Volume 37 / Number 1 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 • $5

WHAT’S INSIDE: VJMC West Coast Regional Rally Randy Sams, Motorcycle Collector Extraordinaire That College Motorcycle Second Chance Suzuki Polishing Aluminum

official publication of the vintage japanese motorcycle club of north america, inc.

IN THIS ISSUE Features EVENT: Vintage in COVER STORY the Valley 2015 6 Christmas Rides 40 EVENT: 2015 VJMC 2015 West Coast 9 Regional Rally PROJECT BIKE: A Honda CB160 Barn Find 12 Restoration EVENT: VJMs at the Harvest Classic 16 COLLECTIONS: Kansas City Japanese Motorcycle Collector 19 Extraordinaire PROJECT BIKE: That College Motorcycle 21 PROJECT BIKE: Departments Second Chance Suzuki PRESIDENT’S LETTER: 27 Be a Rider in 2016...... 5 EVENT: BACK IN THE DAY: 2015 Western Nebraska ...... Vintage Motorcycle William Champion 10 Show & Swap Meet 31 FROM THE EDITOR: EVENT: Thanks from Members...... 11 Rice-O-Rama Returns ADVERTISER’S SPOTLIGHT: 37 Spacecoast Plating...... 56 EVENT: TECH HELP: Mountain Motorsports Tech Tip #12: Winterization and Storage of Motorcycles...... 57 44 Birthday Bash EVENTS CORNER...... 59 MAINTENANCE CLASSIFIEDS...... 60 & RESTORATION: Polishing Aluminum ADVERTISERS’ INDEX...... 61 47 to a Chrome-like Finish

Volume 37 / Number 1 EVENT: FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 • $5 2015 Florida On the Cover State Rally Christmas riders in WHAT’S INSIDE: the tunnel of trees VJMC West Coast Regional Rally 51 Randy Sams, on Orange Avenue Motorcycle Collector Extraordinaire (CR and SR 48) at That College Motorcycle CLUB BUSINESS: Second Chance Suzuki Polishing Aluminum Floral City, Florida Your Board of Directors for 2016-2017 cover photo: 53 official publicatioN of the ViNtage japaNese motorcycle club of North america, iNc. Michael Fitterling Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 3

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

Official Publication of the VJMC Be a Rider in 2016 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 very new year brings challenges and opportunities for the Volume 37, Number 1 EVJMC. Our Board of Directors meets monthly to raise the PRESIDENT bar on the quantity and quality in all that we do: rallies, mag- Tom Kolenko 770-427-4820 azine, website, shows, and festivals. We serve our almost 3900 [email protected] members who are dedicated to restoring, showing, and riding EDITOR Japanese motorcycles. Fortunately, we continue to attract a Michael Fitterling deep talent pool in our volunteers. 863-632-1981 Club elections were held in December, as required every two [email protected] years, and John Herke, our club barrister, solicited candidates from our Field DESIGN DIRECTOR Representatives. We are happy to welcome two new Directors to the BOD. Randy Nadine G. Messier [email protected] Mayes (NC) and Bob Kelly (CO) stepped up to the challenge and joined the BOD this January. Many of you will recall Randy’s involvement from years past when CLASSIFIED ADS Gary Gadd she held various offices, and we welcome her return. Bob has been a “boots on 817-284-8195 the ground” organizer of VJMC events in Colorado for years, and we welcome [email protected] his expertise, dedication, and insights. MAGAZINE DISPLAY It is also important for this club to recognize the dedication of retiring BOD ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Bryan Bentley member, Jack Stein, who has done much to expand the VJMC’s presence in 864-923-0559 the West. He has championed the West Coast rallies for the past three years, [email protected] grown the Arizona ranks to over 130 members, lead the Phoenix IMS shows, and MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR brought his business acumen to each BOD conference call. Thank you for your Bill Granade leadership and dedication. 813-961-3737 [email protected] In Washington State, we also have a talent transition. Mike Ashford has stepped down as Field Representative to pursue yachting club offices after years of contri- CHANGE OF ADDRESS butions to the local VJMC base. Ed Howard of Olympia, Washington, has volun- Please direct these requests to Bill Granade: [email protected] teered to take his place and will lead the VJMC’s efforts in the area. Best wishes to both of these hard working volunteers. If you wish to contribute as a Field ADDITIONAL COPIES In order to minimize unnecessary expens- Representative, go to the website and download the application forms and send es to the club, VJMC prints a limited number them in to me. We can always use hard working volunteers who want to create of each issue of Vintage Japanese Motorcy- great times for VJMC members in their area. cle Magazine. However, we would be glad to accommodate any requests for additional copies Since many of you are buried in snow drifts as you read this and have your ma- from members. chines hibernating in basements, garages, sheds, and carports, you might con- These requests must be submitted before the sider attending the various upcoming IMS shows where we will have a booth. 15th of the month preceding each issue. For ex- If that’s not possible, grab your calendar and start making riding commitments ample: for the Feb/Mar issue requests must be received by January 15. for 2016. We will be venturing to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, to provide a rally for our Northeast members, in addition to our National Rally in Mitchell, Indiana, MISSION STATEMENT: at Spring Mill State Park. Pete Slatcoff will be sending email blasts to encour- The purpose of this organization is to promote the preservation, restoration, and enjoyment of age advance registration for both of these events. Early registrations are running vintage Japanese motorcycles (defined here as strong, since most folks want to be at onsite accommodations at the discounted those 20 years old or older). The VJMC also will rally rate. promote the sport of motorcycling and camera- derie of motorcyclists everywhere. How many times have we heard the axiom: “It’s all about the ride”? There is no © 2016 Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club of greater feeling than bringing an old motorcycle back to its core purpose—carry- North America, an IRS-approved Not-for-prof- ing its owner down the road safely. It captures our youth and the good life like few it 501(c)(7) corporation. All rights reserved. other experiences. But it’s also about who you ride with. Those times when our No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted without permission. All articles members gather for group rides at rallies and festivals turn the clock back to the copyright by their respective authors. 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s. Riding with like-minded members in groups large and Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine is pub- small is the icing on life’s cake. I look forward to riding with many of you in the lished six times per year, in February, April, June, year ahead. May your friends increase in quality and quantity in the year ahead, August, October, and December. The views and opinions expressed in letters or other content and if they ride a vintage Japanese bike, all the better. are those of the author and do not necessarily represent VJMC policy. The VJMC accepts no lia- Ride safe and often, bility for any loss, damage, or claims occurring as a result of advice given in this publication or for Tom Kolenko claims made by advertisers of products or ser- VJMC President vices in this publication. [email protected] Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 5 I don’t know This beauty is what model bound to be a Honda this is, winner when but it looks it’s finished. pretty rare.

