b6b06f1b10810c30c98c2bdecc19be35.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 03:57:51 PM
So I've started notching the subframe tubes I went the traditional route and semi eye balled it with a notching template that you can find online.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170226/5b20712b6f345d2d221533fe670089c7.jpg)

I also used a jubilee clip to get some straight lines around the circumference of the tubes. (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170226/bab63fae6bdac98503ab0c8d475eb166.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170226/cf0c1e70a561bb8d345eff9c291919f6.jpg)

Fitted the template inside the jubilee then traced over it to give the waste that needs to be removed
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170226/ac39fe5676bd3c487c5023c78ccb49b8.jpg)

Removed the waste tube with a hacksaw slowly, then tidied it up with the mini belt sanded that just so happens to have a 1" diameter top roller so it made tidying up the notching a piece of cake!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170226/7e79bdbb891cbfc4538bd62a9934bf4b.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170226/5f6b00b576ed0e92355ada5cb7f95c33.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170226/41f19570a4eaed93ed133526656c0c70.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170226/d004c47283ee656cc6135fded33d3590.jpg)

[emoji108]

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 03:59:01 PM
Things are starting to move forward now! This afternoon I've tacked on the upper brackets and tacked the upper subframe, once I'm content I'll take it down to the local fab shop and get it tigged up.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170226/a5ec23ef347a25cb35004775e694886e.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170226/73e354d09cdbd56cc1d10841ff9b2278.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 03:59:54 PM
I jigged up the lower mounts last night (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170301/0c04fe5a3e66921c814c304483f22b93.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170301/e55ac2220c4dd5c7f90f3f198ae5f7a8.jpg)


And notched the lower stainless legs, which was really very easy - not sure what I was worried about now!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170301/082b0a7b1d0ed5fe253a8c875f1bd8ff.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170301/7af6b62d36cd7518306a1b57e9c3b1bd.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 04:01:04 PM
So I've got the lower legs tacked on today, and it's starting to take shape!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170301/61c998500c06613d3dca2aa3c378eea9.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170301/3514dec9bd2ef1377fbc5f2b67cd56df.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170301/6caf1edfd401846ef705699637927d2f.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 04:01:49 PM
So my frame is off at the fab shop being welded up, so whilst I wait for the frame to come back and a stream of parts to arrive I have been playing around in Photoshop, I'm thinking of a very simple colour scheme like this, what do you guys think?

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170308/5f92ab870170563bef1e75b10e715744.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 04:02:25 PM
So I picked up my frame early this morning from the fab shop, really glad I paid to have this welded professionally, so much better than I could have done in the shed!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170307/22724b3b7d04c8de2882ca9d112a1b71.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170307/97b5a009b5dd6e8ef36f15fc50c470a6.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170307/cc053ac4410ef742b1110071734e95f3.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 04:03:24 PM
Modified frame as it currently stands after a bit of tidying up of the welds, Its off to be shot blasted tomorrow! (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170308/abf9abd3bf93cca267166a95b8d37f0b.jpg)

I also had some near new front shocks delivered today so will start rebuilding the front end shortly. More to follow soon!

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 04:03:55 PM
Today I got my new forks fitted and my clipons arrived in the post so i got them fitted on too, it's starting to come together i just need a front brake lever and a fresh headlight and the front ends pretty much done

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170313/7fe79517f43a2b6d2e679f16c9d87597.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170313/c605ab1c60b2e82c92675cc62186337e.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170313/3802171a3436bd1a46a760ca81d146c5.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 04:05:16 PM
So this evening I made a start on stripping back on of my fuel tanks ready for a coat of epoxy primer.

The paint stripper here in the UK is shocking, due the EU regulations  they took the good stuff out of it, so it would barely touch emulsion paint let along 2k clear. After adding some of the good stuff back into a can of normal paint stripper it went through the paint on the tank like a knife through butter. I DO NOT recommend doing this, and it was carried out in very well ventilated area with all the PPE I could find.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170317/f08bcefae9f083a653d025a92ced2f56.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170317/a49e6bd1e7e924a15ee57fc1fdf6c8ab.jpg)

This is the finished result after hitting it with a wire brush on a grinder, next job is to kill the rust with some jenolite and hit it with some Epoxy primer.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170317/f7bda48fe6b5b3edf2b634a94958e34e.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170317/40466594bfd2bfb323e2ab9b8293fcde.jpg)


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 04:06:36 PM
Tank filled and in primer(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170319/ce57f1ba12329e3fa7e773f15f30a019.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 04:07:14 PM
So that's where I have got to so far! Apologies for the rapid fire posting, hopefully it makes sense, more to follow soon!

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: ShowBizWolf on March 19, 2017, 04:22:17 PM
Rapid fire postings are the best when in a project thread :thumb:

Love the work so far!!! Always enjoy seeing a GS get some TLC :kiss3:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: TheGreenWeenie on March 19, 2017, 04:29:49 PM
Looks great so far man. Keep it up!!
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: pandy on March 19, 2017, 04:44:42 PM
Welcome and looking forward to the build!  :woohoo:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Endopotential on March 19, 2017, 06:23:52 PM
Great looking build Moto!

Looks a bit like my own bike  :D

I also created a thread about stripping the tank down to bare polished metal, then clear powder coated it.

Keep us updated!
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Suzi Q on March 19, 2017, 06:35:33 PM
Cool build! Fun to see good ole fashioned garage engineering. Is that evolution powertool thing a mini belt sander?
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 19, 2017, 11:33:55 PM
Thanks guys, I'm really enjoying this build so far! Everything is just easy.

If your in the UK screwfix sell them. Really really useful bit of kit, one of those things where I'm not sure what i did without it now!


http://www.screwfix.com/p/evolution-minibelt2-thin-belt-sander-230v/54960 (http://www.screwfix.com/p/evolution-minibelt2-thin-belt-sander-230v/54960)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: gregjet on March 20, 2017, 02:07:44 PM
This is one of the most thoughtful mod pages I have seen.
I like the design work. The raised rear end may be a problem with seat angle, depending on how you shape it. You may end up balls on tank and a lot more arm load than you need.
I really like the inspiration bike. Very clean and sparse without being kiddie bike looking. Perhaps the under seat pan could have been better designed . Perhaps to include a stop/brake/plate light and a faired in plate.
I really wait to see where you go with this. My project has be stagnant for months as it has been too hot in the shed ( up to 45deg C) to work in there. Just cooling down now but so many jobs have accumulated, it may take time to get back to the poor GS.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: motoMechE on March 21, 2017, 06:03:59 AM
Awesome work, man. Nothing quite like the feeling of designing and machining your own parts for any project! Not too many "maker spaces" like that where I live, but I'm spoiled by my dad's old Bridgeport. Loving the clip-ons too... may end up with a pair of those myself! Nice and tidy.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: The Buddha on March 21, 2017, 08:22:24 AM
Moto - you got mad skills.
But is there a reason you opted for round tubing ? easier to bend with tubing bender - yea, but the square tubing to round tubing swap seems to give me a bit of "catch my eye" feeling.
Its pretty cool anyway.
Cool.
Buddha.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 22, 2017, 03:55:46 AM
Thanks Buddha, I went for round tube because I like the contrast with the boxy frame, it's also alot easier to fabricate and doesn't fold up on you like box section tends too.

I'm looking to do a cognitomoto style rear brake light on the subframe, just need to grow a pair and get on with cutting a slot for an led light like the below, it deals with the brakes and indicators in one hit.


(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170322/c41a3be37ce53a2daa22ee53fc7c9423.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170322/87a4dba51e878e01b232acd471635caf.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170322/bcc0c895d2a353fc3e58c645c1a9ff90.jpg)



Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 22, 2017, 04:00:44 AM
Next thing i need to source is a small lithium battery, I've been looking at a tiny anti-gravity battery, i think endo potential used one on his build, any one have any experience with them? Are they man enough for day to day riding?

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170322/a8bb34e073039e334087935e21c0f032.jpg)
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: gregjet on March 22, 2017, 02:33:08 PM
I use Shorai's. Had good service from an SSB as well ( after the first one was replaced at new with a dead cell).  Don't know if they are available everywhere. You don't need a tiny one.  The LIPoly and LIFePO4 batteries are smaller and lighter ( a lot) than lead acid batteries for the same capacity, and having no fluid they don't care about orientation, so it is east to find a spot for them.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Endopotential on March 22, 2017, 08:05:02 PM
So far so good on my Antigravity battery (I think it even helps levitate my rear end, haha)

I only ride the bike every couple weeks, and it's always started without a hitch for the past 9 months.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 23, 2017, 07:59:35 AM
The reason for wanting to use the smallest battery possible is because I want to keep the rear end as visually thin and light as i can. With the anti-gravity 4 cell it should fit within the new rear sub frame like the image below.. fingers crossed.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170323/1e10b6320cc6179d250509b0e8c047ff.jpg)


Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: gregjet on March 23, 2017, 01:06:09 PM
You might need a higher capacity battery or several in parallel ( that would still fit) to get reliable starting. That's only 6AHrs. 2 would probably do.
If you are were going to make one of those "cafe" racer type rear seat humps a blockier one would fit in that easy and stealthily. You could make a deeper spot under the front of the seat and keep the thin look.  The taper from say 80mm deep, back to flush would actually make the rear LOOK thinner, especially if you curve it ( externally concave). Also the advantage of saving having to rewire with heavy gauge wire over a longer run.


Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Endopotential on March 23, 2017, 09:13:25 PM
I checked my battery, and turns out I have the Antigravity 8, not the 4...
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: The Buddha on March 24, 2017, 07:07:36 AM
Quote from: moto on March 22, 2017, 03:55:46 AM
Thanks Buddha, I went for round tube because I like the contrast with the boxy frame, it's also alot easier to fabricate and doesn't fold up on you like box section tends too.


Someone told me he fills up the tubing with sand and plugs the ends (I guess with a welded up plate) and square tubing can be bend over a roller - like a car wheel, or a caster for a assembly line etc - with a long pipe over it - no mandrel required cos - well its flat. And it doesn't collapse etc etc. No idea, I've not seen him do that.
Cool.
Buddha.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 24, 2017, 08:00:05 AM
Would I need more than 6ah ? The 8 cell is only 8ah, maybe I'll start with a 4cell and see what happens!

