mulligan machine

2012 ozark mountain scramble

2012-02-08T10:53:00.003-06:00

June is creeping up now, and so far this years build logs have already doubled! I couldn't be more stoked to see so many people ready to join in the shenanigans.

Now that the riding group is swelling at an enormous rate compared to last years, I would like to point out that you will need to be self sufficient at all times. Familiarize yourself with the maps and do your best to help out others that may stumble along the way. There will be specific route maps posted soon, along with specific meet times so everyone will know when and where to go. If you choose to leave at a different time or place that is up to you. Simply put, let's all just have fun riding old cheap motorcycles through the mountains.

For any other information, updates, or just to follow the build logs, go to www.ozarkmountainscramble.blogspot.com

cb350f build/entry : part 1

2012-02-06T11:39:00.002-06:00

Here's my cb350f. It had been sitting in a friend's shop for a few years collecting dust in a corner. He said it hadn't ran since he had it and probably hasn't in about 3yrs or so before he got it. Since the motor would kick over and seemed to have decent compression I figured it would run. He told me $75 but ended up just giving it to me to get it out of his shop.

When I got it home I poured some gas down the carbs, hot wired the ignition, and got it started. While it was running, even though it ran like total shit, I ran it through the gears and all was good. Game on.

A quick trip to the tube bender with some 7/8 dom and some bars were whipped up.

Some 1/2 aluminum and some time with the bandsaw and mill and some rearsets were starting to take shape. Next I knurled some round bar stock for the foot pegs.

After trimming the rear of the frame off I bent a piece of tubing to round off the back of the frame. I added the sheetmetal to serve as a floor for the tail section.

The tail section begins. I looked around the shop and dug up a piece of rear fender that was left over from a previous chopper build. After narrowing it a few inches and beating it with a hammer and a few minutes on the planishing hammer it was finally starting to take shape.

So I got excited and pushed the sides in on the original tank. A thin layer of bondo in the newly formed areas, some rattle can primer, and it was ready for paint. There was a paint shop across the street so I had them mix up a rattle can of Subaru red, gave em $16 and away I went.

Now for the seat pan. The pic doesn't show it but I put three spikes on the bottom of the pan that fit into holes in the sheetmetal part of the frame. These keep the seat from sliding around since all that will be holding it on are some snaps. Also, now you can see the reverse meg mufflers I had made. I also had to make the collectors for it since the old mufflers were rotted off. Oh yea, the rearsets are now finished also.

Long story on the tail light. I used an after market harley lens and guts but had to custom machine the housing out of steel so Ii could weld it to the tail. (the Harley one is made of aluminum)

I had just barely enough of the $16 rattle can to paint the tail. I loaded the bike up and took it to my buddy Kyle and we went to work on the seat. I did the foam and he did the stitching on the leather.

Headlight mount. Since my headlight mounts were bent and pretty crappy I removed the fork covers and made these out of aluminum tubing and 1/8 sheetmetal.

I was going to make my own velocity stacks but decided to take the easy way out. I ordered a set from Dime City Cyles as well as a regulator/rectifier (I didn't want to have to run a seperate regulator)

I whipped up a custom wiring harness for it that is very minimal. The Ballistic battery is mounted inside the tail. 80 amps out of a battery that is 2"x2"x3" CRAZY! Even though it will crank the bike it is kick only. After rebuilding and syncing the carbs, installing new plugs and adjusting the points it runs like a champ, even though it does smoke.

Tim Davis

xl500 build/entry : part 3

2012-02-01T08:55:00.000-06:00

I scored an '82 swingarm that bolted right into the '79 frame-Wahoo!! A match!! I scoured the 'hood begging and borrowing for some rear shocks. After a few whacked ideas about pit bike shocks and clapped out cb550 shocks being mounted in the mono shock position not working out, I'm back to a full sized mono shock. Looks like some travel limiting devices will be in order for the rear shortly.

I have a bunch of rear axle spacers and such to work out this weekend to get that rolling and bolted on legit so I can really try some shock ideas.

The front end took a whole butt load of labor to make such a small step. I wound up using the stock cb360 axle. I picked up some bearings with a 15mm bore and bored out the brake plate bore and the bearing spacer inner support. I also found some aluminum scraps that made killer spacers. I also finally found the upper bearing nut for the stem so I sectioned and slugged and welded the stem up. I trimmed off the steering lock and built up the stops with some weld to get them to work with the original xl500 frame stop. I still have some clean up to do but it's all together. Pix. are really unimpressive looking as it looks like it should look. That sucks that so much work looks like nothing. Well, there's my 2 week update. If this rate continues I might just make it to the run....in 2013!!!!

Mike47

weekdays bro

2012-01-30T09:03:00.003-06:00

I know it's a bit unorthodox for the most part, but the Ozark Mountain Scramble will be held on 3 consecutive weekdays. There are a couple reasons for this, and I figure now is a good time for some explanation. First and foremost, this ensures a low pedestrian traffic count for everyone riding through the mountains. There is nothing more annoying than day after day of being held up by a band of rubber neckers when you could be dragging a knee/peg/spleen instead. If the run was held on a weekend, I can assure you the time spent cursing the driver in front of you would grow ten fold. Since this run ends on a Friday, that also leaves Saturday and Sunday to get back to your lives/home. This worked out great last year, and I'm sure will work great for many years to come. So there you have it, mark the days on your calender, and get your vacation time approved.

cb550 build/entry : part 5

2012-01-27T10:44:00.001-06:00

Got the gas tank mounted and a bunch of welding and sanding done. I was going to make a luggage rack but then was digging through some junk and found this rack I got with the CB450 I ran last year and decided to make use it because I'm lazy....
Brad

p.s.