6 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 HISTORYevent Vintage in the Valley 2015 by Ambrose Knobel / [email protected]

he fourth annual Vintage in the Val- Tley Show & Shine and Swap Meet was once again a great success. Brilliant sunshine is always a contributing factor in bringing large numbers of motorcy- cles out for great events like this. Again, the show was at Heritage Park in Chilliwack, located in the beautiful Fraser Valley of British Columbia. The attendance was around 2000 people, and vendor and booth spaces doubled over last year. The show is not just for vintage Japanese bikes, but also Europe- an and American. The feature bike was the Suzuki GT- 750. It’s great to see that two-stroke bikes are being kept alive and in the spotlight. I had the privilege to “sneak” into the hall before the show opened and was able to take some nice pictures. Next year’s show is scheduled to take place on Sunday, August 14, 2016, at the same great location. For more information visit www.vintage motorcycleshows.com. l

RIGHT & OPPOSITE PAGE: The show’s feature bike— the Suzuki GT-750. This one is a daily runner.

Robert Pritchard Big and small, with his latest they were all restoration—a 1978 Gold Wing there. Kawasaki KH100EL GL 1000 LTD

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 7

event VJMC 2015 West Coast Regional Rally by Bob Leonard, Treasurer / [email protected]

hortly after Labor Day, the VJMC which was held at Northland Motor- Sconvened in scenic Flagstaff, Arizo- sports, a Flagstaff motorcycle dealer- na, for the 2015 West Coast Regional ship, owned by former Honda rider and Rally. The two-day event featured rides Baja racing legend Steve Hengeveld. The to nearby attractions, a bike show, meals highlights of the show included a hand- at a historic local eatery along famed built Kawasaki 1000cc two-stroke qua- Route 66, and lots of camaraderie with druple, owned by prominent collector fellow lovers of vintage Japanese mo- Lee Mitzel, and a collection of six Hon- torcycles. The weather was beautiful da Benleys from the 1950s, also owned throughout, and a great time was had by Lee. by all. After the bike show, the group headed As the first day of the event was Sep- out for a ride to Sedona following a route tember 11th, the event got underway down through scenic Oak Creek Can- with a moment of silence around the yon. The ride was followed by another American flag in front of the host hotel. group dinner at Granny’s Closet. In ad- This was followed by a ride to the Grand dition to more door prizes, the dinner Canyon. The route covered 150 miles featured technical presentations by well- round-trip through the pines of north- known Arizona-based vintage Japanese ern Arizona—yes, Arizona has pine motorcycle experts Stu Oltman and TJ trees! After joining other visitors to take Jackson. After dinner, the bike show in the remarkable beauty of the canyon, trophies were awarded, and the event the group headed back to Flagstaff for wrapped up for another year. dinner at Granny’s Closet. In addition The plans for the 2016 West Coast Re- to the food and camaraderie, the group gional Rally are still in the formative was treated to some vintage Japanese stages. If you’d like to get involved in motorcycle-themed entertainment, and selecting a location for the event and lots of door prizes were awarded. developing plans for it, please send an Day two started with the bike show, email to [email protected]. l

TOP: Arriving at the Grand Canyon CENTER: The bike show BOTTOM: The crowd admiring Lee Mitzel’s vintage Honda collection Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 9 BACK IN THE DAY

by William Champion LEFT: My favorite picture. When it all started— nclosed are the earliest pictures 1966. The Clarkston, from my forty-eight years, and MI gang. Doug Osbo E (left) on a Honda 305 still counting, of motorcycling. The Scrambler, Bev Pyl- Trail 55 was purchased used in East man on a Honda Trail 55, and Dave Kay on a Lansing for $200. My parents gave Honda 250 Scrambler. me $100 for the Senior Trip, but I used it for the bike, combined with money I had saved. The 1966 160 in the picture was new and purchased from Bud Heimbaugh (pictured on the Triumph), who worked at An- derson’s Honda in Pontiac, Mich- RIGHT: igan. That bike was stolen in 1981, 1967, Clarkston, MI. Doug Osbo so I bought a 1967 160 parts bikes on a Honda 305 Scrambler and John Osbo (Doug’s father) on from Anderson’s. It was in bush- a Honda 305 Super Hawk—still el baskets. I took it to Phil White in the family, restored by his grandson. (“The Honda Doctor,” pictured on the dirt track) at Phil’s Cycle. He put it back together. I did a frame-up restoration in 2001. That is now my quick ride to the beach. My regular rides are a 1989 Honda GB500 and LEFT: , 1965 or 66, Brighton, MI. a 1975 Norton Commando. Riding Phil White, State Champion still holds the same enjoyment as it Heavyweights on an , did in the 60s! l extremely tricked-out 305 Scrambler.

ABOVE: 1960s, Hill 90, Pontiac, MI. ABOVE: 6A, Bud Heimbaugh on a 500 1971, Royal Oak, MI. Bill Champion Triumph twin (foreground) and after faceplant by endo at 49, Ron Williams on a BSA single. Motorcycle Hills in Pontiac on a Heath Kit Bonnie bike frame, LEFT: Cushman Eagle fork, tires, and 1968, Clarkston, MI. wheels, and a Wisconsin 10hp Bev Pylman on a 1966 cement mixer motor. Honda 160 Scrambler.