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: gregjet on March 25, 2017, 12:42:53 PM
STD battery is 11AHr but what really matters is the cranking amps.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 26, 2017, 01:27:10 AM
I don't know much about the charging system on a GS500 but I would think that the alternator outputs enough to run lights etc and charge the battery? If so you comment about cranking amps would be spot on. I'll give it a go.

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 26, 2017, 01:34:34 AM
So i went on a tour around the Morgan Car factory on Friday and it got me thinking about colour schemes. I've been playing with Photoshop this morning. What do you guys think?

1)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170326/684f9470f19cb1055acc11736c821f5e.jpg)

2)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170326/c571aab27ca3f2276d093cecdad2dff8.jpg)

3)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170326/592c6339759c9443c7d0dca1002e377d.jpg)

4)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170326/1aa49bf0e838dfecbd4b9ab324ce5423.jpg)

5)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170326/ad13827e0c4802a1b0a3752560e3f0b2.jpg)

6)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170326/e2f8334048ef9bd6e6a5215ff55ad025.jpg)

7)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170326/43a3efa01d42d8775c8a41f93a17e6a6.jpg)

8 )(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170326/6dd61710f4b388cb569a33bc50481bed.jpg)

9) and just because...
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170326/0cb454fb63d3ef22f2a969312777d970.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: qcbaker on March 26, 2017, 08:44:01 PM
Orange wheels, grey tank, black seat :thumb:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: iamhiding on March 27, 2017, 07:09:06 AM
i'll second that qcbaker  :thumb:  :cheers: i think the black subframe makes all the difference, it's all about the subtleties.

thouroghly enjoyed looking through the thread moto, your metal work is sublime :thumb: looking forward to seeing more.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 27, 2017, 08:37:00 AM
Thanks, I'm having great fun building this one!

I've done another a few more, I'm starting to agree with the black subframe!

10 (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170327/4ac169f48fff78d548edf16408c18749.jpg)

11 - not so subtle..(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170327/7c5cc9af87d8a8a25070b573ebcf7bf3.jpg)



Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: motoMechE on March 27, 2017, 10:29:30 AM
That last one is pretty close to what I'll be running, minus the rear-end chop. I've got an orange tank and plan on running it with the some of the black on the original bike.

That custom tail and brake light looks pretty slick.  :thumb:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: gregjet on March 27, 2017, 01:25:02 PM
Orange and white looks like a KTM...
I like the burgundy seat and white sub frame. White or burgundy (metallic) wheels as well?
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: ShowBizWolf on March 27, 2017, 02:00:36 PM
My vote will 99% of the time be for something bright, unique and flashy! (Yeah I know my bike is silver/black but I've got two other vehicles that are very eye-catching... so... it's nice to blend it a little once in a while  ;) )
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: J_Walker on March 27, 2017, 02:02:24 PM
white is horrible to keep clean. polish the tank, have it clear powder coated, then do a color paint coat over it for decals, then clear coat it with paint again.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 27, 2017, 11:00:41 PM
Polished, powder and paint, that sounds like a whole world of pain ! 😂 My last paint job was orange metal flake on a cream base, that was hard enough! This one i just want to hit with one colour basecoat and clear it!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170328/6a0d6b9da162e5e0e25e565ac60110f6.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170328/f8486d59794249337f351b6cd467687f.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: ShowBizWolf on March 27, 2017, 11:27:29 PM
Beautiful!!! :rstar:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Endopotential on March 27, 2017, 11:48:15 PM
Quote from: qcbaker on March 26, 2017, 08:44:01 PM
Orange wheels, grey tank, black seat :thumb:

The Gulf color scheme looks good on just about anything on wheels, but the simpler color scheme above would also look great as well. 

Maybe an orange stripe down the middle of the tank just to add a bit more color?
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: yamahonkawazuki on March 28, 2017, 06:26:33 AM
Welcome to ze nuthaus :)
Aaron


Sent from my phone using verizon
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 28, 2017, 08:48:37 AM
Like this? Could drop in a metal flake strip on the tank, I do love a bit of 70s style hotrod metal flake  ;D  and i do have have left over paint and flake from the last build....  ::) so much for a quick and easy build!!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170328/b8d6022c6a57fab0ba1347f8512c3c20.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 28, 2017, 08:57:27 AM
My led rear light turned up today

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170328/97627d288eb2b8aa8e27cfc5b77ecdf5.jpg)

I'm looking at frenching it into the rear subframe, the challenge is to do it right it needs a flat base to stick to. I've looked at rolling a bit of box section and welding it it, but it always folds up on me, so i am having three pieces lazer cut out of sheet steel and I'll tack them together then weld the whole piece into the rear subframe.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170328/515f79b273c69a2cc07e2bfc98321764.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170328/53db377fcdabdc2d3390308c2d74b65d.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170328/1d68bd9fd0879d3b68e3a63b793da376.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: The Buddha on March 28, 2017, 08:58:35 AM
Quote from: moto on March 26, 2017, 01:34:34 AM
So i went on a tour around the Morgan Car factory on Friday and it got me thinking about colour schemes. I've been playing with Photoshop this morning. What do you guys think?


9) and just because...
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170326/0cb454fb63d3ef22f2a969312777d970.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

OOoo morgan factory ... you're making me cry.
Anyway I like that one above.
Cool.
Buddha.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 28, 2017, 10:26:23 AM
The Morgan factory was the nuts. Watching the old boys make new cars with almost forgotten skills in mass production is really humbling.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170328/07a324d7c23befca2ac4c4da3b4b4f63.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170328/282f4f9bf4d3f439c4aca83861203150.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170328/5104ac6d905a23f6b34b4c0b7b33646d.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 28, 2017, 10:29:34 AM
My tyres also turned up today, part worns, loads of tread left, and 1/6th the price. 👍

Continental road Attacks

Front 110/70/17
Rear  160/60/17 (GSX750 rear wheel)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170328/dc58d13c657fe9230ea757554497470b.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170328/5bd9ad2fa5956bc199bfafc9a2f7c68f.jpg)

Just waiting on the frame and wheels back from the powder coater and we can get this puppy rolling!

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Endopotential on March 28, 2017, 01:28:01 PM
oops
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Endopotential on March 28, 2017, 01:29:30 PM
Quote from: moto on March 28, 2017, 08:48:37 AM
Like this? Could drop in a metal flake strip on the tank, I do love a bit of 70s style hotrod metal flake  ;D  and i do have have left over paint and flake from the last build....  ::) so much for a quick and easy build!!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170328/b8d6022c6a57fab0ba1347f8512c3c20.jpg)


This with the orange wheels would look awesome!

Or did you already powder coat them black?

That LED tail hoop will be fantastic.  I was tempted to get the CognitoMoto for my build, but couldn't justify the $310 they wanted.

I do love their bikes though.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HTyNwZJcIy0/VXIEge-5ABI/AAAAAAAAlBw/UjMkpOZtPv4/s640/honda-cb550-caferacer-10.jpg)



Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on March 28, 2017, 01:52:32 PM
Yea the cognitomoto hoop is fantastic. But I agree it is way over priced for my build too, my base bike cost me half that! If I can even get halfway to their quality i will be over the moon!

The other thing is i have already made the subframe, cutting off the rear hoop now and welding on a new one would be very difficult to get right!

I had to make a choice on the wheel colour this afternoon, they are going to be satin black as it give the most flexibility with the rest of the colour scheme, and they can always be changed! The powder coat guy i use only charges £20 a rim.

Frame will be be a light Matt textured black, always like changing up blacks with different textures and gloss levels

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: pandy on March 28, 2017, 04:27:23 PM
Gorgeous! There are a few SV650s with that colour schene (no cream, just the copper), and they are magnificent looking!
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on April 03, 2017, 10:13:44 AM
The first bits came back from the powder coater today, they did a great job on the wheels, new bearings and the tyres on and they'll be good to go!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/ce28a90d34c4c43fa9a3a1c446ac9229.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/e496c2cc00e2eb184beea091754e11ce.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/fa096f1871e38409e94f890c3c349a85.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on April 09, 2017, 11:39:44 AM
I got the tyres mounted and disks on this week which is a step forwards, they need a good clean though!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170409/eff08a5e7d04f6df36bce790e5e4320d.jpg)

I also got the base coat and clear on my tank. BMW pepper white, it needs a wet sand but is coming together!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170409/6a940b0735c6457223e279eb683f5af4.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170409/ec33eb04d3377ff3456cef636d7a13e5.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170409/db10c2b06c54543961d1937037034a52.jpg)
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: The fink on April 09, 2017, 11:25:01 PM
I'm really behind on my threads, but hot damn! This is one I will be watching! Great job!  :cheers:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on April 11, 2017, 06:45:40 AM
A new headlight arrived from China today, it had led indicators built into it so will help keep things streamlined!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170411/8220c5c25b81afb08160ff08db06742a.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170411/a257821f9d1baa53e49e0b7074cb4f5a.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: ShowBizWolf on April 11, 2017, 10:12:24 AM
oooooo I've always liked the idea of those headlights... and the looks too!!

I wonder how easy it is for oncoming people to see the signal when it's flashing. I bet there are some pics on google I can search for. Loving the updates moto!!!
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: mightlife on April 11, 2017, 01:01:39 PM
Great work so far! This is going to be a nice one!
Please do keep us updated.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on April 14, 2017, 02:05:35 PM
I got the frame back from the blaster yesterday, finally! And have been filling in nicks and pits with JB weld before it gets powder coated, this is the first time I've done this so fingers crossed it comes out ok! (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170414/720f71a99675137608496e8b84c5517c.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: iamhiding on April 14, 2017, 03:31:08 PM
looking gooooood  :thumb:

i used to have a morgan garage directly opposite my house so there was always unusual cars about, kind of miss it actually. off topic haha but yeah hope you remembered to scrape the powder coating back off the mating surface for the disks :cheers: a lot of people forget.

with the 160, how are you planning to offset the front sprocket for chain clearance? the rear is easy enough with a big spacer but the gs has an awkward countershaft due to it using the circlip rather than nut. ( my bad if you've already mentioned it ) think my plans to drill and tap the end so i can shim it 3mm when i switch back to road tyres.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on April 15, 2017, 01:09:22 AM
To be honest i hadn't considered it, from reading other people's experience they haven't needed too.

http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=25426.0

That being said I will see how it fits on the bike , if i need to i will made up a spacer on the lathe.

The previous owner of my bike welded on the front sprocket in their infinite wisdom. Idiot.