Forgot to mention that even though I generally think luggage racks sucks I do believe they are necessary for the scramble if you don't want to wear a backpack so mine is easily removable with 2 pins.

tt500 project part 1: concept

2012-01-19T15:56:00.003-06:00

I've been trying to leave this bike alone so other projects can get finished, but I guess a day at work with little to do leaves room to let the brain boil. Here's the plan with a few tweaks.

I would prefer to run laced aluminum wheels with a wider 18" or 19" out front, a wider 18" out back, and a silver motor compared to the rendering. We'll see.

Nasty busted up points cam gear carnage.

It's supposed to be a press fit, but it's sloppy as hell. I got a used one in the other day only to find out I'm missing a shim. Once I get that sorted, I can see about making a runner out of it. Vroom vrooom.

cb750-1 build/entry : part 3

2012-01-18T08:20:00.000-06:00

On my pre-rebuild test drive I noticed a lot of movement from the rear end. The swing arm moved about 0.5 inches sideways! So, out it came, got a quick sand blast and powder coat. The swing arm bushings were badly worn, and the rusty swing arm shaft needed attention, too. Instead of buying new bushings I used a piece of scrap Delrin and turned them on my lathe. After de-rusting and polishing the shaft, I pressed the bushings into the swing arm, and sized the Delrin bushings with an adjustable reamer to the shaft dimensions.

Michael
Nashville/TN

cb750-1 build/entry : part 2

2012-01-17T09:19:00.000-06:00

The wheels were quite corroded. Re-lacing was out of the budget, so I simply glass bead blasted them and clear powder coated the whole wheel. Good thing to have a oven (barely) big enough to hold the rims. Although I had to leave the oven door a crack open for the front one... worked anyway.

All the wheel bearings turned out to be in good shape, so a good cleaning and fresh grease gave them a second life. I switched the headstock bearings to good used tapered ones that I salvaged off another bike. After glass bead blasting and powder coating the triple trees and lower forks, sanding and polishing the 6 inch over fork legs, the front end went back in the frame.

Michael
Nashville/TN

cl350 build/entry : part 6

2012-01-17T09:00:00.001-06:00

Frame horns trimmed. I still need to fill the bolt holes, weld the seam, and add some bracing back in.

Fork ears trimmed. I will be removing the fork lock, and making a headlight bracket that attaches with the lower fork pinch bolts.

Need to fill these holes on both ears.

Rear profile.

Side profile.

cl350 build/entry : part 5

2012-01-16T09:49:00.002-06:00

Wow. I've been pretty lazy/busy as of late. No more excuses, time to knuckle down and finish what I've started.

The original plan was to run earlier model cb350 plastic sidecovers, however eBay prices are dictating otherwise for old cracked units. As luck would have it, a buddy snatched up some OG air filter elements and enclosures in trade for a set of cb360 units I had laying around.They actually look good without the sidecovers on, so the new plan is to clean them up and paint them silver to match the rendering. A little mesh here and there at the big openings should keep the nasty bits out.

On to the rear fender. I have been looking at the side profile of a ton of bikes to try and get the right look. I finally settled on a cb125 rear fender which leaves me to figure out which way to mount it. It's been a real head-scratcher to say the least. There were a ton of brackets that were spot welded on GOOD, so a couple of hours of careful grinding yielded the proper profile I have been looking for. I ended up using the innermost part of the stock cl350 as a splash guard, and am currently finishing up the mounts for the cb125 section. The side profile is pretty damn close to what I envisioned, so things are on the right track. I also got a chance to start carving up the frame horns at the rear, but haven't snapped any pics of them in the daylight yet.

cb750-1 build/entry : part 1

2012-01-13T09:53:00.001-06:00

Hi!
Here is my mail again, saw on the website that you lost it...
The bike is already on the road, runs strong!

Previously sent message:

When I learned about the OMS, I had to be in it! A week earlier I came across a cool CB750 Chop, that had been sitting since 1981. The bike is a typical 70's chopper, with 6" over forks, King and Queen seat and a 16" Harley rear wheel. The price was right at $750, so I bought it. I will only clean her up and make her safe, and keep the 70's vibe.
So far I spent $175 on tires, $17 on fork seals and 20 bucks on oil. Gonna be tight for the new chain...

See you!
Michael
Nashville/TN

going away party

2012-01-11T09:26:00.006-06:00

Had a quick ride through the local area Saturday to see off a good buddy that's moving to Australia. Decent coffee, shitty food, good times. Hopefully we can squeeze in another good ride or two before he officially leaves the country. If not for this guy, I wouldn't have met a fraction of the riders in this area that has eventually morphed into a riding club. Thanks bud.

cb550 build/entry : part 4

2012-01-10T09:06:00.000-06:00

Got my ebay prism tank today. Its well made of heavy steel. Its going to take some serious mods to mount it and make it look right but in the end it fits the look I'm going for. I may end up cutting the back bone out of the frame and welding in a new one. Obviously the coils will have to be moved but that's no big deal as long as I can put new longer plug wires on them. Never done that before, and the wires almost look like they are molded into the coils?? Anybody done this before and want to chime in???

Brad

xl500 build/entry : part 2

2012-01-10T09:01:00.001-06:00

Mike 47 Update:

Dropped it 6" with the cb360 front end and another 2 1/2 of fork tube shortening. 26 degree front end? Oh fun. Got the front wheel mocked on there. Ryan did a sweet job of turning my 12MM front axle from 4130 moly. I'll make the spacers next. The spacers are gonna be the axle retainers as well as the adapters to get the 12MM axle held in the 20MM fork holes.