10 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 FROM THE EDITOR Thanks from Members

by Michael Fitterling / [email protected]

Hi Tom, ccasionally, a fellow VJMC board I thought I would drop you a line on behalf of myself and my wife (Greg & Jude) to say a huge thank you. - Omember or one of our article au- Everyone we met in the VJMC was so welcoming, friendly and thors receives letters or emails from peo- generous. Meeting up with VJMC put the icing on the cake ple who want to show their appreciation that was already perfect, what a Festival. I would like to say special thanks to yourself, Buck (Mitch - for the club and its magazine. I thought I ell), Randy [Mayes]…and especially Tony (Shuler) for all your would share a few that have come across hospitality and help in making my birthday ‘dream’ of riding my desk lately in this “From the Editor” the Barber Track happen. installment. Every one is much appreci- Just to round off the Festival I met Mr Barber in the Muse um and had a good chat with him, what a truly great man. ated. I can’t imagine how our visit could have been any better, Back in October, not long after the awesome. Barber Vintage Festival, club president Hopefully, we will meet you again (either side of the pond). Thomas Kolenko received this note Kind regards, from Greg and Jude Elson, from the ­—Greg & Jude VJMC UK. Tom passed it along to his fellow board members, saying this: “I wanted to share this email I got from the VJMC-UK member that had a great time when Buck Mitchell & Tony lent him a bike for the parade laps. “It’s experiences like this that make this such a great club.”

Also in October, George VanDelinder sent this email to Bill Granade, our VJMC Membership Chairman: James Webb, who wrote “Me and My , CB,” the story of his 62 CB77 [VJMM, Aug/Sep 2014, Vol35 No4] received this note from Jeff Ecker, aka “Hodaka Jeff” a while ago: All, I appreciate the letters and continue to look forward to every edition of the magazine. I used to belong to The Dream Club and have been I really liked your story about a member of VJMC since 2004 (I think). I have the Honda and the 3 pictures. attached pictures of why I belong. It took a I get real tired of stories about total of 15 years of toting parts of this bike expensive restorations and around due to various job changes until I finally would rather hear about these completed this project early this spring. I hope old machines and the rider’s this qualifies me for membership. history. It was a nice short and down-to-Earth-story and I Thanks again for the work you put loved the pictures. Thanks for into keeping this club going. contributing it!

­ —George —Jeff Ecker, Canton, Kansas

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 11 12 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 PROJECTevent BIKE A Honda CB160 Barn Find Restoration by Claude Chafin / [email protected]

t was April 2014. My brother and I de- Icided to go to an auto junkyard auc- tion in Central Kansas, near Ellsworth. I knew there was a Honda Dream in the auction, and thought I might check it out. When we arrived, I was a little disappointed; the Honda Dream was a total wreck. Basically, the Dream was a rusted ghost of what it once was. But there was a Honda CB160 there in better shape, and since my brother was driv- ing, I figured I was there for the dura- tion until he decided to leave. The bikes came up for sale, and I bid on the 160. No one was much interested, so I got the bike for $100, along with two extra motorcycle engines. One of the extra en- gines was another 160 with carburetors. I also bought some other items that I lat- er sold. In the end, I got all my money back that I had originally spent on the bike, the motors, and the other items. So I ended up with the CB160 and two en- ABOVE: gines for free. A selection of photos I thought about selling the whole lot, of the engine before the restoration but after reading about the CB160, I decided that maybe this bike would be OPPOSITE: A collage of images cool to restore. I was particularly in- documenting the trigued by bikers who revamp the 160 restoration process motor into a racing engine today. Other studies revealed that the bike was de- signed by Honda with a racing frame. That’s probably where it got its racing heritage. Particularly interesting to me was the fact that the engine redlines at had it before me had tried to set the tim- We set about making a shopping list 10,500 rpm. Even more interesting was ing, because it was right on the mark. It of the parts we would need—bike and the 360 degree stroke design. That al- turned out that the valves were in bad engine, both. What we needed was too lows for quick acceleration. The engines shape, and so compression would have numerous to list. Just know that it was a were factory balanced, so there is very been poor at best. Don’t you just love lot. Some were easy to find, some were a little vibration. The engines that get those “shade tree” mechanics? That’s little harder. raced have precision balancing. probably why the starter was bad, also. Some of the parts we bought turned Anyway, the decision was made not Since, it wouldn’t start due to poor com- out to be after-market parts and had to sell it, but to restore it. pression, they just burned up the start- be returned or modified in some way. The engine was froze up, and the start- er trying to get it running. It was very For example, the clutch cable we bought er was bad. Guessing by the position of dirty, which led me to believe they were was too long and had to be shortened. the timing mark, I would say who ever riding it as a dirt bike. On another occasion, I had bought Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 13 some valves online from a seller in the Far East; it turned out the valves were for a Dream. The best advice I can give is to buy a parts manual—very helpful to know parts numbers for what you are looking for. Parts in the carb kits available were not to specs for a 160, so pay heed. And I would not trust the ig- nition stuff they are selling. Spend the money! Put electronic ignition on it with the regulated rectifier. Later, you will be glad you did. We got ours from Charlie’s in San Francisco. They were oh soooo helpful. The whole thing hides away behind the points cover—nothing external. Restoration time was set at a year, working on it part time and tracking down parts along the way. We actually finished in about fifteen months. Wow, I can still remember blasting away at some of the parts with the sand blaster in the hot summer Missouri sun. Once it was prepped and primed, I had to pick a color of paint. I decided that a soft powder blue with the original silver trim would look the best, complement- ing the already blue seat. Most of the bike was original, but a few improve- ments were installed. For example, the rear shocks are new, unlike the origi- ways a plus. I was looking for a stable nal painted versions. This was done for bike with performance and that’s nim- two reasons: first, the new rear shocks ble in traffic. I think we achieved all of should improve stability. The second that. reason was that the front shocks have The bike is light and extremely ma- chrome trim, so from an aesthetic point neuverable in traffic. The electronic of view, it gives it more balance than the ignition gives it a very robust accelera- original painted versions. tion for such a small displacement en- Allen head screws were used to assem- gine. I guess technology finally caught ble the lower end of the engine—much up with the CB160, or maybe the CB160 better than the JIS it had in its day, plus has caught up with technology. Which- it gives it a very mechanized look—a ever, the results have been over the top. very cool look, indeed. We also added It’s been like meeting an old girlfriend I a little wider handlebar than the nar- used to know and getting re-acquainted, row bar it came with for more control only this time it’s even sweeter. up front. Plus, it doesn’t have that ugly A special thanks to James Herr, from cross-member bar that gets in the way of Dead End Cycles, for rebuilding the en- seeing the speedometer. We added bead gine. He had just finished rebuilding a balancing in the inner tubes for self-bal- Honda Dream when I approached him ancing tires to avoid those ugly weights about this project. To me, it seemed he on the rims. would be the most likely to have recent The steering ball bearings on the neck experience working on this type and era were switched out and replaced with of engine. Also, thanks to the KCVJMC roller bearings. Smooth steering is al- for advice along the way. l