So I'm either going to have to rebuild the bottom end with a new output shaft, or get another engine, at which point I'll sort out the spacing issues, hopefully it all goes together nice and easy.

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on April 15, 2017, 03:35:59 AM
Today I've made up the rear led light bucket for the sub frame, now I've just got to cut a slot in my nice new subframe..  :s(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170415/d14c5c4993159df85a3f5c3af87084e7.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170415/4959a9a7829697aac06ec2acf0d26cb6.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on April 15, 2017, 01:08:23 PM
So I've committed to it, no going back now! (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170415/347b7c7f168a34af5de1a27e84625b5c.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170415/f779b1e6c9bec9aefd24af2c61b14217.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on April 15, 2017, 01:09:36 PM
That's as far as I've got today.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170415/c1475dde91c1245de2f9d794f8a7099c.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170415/47aa6f8d6a63df015e3df39b935e162e.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Endopotential on April 15, 2017, 04:44:21 PM
Bravo!  Cogitomoto, eat your heart out!
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on April 16, 2017, 02:52:49 AM
Took quite some time to get right but it fits!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170416/230f0448dd921f3663489e85f4facc6b.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170416/c92cfae45d7e9c075966a8f421316357.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170416/eff0baf6cf83f32601b95ea2f9389e36.jpg)


One side welded and filed down

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170416/568bfaa4eb4e6ddecc583d99b20a77a2.jpg)



(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170416/78a9a9ef07b94264576e065cae1dd76d.jpg)
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on April 17, 2017, 10:34:32 AM
A bit of JB weld and some powder coat and it'll be good enough!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170417/0ec2650760691701d69a3d72d3496189.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170417/d1fff5411a7e48819bea841b0693b6d3.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170417/3d90651e6819148d37c7b958295f2664.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170417/60c86622db98846db10176a8845c53be.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170417/35378b3c90177786860339761a1fedf1.jpg)
Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: ShowBizWolf on April 17, 2017, 12:54:54 PM
 :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

Looks very nice indeed :star:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: qcbaker on April 20, 2017, 08:48:36 AM
That is cool as hell. Cant wait to see what it looks like with the bike all put together.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: gregjet on April 20, 2017, 01:53:21 PM
I do like that stop/brake light.
How you gonna attach the liscence plate and light though?
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Suzi Q on April 20, 2017, 06:11:49 PM
That's hot! Impressed you managed a cut that straight using a hacksaw and no jig!
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on April 21, 2017, 05:12:38 AM
QuoteImpressed you managed a cut that straight using a hacksaw and no jig!

I wish it had been straighter! hard work cutting a straight line on a curved bit of pipe, thankfully i have a big ol' file that straightened things up nicely.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on April 21, 2017, 06:37:26 AM
I'm thinking about mount the plate like a ducati monster to keep the rear end clean, failing that I'll have to weld a plate to the underside of the subframe.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170421/480a7b84f3b19832292f5dce6f064228.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170421/fc8649ddec133c52ea6cf62f75aef5b2.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Suzi Q on April 21, 2017, 07:46:23 AM
I might just stitch a clear pocket into the back of my jacket for the plate so that I can keep the bike clean and shaved.  :icon_lol:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: gregjet on April 21, 2017, 04:19:28 PM
What about building it into the back of the seat and fair it in with the seat? Depends on how big you plates are though.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on April 22, 2017, 06:35:29 AM
Maybe something like this. Without the light fitting (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170422/6d063bd879014226b2fdcd4e6f3f2adc.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170422/7059d4409f94312772222600334cc8a7.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: gregjet on April 22, 2017, 01:30:40 PM
What's that actual size of the licence plate that has to go one?
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on April 23, 2017, 11:33:01 AM
As small as i can get it, i think probably 6x4" or 7x5"

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: gregjet on April 23, 2017, 01:57:20 PM
I see your problem with the plate size. Real parachutes. Even more reason to incorporate into the back of te seat area,I would think, rather than hang down. A little styling work and it could pretty well disappear from the side and still look OK.
Maybe the plate could go into the back of the seat but the plate light stay on the frame ( lit from the bottom).
It would be a shame to spoil the clean line you get from that brake/tail light.
Here we also have to have a 1 square inch reflector ( 600mm sq I think is the actual measurement). Consider 3M reflective tape beside the light if you have to add a reflector. It weight nothing. Lasts really well if applied properly. And you can get the total area you need easily. It has the advantage of reflecting from far greater off axis angles.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Endopotential on April 24, 2017, 09:55:12 AM
Or you can tuck the license plate deeper into the seat, and preserve the beautiful clean lines of that hoop.

Something like this?
(http://www.competitionwerkes.com/images/products/1B1000LTDangle.jpg)
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: gregjet on April 25, 2017, 03:04:54 PM
Don't think those blinkers are gonna be real effective. In Aus they have to be a min of 300mm centre to centre anyway. The licence plate in Queensland has to be no more than 15deg from the verticle so we couldn't use that one. That's why I tend to incorporate it into the seat.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on April 26, 2017, 12:00:23 PM
So the frame finally came back from the powder coater today!! It came out really well in a textured black black finish. Excited to get this bike built up now!!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170426/dff009511493d05dbca28caec1b5fb6f.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170426/69b850e4cbf1a3239bf66677ec902590.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170426/396cf32b63c3b10a0172a05116c1f8f3.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170426/35d68a0d080759cbfb53615d04e1a794.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170426/e5b3975b1a610274576422424b372166.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: gregjet on April 26, 2017, 02:05:47 PM
Going well. I really do like the rear subframe work.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: ShowBizWolf on April 26, 2017, 02:08:37 PM
 :woohoo: Lookin' clean!!!
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on May 01, 2017, 03:51:19 AM
Coming together!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170501/ea20b120721f2a18a53f2aacb756443c.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170501/1e7e2ac6289db574185ce18d5eee73bb.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on May 01, 2017, 10:16:38 AM
Engine in!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170501/3e08e04d743a30a2567a1dd9a984cc85.jpg) (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170501/132cadd370e5e1ea75f4c9c7baeef9f2.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170501/84c1f322535e8166ff3db3984c5218df.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Endopotential on May 01, 2017, 10:22:56 PM
That looks amazing!  You've got some mad skills!

Think you'll powder coat that subframe, or leave it bare silver metal to show off your handiwork?

If you go with a K&N filter, it'll save some clutter and show off that nice tail better.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on May 02, 2017, 02:06:52 AM
Thanks, im really happy with the way it is going!

I think im going to go with a gloss black on the rear sub frame, so it stands out against the Matt of the main frame, but is still subtle - ish! Ive got a little bit of welding and fettling to do with rear before it gets a coat of powder.

Ive got a lunch box filter on order, which should keep things clean, hopefully my R6 shock will turn up this week too!  :woohoo:

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Endopotential on May 02, 2017, 10:23:30 AM
You're gonna love the R6 shock.  It's definitely one of the best upgrades I've done on my bike.
Having all that empty space in the tail makes pulling and installing a shock a whole lot easier.  You'll prob have to grind out a bit of the swingarm though. 
I posted a description as part of my signature link.

Our rides are built along very similar lines!

Any thoughts on your exhaust?  I've got a suggestion...   :D
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on May 02, 2017, 02:00:54 PM
I'm thinking one of these two:

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170502/dd22a87e4f1fc718d635fc60602275e4.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170502/84748acf2d92c5e6ee5450de5f71c571.jpg)


Or

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170502/ba26b184d6f3cdeec995997c1996d714.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170502/84aca1fde65a86386ccace2d3deb6993.jpg)
Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: qcbaker on May 03, 2017, 06:33:42 AM
If you're asking for opinions, second one for sure.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on May 03, 2017, 12:20:29 PM
Yea I think option 2 as well!

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on May 03, 2017, 12:24:15 PM
R6 shock test fitted! (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170503/435cb1cf658b3a0c8eb3d162357a3073.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: cbrfxr67 on May 05, 2017, 06:39:36 AM
Do work!  Sweet!
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on May 09, 2017, 11:21:53 AM
Its a roller!!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170509/793e3e2753f63a7a6f29269f35b0b94f.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170509/7b2f46c0953fe9a8d3b60d8708a72cb3.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170509/3b61e76e505c23b77ec7a519c5c9dc45.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170509/7fa4209dc21a9b22d363740def13f6bd.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: 89gS500_Kirk on May 09, 2017, 01:34:05 PM
Looking great, I have about 2 hours left to put mine together. It is not nearly as nice but I do not know how to do half the stuff you have done so far.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: cbrfxr67 on May 10, 2017, 06:39:01 AM
That tire is sexy
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Suzi Q on May 12, 2017, 06:52:21 PM
This thing is looking awesome.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: gregjet on May 13, 2017, 01:15:54 PM
Are you considering mounting the rear brake underneath the swingarm. Been considering that . Would be interested to see your approach.
The Conti's are very good road tyres. Didn't like em much for the track, but VERY good on the road, except in the very wet. Then the PR4's eat em for breakfast.
On a side note. What's the MTB on the wall. It looks like it has very old model Manitou froks , so a guess is a medium high end bike for the time.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on May 20, 2017, 04:00:11 AM
No I'm going for standard placement on the brake calliper, keep things simple!! The mountain bike is my trusty old rock hopper! Needs some love though!

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on May 20, 2017, 04:02:11 AM
So today I started work on the under tray, it's cut from 2.5mm aluminium that will be powder coated. I also had some tabs laser cut to weld onto the sub frame for fixing the tray too.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170520/9f3cda8e8fe1f50792311e1b5803685f.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170520/5b0a6f07d696286225e3e66d87556f59.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170520/aedee529c4aefa5cc30a217289291aa0.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170520/05a6172adb3a8c68e7494478f5399584.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on May 22, 2017, 12:23:21 PM
Subframe plate is on!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170522/824e7d46810d5f476193e630c033450e.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170522/bc569071236fbd88bcd0a8f1fc36e421.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170522/48ca07c545b84ee1b4f8ac63d3d57732.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: qcbaker on May 22, 2017, 12:47:45 PM
Looking good! Can't wait to see this build when it's all finished.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on May 22, 2017, 01:28:30 PM
Thanks man, it taking longer than I wanted! Life keeps getting in the way!

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on May 22, 2017, 01:34:42 PM
So my lovely lady caught me off guard when she said she was looking forward to getting on the back of it for some road trips... oh.