Jay Carr is my hero for finding me the stem nut. I'll get crackin' on that real soon so I can wrap up the steering bearing issues and a steering stop set.

Did some looking at the rear wheel in place and I said screw it and ordered up a '82 swingarm. Gonna keep some cushion this time. Probably need to rework the axle plates to work with my rear wheel but I can cut and weld ok. I found a pit bike shock with a super heavy spring for free-score!!!!. That'll bring the ass down. Hoping to have it all rolling for real in a few weeks. for now it looks like this:

cb550 build/entry : part 3

2012-01-05T16:20:00.001-06:00

Got some cheap fog lights off of ebay. Made a bracket and mounted them. Also got a prism tank on the way. This turd is going to be 70's fabulous.

Brad

cb750 build/entry : part 1

2012-01-04T08:42:00.002-06:00

Hey, I'm down in Little Rock and this seems like fun. I have a $500 76 cb 750 that does not need much, if anything, to do the ride. Maybe just a little in the style dept. It even has Arkansas plates now.

Jonathan

xl500 build/entry : part 1

2012-01-03T09:18:00.000-06:00

So I scored the frame I need. Still waiting on the title to arrive for it but I think it'll be a non issue. So in light of that I decided to pull a few parts out of the pile to see what I can come up with. The chosen few include my newly acquired 1979 Honda XL 500 S frame ($200)The rest has been sitting here waiting for other ideas I've had that have come and gone but the run down is: a cb360 front end($30), an XL something or another gas tank and rear fender($10), a Suzuki something 21" front wheel complete with killer knobby tire ($5), and '82 FT500 Timken bearing kit that just might work ($30). That's $275 already!! Shit. Oh well, hopefully I can sell the cb front wheel off the front end to recover a few $$.

So I mocked up the front wheel, front end and frame and of course nothing fits. Not even close. The front hub used a 12mm axle, the cb front end was 20 mm, the steering stem is 3" too long and the bearing races don't fit in the frame. I need to get going on fixing all that crap later this week. More updates to follow but here's a pic to get started:

I'm going for some kind of dirt bike chopper thingy. Not really sure where it will go or if it'll work out or what. We'll see what happens.

Mike

kz400 build/entry : part 1

2012-01-03T09:06:00.002-06:00

I’ve chosen two bikes for the OMS. (Yes, I know I can only ride one at a time.) One is a 1974 Yamaha RD350 that I’ll write about later, and the other is a 1977 Kawasaki KZ400. I spent some time Christmas Eve checking it over, and I’ve already learned that while the bike is a 1977 model, the engine has been swapped in from a KZ440, probably from 1981. (The frame should be the limiting factor for the OMS age requirement, so I think we’re in the clear on that.)

1977 Kawasaki KZ400

An initial list of things that will need to be addressed, or perhaps just ignored to stick to the budget:

The rear sprocket is pretty ugly, so it would be good to replace it. That means replacing the front sprocket and the chain, too.
The fuel tank is ugly on the outside, but what matters is that it’s rusty inside. I’ll treat it with either Caswell’s or POR-15 so that rust doesn’t end up getting into the carburetors.
Tires, tubes, and rim strips should probably go without saying, since the bike hasn’t seen a road in many years. The OMS route is about 600 miles, and the ride out and back will add another 1000 or so miles.
The steering head bearings are a lot loose. Regardless of that I’ll need to clean and regrease them, but “loose” often means “screwed up,” too. If the parts are cheap enough I might just replace them for good measure.
I’ve already removed the carburetors, and they don’t look all that bad inside. They’ll get new o-rings and rubber plugs where needed and maybe rebuild kits for good measure. The carb holders are pretty well ruined, so I’ll order a new set. The airbox-to-carb boots look good enough, though I suspect they’re not a perfect fit.
The headlight and chrome trim that holds it in place are both missing. Since I believe in stock motorcycles, I’ll probably try to get stock parts for this. Adding an LED headlight could be amusing and might fit the budget, but it would be weird to use a modern component here without changing anything else from stock.

Oh, and then there’s the right muffler rubbing on the rear brake arm, plus the angle of the luggage rack relative to the fuel tank, handlebars, etc. Based on the evidence so far, I suspect this bike was crashed at some point, and that as soon as I get it to where I can do an actual road test, I’ll find that the frame is “tweaked.” Whether I try to remedy this problem will depend on just how badly it rides. Fingers crossed on that one; I’d really rather not have to convert this into a parts bike. (Or maybe it will give me a chance to learn frame straightening, because that’s a great idea.)

Note to self: a previous owner put later-era cast wheels onto this bike, which means it takes tubeless tires. Besides being better than tube-style tires (easier to fix punctures), this saves me money on both tubes and rim strips, since they’ll be unnecessary. Maybe I’ll splurge and install new valve stems.

Andrew

moto lamp

2011-12-19T15:35:00.002-06:00

Totally stole the idea from Classified Moto, but I'm too cheap to buy what I can just build anyways(in a more crooked version). This one has been gifted as a Secret Santa gift on the world's most awesome forum that I can't speak of. Hope you enjoy it Tim.

karmann ghia

2011-12-14T08:47:00.000-06:00

xs650 build/entry : part 2

2011-12-12T09:29:00.002-06:00

Purple Rain has been sitting for a couple of months while we decided where we wanted to take the modifications. I tossed around hard-tailing this or a Brat Style bike. But all of that has been done to death. I figured we would De-Special it. Back in the early 80's the all the Japanese motorcycle manufactures wanted to capture the American buyer and in the good ol USA we like choppers. The Japanese "Manufactured Custom" of the day consisted of a stepped king and queen seat, Shorty exhaust, Pull back handlebars, a teardrop gas tank and a sissy bar. Some of the models had mag wheels and 16 rear wheels to run the Harleyesqe rubber.