14 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 15 VJMs at the Harvest Classsic by Keith Schindler

he Harvest Classic European and Vintage Motorcycle Rally is an annual fund Traising event, held in the minute town of Luckenbach, Texas. The proceeds raised by the event benefit the Candlelighters, a childhood cancer support foun- dation. One of the event’s organizers lost a child to cancer, and the Candlelighters were of great support to the family, thus the Harvest Classic now supports the orga- nization that provided so much support at the family’s time of need. November 2015 marked the thirteenth anniversary of the Harvest Classic, and it turned out to be a bit unlucky. The predicted rains showed up, soaking the Friday and Saturday event. Although there was some rain Thursday night, muddying the event site, it was the Friday night rains that were the “Game Changer.” Friday, itself, was not bad, although the staff did have to spread hay around the en- try area, in an attempt to firm up the muddy ground. Temps were very comfortable, with the sun peaking in and out of the clouds. The staff busied themselves with final setup, as attendees and bikes showed up. Folks enjoyed the better weather, cold beers, and friendship, as well as watching the dare devil riders performing in the “Globe of Death.” Luckily, the name did not hold true that day. Friday’s only formal event was the 100cc Fun Run. As the start time drew near, bikes began to stage for the run—quite an assortment of bikes, with quite an as- sortment of riders, too. Stock bikes were intermixed with not-so stock bikes. Some of these folks take the 100cc Fun Run seriously, jockeying for the “Hole Shot” as the ride was flagged off. The participants “roared” off amidst the scream of 100cc thunder. It was quite a sight and sound!

16 february / march 2016 event

BELOW RIGHT: The 100cc Fun Run takes off!

RIGHT: The Globe of Death

As mentioned above, Friday night considerably fewer than in past years. Saturday wrapped up with great mu- brought rain—enough rain to flood The bikes that did show up, though, sic; the auction, which brought in some the creek and the Vintage Trials course. were worth slogging through the muck good “coin;” and the BBQ supper. Ev- Bummer; folks were really looking for- to view. erybody seemed to have a great time, ward to that event, and not just the rid- The event drew numerous vintage Jap- and numerous friendships were made. ers. With the Friday night rains came a anese motorcycles, in both the 100cc The folks who put on the Harvest Clas- cool front, with cooler temps, more rain, Fun Run and the show itself. There were sic do an outstanding job and should be and breeze on Saturday. The weather, daily riders, survivors, and restored applauded for the funds they provide no doubt, had an effect on reducing the bikes; with several not even entered in to the Candlelighters, as well as the fun number of attendees. the show, but simply transportation for they provide for the attendees. It was not a problem for those of us the attendee to make it to the event. This You can bet that I’ll be back next year, that did attend, as we had a great time, is definitely a great event to see some and the next, and the next, and… despite the weather. Unfortunately, the VJMs, as well as other awesome vintage Hope to see you and your VJM there number of bikes entered in the show was rides. next year! l Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 17 18 february / march 2016 collectionsevent Kansas City Japanese Motorcycle Collector Extraordinaire

by Mark Bayer, President KCVJMC, Kansas/Missouri Field Rep / [email protected]

andy Sams has been an active member of the Kansas City RChapter of the VJMC for several years. He had heard about our club through an event flier a number of years ago and attended the event. Since that time, he has been an important and active part of our club. Randy has done something we all wish we had done, he has kept most of the motorcycles he has purchased throughout his lifetime. We all know the story: the guy next to you at an event declares, “I bought one of those decades ago, and I wish I had never sold it.” Well, Randy has done just that! He has been collecting Japa- nese motorcycles for approximately forty-three years and still owns many of them. He still owns his first car! To tell the story correctly, Randy has bought and sold numerous bikes during his lifetime, and he currently owns at least forty-eight machines. All of his bikes are Japanese motorcycles, and most date back to when they were One of Randy’s CBXs new or almost new. Randy likes “riders,” not just show bikes. He does most of the me- chanical work on the bikes and all of the cosmetic work. He owns a body shop, so this is in line with his professional expertise. He has a very nice collection. He owns a set of Honda CBXs, an early 1979 model as well as a later touring model. He also has a set of bright yellow Yamaha RZ350s. Randy likes two-strokes and has a bunch of Yamaha RDs; these include a 100, 200, 250, two 350s, and a 400. He also has three Kawasaki three-cylinder bikes—an H1, an H2, and an H1 with a 750cc engine. He has a really nice Suzuki Water Buffalo, along with a Suzuki “Ram Air” 550; both are really clean and original. Randy also owns his father’s GL1100 Gold Wing, purchased new in 1983. The cool thing about the Gold Wing is that his father had , accessorized it with all the stuff available back in the early 80s. CB550 I kid you not, it is literally a museum of accessories which were popular over thirty years ago. The bike was also pinstriped by a well-known striper of that era named “Scarecrow,” who made three color pinstriping popular. He has several Kawasaki 1100s old and newer. One of the newer ones is a turbocharged bike producing over 250 horsepower. Ran- dy has always liked fast bikes. He also has a Honda CB400 Four , purchased new in the 70s, which was used as a street and drag race bike. It ran in the low 12s back in the day—even fast for today! Randy is currently working on a very rare to America, Yamaha RZ500 four. These were primarily race bikes, with just a few sold to the public in very low numbers. The exotic twin crankshaft, V-4, two-stroke engine was a world beater in the early 1980s. It will be quite a unique show bike when completed. Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 19 Kawasaki H1 racer Randy has several garages used to store his collection, which he then slowly rotates as he rides new ones. Several years ago, he invited our club over to his house to see a part of his col- lection. He used a church parking lot close to his home to line the bikes up. As we turned the corner, it looked like a vintage Japanese bike show. I guess it was just that, the difference was that it was just a one man show. Randy received the KCVJMC President’s Award at the VJMC Regional Show in August of 2014. KCVJMC is proud to have Randy as an active member of the club and appreciates his efforts in collecting, restoring, riding, and actively participat- ing in the Japanese motorcycle community. If you ever have a chance to attend one of our events, I can assure you that Randy will have one or two bikes there. l