I hadn't considered a passenger getting on board, so I had been scratching my head about how to do passenger footpegs without ruining the subframe, until one day last week i got overtaken in traffic by a Honda cb 650f which had the perfect solution, bolt on arms for a tubular chassis.

A quick blast on eBay and a few days later they're here, and look pretty good! Just need to fab up some mounts then I can put them on when needed!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170522/4f40412cc30cec30fd8847e97fa049dd.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170522/103ef2f87cdedc33527496732054bb0a.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170522/6619dd38e3b31e7fd6caacf7ab8e0069.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170522/b7ae9c428af5848fc65e5b933e47a5e9.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: ShowBizWolf on May 22, 2017, 01:51:34 PM
That's wonderful!!! I love when I get an idea for something just from looking at other bikes.

And no shame in a project taking longer than originally anticipated... I've been working on my car fix/restoration for almost 3 years now. If things are done right, they take time, patience, and attention to detail :thumb: That's the only way to do stuff!

Looking absolutely great moto :star: :star: :star:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: gregjet on May 22, 2017, 02:02:25 PM
" So my lovely lady caught me off guard when she said she was looking forward to getting on the back of it for some road trips... oh."
Alternate route. Get her her own bike?
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Suzi Q on May 22, 2017, 06:08:48 PM
Brat sidecar! I don't even know what that means, but you could invent a whole new genre!  :cheers:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on May 25, 2017, 02:37:06 PM
This weeks progress shots:(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170525/1a62a838934d40d32f6d50cd9c3dd3f8.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170525/f803408d62a654b37ebd8cf2b0137b25.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170525/e490e92f286c8b694786bfcc2e4a4090.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170525/6566cbcd1f90b288c860f2eb77d509ba.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: crackin on May 27, 2017, 06:09:55 AM
This is looking amazing, really nice workmanship.
Quote from: moto on May 22, 2017, 01:34:42 PM
So my lovely lady caught me off guard when she said she was looking forward to getting on the back of it for some road trips... oh.
Can i ask where the battery is going? I imagined it was going under a fiberglass cowl at the rear of the seat but i guess not? It would be a real shame to have the battery on display for all to see and take away from the clean look of your machine.
  Johno
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Endopotential on May 27, 2017, 03:08:56 PM
Your bike looks amazing!

It's exactly what I had initially dreamed for my project, before it drifted in other directions.  Really love that tail hoop.

Keep us updated
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Suzi Q on June 02, 2017, 07:25:17 PM
Sharp looking! What did you decide as for the little lady?
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 03, 2017, 10:34:05 AM
Quote from: Suzi Q on June 02, 2017, 07:25:17 PM
Sharp looking! What did you decide as for the little lady?
Foot pegs  :D

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 03, 2017, 10:36:11 AM
Today I got my rusty tank bracket stripped back to shiny metal and welded onto the subframe, it also has bolt fixings from the old frame which became the perfect place for mounting the stopcock!  Win win! (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170603/63a3a62a8dc9c2943bbdfc0d0e9f175e.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170603/62c1e8f940f76c73c0813fd36c24d16d.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170603/52a49936cde81179a289ce9efa16db3c.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170603/33d86eb2cfeb35a51a024bb27b85a09e.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 12, 2017, 01:41:55 AM
So having looked at the battery's available on the market they all seem to be over priced and too big for this project, so I'm building my own which will have the same power as a anti-gravity 4 cell but will have a much smaller profile. The bits have arrived, I'll post up my progress shortly!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170612/7e56b41fb951ffbfe1dd7b732061f7cb.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: cbrfxr67 on June 12, 2017, 08:25:01 AM
Can you post up a how to while you're at it?  I'm really interested in doing something similar.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 12, 2017, 02:09:07 PM
So things you need:

100w broad tip soldering iron (this is important, you want the heat but you want it quick so you don't cook the battery cells, the broad tip does this well)

Solder

Flux (your soldering to aluminium)

Brillo pad scourer

Cotton buds/ qtips

Battery cells (A123)

Black tape / shrink wrap.

Battery Bars (small solder-able connections needed for the current drawn - could be made easily, I just found them cheap online)

4 guage black and red multistrand cable.

Volt meter.

1) check the battery voltages - First thing I did was make sure they were all the same, if they're not they need to be charge up so that they are, this makes life alot easier during the life of the battery.

2) flux and tin the battery Bars.

3) clean the cell ends that are to be soldered with the Brillo pad, this scuffs them up and makes them easier to solder.

4) flux and tin the cells, this needs to be done as quickly as possible to ensure that you don't cooks the cells.

5) line the cells up in series, positive to negative and solder them together. You need 4 cells to get to 12-13 Volts as they are 3.2v each. ( If you need more ampage then run a second set of 4 in parallel)

6) solder the battery  bars to the cells.

7) solder the 4 gauge cable to the end positive and negative cells. ( This required alot of tinning of the cable to make the process quick and not cook the cells)

8) wrap the cells in tap or shrink-wrap.

9) solder a connector of your choosing to the cables. ( I used a 175a Anderson connector)

10) you can choose to install a set of balancing charger cables, I chose not to as all the cells are equally charger, and should stay that way when charged by the bike)

11) sit back and admire your handywork.








(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170612/61eebeae9902bf39069dc3183614c331.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170612/4c0562b8af78530b3cb227506639e5de.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170612/c6b08bc0582f9f0c50a2a2080f094a0c.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170612/8dc5d49806ad6118fa533fbe832b70e4.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170612/2668298c4174cd772633d7744885a897.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170612/10088672842dcd17f18a58f5a2a15ffb.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170612/da80929e490dafbb9d09d2989737540d.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170612/f15a5d9dd0ad01e9d1b522cba425e905.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170612/caf4933cd3891998488e08eb38432ff9.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170612/7649de82ada656fc5827d971dd0c6add.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170612/a664a6c7f67e093c4dbd259299c19ac7.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170612/dd8a3360e0b5b254df77570ae82db0ff.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170612/2d73eeda1dbb141fc469c3a26fa89286.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170612/4110ef39cc931ad05c9315d02713418a.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 12, 2017, 02:12:00 PM
This is it installed on the bike. It's tiny. ;D

I also know it has some serious Juice as I accidentally touched both terminals together and it sent my arm into cramp for the best part of 10 minutes! I'll wire it up tomorrow and see how it does!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170612/771e8621b76ecc11c86d8b5f470e8958.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170612/ab0c6c51837d567afaddd517cd3cf352.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: ShowBizWolf on June 12, 2017, 02:21:36 PM
Wow, very very cool!!! :cool:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: crackin on June 12, 2017, 03:50:32 PM
Wow thats wicked, any idea on the cold cranking amps?
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 12, 2017, 03:56:06 PM
It should be about 120 amps

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 13, 2017, 06:51:22 AM
More goodies arrived today  :woohoo:!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170613/9b16bf705c14c9f93f6efc0bf389be24.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Toner on June 18, 2017, 05:19:39 PM
Why can't they come out of the factory like this?
No way I'd ever be able to make this.
can't wait to see the end result.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 19, 2017, 04:11:58 AM
Thanks Toner, it's getting there!

I also got the bike wired up in a temporary state last night, happy to say that the built battery turns the bike over with ease! Happy days! :woohoo:

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: 89gS500_Kirk on June 19, 2017, 06:41:00 AM
Please build and sell those batteries, I will be first in line to buy one.... GREAT thread and good luck continuing the AWESOME work.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: iamhiding on June 19, 2017, 08:31:15 AM
i've toyed with the idea of making batteries up for projects in the past and it's damn cool to see someone actually following through with it. solid work as always moto  :thumb: :cheers:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 21, 2017, 12:16:59 PM
So this evening I finally got the seat base cut out of 9mm ply, it's really starting to take shape now and you can see the thin profile of the rear. All of the electrics including the battery are under the seat base or under the tank! Just needs foam and upholstery and we're almost there!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170621/cf38173784841a60d2b4e6c8b1f0f670.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170621/5d8eb1f414640ab012a925d8ab7060bd.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170621/506fc5c9f0d1bba849a3694794f72f29.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170621/046db4a491f574a30feb83cee1b16367.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170621/fa60535e920e872a6ca893c04ac71451.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: qcbaker on June 21, 2017, 12:58:52 PM
Looking good so far, mate. What kind of seat are you planning?
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 23, 2017, 02:39:13 PM
Something along the lines of these without the kick,  but I'm really torn on the colour with the light beige tank.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170623/3158c4f28abcb3fa3739af153e0a0519.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170623/71206992dac425ffd17b2c041b446a99.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170623/33709d1882c3690afe114cb6be459356.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170623/714d6d6bcdf99c9909cad74d1d998f97.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170623/1391a591f0398d6316f5a133a1aa64f2.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170623/46517aa6851dfdfe98fd50f62cfe0bdb.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 27, 2017, 04:05:32 AM
I've had a quick Photoshop.. what do you guys think?

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170627/8af2882f09f0a14f338aebeee7177153.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170627/aee8f73b3d65b85b7add747ed14ce513.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170627/9418630917ee2547087a3a73bfa86dab.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: crackin on June 27, 2017, 04:15:54 AM
I think it needs a hump. Maybe a glass tail that you could take off when you take ya miss' out?
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: 89gS500_Kirk on June 27, 2017, 06:33:48 AM
I personally like the second image, the light brown one. However a hump may look good as well. One like this
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Hump-Universal-Cafe-Racer-Seat-Vintage-Saddle-for-Honda-CB-GB-XL-Yamaha-SR-XJ-GS/231976657885?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 27, 2017, 07:52:37 AM
I'll have a look at a fibreglass shroud as a later step I think, something like the ones on the triumph thruxtons

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: ShowBizWolf on June 27, 2017, 10:39:03 AM
They all look awesome so that makes it tough for me to choose but I'm gonna go with 89gS500_Kirk on this one... I like the second pic as well :thumb:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 28, 2017, 04:50:50 AM
I was adamant that I wouldn't build another cafe racer.. but you guys are right about the removable rear hump.. damn it!  :technical:

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170628/77f3a7ccf41c3cc4cd344d0210690d56.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170628/fc24ff0eb929ac7d06e3c122e5295c7a.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170628/32fd223570d68328eb82752e12ac3be9.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170628/4d614cc1433bd14b23c34e4e4752ee8c.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170628/64d05ee411d03b48e7cd6cc822ed1368.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170628/8b2cfe1324522b4702b0e82c754e8be3.jpg)



Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 28, 2017, 04:58:03 AM
I think I'm leaning towards the red with the rear hump, as it's a little different!

