1984 Katana 7/11

[pete]

Well first ride out with the Katana folk was absolutely awesome yesterday, the Kat went well, some minor teething issues to sort out but nothing major and generally it rides very well indeed. I've got a pretty good idea on the carbs now I've been able to get the throttle to WOT several times and I know I need smaller mains, so I should be able to get those dialed in a lot better now.

I got slack with taking pic's yesterday as I was a bit busy chin wagging and riding so I've only taken the two below with the rest of the Kats, will definitely take more next time out.

Just need to say again to those of you who've given me advice, tips, parts, and moral support along the journey, thanks so much! No way would I have had an awesome ride out yesterday without the help.

Untitled by starpoint73, on Flickr


Untitled by starpoint73, on Flickr

[pete]

Cheers all, I'm an extremely happy camper that's for sure! Still grinning every time I realise I finally have a Kat in the garage I can jump on and ride any time I feel like it I'm so grateful for all the help and advice I've gotten along the way, no way I'd be done otherwise!

Even did a few kms after work yesterday to check out some adjustments to get all set for this morning's ride, couldn't stop grinning despite joining in the traffic

As to the questions... what next is to get the carbs dialed in better, and I'm already starting to put some $$ away towards the head rebuild as I still have the loaner head on it. Once that's done, not sure although the 450 could use some TLC. Still a great little bike that gets me to work and back every day but I feel a GS500 cylinder and piston upgrade might be a nice treat as well as a tidy up.

As for BOTM, yep I will submit, I need to get some photos worthy of a submission first which is something I'm not great at. Hopefully I can get an opportunity for that this morning or in the near future.

Will definitely be riding this Kat as much as time allows

[dorkburger]

Pete, congratulations. May you enjoy many miles and years on the Kat.
Great job, great looking cycle.

[Charlie G]

I hope you submitted your Kat for a well diserved BOTM, but it really should be bike of the year. There aren't many projects that can truly live up to the real potential of this fourm, but you and this Katana project have certianly shown what an individual with the larger collective mind (GSR & your Katana group) can accomplish. Thanks for showing us how it should be done (again!).

[nvr2old]

I remember when I first got my Cooley, it wasn't even rideable. Didn't even know if it ran..18 months later when it was all finished and to fire it up and go for that long anticipated ride was pure nirvana. I 'm sure it felt the same for you, Pete. Well done, congratulations..now go ride the pi$$ out of 'er.

[storm 64]

Have fun at the Sunday rider meet up. I'm sure your motorcycle will be a stand out. 👍 But don't forget, your 450e needs a little love now and then.🙂

[steve murdoch]

A well deserved ride, Pete.
Gotta admit i am a bit sad this build has come to a conclusion.
I always look forward to the updates and read them all.

What's next? haha.

[pete]

It's on the road!!!!

Got all the red tape sorted yesterday so it's now registered and insured and put 73kms on already. All set now to get out with the Kat guys on Saturday morning, can't wait!!!

A few minor adjustments required as expected and I certainly need to spend more time on the carb setup, but it rides really well and I was feeling at home on it very quickly indeed.

Untitled by starpoint73, on Flickr

[pete]

Cheers mate! The oil cooler's actually a Davies Craig transmission cooler for 4 cylinder cars: https://daviescraig.com.au/product/t...ltra-4-cyl-401

[dweller]

Badass! What oil cooler is that from? Very nice bike!

[pete]

Hahaha cheers guys, really appreciate the comments! I'm extremely happy with how she's turned out, and as for BOM, if I can get a decent photo away from my driveway I'll submit it for sure.

This Kat wouldn't be done without the help and support from you lot here (especially the painting advice!) and also from my local Kat "support group", you've all been awesome.

Cannot wait for that first ride and providing I can get my GoPro mounting sorted I'll be sure to post up a video!

[Rob S.]

Bike of the Month? I say it's Playmate of the Year!

[steve murdoch]

Take a bow, Brother.
PLEASE submit this beauty for BOTM consideration.
Especially with the back story it is a shoo-in.

[nvr2old]

Congratulations, Pete. That Kat looks amazing. I so much enjoyed the process. You should be very proud of that bike. The color combos are top shelf and it certainly looks ready to rip.

[Charlie G]

You are an inspiration to all Pete! Congrats mate.