His Water Buffalo

His beautiful Yamaha 125

20 february / march 2016 PROJECTevent BIKE That College Motorcycle by David Hellard / [email protected]

t was late fall of 1970 when I saw an ad Iin the local Dayton Daily News adver- tising a Honda CL175 for sale. I called the owner for details. The kid just want- ed to get some cash so he could buy one of those brand new Honda ATC “Three-Wheelers” that he had seen out on the trail. The bike’s location was not too far away, so I drove my par- ents’ trusty Valiant over to take a look at it. I circled around the bike, acting non-committal, and asked him if it had ever had any work done to it. “No,” he ABOVE: The author in said, the only thing was that he had put Oxford, Ohio, a smaller counter sprocket on it for low- 1971 end grunt on the trail. For the trail? This bike looked way too good to have been thrashed on the trail—nothing bent or broken, even the metal blue fenders were straight. “Mind if I take it for a test ride?” I ventured. “No problem, man,” he replied, “have at it.” Man, was this a gorgeous piece of Jap- LEFT: The author and anese craftsmanship! It had beautiful, a Miami campus sparkling blue paint. The gas tank had beauty at his Plum Street some very unique painted striping along apartment, the top, which I had never seen before on Oxford, Ohio a Honda. Also, it had a lot more power than my first bike, a Yellow 1968 Honda campus and to take uptown to the local mornings at the local lumber company, CL125. It also had an extra fifth gear! I pubs. An afternoon attendance at one afternoon handball sessions with my was sold at first glance. I can’t remember of these establishments spawned the buddy Dave D, and evenings spent in exactly what I paid for it, but it seems as adventure: “My Wild Day on a Bridge- the local pubs. One day while walking though it was $475 of my hard-earned stone,” that some of you might have back to the apartment after our obliga- summer factory-floor earnings. I was recently read in the August/September tory all-Friday-afternoon handball mar- soon off to deliver it to Miami Universi- 2015, issue of Vintage Japanese Motor- athon, Dave commented, “I just can’t ty in Oxford, Ohio, where I was to start cycle Magazine. The Honda also served wait to get out of here and start working my senior year in college in January of as the basis of my first off-road riding and making some money!” I turned to 1971. adventures, and as a vehicle to teach my him and said, “Are you kidding? You However, I had a potential problem. buddy Dave D to ride. This bike was the will look back on this as the easiest and Miami did not allow students to have springboard for his eventual extreme best days of your life!” Invariably when any motorized vehicles on campus. interest in dirt bikes. It was, as can be I get together with him, he reminds me Enforcement, however, was sporadic, seen from the photo above, also a real that I was absolutely correct. so since I was living off campus in an magnet for the campus beauties. My roommate, Jay, who had already apartment, I thought I had a better shot Yes, those were the days. So I deigned graduated a few years prior and had a job of avoiding the campus police. The bike to fit my final few classes into my week- as a teacher, was also quite interested in was an absolute joy to buzz around the ly schedule of part-time work during the my motorcycle. So I fatefully taught him Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 21 to ride it. Since I was perpetually short on cash, I let him “buy into” half the motorcycle. That shared-vehicle arrangement worked out well, until one day when I came home to find him sitting on the couch with his arms and legs decidedly skinned and badly scraped, seeping blood. He howled incessantly as he self-medicated the cuts using a can of Bactine antiseptic spray. It seems that a Mrs. Maltbie had not given him his proper right- of-way at a four-way stop, and Jay had ended up on the hood of her car. So I accompanied Jay to his parents’ house to assess the damage to our jointly owned property. Ugh! As can be seen in the picture, the front end of the bike was terribly mangled. It was deemed that Mrs. Maltbie was, in fact, at fault, and her insurance company would eventually pay for the damage. To compensate me for my loss, Jay paid me the other half of the bike’s value, and off it went to the Honda dealer in Fairfield, Ohio, for repair. The money did not make it any easier to live without my precious mobile commodity. But in fact, I had to leave it behind, as I was soon on my way to graduate school at Ohio State in Columbus. There was no time or place for the bike on the OSU campus, anyway. Fast forward to 1972. After I finished graduate school and was My buddy, Dave D, trying desperately to find full-time employment, I was more in- examines the terested in dirt bikes. I had purchased a tired little Kawasaki motorized crash 90cc G4TR. It was vastly under-powered and under-suspended, victim. but I rode it like a banshee, trying to keep up with my buddy