I'm also looking at a hex stitched seat which could be quirky, adding a modern touch to a classic style. (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170628/93abc96aaacbc6a84be9e95ce4c221c7.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: qcbaker on June 28, 2017, 05:21:55 AM
I like the red, as it matches with the shock spring. Rear hump is also cool, might be nice to have. And if you don't like it, you can always just remove it lol.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: 89gS500_Kirk on June 28, 2017, 06:43:56 AM
I really like the hex stitching and that red seat looks good with the hump. However if you are set on a certain style you can always add the hump on later or remove it, that's the fun part. The bike is looking awesome keep up the great work.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 28, 2017, 09:11:06 AM
The exhaust turned up today! Can't wait to get this thing running now!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170628/393a7ddc3ec394ce845862eaa82c6303.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: qcbaker on June 28, 2017, 10:17:08 AM
One other thing I'd like to mention: your photoshop skills are pretty good. Adding in the reflection on the rear hump is a nice touch, makes the concept look more real.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Endopotential on June 28, 2017, 11:20:30 AM
I had the same dilemma on my build, trying to figure out how to get that cafe racer seat look right.

Fashioning a proper seat cowl was tougher than I could manage.  Finally went with the Ducati seat.

I'm sure that whatever you end up choosing, it'll be awesome.   

Though nothing is permanent... mine is set up so I can swap out seats depending on what mood I'm in  :D
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 29, 2017, 02:26:26 AM
Thanks qcbaker, it was a quick 10 minute job on my lunch break, its great what you pick up living with automotive designers at uni!

I fibreglassed up a seat unit before on my previous CB200 build, but it is a long winded process to do it right! ive been looking at buying a seat hump from the states, but it wont be a perfect fit out the box and would need some glass work to get it right.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Cafe-Racer-Removable-Seat-Cowl-Hump-CB550-CB750-CB350-Brat-Style-Yamaha-Honda-/222530397796?var=&hash=item33cfd86664:m:mgP_0w0oEKbjnQp83FZx9tA

I think I might make a buck up and do some getto vaccum forming at home!  :woohoo:

http://www.instructables.com/id/Make-a-good%2C-cheap%2C-upgradeable-sheet-plastic-vacu/



Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Endopotential on June 29, 2017, 10:19:49 AM
Caution with that eBay item.  I bought something like that and was very much disappointed.

Took forever to ship over, and for all that money it was a flimsy piece of plastic.

If you're planning on using it as a base mold or something, it'll be OK.  Else on its own, it'll be way below the quality standard you've shown so far on your bike.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 29, 2017, 01:06:55 PM
The engine needs a tune up but here it is! the first time it's run since I bought it as a basket case!! It's also running off the 4 cell battery  :D  :D


https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2qDOT8TlpLcU1E3NklIWjRVN1E/view?usp=drivesdk

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 29, 2017, 01:11:23 PM
That's where I've got to as well. They quoted $80 for a bit of vacuumed formed plastic and another $50 for shipping to the UK.. it's a bit of plastic!!  :o

For £100 I'll be able to make a bespoke item that fits perfectly, its a no brainer.

Watch this space!

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: mr72 on June 29, 2017, 02:21:46 PM
I really like that battery idea. Are those 18650 cells? Wonder if they are available with solder tabs spot-welded. I'm never comfortable heating a lithium-type battery enough to solder to it directly. But those cells would make killer bicycle light batteries and the ability to charge them with a conventional lead-acid charger is brilliant.

Anyway, I think I'll put this on my to-do list, whip up a new tiny battery for my GS. Then I could hide the R/R, relays and igniter all within the space of the original battery and get rid of the side plastics without unsightly junk showing through.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 29, 2017, 02:56:34 PM
They're a123 nanophosphate anr26650 ml- B cells... Not really sure what much of that means, but they work like a charm and seem to be very resilient to heat.

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: mr72 on June 29, 2017, 03:03:48 PM
Thanks for the clarification. I know approximately what that stuff means :) I looked on A123's web site, they only offer two cells, the 18650 and 26650 cells. There are other vendors of the same chemistry cells in 26650 form factor so I may see about picking up a set. Maybe I can find them with solder tabs and make my job much easier.
:thumb: :thumb: :thumb:


EDIT:

BTW here are LiFePO4 26650 cells available with tabs:
http://www.batteryspace.com/lifepo4-26650-rechargeable-cell-3-2v-3300-mah-19-8a-rate-10wh---un38-3-passed-ndgr.aspx

The tabs makes soldering them basically trivial. You can actually butt the cells back to back or side to side and just fill solder between tabs, using an ordinary 25W soldering iron, and it doesn't risk damaging the cells with heat, which is nearly guaranteed if you are trying to solder directly to the cell. $30 for four cells and you're in business here.

Just an FYI for those following along. I'm going to keep searching for myself.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 30, 2017, 04:07:45 AM
I've had another play on Photoshop at lunch, I think I'm going to make the hump replicate the shape of the tank to carry on the Suzuki design cues

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170630/5e21aaf09de112008c55a0008fe08db1.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170630/a05b08b72484afb24d631e7afef8d518.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170630/21c196f5d4ff161afaed26d6417d3538.jpg)
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: 89gS500_Kirk on June 30, 2017, 06:47:08 AM
Since you are adding the hump to the seat will you leave the rear pegs off now? IMO I like the look without the rear pegs, however I never ride double. Great build as always
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 30, 2017, 10:08:02 AM
im still looking to install the passenger pegs as one of them will be acting as an exhaust mount point for the new system.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on June 30, 2017, 01:47:11 PM
In fact... Welded on the brackets this evening (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170630/4c8ebe881e367d996dbdbef037707fac.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170630/e3b191f6be526d3d67f6e51170ce615f.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: gregjet on July 01, 2017, 02:25:08 PM
I like the brown and hump. Looks very classic. I also like the red hex and hump . Very classy!
Just a note . Are you sure that that gauge tube will hold a passenger. It looks like it will bend at the weld junction with the lower struts once weight of a passenger is put out at that much leverage.
You could redo you seat base to be structural, which would help ( carbon fibre?). It would end up deeper but hopefully be stronger and stiffer with double load weight, without making it too chunky looking with careful design.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on July 02, 2017, 02:15:39 AM
The steel tube that was used to form the seat hoop is 1" 12 gauge, so pretty thick walled stuff - with the cross struts as well its not moving anywhere, it would take a lot of load to bend the frame, and I think the suspension would have to give way first  :laugh: that and the fact that her ladyship is dinky I hopefully wont have a problem  :) The proof will be in the use!
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: gregjet on July 04, 2017, 02:20:39 PM
It looked narrower diameter in the photos. 25mm/2mm should be reasonably stiff. The weld will soften it a bit but could be fine at that size.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on July 09, 2017, 01:44:55 PM
I've been away for a couple of weeks, but today I got the seat foam cut and stuck down, we'll see how this fairs!

It's give an idea of what it's going to look like, starting to come together!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170709/7b950450295c2113f1ebec1894f74d78.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170709/3746240477ca1beb6864a0dd3c3cd392.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170709/7d59a804b6d8446ac084b24b7d6fabe7.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on July 13, 2017, 11:39:11 AM
Today I got the frame back from the powder coater so got it on there this evening.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170713/86d4114ad3c3730f4910f4e4a7e04240.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170713/487b5bfe852e5e4319dacc6f23e591fb.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170713/bd74ad17b10d79644f565e4c944f3409.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170713/7457dd66da6c13bda9fe180f9aeb0339.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: qcbaker on July 13, 2017, 12:14:08 PM
Looking very good!
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on July 15, 2017, 11:00:05 AM
Before I send the seat pad off to be upholstered I wanted to get a start on the seat hump just incase any tweaks and adjustments are needed. So here it is:

The first thing to do was to create a former of the seat foam so it is a good fit from fibreglass, this was done by wrapping the seat in masking tape then in ducktape for good coverage, you don't want the resin to touch the foam as it can melt it.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/dc61e4e48528b2cc9ed99a49a5f68c5b.jpg)

Then the tape is covered in bees wax and sprayed with hairspray ( cheaper the better!) To act as a releasing agent.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/dea0287cc2c713eb754fed298e712974.jpg)

Then it is a simple case of laying up some fibreglass and resin - at this point it's not really a concern about the final finish, this is only the very beginning of make a mould buck. I did two layer of course matting.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/a78576d572a448b6488e5f4cc8680b73.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/75570f8c7286e9f3727b2495895b8491.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/afe3ca7331bb08aab25173e942b8af76.jpg)

Once dry it's time for a trim up with the Dremel.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/92a95a8c9b680a3cb0ca89c13db06deb.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/976fd416f20bdd8da8e42dc661b2cc64.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/942bee18669ab504ad3be4a38fb6aad9.jpg)

One of the hardest thing about making and modeling anything is keeping it even on both sides, to help me with this I made up a very rough model in SketchUp that I then sliced up to make help make a formwork for the hump:

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/c40c2b9f227e6bf6ddfd3b2976e5babf.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/adaa068450f10a5ce3ca4ec379e5cfa8.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/d54f4ca00a32623070faffa582c9d838.jpg)

These are then printed off, stuck to card, cut out and stuck to the base to create a 3D formwork, basically go mental with a glue gun, card and match sticks, it's great as you start to get an idea of what it's going to look like!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/74e06c72cc5bf2b342314b7c4a2038f3.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/4b4c8ecf87ef625356cec2605205d652.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/25c252c47d47c726e910d70734523be2.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/c9600175a01578a066a65cc5e6d70e55.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/d682b0e00899081c652c7a5e5eb0cb79.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/f446de2471df7c0d64fc404da7d19bcc.jpg)

To get this to become a more solid structure the first step is to pump it full of expanding foam
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/329f2a452d33b8aa57f97aaac5336c32.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/cc3bc2cabbd53e8c683f96f554a81601.jpg)

The next stage is to cover the foam in filler once dry and get to work - cue hours of sanding and filling and sanding and filling and sanding, painting, 2 part mould making and finally producing a seat hump!.. more to come!


