It has been a while since I posted an update on my cafe racer project. I have made great progress and am thoroughly enjoying the ride. If you are just now landing on this page, follow this link to read about where this project started - 1979 Kawasaki KZ750 Cafe Racer Project - Before. For a quick look, here is a photo of the starting point back in July.
An another from the first of September.
So far, the modifications have included:
- Removal of front fender, rear fender, turn signals, mirrors, handlebars, seat, and airbox.
- Added cafe racer seat and tail light
- Added clubman handlebars
- New muffler (sounds fantastic!)
- Frame and fork painting
- Removed Kawasaki logos and painted tank - add Coast Guard racing stripes
- Adde low profile aluminum billet mirrors.
- Exhaust wrap (needs to be redone)
- Fabricated license plater frame
- Added "bullet" turn signals
- Added K&N air filters
The most invasive part of the project was installation of the new seat. This required removal of nearly a foot long section of the original seat/fender frame. When the saw touched metal, there was no turning back.
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If the weather holds following Hurricane Sandy, I hope to take a ride to my Southern Maryland garage and continue with a few more modifications next weekend. The work list includes:
- Paint the tail white
- Remove center stand
- Install a crank case filter
- Install and paint new exhaust wrap
- Install muffler support
- Cut off rear foot peg supports
- And possibly remove the chain guard - I am still contemplating this move.
As I was walking through the neighborhood today, I met a guy who is embarked on a similar project with a Honda 650CB of the same era. He is doing a fantastic job and has the distinct advantage of being a furniture designer and metal worker. He already has a few pieces of nice custom metal on his project. I think I just found a new friend.
I will be back with more updates.
Craig