22 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 Dave D’s sweet running Suzuki TS 185. The little Kawasaki gave me my only broken bone on a motorcycle, but that is another long story. I then moved up in class to what I believe was one of the best handling enduro bikes ever made—the Puch 175. Dave D and I began our off- road adventures, and we rode all over southern Ohio, northern Kentucky, and southern Indiana on our dirt bikes. In 1974, I moved back to Columbus, Ohio, landed a position working for the State of Ohio, and had pretty much for- gotten about the CL175. However, a trip back to Oxford changed my motorcycle inventory. My old roommate, Jay, was in The fateful decision the process of moving and didn’t have to sell was made. room for the Honda any longer. Fantas- tic! I happily re-purchased it and put it town. I had also begun my avocation of a “For Sale” sign. I left instructions on in my garage and then proceeded to ride buying and selling motorcycles. So one pricing with my wife, and off to work it around the west side of Columbus— fateful day, I decided it was time to sell I went. I don’t remember the duration, for a while. I found, however, that a rel- that bike and make room in my limit- but it wasn’t all that long before I came atively small, dual-purpose motorcycle ed garage space for another. I carefully home one evening and it was gone! did not have the panache or status in the washed and waxed it and put it out front She happily showed me the cash. Even big city that it did in the small college of our apartment on Clime Road with though I had specifically told her to sell

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 23 it, I had the sinking feeling that I might have made a mistake letting my old friend slip away. We soon moved to Grove City, a southern suburb of Co- lumbus, and got busy raising three sons. I still kept a garage full of wheeled vehicles. In fact, for three years I was Dis- trict Sales Manager for US Suzuki Motorcycles in Southern Ohio, then for two years representing Steyr Daimler Puch’s line of mopeds and bicycles. It was my daily task to sell two- wheeled fun in Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Kentucky, and Western Pennsylvania. Wow, I was getting paid to ride mo- torcycles! Then, as we moved into a new century, and the Internet became the tremendous communication tool it is, I built a website and started selling vintage motorcycles and parts to customers all over the world. As I daily scoured the digital marketplace for classic bikes, one thing was crystal clear: the 1969-1970 CL175K3 was one of the rarest bikes out there. I just could not find another one. Even though I monitored eBay and Craigslist and went to lots of classic bike shows, I just did not see another blue one. Oh, I was eventually able to buy the other color model, Candy Orange, but it wasn’t in good shape, and it just wasn’t quite the same. I eventually traded that bike for a gorgeous restored Japanese domestic CL90 from Ellis Holman of the VJMC Board. He had a his- tory with the orange CL175K3, and he wanted to complete “his story” with that particular model. Then, about four years ago, I thought I was going to land a blue one from, of all places, the state of Maine. I saw it on the Internet and even put a deposit on it, salivating at the thought of recon- necting. However, the deal went sour. The guy was out of work. He needed the money badly, and a local buyer showed up with cash! He apologized, but said it was gone. I got my money back, but no bike. God really smiled on me this summer/fall of 2015. First, I saw one for sale on eBay in Chicago. It appeared to be beau- tifully restored. The ad said, however, and it was made very clear, that it had engine problems—so many that the own- er was not going to invest any more money in it. Well, that was no problem for me, as I happened to have a 1972 CL175 that I had been parting out. It had an identical engine that looked great and turned over, with great compression. Sure- ly, I could just buy this one and swap out engines. After be- ing burned a few times by bikes that looked great in pictures but not in reality, I became more skeptical. I was tied up that week and the prospect of driving seven hours each way just to get a look at it before bidding became less appealing. Still, I was ready to consider buying it sight unseen. However, as the bidding crept over $2000, I prudently decided that there were too many uncertainties in both the condition and the price, so I let it go. Then, in September, a guy in western Indiana, to whom I had sold a CL175 gas tank a few months back, called and said that he had finished his blue CL175K3 restoration and asked if would I be interested. “Would I? You bet!” He had sent me a couple of pictures, but I needed more detail before Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 25 I was willing to drive that far to see it. However, as seemed to be my fate in this quest, he did not come through with the pictures as promised, and I seemed to be back to square one. At about the same time, my good friend Bob Billa, of San Diego, who served with me on the VJMC Board a few years ago, had been given a Candy Orange CL175K3 model by his son. He told me that he was in the process of restoring it and asked if I knew where he could find a fender. Unfortunately, I did not; however, I shared with him that I was looking for the blue model. The great guy that he is, a few days lat- er he emailed me and told me about a blue model he had seen for sale on eBay. owner, Phil, and after he answered a few esting, if you look closely at the picture Quickly looking it up, I could hardly be- of my questions, I was sure that this mo- shown above, taken in November, 2015, lieve it; there was the bike of my youth torcycle was going to be the target of my you can see it features me and that very on the world-wide auction block, look- very aggressive bidding. same beautiful gal who was pictured be- ing great. I had previously seen the qual- So, after a chain of events that has tak- side me in the previous Oxford, Ohio, ity of some of the bikes sold by Linefork en over forty years to play out, I now picture. I married her forty-two years Cycles in Mercer, Pennsylvania, and had have that very same motorcycle model ago. She and the CL175 have both prov- always been impressed. I contacted the in my collection. What is more inter- en to be keepers! l

26 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 PROJECT BIKE Second Chance Suzuki part 1 of 2 by Matthew Uricchio