First stage shaping complete,best to use a bendy knife to help form the curves.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/47b0825cff7f840a8a36d64f4a434fbd.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/6d6d2628619e289c6e496e4f4f6c7908.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/157afe8102e66f8e5fddb77be1c454cb.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/5d429e7818c1145505c90ec8b8cca0e1.jpg)

Here's the first round of filling, as it's just mould buck there is no point in using expensive body filler, so for the basic shaping I'm using plaster filler, cheap and very easy to work!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/4b3c1e46af1dac24cfd4b6183252576a.jpg)

Icing the cake!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170715/c7c5af6d3d9b605f07360e6b8894a704.jpg)


Few coats of filler and we have this:

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170716/bbfd8c377122d0f023bc745ae0c0dd6f.jpg)

Marking up the relief cuts:

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170716/1b758cedf09b8e80722e7400e2cfd928.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170716/ecc32df909ada595079a394a9bd4f980.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170716/402d7ff628c268b4892175ab456d64ea.jpg)

It needs a load more work to blend it in better, but you get the idea.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170716/a627a6f9cb18bde1006a2843180ff795.jpg)

A bit more blending and filling.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170717/e0d7d9ce23880581a8925b6580df85c9.jpg)
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Endopotential on July 15, 2017, 12:36:11 PM
That is so wickedly cool!  You are a multi-talented artist!  :woohoo:

Glad you're going with a race hump - it looks great.  The flat seat alone looks great, but having a curved tail really complements the lines from the gas tank.

Sign me up if you ever go into business making GS seats!
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on July 15, 2017, 01:34:20 PM
Thanks Endopotential, this build is great fun! I'm happy I've done it now too, hopefully it should look good when it's finished!

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: ShowBizWolf on July 15, 2017, 01:59:59 PM
I'm always in the mood for a good fiberglass bit of a thread! Awesome job!!! Makes my mould that I made a while back for a seat cowl look very primitive, for sure.

Your posts will certainly be inspiration for others who search, I just know it! :cheers:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: ajensen on July 15, 2017, 05:05:01 PM
Wow! I am really impressed. Great work.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on September 18, 2017, 07:48:16 AM
It's been a while since I've posted, life and work have gotten in the way of me finishing the bike off!

I made a bit more progress this weekend with some more sanding and filling, I also shot ALOT of high build primer on it last night to get the smoothing process going properly!  It's getting there.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170918/e877f6a55ad69f20dc9d686bedbe6775.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170918/30d3f4334594286629113aede2bc4c24.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170918/65f634ce1a27eb34d8855169fea1f002.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170918/e292eaadc673064db70df7dacf41ec1b.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: cbrfxr67 on September 18, 2017, 01:30:29 PM
High build primer is my friend.  Looking sweet
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: mrgaru on September 19, 2017, 04:48:34 PM
Absolutely loved reading through this build! I have just impulse bought a GS500 on ebay which I'll be picking up this weekend. My first bike which will need alot of TLC. Your build is massive inspiration!! Thank you!!
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on September 23, 2017, 07:56:36 AM
Thanks Mrgaru! If you've bought a GS you've come to right place!

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on September 23, 2017, 08:00:02 AM
So I've been filling and priming this buck for quite some time now  :-\

It's only when you get it into primer and get a consistent finish that you can see what your actually dealing with!

You can see from the first photo that the recesses dont quite match.. damn. Being a bit of perfectionist and knowing that it will wind me up I'm going to have to re do it.. cue the Dremel cutting disk and a ton more filler! (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170923/07fa12c8e55679975f0a3fb1dfcbaf2e.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on September 23, 2017, 08:32:30 AM
This shows the difference(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170923/418865a6b103568afa4b191a7158045d.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on September 23, 2017, 08:33:37 AM
And here is the aftermath from the Dremel, good job I bought a massive tub of filler!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170923/18c863363e5856e7f2a2c0ccc78b3c36.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170923/6bbced8cf48fab9755a19acff9485aaf.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170923/0b29bdec1d5d018a3e4ed1618414a936.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: J_Walker on September 23, 2017, 10:26:45 AM
That thing you did in sketchup, breaking it into slices, was that a plugin? I always thought about doing exactly this in sketchup for my front fairing instead of using a body panel gauge...
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on September 25, 2017, 04:43:49 AM
I used a Plugin called Slicer, it did a pretty good job!.

https://sketchucation.com/pluginstore?pln=TIG_Slicer
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Ne0n on September 28, 2017, 04:06:49 AM
Awesome, love how you spend so much work for the details and even rework the "done" thing.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on September 30, 2017, 06:11:22 AM
Thanks Ne0n its the details that make it, and that seat would have driven me insane 😂

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on September 30, 2017, 06:13:02 AM
Today I got the seat buck painted in gloss black, this allows you to see all the imperfections but also seals the surface, so I'll give this a wetsand once it's dry, polish it up and then we can start laying up some fibreglass   :D (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170930/8adef7e151edb474e133b9564075db0d.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170930/0fed6d6caa3488b66318d6e5e4344454.jpg)
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: ajensen on September 30, 2017, 11:35:30 AM
Looking good!
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: J_Walker on September 30, 2017, 12:56:33 PM
For the front of the seat, create a little fiberglass tongue between the seat and the tank, just to close up the gap. I learned this when I did my seat.

otherwise, water gets in between the tank and seat.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on October 01, 2017, 01:50:42 AM
More goodies arrived yesterday, fully refurbished rear caliper and new pads, one of the last missing pieces! Just need to get my gauges sorted out, seat finished and upholstered and we're almost there!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/70d98c2c58c4f30fd22a7c8ea694ecca.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on October 03, 2017, 11:50:13 PM
Slow progress on the mould, but I got the buck out of the shed and the paint went on really well, I'm not going to bother wet sanding it, it doesn't need to be perfect as I'm not laying up carbon fibre and there will definitely be some final finishing, high build primer and paint going on the final parts! No point wasting time!

I've started by giving the buck 3 coats of simple bees wax to provide a protective layer, you can buy expensive mould release wax but I've found this to be just as effective for DIY jobs. This will be followed up with more wax and a number of coats of hairspray to give a good mould release.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171004/fff3934bf2bf535445def98a0ffa07ec.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171004/44ad9b793ec5fd6757b1e369887ed68b.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171004/62b0f7f940bd67966db3360a801308c2.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171004/8bc711a201a4132db0452802b22e44c0.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171004/ef467c5e9a5ec7968714a09e74c0e954.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on October 04, 2017, 12:24:07 AM
The next stage is to create a central dividing spine, this mould is going to have to be a two piece mould due to the complexity of the side recesses, this means the mould needs to be laid up in two parts. The spine is a piece of card cut to the profile of the buck then glued to it with hot glue. Once the first side is laid up you can then tear out the spine, remove the hot glue and rewax the whole lot before laying up the other side to complete the mould.

Any gaps and bumps can be filled in with a wax based clay, I have also used this to smooth any very minor imperfections. The wax can be softened up with heat and thinned by mixing and folding some of the creamy wax into it. (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171004/bd5ca296eb1a8cb6e8d03f1f1ad6e38d.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171004/354af7af26a9c10688842eb0c39d90dd.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171004/f1752d43f44f7c76983b0229f5a5a883.jpg)


Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on October 10, 2017, 02:13:35 PM
Gel coat on(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171010/c4384205fcd8612b1d0f12311b1bd9c4.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171010/020f1cabad7b3ea125a565acb35082fb.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on October 10, 2017, 02:14:32 PM
Side 1 laid up with fibre glass(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171010/67923798dfd3039a1c2703526c533c14.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171010/5b88e2ae1b605a776d01a6caa0d2d57a.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: The fink on October 10, 2017, 02:43:28 PM
Awesome thread! Quality craftsmanship. I look forward to seeing more progress.  :cheers:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: cbrfxr67 on October 11, 2017, 07:12:14 AM
(http://www.reactiongifs.com/r/mwcpopcorn.gif)
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Ne0n on October 11, 2017, 07:28:36 AM
Quote from: cbrfxr67 on October 11, 2017, 07:12:14 AM
(http://www.reactiongifs.com/r/mwcpopcorn.gif)

me too haha
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on October 14, 2017, 09:45:26 AM
So I made a boo boo with this one, I couldn't get the mould release due to the recess in the front and the back 🤦

Out comes the Dremel again, and off comes the front of the mould! 2 steps forward 1 step back.

So now we're making a 3 piece mould! Woop woop(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171014/f474a39610b42255ee4b580f58691b53.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171014/02429ee943b0da67a16f58a9bcd84413.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on October 14, 2017, 09:46:37 AM
New divider added, I will get this finish at some point !(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171014/e71efe87f6190627ecd6ed2061d571a9.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171014/2e8eab0dda30068b8a80f875b3165cd5.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171014/d33390fbbf690f96414ca4ac2acabe7c.jpg)
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on October 15, 2017, 12:20:27 PM
Last of the mould gelcoat.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171015/4da2cc0cf6c6915093457c55792981d3.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171015/fe66ce20cc3e5d65d727dfb58c0d0ed5.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on October 16, 2017, 10:38:36 PM
Annnddd the mould is finished. Almost there!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171017/2a5e4a49b8b43563e1973905a21cfff3.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: ajensen on October 17, 2017, 07:05:42 AM
You are one of the most patient and diligent people I have seen. Good work! Thanks for keeping us posted.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on October 19, 2017, 11:55:55 AM
Thanks ajensen, it's taking a while, but I would rather get it right!!

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on October 19, 2017, 11:57:15 AM
Mould waxed up good, gelcoated, and laid up!! Fingers crossed this beauty releases from the mould 😂(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171019/38af7469fa008d6d4ab79dfe5ea4977f.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171019/c98843abbbd621b806db0582bc485e65.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on October 19, 2017, 11:37:17 PM
And here is the part fresh out of the mould! Need need a trim and final finish but it's almost there!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171020/bb853556eed545558082a89009c29262.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171020/4ad240accdcd822660aca0afb618f359.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171020/6686898b50ba3c8b75bcb3db0186732c.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: ajensen on October 20, 2017, 03:44:45 PM
I am eager to see everything complete. Most of us are content to buy stuff off the shelf and are unable or unwilling to build what we really want. Good workmanship!
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on October 22, 2017, 06:39:04 AM
So here it is with the first trim up and test fit! Needs quite a bit more work but it's progress!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171022/bf1d4979ed832228e24d1c2bb177b9c2.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: J_Walker on October 22, 2017, 10:54:05 AM
How is the exhaust slip-on supported?
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: ajensen on October 22, 2017, 03:20:43 PM
Cool! Keep those pictures coming.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on October 23, 2017, 12:07:26 AM
I've got to weld a tab onto the offside passenger footpeg, which will allow the support bracket to be fixed. But I'm looking at another option at the moment..