The reason for playing around with this XS650 is we plan on heading to Arkansas to the Ozark Mountains in June for the “Ozark Mountain Scramble”. This is a grass roots style event that you show up and ride with like minded people. I am sick of the rolling shopping malls that most of the rallies and large bike events have become. The premise of the run is the bike cannot be newer than 1980, not larger than 750cc and not cost more than $1000.00 inclusive of purchase price and getting it ready for the run.

We added a tank from a 1976 XS650 that is a little rounder with the filler in center of the top.

The pullback bars had to go. We replaced them with a set of Vintage Style Motocross bars.

A before photo of the seat and the Sissy bar. with the new tank installed.

The rear 3/4 shot with the sissy removed new bars and the '76 Fuel tank.

Right side view with the changes so far. I am starting to like this little bike. We will see what other parts we can dig up or modify to get this thing completed within budget.

Tim

cb360-1 build/entry : part 2

2011-12-09T12:10:00.000-06:00

Making a little head way on this bike. Tires on. Fly screen or gay SOA fairing on. Seat cover on.

James

cb360 build/entry : part 3

2011-12-06T11:34:00.001-06:00

I did a little more tinkering on the bike today. Topped off the oil, fabbed and painted a new and slightly longer battery tray, rerouted the wiring, slipped on the new mufflers, and fired her up to check the clutch. Earlier in the week I reassembled the rear brake linkage and pedal. So technically I have a rider now. I rode it a few feet around the carport. It still doesn't look like much, but I'm quite pleased.

Andy

karmann ghia

2011-12-02T11:23:00.002-06:00

Wow. It's been a few since a new post. I've been working on flooring in my house, so all other projects have been placed on hold. However, in the mean time I managed to pick up a rough 66 Karmann Ghia for a few bucks. Here's a couple inspiration pics of the direction I'm headed. This thing isn't getting touched until I finish the cl350 first though, so hopefully I can have some fresh updates soon.

cb550 build/entry : part 2

2011-11-16T08:01:00.000-06:00

Some more pics of the 2012 OMS bike. Got it stripped down, fender trimmed, rear frame hoop hacked off and tacked up some handlebars. I guess I'm waiting for the perfect tank to fall from the sky. Maybe I'll stumble on to one. I'd love to go with a Triumph tank but it'd probably be waste of a good tank.

Brad

cb360-1 build/entry : part 1

2011-11-01T10:26:00.001-05:00

Another build saga begins for the Ozark Mountain Scramble.

My name is James. I just bought a 1974 cb360t for 450 bucks. The plan is to paint it, and do something with the seat. I would like to do something with the exhaust as well. I got it running and rode it, but blew the back tire out. Had to buy some new ones, sucks but oh well. Started on my seat today, and will have it in primer Tue. ready for paint on Wed. Will send pics of it done and as things progress.

James

xs650 build/entry : part 1

2011-11-01T08:38:00.002-05:00

Tim has sent me a little info on his chosen work horse for the 2012 Ozark Mountain Scramble. Below is the first entry for his build saga.

I went for a bike ride and found this gem at a local yard sale. All I could think of when I saw it was Purple Rain, Puuuurple Raaaaiiiiiiiin! So with all its gayness I decided the price was right so I picked it up. It is a 1979 Yamaha XS650 Special. Back in the day when this bike was new I never gave these little machines a second look. All I wanted to do was go fast and if it did not have a 3 cylinder 2-stroke or an inline 4 cylinder UJM I was not interested. I have been noticing a few of the XS's modified and I am impressed with the results. The plan for right now is to get it running and mechanically sound to make sure we have a solid foundation to chop from. I will leave it a swing arm bike as Western NY roads are pothole riddled and the only way to ride fast is with a suspension. I plan on doing the entire build myself just like when I was younger and a lot more broke and had no choice in the matter. We will see where this takes us Stay tuned.

Barn Fresh

Dirty, Rusty and Bone Stock

Ultra Gay

Washed Up! Ready for a new Look!

Tim

vintage drag race? updated

2011-10-28T13:58:00.002-05:00

Remember this one?

Whilst doing my daily blog rounds, I spot a second angle on what I suspect is some sort of drag gadgetry. Swiped it from bubble visor and figured this one deserved an update of some sort.

cl350 build/entry : part 4

2011-10-25T12:16:00.001-05:00

A week or two back, I decided things were just getting overly difficult hunting down a bunch of stock parts that should have came with my cl350 donor. My budget was going to swell to the point that I wouldn't be able to get a few key items I really wanted to make it right. Luckily an inexpensive cb350 cafe basketcase popped up on the local CL harnessing 95% of the parts I need to make it work. What's left can be put together and sold off to fund other future projects or maybe even flip into 2013 build material(doubtful). Even so, the money spent on the basket was less than the parts I need sourced separately, so budget crisis has been averted. With that said, I snatched the cb350 forks and front fender with quickness to put on the cl. I kept the 19" cl wheel which fits the cb fender profile nice and snug. Intake boots robbed as well, so I am getting a tad closer to the first fire. Also got a bro deal on another front fender, that will help me lengthen the front and back to match my rendering. I'll hold off on that for the moment, as I really want to get the seat and rear fender figured out or at least under way before that becomes priority. All in all, not much progress to take pics of, but a steady amount of work ahead.

ozark mountain scramble 2012 ride map

2011-10-25T11:56:00.003-05:00

Check it.

