'81 GS450T Derelict Rehash

[Guest]

Hi All,
I dragged this derelict home a few years ago for the princely sum of $150 (with title), promptly disassembled it to the frame, and just as promptly pushed it aside in favor of other projects. Actually, most of my hesitation to move forward on it at the time was due to indecision on the direction of the project. Initial plan was to go the cafe route, but couldn't quite commit to that course of action.

In retrospect, it would have been wise to leave the bike intact and return it to functional condition as it was, but there were so many things that needed attention I just didn't see the point. Plus it was easier to store it in pieces. Fast forward to last month and a renewed interest to restart the project in a different direction.

I've decided that, regardless of future plans for the bike, I first need to bring it back to original operational configuration and ride it for a good while to see what aspects of the bike can benefit from performance upgrades. Here's a pic of the bike as received so you can see what I'm starting with.

 

[Guest]

Here's another pic...

 

[Guest]

Currently in the process of replacing all of the frame and wheel bearings, beginning with the swing arm. The left hand needle bearing in the swing arm was completely gone and for that alone I'm glad I tore the bike down rather than get it running initially. Here's a pic of the swing arm after bead blast, paint and new bearings installed.

 

[Guest]

Here are the wheels (17" rear, 19" front) after clean up and new tires installed (Durotour rear, AM26 front). Attempted conversion of front to tubeless with little success so far, so I may have to install a tube if I can't resolve the leakage issue. No success yet getting the rear bead to seat either, so batting average on tire install sucks at this point...I'm tenacious though, so I'll resolve these issues eventually...

 

[LunArBasalt]

mmmmmmm Fresh rubber

 

[eil]

With some cosmetic freshening up, I think the twin T looks pretty good in stock configuration!

 

[GSXR7ED]

I like your bike. Agree with eil; reminds me of my bike.

Ed

 

[Guest]

mmmmmmm Fresh rubber

New shoes are oddly appealing, aren't they...

 

[Guest]

Charles/Red,

I agree wholeheartedly with both of you and my plan is to have it as close to original in looks and performance as possible when I'm done. The few changes I'm making are a set of superbike bars to improve riding position (for me), and I'll have to graft on new mufflers to replace the mangled originals.

This is what I'd like to have when I'm done.

Mike

 

[Guest]

It was a beautiful day today in N. FL, about 70 degrees and sunny with very little wind, so i got an early start and got myself set up to sand blast the frame.

 

[Guest]

Then I wiped it down with alcohol and applied self-etching primer...

 

[Guest]

And finished up with gloss black chassis paint...not a bad day's work...

 

[Bronan]

Nice work!

 

[Guest]

Progress update. Installed the swing arm (new bearings freshly greased) and a few other items yesterday.

 

[Guest]

This is where I'm at so far...

 

[spyug]

Looking very good sir. I'll look forward to seeing how she turns out.

Cheers.

 

[Guest]

Haven't worked on the bike or updated this thread in some time due to my mom passing away last month from late stage cancer. Getting back to it now, so here's a photo of where things stand. Finally got the new tires aired up without tubes, replaced all of the wheel and steering neck bearings. New rear brake shoes, polished up all of the chrome pieces, etc..

 

[Guest]

Need to start getting into the motor now. It looks to need a top end refresh just to clean things up and re-time/re-seal. Also need to reseal and polish the side covers, inspect the clutch and stator, etc, and clean/repair/replace as necessary. Motor appears to be in solid shape otherwise, so not anticipating needing to go into the case for anything unless I see something once the cylinder and side covers come off. Here's a photo of it before disassembly.

 

[GSXR7ED]

I Have Been to St Augustine

I Have Been to St Augustine

Thanks for updating us and my deepest condolences for your loss.

Hey, I didn't realize you were in St Augustine. I was just there this past weekend. I hit up the Winery/Distillery/A1A Brewery and went for a swim on the Auggie Beach. I might just go there this Memorial Day wknd.

Well, keep up with the updates!


Ed

 

[Guest]

Thanks Ed, let me know if you come back to town this weekend and we'll grab a beer or two...