[Bobolto]

Been working on my VT1100c3 for a while now and I came across a '99 ACE that I couldn't pass up. I've been wanting to do some parts swapping for a while now, and I think this bike will be an excellent canvas for that.

It's a mechanic special, for sure. It's only got 15,ooo miles on it, and I think the time that it sat was harder on it than the miles of highway. The gas tank is peeling, the seat is smoked (not the original cover anyways) and there are spots of rust and pits in the chrome.

It's a 750cc and it's noticeably smaller than my 1100 AERO. It's also got the stock exhaust, so it's VERY quiet compared to the AERO. But that's okay, because what I'm planning doesn't require loud pipes. Although it does take some getting used to riding with the stock tube. I feel like there should be bubbles coming out of the end of the pipe for the sound it makes. :lol:

I know a lot of folks are looking to make a bobber out of these bikes, but my hope is to somewhat replicate a WWII-era motorcycle. I really like the WLC-style of motorcycle and I hope I can capture the feel of the era with the work I plan on doing. First, there has to be a LOT of late-model-style chrome that has to drip off of the bike. Here's a couple of current-state shots.








Now, here's a pic of what I would like to emulate.

As you can see, I've got my work cut out for me.

My plans are to first ditch the bags, highway pegs and windshield. Then re-skin the seat so at least that is presentable while in process. I gots to have fun with it while working on it too!

To be honest, I think the previous owner was pretty anal about the mechanics of the bike. There were about three quarts of Honda oil in the one bag and a service manual. The thing runs like a top, starts on about 1/2 a revolution of the engine and idles like a kitten. I was told that the bike just had a new rectifier and battery installed and it still has the tool kit and owner's manual in the compartment under the seat. Should be a fun ride!

C5rider,
Thumbs up on your plan Man! That Bike looks very promising for a thoughtful restore... Resto-Mod?

 

[Bobolto]

it amazes me how the chrome can hold up on these bikes. Looking at the gas tank i am trying to imagine where it sat for a long time, the Sun? was it partially covered with the side of the tank exposed? the tank is fried but the chrome looks good.

Makes me wonder how people store stuff. i guess once they have decided they dont want it anymore it becomes a PITA and gets treated that way ...