3 days of awesomeness grace this here map. Click for an overly exaggerated large print to see what's in store.

trump jump

2011-10-22T23:26:00.002-05:00

ozark mountain scramble 2011 pics

2011-10-21T08:15:00.004-05:00

Now that cold weather is creeping in, I'm even more amped for next years ride. I've been getting a good amount of commitments from all over the US, so it sounds like it's growing a fair bit. If you haven't rode through the Ozarks, then you need to make this run a priority.

kz400 tracker

2011-10-18T08:19:00.003-05:00

Hey!! Its cool to see another kz400 made with pride and no money!!
Here´s a couple photos of mine, enjoy!!

German Karp
Argentina

cb360 build/entry : part 3

2011-10-12T14:10:00.000-05:00

I ordered an SLA battery last week to save space and weight. Since I'm going kick only on this little guy, I got a UB 1220. I had thought I picked up a 2.2 amp, but I think the 2 amp will be fine. I'm only going to run a headlight and taillight/brake light. This little battery looks a little like a VHS tape in size. I think the measurements are close to 6" x .75" X 3.5". After having a few cold ones with Captain Awesome, I talked myself into rewiring the bike from scratch. What's left of the stock harness I modified for this one is pretty ugly, and I'd hate to run into issues far from home because of 35 year old wiring. I also snagged some CL350 bars and a sheet metal seat pan from the previous iteration of this bike.

Battery tray and fuse block in progress.

Andy

cb550 build/entry : part 1

2011-10-12T13:57:00.001-05:00

Brad's back with a new steed for next years ride. Here's the scoop...

I started on the '75 Honda 550 for next year's scramble. I think I'm going to build a four into two into one exhaust using a Flowmaster 2 into one that I got at a swap meet for $10. I removed the mufflers that were on it and now I've gotta find some pipe with a lot of bends(need 4 - 90s and some straight) or some tubing with a wall thickness that I can bend in my harbor freight bender without mangling it. 1.25" OD pipe will work.

Brad Green #1

cb360 stocker

2011-10-10T22:58:00.003-05:00

Didn't take too much to get it running good. Replaced a coil, threw a Radio Shack rectifier on, cleaned the petcock bowl and tank out. Still got some cleanup and fine tuning to do, but not too shabby so far. Crappy video proof below.

ozark mountain scramble 2011 pics

2011-10-07T09:31:00.002-05:00

More pics from this years run.

2012 ozark mountain scramble

2011-10-06T08:55:00.004-05:00

Winter is creeping up, so why not procure a project bike to keep yourself warm with?

tt500 + cb360 = kz400?

2011-10-05T08:31:00.003-05:00

Over the weekend I agreed to trade a couple project bikes for the kz400. One being a 80 tt500 needing some love, and the other a 74 cb360 with a spare motor and assorted parts. The tt500 will be a long term project, while the cb360 will be a rider until my cl350 hits the streets. As if that wasn't enough, last night I picked up a cb350 basketcase and some extra parts to help fill some voids on the cl350.

The tt500 had a beat up tank, so I threw on a cb350 spare I had laying around. Didn't take much to make it fit, so I think it's going to stay. We'll see, as I have yet to nail down any sort of plan at the moment.

The cb360 just needs a quick rewire and some tuning to be roadworthy. The front fender is in good shape, and will be thrown on once the front brake is sorted.

I'll see about snapping some pics of the cb350 basket later this afternoon.

kz400 build/entry : part 18

2011-09-30T15:51:00.002-05:00

Videos. Keep forgetting to post these. Nothing special, but some closure on the project.

ozark mountain scramble 2011 pics

2011-09-29T10:14:00.000-05:00

I've done a real crappy job posting up pics from the ride this year. I actually only took about three photos in total, while the rest had been taken by Brad and his wife Daphne. Really it's hard for me to focus on taking pretty photos, when I'd rather just relax and enjoy the ride. The Ozark Mountains harness some amazing roads, and this run covers a major percentage of the best it has to offer. I originally wanted to change the route this year, so we can hit other roads, but really there isn't really much room for improvement. A tweak here and there, but for the most part we'll probably be running the same route.

cl350 build/entry : part 3a

2011-09-27T09:31:00.002-05:00

Here are the updated renderings to help me decide on paint. I like both versions, and as soon as I make a decision the other one starts to look appealing again.

cl350 build/entry : part 3

2011-09-26T18:49:00.000-05:00

Well, it's been a couple months since my last update. Nothing crazy going on at the moment, but some good stuff none the less.

I finally got around to stripping the k0 tank purchase a while back. Amazingly enough there are only a couple small dents to address. Both wing emblem pockets look good, so I can run the original emblems like intended.

Also, been digging through all of my old parts stash to eBay for project funding. I found a set of early xs650 risers that have a ridiculously small amount of rise to them. They fit great and look better than the stock units, so I'll put that in the win column.

A good internet buddy tossed me a SUPER bro deal on some cb350 fork tins and side covers, which puts me that much further ahead. I had to modify these to fit my forks as they were originally intended for earlier model forks. Nothing a hand file, dremel sanding drums, and some patience couldn't take care of though. Still need to find some lower chrome fork tins, but honestly I have bigger fish to fry. While installing the new tins, I found that the left fork lower was attached and held in place only by the front axle! Something has gone severely wrong with the internals, so some investigating is definitely in order.