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on October 23, 2017, 12:13:36 AM
So now it's coming together I'm not convinced the exhaust system suites the bike due to the way it sweeps up, I want to try and keep it as clean as possible. So I was looking at options and love the way some bikes keep the system under the belly of the frame (panagalie, ER6 etc). I'm a little concerned about ground clearance as the GS is pretty low, but I've bought a very clean ER6 exhaust to play with. If I can get it to mount well (looking to use the old centre stand brackets under the frame) and maintain adequate ground clearance I'll get some new down pipes made up, gut the can and run that 😁(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171023/4f79de2be56fac2e633a4c1558f50b34.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171023/f3a8a270e4c04faaffaf41d06d34e4d8.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171023/009043099caecf6ccc3afe06be0e8243.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: J_Walker on October 23, 2017, 07:46:40 PM
I got an underbelly planned too. but I need to do more re-search on sound dampening mechanics. IE what baffles are gonna give me the most bang for their buck at their current size.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: 89gS500_Kirk on March 27, 2018, 08:27:05 AM
Can we get an update PLEASE? I really have enjoyed your build and have been looking forward to updates.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: cbrfxr67 on March 27, 2018, 11:28:20 AM
Yes need updates!  :icon_mrgreen:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on May 28, 2018, 09:16:41 AM
Updates coming soon guys, sorry about disappearing for so long!

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: mrgaru on May 28, 2018, 09:37:50 AM
Quote from: moto on May 28, 2018, 09:16:41 AM
Updates coming soon guys, sorry about disappearing for so long!

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Yes!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on July 16, 2018, 01:05:26 AM
So a long overdue update. I am currently rebuilding the engine, to deal with the welded sprocket, in the mean time I am getting parts ordered to finished up the project. I have decided on the seat finish, I am going for a subtle finish, black hex stiched suede and leather side panels, can't wait to see it finished, i figure if and when I want to change the colour of the tank a black seat will pretty much go with anything!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180716/14624af1999f3ba1381979d8d5652335.jpg)


Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on July 16, 2018, 03:05:58 PM
I've also bought the gauges which will be turning up this week. Daytona Velona Dark multifunction guage that does Speedo and tach. It also comes with a cable that goes straight into the GS Speedo drive on the axle 👌
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180716/9d3c499b7170971dc9f1163a2c5b1f26.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on July 19, 2018, 08:25:16 AM
Today I started work on the horrendous looking top yoke, I'm relocating the ignition, then making a bracket up to fit the guage where the key is. It will mount off the ignition bolt mount points.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180719/7b67aa9cf2e5ad0ac4550f36cbef675d.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180719/03bf2bcc6cb2bba3b957c5a400da6787.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180719/07f98f82c94e63de71ff7fb39bb26962.jpg)
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: cbrfxr67 on July 19, 2018, 09:24:03 AM
rocking!(https://www.motohouston.com/forums/images/smilies/headbang.gif)
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on July 19, 2018, 10:24:34 AM
Pretty happy with that! I've carved out most of the yoke weirdness, just need to fill in the rest, then I'll hit it with some expoxy primer and paint (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180719/7edae45283d127e986e65c182f8cbd36.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180719/4aebcb26569f8dd539ef5a0db34cecb4.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180719/c1eea04d670ee4f4d01a9ddaad7cf577.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180719/ec1cc55dfc37165fded577aa1287a0b7.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on July 19, 2018, 11:01:43 AM
I don't have an ac Tig welder so cant weld ally at home, figure it's a "non moving / flexing" part so I've filled the voids with 1p coins and epoxy 😅👌 we'll see if it lasts.  A very light skin of filler and a good coat of epoxy and we should be good!


(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180719/12be4a3e836ce65d9a2ec1b42fe81f57.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180719/675a4de9a70dff62a0d044af62350c4c.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: crackin on July 19, 2018, 02:05:37 PM
Looks good moto, I did exactly the same thing to my top plate. But i made and aluminum plate to cover the top. Also stripped the ignition barrel and cut the circle bit out.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on July 20, 2018, 02:59:21 AM
Blended out and ready for some epoxy primer.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180720/9cd66d95efcb1348554f5f42a22da135.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180720/286a32823f5f7d27e872c3e2f419c2f0.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180720/547a5ce87f1902512376250ca703b195.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on July 22, 2018, 09:17:34 AM
Parts epoxied ready for 2k primer base and clear :)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180722/b505a909d55fda4914f4415b39def9b0.jpg)
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: cbrfxr67 on July 23, 2018, 07:20:33 AM
nice job! :bstar: :bstar: :bstar:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on July 26, 2018, 06:27:04 AM
Gauge cluster and top yoke all finished up ready to be fitted 😀
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180726/dcdc47677dfc547ed020061017ce5f21.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180726/5d3127779dc789161b1df1c97a7bcc7d.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180726/1473506a07608c4079da0625afd97f8e.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on July 26, 2018, 06:48:45 AM
Engine parts clear coated ready for a cut and polish once cured.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180726/fb06a4a4115fdc2f277cdb60909656b1.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180726/9664a7cacbf4d158eccc76ea1d42428e.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: ShowBizWolf on July 26, 2018, 01:08:43 PM
Super nice, moto! My OCD approves of your work lol :thumb:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on July 26, 2018, 04:21:42 PM
Thanks showbizwolf! :) here are the engine cases cut and polished ready for replacement during tomorrow's planned output shaft surgery 😷(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180726/53d17f13aee3ea759a3e7f6cccc3568d.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 04, 2018, 06:56:22 AM
New gauge pod fitted and engine back in with the new output shaft (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180804/8a447f38e8a881ec2d44f0013ecf48a0.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180804/e4e9a5489394001c784c35f91c214f2d.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180804/5e26c39c93bcb6705c3e2bf862490f95.jpg)
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 04, 2018, 07:38:22 AM
And the ignition barrel relocated
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180804/4413218d83b8d92549f43df46379e09d.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180804/e5ce2c13cc5e14452824ad54ce0a5636.jpg)

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: The Buddha on August 05, 2018, 02:49:44 PM
That ignition switch is in that exact same location on my Yamaha scr/n=bolt and I find it annoying as the dickens.
Cool.
Buddha.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 06, 2018, 04:35:33 AM
Really? Why's that? It's the only place I could find that wouldn't bash into my legs 😂

Sent from my FRD-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 13, 2018, 10:03:40 AM
New seat cover on its way back from the upholsters 😁

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180813/81a50cb27c71beb628fef42ec3f1668f.jpg)

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 19, 2018, 08:18:00 AM
Ready to be fitted
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180819/1c9cedba854a1a580ee97ea44cd2eb29.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180819/97f6d5c73e01c2c5c275a80e367bab78.jpg)

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: qcbaker on August 20, 2018, 06:09:01 AM
I really like the look of that seat, can't wait to see it mounted.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: cbrfxr67 on August 20, 2018, 08:45:43 AM
Great seat :star: :star:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 20, 2018, 11:15:56 AM
Not the best photos but it's almost there.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180820/4c7a6b3c86846bda81b6c03ef6bb791c.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180820/23f159f12e7ecbca5c5885ab0411b6bc.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180820/c65116b04eb4c4d33764a63a812f2874.jpg)

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 20, 2018, 11:22:47 AM
And a couple more
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180820/d719934255fb5b6c4abd8285b383d382.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180820/d4d509cb044e19509ccc859a8e5d30b9.jpg)

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: cbrfxr67 on August 20, 2018, 11:33:06 AM
sweee-eeet what's next?
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 20, 2018, 12:24:10 PM
Behold! The horendousness of a legal size UK number plate.. won't be that size for long though 😏

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180820/100ad2aa1462b8826265da679fb440af.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180820/82cbb0dbe8821075964ea6aaea5b3483.jpg)

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 20, 2018, 12:53:12 PM
Next thing on the list really is to wire everything up, get it MOT tested and enjoy riding it into the autumn :) I'm going to build a new engine this winter for it.

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 20, 2018, 01:20:58 PM
I have a bit of a technical issue. The Daytona guage that I bought came with a Suzuki gs500f "ready" speedo drive cable. Converting the analogue signal to digital.. however it doesn't fit in my gs500 speedo drive on the forks.

The GS500 speedo drive appears to be 15mm, but the unit I have is 18mm. Were the speedo drive cables different on the gs500 and gs500f?
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Sarasi on August 20, 2018, 02:38:45 PM
I don't know. I do know that in the later gs500f's the tachometer became electronic. From 2003 onwards, I believe.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: The Buddha on August 20, 2018, 03:38:59 PM
Quote from: moto on August 20, 2018, 12:24:10 PM
Behold! The horendousness of a legal UK number plate.. won't be there for long though 😏

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180820/100ad2aa1462b8826265da679fb440af.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180820/82cbb0dbe8821075964ea6aaea5b3483.jpg)

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Really anyone who does not take into account their license plate when "building their bike" is broadcasting the simple signal ... duh ... I didn't think this one through .... what do we do ... what do we do .... OK lets just slap it here ...

Side mount license plates = garbage, side mounts that are turned 90 degrees = garbage ^2 ...

IMHO the largest negative contribution of Idiots of Orange county choppers to the biking world isn't the implication that bikes should cost 250K ... its the acceptability of the side mount license plate by the world at large.

Next week I'll be fitting a side mount license plate ... on my truck. It will be bent and turned on its side and slapped onto the lug nuts. Yea it will be in a $200 billet aluminum fixture complete with vintage limp duck tail light. Yup, onto a lug nut.

Cool.
Buddha.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 20, 2018, 10:56:21 PM
Im not sure whether that was a pointed or not. Either way...good to know you don't like side mount plates. Neither do it.

Sadly the law has no care for aesthetics, even a showroom ready Ducati Panigale in the UK has a horrendous "parachute out the back" until the owner tidies it up by putting a smaller plate on it. The standard plate here is 9 x 7" which you need to get a MOT every year, that being said you can ride a bike here 99% of the time with a tucked away 8" x 6" plate and never get pulled over, which is what i am going to do. Alot of people ride with smaller.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: The Buddha on August 21, 2018, 02:31:11 PM
The coolest no license plate contraption I have ever seen was a laser projected image onto the riders back with a specially designed I think pack that made it visible day or night. When parked, it had no plate, and I wasn't still sure if it was legal or not ... however it was cool as duck. That was in 2005, too bad, it never caught on and instead these retarded contraptions have multiplied like rats.