very old motorcycle has a story, and LEFT: “Barn fresh” It still Emy father’s 1972 Suzuki GT 380 is amazes me that this no different. Many of these old bikes was the condition of the bike when were bought new, ridden hard, forgot- we started and our ten about, even left for dead. Some were resurrection resulted parked for lack of use, others mechan- in a very presentable bike, considering we ical failure; some of their owners sim- did not replace any ply lost interest in motorcycling. These engine covers and did not re-chrome old girls were left with a fate unknown. anything. Many became victims of time, aban- BELOW: doned outside, where mother nature Original license performed her magic. A few suffered far plate from 1972, showing its last less and became entombed in clean, dry registration sticker basements for decades, only to be dis- covered years later, becoming the fabled “barn find” everyone seems to be look- ing for. The story of my dad’s GT380 lies somewhere in between. My dad’s relationship with his GT380 started in spring of 1972. He went shop- ping for a new T350 to replace his trust- ed, but small, Suzuki S32. He had out- grown the little Suzuki’s 150ccs of fury and was probably tired of being at the back of the pack as his friends bought bigger bikes. He saved his money and traveled to his local dealership to see a LEFT: T350 up close and in person. Cleaned engine cases and reassembled 1972 was a big year for Suzuki; the transmission GT series was introduced, and three new triples debuted that year—the now frame S32 he was then riding. It certain- ers, levers, mirrors, footrests, handlebar, legendary GT750 Water Buffalo; the ly did not take much convincing—the turn signals, and six hours of labor; for a GT550; and their little sister, the GT380. Candy Red GT380 was the bike for him. grand total of $192. That sure seems like At that time, Suzuki still produced their So began a long relationship with the a deal now! Keep in mind it was 1972, tried and true T series featuring parallel little red Suzuki that has spanned for- and the shop labor rate was an aston- twin two-stroke motors. Both the GTs ty-three years and counting. I would ishing ten dollars an hour. A brand new and Ts were side by side on the show- like to say that my father has kept his GT380 cost $995, so a $200 repair bill room floor of New England Cycle Sales. 380 for all these years without incident was significant. On display next to the T350 my father and been able to ride and enjoy it each The little triple was well used and cared was looking at was this new machine, a year, but that is not the case. The first au- for as Dad racked up the miles year after GT380. Three cylinders, four exhaust tumn he had it, he crashed into the side year. His bike took him from adventure pipes, six-speed gear box, oil injection, of car, resulting in significant damage to to adventure and commuted him to and and of course, Ram Air Cooling. The the bike. I found the receipt for repairs from work. bike looked bigger and sportier than the in his files (my father doesn’t throw out Motorcycles not only provided enjoy- T350 he was intending on buying and much). There was an entire page of parts ment for him, but also provided a career was light years ahead of the pressed-steel replaced, including headlight, side cov- path. He began his craft as a motorcy- Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 27 44 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 cle mechanic at Fleming’s Distributors, fixture. No 1970s’ bike would be com- which sold Suzuki and Moto-Ski. Next, plete without a chrome luggage rack, of he worked at New England Cycle Sales, course there was one on Dad’s 380. where he had bought his GT380 years Working at a dealership has it perks before. Eventually, he found himself for someone like my father, who likes becoming the service manager at En- to re-engineer and modify. I am sure field Motor Sports, a Suzuki-Kawasa- there was a lot of “try it before you buy ki-Yamaha-Arctic Cat-Polaris dealer- it” that the general public was not privi- ship. leged to. My father tells me how he used Commuting the forty miles each day to perform a tune-up on his 380 and showed a few of the 380’s weaknesses. dig through the whole box of condens- A K&G front foot rest/crash bar was ers with the multi-meter to find three added, along with an Arthur Fulmer condensers with the closest capacitance. windshield. The dual-leading front In the age before high energy electron- drum brakes faded easily, and a crashed ic ignitions, those were the little tricks 1975 GT380 became a donor to pro- one would do to make a bike really run vide parts for a front disc conversion. great. As with many bikes of the era, the The headlight was upgraded from the Suzuki triples used three points, three dismal stock twenty-five watt sealed condensers, three separate carburetors, beam to a newer GS1100 headlight and each with its own throttle and choke ca- bucket. The rear shocks were swapped ble. This all made tuning and synchro- out with S&S units with progressive nizing very important to make the mo- Preparing to set the engine into springs. Larger mirrors and different tor sing as smoothly as it was designed. the rolling chassis handlebars from a GS proved to be a As the 380 faithfully motored on, so of the GT380 perfect fit. He added running lights to did other things in my dad, Peter’s, life. L to R: Nathan, the stock turn signals by changing out He married his high school sweetheart, myself, and Dad the sockets and rewiring the turn signal bought a house with her, and turned it

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 29 into a home. I was their first born, next snap it off. I don’t think that my father Massachusetts. I soon realized there was my sister, and then another two knew at that time that the JR50 was like was a lot more interest in old Japanese boys. Somewhere around 1984, the little a gateway drug, which would start my bikes than I had thought. I also ob- GT380 got put away. It was parked with addiction to motorcycles. That mini- served that there were very few GT380s the intention of riding it again the next bike led to a whole stable of dirt bikes— at these events. Seeing all of these great week. Well, as it sometimes happens, some great, others were real junkers. I bikes in all degrees of condition, from next week turned into next month. Next had an Ossa 250 for one summer that barn fresh to restored museum quality, month turned into next spring. Before was a real peach. A Honda front end, no was inspiring. anyone knew it, next spring became rear brakes, and a welded-on kick start- February of 2013 was cold and thirty years later. Dad’s Suzuki was er were a few of the highlights. snowy—a perfect time to be in a warm not parked with the intention of being Those dirt bikes all led to the natural garage working on motorcycles. We had stored for a year, never mind a decade progression of riding on the street, and always talked about getting Dad’s 380 or three. my first legal road bike was a 1975 Suzu- out of the shed and running again, but As my parents raised a family, the 380 ki TS185 that Dad bought for me when it never was the right time. It was some- was never forgotten about, Dad always I was fourteen. I started in the woods thing Dad wanted to do, but he simply knew where it was. Motorcycles were with it and, later on, installed some DOT never pulled the trigger on the project. still part of the family; when I was five tires to get it registered. I soon bought a I convinced my brother, Nathan, to help years old I learned how to ride, and in GT500 Titan, which needed a little work me kick-start the project. We moved the turn, crash on a Suzuki JR50. (Which we but was in great shape due to it being bike from my parents’ shed to my garage still own—did I mention we don’t throw stored in a basement for fifteen years. without Dad’s knowledge. I then called many things out?) In fact, everyone in In my search for parts, I stumbled Dad over to my house under the prem- our family and all of the neighborhood upon the VJMC, which opened my eyes ise he was needed to help me pull the kids learned how to ride that little mini- to a whole world of other people with motor out of my GT500 to fix a shift- bike. We crashed it so many times that the same addiction, I mean interest, ing problem it was having. It was a little the forks became bent to the point that as me. I attended a Japanese bike swap white lie... (To be continued in the next the tire would hit the spark plug and meet and show called Rice-O-Rama in issue). l