I think I have changed direction on the headlight to a bottom mount 5 3/4" style. I'll be trimming off the fork ears and fabbing a mounting bracket from the bottom tree somewhere. I'll post up the new rendering with paint options tomorrow.

NWA vintage breakfast club 09-24-2011

2011-09-24T21:24:00.003-05:00

For some reason, I keep forgetting to post some ride pics from our local gatherings. I never bring a camera with me, so our good friends Daphne and Brad are the ones who provide documentation. Here are a few from today which put my personal route total to around 170 miles round trip. It must be mentioned that this "club" isn't really what you think of when discussing clubs. We don't have dues, strict guidelines, patches, t-shirts, etc. Just some folks who enjoy riding vintage bikes. I've made some really great friends since this all started, and many more to come. If you are in the area and would like to check it out, feel free to come out to our monthly meets and see what we are all about.

cb360 build/entry : part 2

2011-09-21T12:01:00.001-05:00

I got aggravated last weekend due to a wiring mishap. I rigged everything back up with the carbs on the bike in attempt some fire breathing. Smoke came pouring out of the rectifier because I did something really stupid. In my head I had everything as was on the previous ignition test. I won't go into to too much detail other than I was trying to rush it while the lady was off at work. I was defeated for the attempt, so I packed it up for the weekend and got back to doing honey-dos. I couldn't leave it alone, so I put it all back together after work today, immediately catching my mistake from before. It was both a eureka moment and a realization that I can be an idiot sometimes. I robbed a plug wire and the battery off my 750, squirted in some go juice and whammy!

I'm not calling this a total win since I didn't keep it running, but I feel a little better about the state of things. I know I'm going to have to pull the clutch plates still, and there's plenty of parts to acquire and fabricate.

NWA vintage breakfast club

2011-09-15T15:59:00.001-05:00

Another Northwest Arkansas Breakfast Club meet next Saturday. Always a good time. Come join the shenanigans.

cb360 build/entry : part 1

2011-08-30T10:06:00.001-05:00

Another build saga begins/continues for the Ozark Mountain Scramble.

Mr. Wixil has stepped up to the plate, challenged to make a previously failed attempt at last years Scramble a success. Starting where Cail left off, he has shifted a smidge in build direction in favor of a scrambler/tracker configuration. Carbs and getting the beast fired are among the immediate items of the short list. A skanky seat that needs a good shave and recover has been put into play as well as a sl350 rear fender needing some massaging for fit. Inspirational photoshop included.

vintage race photo

2011-08-26T15:12:00.000-05:00

vintage race photo

2011-08-24T08:16:00.000-05:00

xs650 street tracker

2011-08-23T11:54:00.007-05:00

Amazing XS650 spotted on the Wrenchmonkees blog. The only thing wrong with this bike, is that I don't own it. Go here for purchasing info------------------------>CLICK

Update: More pics and build info from Sideburn------------------------->CLICK

A few flicks of my newly finished XS, as promised. Mule wheels, with home made CNC milled spacers Brat style seat and rear fender, R6 front fork, WM steering bar, Keihin Flat slide carbs, Pamco Electronic ignition, Brembo master and rear cylinder, SR500 rear swing arm, Bitubo rear shocks, Motogadget mini speedo, Custom made 2 into 1 exhaust.
Thanks for a great magazine !! All the best. Michael Back, Copenhagen.

vintage race photo

2011-08-22T10:42:00.001-05:00

monkey wrench

2011-08-18T08:42:00.001-05:00

NWA vintage breakfast club

2011-08-16T11:23:00.001-05:00

Another Northwest Arkansas Breakfast Club meet next Saturday. Should be a real hoot.

kz400 build/entry : part 17

2011-08-01T14:40:00.002-05:00

Friday evening a member of the kz400 forum mentioned my carb cover looked like it was restricting way too much on airflow which could cause a rich condition at half throttle on. Well, it just so happens I've been battling the jetting from half throttle on due to a rich condition. Duh! Pulled the carb cover off and ran her down the block to test it out. Sure as shit, she ran great all the way up to WOT! Decided to run a sheet of corrugated aluminum and cut the top of the fence post cap off to make a sort of velocity stack look. Ran it about 100 miles or so Saturday without a hiccup. I love the internet, but more importantly I love this motorcycle.

I've been lazy getting any updated pics since completion, but finally snapped a few today.

Previous carb cover:

Updated carb cover:

Side shots:

vintage race photo

2011-07-27T10:03:00.000-05:00

cl350 build/entry : part 2

2011-07-26T00:11:00.002-05:00

Slight update on the cl350. Finally got the k0 tank from ebay in, and while it will definitely need some cosmetic work, it looks to be in a runnable state at the moment. Also did some horse trading with a local on some header pipes. I had a set of the cl pipes, he had a set of cb headers, so everyone walks away happy. Thanks Randy! Still need to source some mufflers, but things are starting to come together finally. The most immediate plan as of this moment is to get some coils and a condenser to hear this beast fire. I would prefer to chase down any possible motor issues now before dumping money into cosmetic parts at the moment, so this will be paramount. In the meantime I've been giving all the chrome bits a once over with steel wool or a wire wheel.

bridgestone gtr 350 drag bike

2011-07-25T08:54:00.000-05:00

Grrrrrrrr.

ducati 350 cafe

2011-07-21T09:18:00.002-05:00

NWA vintage breakfast club

2011-07-20T16:23:00.003-05:00

Local gathering once a month in Northwest Arkansas. Always a good time. Come join the shenanigans.

ironhead swingarm custom

2011-07-16T07:28:00.002-05:00

mcroots--------------------------->CLICK

vintage stunt life

2011-07-15T14:45:00.001-05:00

cl350 build/entry : part 1

2011-07-13T14:35:00.002-05:00

2012 Ozark Mountain Scramble is in half swing, so in light of that fact I am starting my build for next years gallop through the Ozarks.