BTW I am setting an example on my bolt. You should really see what it is ... so I'll post a pic.

Cool.
Buddha.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on December 28, 2018, 10:58:07 AM
New paint coming soon !
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181228/ca092f92cab8242e0fe7201336476eac.jpg)

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: cbrfxr67 on December 31, 2018, 07:51:05 AM
(https://www.motohouston.com/forums/images/smilies/headbang.gif)
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on January 02, 2019, 03:16:05 PM
So I mentioned in a previous post that the digital speedometer converter cable wouldn't fit due to it being too big, 18mm instead of 15mm. I made a simple fix with the end of the original speedo drive, some jbweld and the new cable.

The first picture below shows the size difference.


(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190102/73a6678059ab09c0fc50b3b250c220e3.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190102/4be942dd919527a41865428d6cfe05be.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190102/b10c0f0b127d9ec1d61663823b79468e.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190102/ab828199dece4d728e7437cc2df2de34.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190102/687c2684efbdcd3b4cfd2fd0c8f83410.jpg)

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: SK Racing on August 25, 2019, 03:19:21 PM
How about some updates, Moto?

I'm planning a rear section round tube mod on my 2004F in the near future.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: cbrfxr67 on August 28, 2019, 08:01:11 AM
yea wonder what happ'd with this one :dunno_black:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 29, 2019, 08:03:02 AM
Tadaa.. just awaiting a respray and polished engine covers.. The 2k paint on the engine covers has debonded from the epoxy primer which I wasn't expecting bad prep on my part no doubt

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190829/1086c3363fbc7a1a4f6cf8081457fe33.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190829/3e1549cd2d4c726737dc168a3c25092a.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190829/7071a4c9d538d63c06325456a0c5b9e8.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190829/8d25f985965a567f784539210e4272d1.jpg)

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 29, 2019, 08:07:20 AM
It's running great now, needed another carb rebuild as the needles in the cheap kit I bought before disintegrated. I've also fitted an 8cell battery as I had charging issues, and I think I'm going to get the subframe repowder coated in hi-po silver when I repaint the new colour scheme.

The R6 rear shock is great, but the front end needs some love, does anyone know of a good upgrade kit? I don't really won't to go upside down forks as I don't think the bike needs it.

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 29, 2019, 08:13:05 AM
I also made some fully adjustable rear sets for the parts bin. They're based on cbr600rr controls

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190829/bb12d14e1b74ed0fe7c71a6acb0b6fae.jpg)

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 29, 2019, 08:15:13 AM
I also spaced out the rear sprocket in the end with some custom spacers. Seems to have worked a treat.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190829/1433276f38436ed07c0663b73fa1a836.jpg)

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 29, 2019, 08:21:58 AM
And it's running a keyless ignition as I couldn't find a place for the old ignition switch.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190829/50f8aa30b5e900cd55de96691e161e4f.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190829/40d4c69ac9c9fd7f4d69764a71d04e4b.jpg)

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 29, 2019, 08:32:14 AM
I'm also looking for a rear hugger, I wondered if one of these would fit?

Sorry about the bombardment of update posts

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190829/7229b26fb6e5af867e32cd34f05c0b11.jpg)

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: ShowBizWolf on August 29, 2019, 05:04:04 PM
Very cool!!! I like a lot of things about your build :cheers:


I'm not sure if the Bandit 600 hugger could be made to work. The Bandit 400 hugger is the one in the wiki and the one I did the detailed write-up on here:
http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=71283.0


There are also some available online directly for the GS500.

Red Fox:
https://www.red-fox.com/huggers/suzuki-gs500-huggers

Moto Tuning Brasil:
http://www.mototuningbrasil.com.br/Produto/133-Paralama-de-pneu-traseiro-GS-500


The Brasil site is where I bought my belly pan from. I translated my emails to Portuguese so I could communicate with them and they were more than happy to sell and ship to me here in the US.

Edit: I just found this thread. Can't see the pics here at work but it looks interesting!
https://www.bikechatforums.com/viewtopic.php?t=85427&view=next
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 29, 2019, 10:50:50 PM
Thanks showbizwolf, that's good information, my concern is that my rear tyre is larger than stock so my concern is that the "stock" huggers wouldnt fit.

The bandit 600 hugger is built for the same size wheel and tyre so may do the job, I might just have to take a chance and see. 🤞

Or just make my own..... 🤪

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 30, 2019, 01:10:04 AM
I had it weighed this morning at our local weigh bridge out of intrigue. It's come in at 160kg  (352lb?) With a full tank. Based on wiki that's a 24kg saving! Im pretty surprised about that. nearly 14% of added lightness. I cut off and removed alot of crap from the bike but didn't think it would be that much!

That will have added more seat of the pants power to the bike than any power mod I could do bar the new engine that is slowly (read as taking forever) being built.

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: moto on August 30, 2019, 03:22:52 AM
This is the current paint scheme proposal, what is everyone thoughts?

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190830/29806458dcfc73d502a4069c362800f8.jpg)

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat
Post by: Jim Knopf on August 30, 2019, 05:58:02 AM
Quote from: moto on August 29, 2019, 10:50:50 PM

The bandit 600 hugger is built for the same size wheel and tyre so may do the job, I might just have to take a chance and see. 🤞

Or just make my own..... 🤪

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Servus,

Swingarm Stock : it doesnt fit

Swingarm Bandit : Perfect match
Title: Re: GS500 Brat (Cafe now...)
Post by: cbrfxr67 on August 30, 2019, 06:54:11 AM
I like the paint as it is.  Sweeeet.

That V piece in shifter just made my day.  One of my main reasons I don't ride my gs929 much is the reverse shift.  I tried a few things and figured I'd have to live with it but with a V piece like you created I could flip it accordingly to get my shifter right.  Thanks for that!  Kick a@@ build. 

That custom spacer is  :bowdown:  On Seamax's design, on the bandit rear end the chain nips at the lip of the tire.  With a spacer like that it'd prob eliminate that.  Thanks again for posting this bada@@ery!
Title: Re: GS500 Brat (Cafe now...)
Post by: moto on August 30, 2019, 07:10:08 AM
Hi CBR if you would like the cad for the spacer I will post it up. I also have a spare going if anyone wants it for a few beer tokens.

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat (Cafe now...)
Post by: moto on August 30, 2019, 07:12:31 AM
Thanks Jim, is the bandit swing arm a straight fit? I'm assuming I would need to bandit wheel spacers etc?

No doubt the search function will be my friend on this one.

Edit: I just found your very detailed writeup! 🤦🏻‍♂️


http://www.gs-500.info/index.php?title=Bandit_600_rocker_in_GS

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat (Cafe now...)
Post by: moto on August 30, 2019, 09:56:59 AM
if a 600 bandit swing arm fits, logic would dictate that a 1200 bandit alloy swing arm would fit as they fit on a 600 bandit.

Enter my current eBay find:

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190830/cc80064d008085ee80dd9df779e494fa.jpg)


Can i get a 600 /1200 bandit swing arm to work with my katana (gsx750) wheel via the Suzuki parts bin? or am i going to need to make up some custom spacers and brake bar?

Any help would be much appreciated before i start spending money on parts.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat (Cafe now...)
Post by: ShowBizWolf on August 31, 2019, 05:21:18 PM
This is all such awesome info!! I love it!

I agree about the stock huggers. One of the only reasons my Bandit 400 install is different from the wiki one is because I have a 140/80 rear tire on my GS. It works and looks (IMO) much better than if I had a stock size tire. Not much room for anything bigger though.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat (Cafe now...)
Post by: Jim Knopf on September 01, 2019, 07:02:19 AM
Servus,

The Bandit Swingarm fits in the GS . 600 and the 1200.
You need new bushings for the frameaxle.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat (Cafe now...)
Post by: moto on September 09, 2019, 06:07:37 AM
Sadly due to some major unforseen life circumstances, I'm now going to have to sell my GS500 😢 would anyone on this board be interested? I will post it in the forsale section shortly.

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GS500 Brat (Cafe now...)
Post by: cbrfxr67 on September 10, 2019, 10:23:50 AM
 :cry:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat (Cafe now...)
Post by: SK Racing on May 23, 2020, 07:50:15 AM
Moto, did you sell the bike? 

I see in the other thread that you're rebuilding a GS engine. So I presume you didn't get rid of the bike after all.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat (Cafe now...)
Post by: moto on May 23, 2020, 01:14:03 PM
I managed to hold on to her! Couldn't let my baby go, so the build continues 😄


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat (Cafe now...)
Post by: SK Racing on May 23, 2020, 01:41:40 PM
That's great news. I followed this thread and was sad for you when you said you have to sell her. Looking forward to seeing what changes you make to the engine.  :thumb:
Title: Re: GS500 Brat (Cafe now...)
Post by: profile_deleted on May 24, 2020, 07:40:31 PM
Great looking build!  Not sure how I missed this thread... looks like it was dormant for a while?  The proposed red looks great, although I like the solid white as well.  My GS café build is "plain old" white but I like to keep things simple.  You've done such a nice job on the rest of the build, I'm sure the final paint scheme will look awesome as well.  :thumb:   
Title: Re: GS500 Brat (Cafe now...)
Post by: Endopotential on May 25, 2020, 01:31:48 PM
Ditto to all the above!  I was eagerly following this build thread 3 years ago.

You've come an amazingly long way Moto!  The bike looks amazing.
Not sure if you did anything with the front forks.  But getting some stiffer springs (I used Sonic Springs) makes all the difference, and they pair well with the R6 shock.

I considered selling my own GS last year, but with its light weight it's such a great handling bike.  I put on some Dunlop Q3's and it's become an awesome machine for racing on the track.
Title: Re: GS500 Brat (Cafe now...)
Post by: moto on May 26, 2020, 12:16:48 AM
Thanks Guys, don't worry there is more to come!

I don't think I custom bike build is ever really finished is it??


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GS500 Brat (Cafe now...)
Post by: The Buddha on May 26, 2020, 10:47:53 AM
There is now seats available that has the LED rope taillight already built in.
Cool.
Buddha.