A 73 cl350 purchased for the lowly sum of $50 will be the subject, and I will be going in a completely different direction compared to last years build. I've been in the planning stages for quite some time now, and think I finally have a good grasp as to what I need to get or do to make it all happen. I am missing quite a few parts from the start, but a little number crunching puts me around an estimated total cost around $750 if all goes as planned. I whipped up a quick wiring diagram in a kick only fashion, but to make things a little more challenging I have decided to rewind the stock stator for better output. A little research has yielded info concerning it's lack of charge capabilities especially when using an h4 beam for the headlight. The rewind will increase the output a considerable amount over stock which will allow me to run the higher wattage bulb as well as a good recharge on the battery. You can purchase higher output stators for this very occasion, but I am far too frugal(cheap) to spend such a large amount of my budget on just one part of the build. First purchase has been an early K0 model cb350 tank to supply fuel. Paid more for the tank than the bike itself, so I hope it's worth every penny. Digital mock up is finished, now I just need to make it a reality.

Donor

Wiring Diagram

Digital Mock-up

vintage formula VEE : beach

2011-07-11T11:30:00.002-05:00

bsa cafe

2011-07-05T09:28:00.002-05:00

2012 ozark mountain scramble

2011-06-28T11:51:00.003-05:00

The dates have been chosen. Same scenario as last year, but there will be some changes in route and lodging. I'll keep you posted here and here---------------------->CLICK

vintage race photo

2011-06-24T08:21:00.000-05:00

support the stump puller

2011-06-22T08:40:00.004-05:00

Become a sponsor of one of the coolest bikes being built on the planet! If you haven't been keeping an eye on Sumo's day to day moto madness, you will want to start here to catch yourself up-------->CLICK

To see the bike build progress go here------------------------>CLICK

The Stump-Puller is a supercharged, twin engined M100 Panther built by www.VintageChop.com with the aim of going to Bonneville from the UK and setting a Land Speed Record. There has never been a twin engined panther built, let alone one with a blower on it!

Getting a couple of sizable sponsors is difficult at best if not impossible, so I've decided to try get lots of small sponsors. So this is where you come in... for your sponsorship of £15, you get an enamel pin, as well as a warm fuzzy glow inside.

100% of the money from these will be used to help VintageChop.com get the Panther Stump Puller to Bonneville to race.

In short you get a cool pin badge, and you help support vintage racing at the same time!

This is a high quality, 27mm soft enamel badge and its FREE international postage.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT

Purchase a pin here------------->CLICK

m&m customs 72 cb500 cafe

2011-06-15T08:37:00.002-05:00

Mike McFadden sent in this slice of awesome pie the other day to feast your eyes on. Here's a few words on the build...

This is my first build sort of a flat tracker café hybrid. I purchased the bike from a guy who had it sitting in his apartment and knew nothing about bikes. I got it for $200.00, and I’ve done everything you see here from the boxing of the frame to the metal work and paint. The tank is off of a cb750 and everything thing else is garage made.

ozark mountain scramble 2011 : done

2011-06-13T09:36:00.003-05:00

What do you say after a journey like this? I mean, there are so many things to sum up over 3 days and 600 miles of riding, it is hard to put into words.

First and foremost I would like to thank everyone that made the run what it was/is. I know I couldn't be any happier with the way things went, and only plan to tweak a few things for next years ride. For the most part repairs were at a minimum. My bike seemed to be the most erratic in behavior, but nothing a handful of spark plugs, a couple fuses, and a ton of oil couldn't fix. Five riders in total had the gusto to join, and despite the low numbers the fun meter never dwindled. All riders but one fit all three criteria, but considering he became our Unofficial Road Captain and fit two of the three rules there is no reason to gripe. Good times had by all. See you next year!

ozark mountain scramble

2011-06-07T08:20:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow the madness ensues throughout the Ozark Mountains. Ride your motorcycle.

wheelie race

2011-06-02T15:40:00.001-05:00

Moped shenanigans.

cb450 build/entry : part 13

2011-06-01T16:25:00.001-05:00

Ready to ride.

Brad

vintage race photo

2011-05-25T08:44:00.002-05:00

xs650 custom

2011-05-24T20:51:00.001-05:00

unit triumph tracker

2011-05-23T08:46:00.002-05:00

m&m's built---------------------------->CLICK

cb450 build/entry : part 12

2011-05-19T08:04:00.001-05:00

Here's some pics. All I'm waiting for now is the side covers which an artist buddy of mine is lettering.

Brad

cb360-2 build/entry : part 1

2011-05-18T09:27:00.002-05:00

Just thought I should let you know I am still in the game. I had been swamped with work for a while. The basket-case CB350 was just not going to make it. My friend Brad found a '76 Honda CB360 for cheap, and talked me into buying it, and starting over with a running bike. Of course I immediately had to make some changes. I put on a CB500T tank. It has the style I wanted, and has about twice the capacity as the 360 tank. The 500 tank was badly dented. Long story; my fancy pin-welder-dent-puller idea went south, when I popped a hole in the tank, on the first yank. Brad was a big help in welding that for me. Last weekend, I layed-down some mud and then some candy-apple red.

The seat and rear fender didn't turn out like I wanted, but it will do for now. I think I'm going to like the rear-set shifter. I hooked up the fuel-lines (no leaks) and it started on the second kick. Still have some work to do, but it's do-able. Your post reminded me I need to get the tags and insurance. I should be ready to ride soon.

Rand Man

ozark mountain scramble

2011-05-17T08:49:00.004-05:00

Just a couple weeks before the OMS kicks off! I've got a couple loose ends on the kz400 to take care of, but nothing that can't be done in an afternoon. It's going to be a real humdinger! Also, don't forget to check out ozarkmountainscrable.blogspot.com for any further info needed.

aermacchi harley davidson cafes

2011-05-10T18:56:00.002-05:00

rd400 daytona cafe

2011-05-09T08:52:00.003-05:00

kz1000 rickman

2011-05-08T11:23:00.001-05:00

vintage drag race?

2011-05-06T07:57:00.000-05:00

vintage race photo

2011-05-04T09:01:00.000-05:00

w650 street tracker

2011-05-03T08:41:00.001-05:00

confused dr650

2011-05-02T09:02:00.002-05:00

This bike is bananas, and I dig every bit of it. If you are curious what the pedigree of this scalded dog happens to be---------------->CLICK

cb360 build/entry : part 2

2011-04-29T11:04:00.002-05:00

Frame and tank have been painted and reassembly has begun. Parts have been coming in at a steady pace with a few hiccups along the way. Hopefully we can wire and fire it this weekend to hear it run for the first time. I made up a kick only wiring diagram that is untested at the moment. We'll know if something explodes soon enough. Here's some crappy pics to prove all of the above.

cl350 scrambler : mid flight

2011-04-29T09:54:00.001-05:00

rd400 cafe

2011-04-28T09:14:00.003-05:00

This thing is straight up CRAZYPANTS! I'm usually not a fan of those alien style headlights, but on this tarmac destroying battleaxe, it just works.

w650 brat style tracker

2011-04-27T08:39:00.001-05:00

vintage race photo

2011-04-26T07:49:00.002-05:00

45 magnum featherbed

2011-04-25T10:20:00.003-05:00

sr400 cafe racer

2011-04-23T08:39:00.003-05:00

vintage race photo : mid flight

2011-04-22T07:53:00.000-05:00

kz400 build/entry : part 16

2011-04-21T16:07:00.001-05:00

Took the bike on it's maiden voyage last night at around 10pm with no front brakes and dodgy rear brakes at best. Considering it hasn't been jetted outside of the stock cr125 settings, it ran rather well. Still running rich, but nothing that can't be sorted with some tinkering. Also whipped up a more current wiring diagram that may be of use for others out there with a kick only setup.

kz400 build/entry : part 15

2011-04-20T15:08:00.002-05:00

Wiring is on the verge of being finished, just lack a brake light switch to consider it done. Installed some new stainless allen head case cover bolts, so good riddance to the old phillips head shite. The last of the main checklist include seat mounts, install fork seals, brake pads front/rear, and tuning the carb. Not far off at all now.

cb77 superhawk road racer

2011-04-20T10:18:00.002-05:00

xs400 cafe

2011-04-19T14:43:00.000-05:00

wheelie

2011-04-18T11:51:00.002-05:00

ossa road racer

2011-04-17T23:39:00.002-05:00

source---------------------------->CLICK

sr400 cafe

2011-04-15T08:18:00.003-05:00

***__mulligan machine__***

2012 ozark mountain scramble

cb350f build/entry : part 1

xl500 build/entry : part 3

weekdays bro

cb550 build/entry : part 5

tt500 project part 1: concept

cb750-1 build/entry : part 3

cb750-1 build/entry : part 2

cl350 build/entry : part 6

cl350 build/entry : part 5

cb750-1 build/entry : part 1

going away party

cb550 build/entry : part 4

xl500 build/entry : part 2

cb550 build/entry : part 3

cb750 build/entry : part 1

xl500 build/entry : part 1

kz400 build/entry : part 1

moto lamp

karmann ghia

xs650 build/entry : part 2

cb360-1 build/entry : part 2

cb360 build/entry : part 3

karmann ghia

cb550 build/entry : part 2

cb360-1 build/entry : part 1

xs650 build/entry : part 1

vintage drag race? updated

cl350 build/entry : part 4

ozark mountain scramble 2012 ride map

trump jump

ozark mountain scramble 2011 pics

kz400 tracker

cb360 build/entry : part 3

cb550 build/entry : part 1

cb360 stocker

ozark mountain scramble 2011 pics

2012 ozark mountain scramble

tt500 + cb360 = kz400?

kz400 build/entry : part 18

ozark mountain scramble 2011 pics

cl350 build/entry : part 3a

cl350 build/entry : part 3

NWA vintage breakfast club 09-24-2011

cb360 build/entry : part 2

NWA vintage breakfast club

cb360 build/entry : part 1

vintage race photo

vintage race photo

xs650 street tracker

vintage race photo

monkey wrench

NWA vintage breakfast club

kz400 build/entry : part 17

vintage race photo

cl350 build/entry : part 2

bridgestone gtr 350 drag bike

ducati 350 cafe

NWA vintage breakfast club

ironhead swingarm custom

vintage stunt life

cl350 build/entry : part 1

vintage formula VEE : beach

bsa cafe

2012 ozark mountain scramble

vintage race photo

support the stump puller

m&m customs 72 cb500 cafe

ozark mountain scramble 2011 : done

ozark mountain scramble

wheelie race

cb450 build/entry : part 13

vintage race photo

xs650 custom

unit triumph tracker

cb450 build/entry : part 12

cb360-2 build/entry : part 1

ozark mountain scramble

aermacchi harley davidson cafes

mulligan machine