30 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 event 2015 Western Nebraska Vintage Motorcycle Show & Swap Meet by Brandon Davenport / [email protected]

hey used to say you meet the nic- romanticism of classic men like Steve ciation of the engineering and aesthetics Test people on a Honda. These days, McQueen. After jumping on the café of yesteryear, and my motley three-bike you meet the nicest people on a vintage racer revival bandwagon and getting collection ballooned to seven within motorcycle. Never has that been more that “this isn’t a good idea” look from two years. Only one, a 1983 CB1100F apparent to me than in August of 2015 the gentleman who owned the 1977 Tri- survivor, currently runs. The other six? at the second annual Western Nebras- umph Bonneville I was attempting to Well, there’s no need for me to explain ka Vintage Motorcycle Show and Swap purchase as my first bike, I found my to any of you how I can love each and Meet in the prairie town of Scottsbluff, way to a more reasonable two-wheeled every one of them, regardless of their Nebraska. option in a three-bike deal consisting of condition. At the ripe age of 29(ish), I found my a pair of basket-case 1969 CL350s and a As the young guy staring wide-eyed at way to the world of vintage Japanese decent, but not running, 1970 CB350. that silver and blue Triumph, I couldn’t motorcycles the same way I assume a lot What I didn’t know then is that a love have known how much I stood to learn of people my age do—through visions of vintage bikes quickly, and effortlessly, from the kind of men capable of being of classic Norton café racers and dreams becomes a sickness. My café racer-driv- thoroughly entertained by standing of Triumph desert-sleds, powered by the en speed dreams mellowed to an appre- around a bone-stock Honda Cub 90 for

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 31 two hours. The first annual Western in the panhandle of Nebraska, and near- Bighorn 350 Nebraska Vintage Motorcycle Show and ly centrally located on a map of the US, Swap Meet, held the summer of 2014, Scottsbluff sits about three hours south was the brainchild of precisely that type of Sturgis, South Dakota, and about of man. three hours northeast of Denver, Col- If I ever had any It came about as the last-minute idea of orado. You wouldn’t assume it, based VJMC member Jim Neuwirth, of Scotts- on its humble agricultural history, but doubt the classic bluff, Nebraska, who, in roughly three Scottsbluff was home to the first Kawa- American small weeks time, managed to put together an saki dealership in the United States and town I call home eighty-bike vintage motorcycle show in is privy to a surprisingly large commu- the parking lot of the local Scottsbluff nity of vintage motorcycle enthusiasts. was capable of Culver’s. That first show attracted hun- Unlike myself, who can merely roman- hosting a first-class dreds of onlookers, despite only a dozen ticize about the bikes of yesteryear, most fliers and word of mouth advertising. of these folks spent their youth rock- vintage motorcycle I was in love at that show, and when eting vintage Japanese and American show, it was quickly Mr. Neuwirth walked the crowd drum- beauties down Main Street and rum- ming up interest in organizing the same bling haphazardly across the flat, brown put to rest. the following summer, I knew I had to grassland of the family farm or ranch. be involved. Although a gem of the prairie, Scotts- If I ever had any doubt the classic bluff’s series of…well…bluffs break up American small town I call home was the monotony of the flat land and pro- capable of hosting a first-class vintage vide a beautiful backdrop along lengthy motorcycle show, it was quickly put to stretches of meandering asphalt that rest in the summer of 2015. Tucked away provide the perfect canvas for an af- Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 33 ternoon of riding. It’s miles and miles of dirt-laden country roads that are a vintage scrambler enthusiast’s dream and of- fer the chance to ride into the dusty West alongside the genu- ine ruts of the Old Oregon Trail. If the first vintage motorcycle show this unique town host- ed was a pleasant surprise, the second annual was a rousing success. 2015’s show featured over 150 vintage motorcycles, model year 1985 and older, and nearly every make and model you can think of was represented, with few duplicates. From my own CB1100F, to a beautifully restored Ducati Scrambler, a particularly stunning Z1 survivor, a 1952 Indian Warrior with a factory-installed Arrow motor, and even a side-car equipped classic Moto Guzzi powered by a BMW engine, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Triumphs, Nortons, BSAs, BMWs, Ducatis, Benelli by way of two Montgomery Wards, even a Jawa, and more, repre- sented England and Europe; Indian, at least one Harley for every decade from the 1940s to the 1970s, complete with Aer- macchi scramblers, provided representation for the Stars and Stripes, and both continent’s participants settled in amongst a sea of the usual Japanese bikes as well as a handful of gems from the land of the rising sun. Stars included Jim Neuwirth’s Honda CB450P police bike, delivered new to the Sidney, Nebraska, Police Department in 1969 and still in beautiful original condition, despite a long history on the beat. Also featured were Mr. Neuwirth’s 1948 Indian Chief, a beauty among those American-made bikes; the lone surviving Meguro-badged, BSA-engined, Kawasaki dealership prototype bike; one of the first two Kawasakis to lay wheel in the United States; and a 1964 Honda Cub 50, which Jim Parmenter bought new back in high school and still has to this day. It should come as no surprise in a rural community that vintage scramblers and dirt bikes were well represented and were also a fan-favorite—none more than James Wlaschin’s stunning 1970 Kawasaki Bighorn with 2.2, I’ll say that again, 2.2, original miles. James is a bonafide Kawasaki dirt bike fanatic and made well sure the brand was adequately repre- sented. Most entertaining to myself was the phrase I heard with hilarious abundance among the scramblers and dirt bikes: “I wrecked one of those once,” which seemed to be the prideful utterance of every wide-eyed passerby, drunk on the memories of a youth spent on the dusty dirt roads of agrarian America. Nearly doubled in size from its first incarnation, the show was organized by a small group of loosely affiliated enthusi- asts who have their sights set high for the future. Nearly all 150 bikes were local, with a handful from surrounding South Dakota, Wyoming, and Colorado, indicating that there’s plenty of room for the kind of future growth necessary to meet their goal of making the show one of the largest of its kind. Sheer size, however, was not the only success the show en- joyed, as it raised a pretty penny for this year’s chosen char-

34 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 ity, the local Panhandle Humane Soci- day to walk the lines of vintage bikes— ety. The organizers take no profit, and memories. The kind of memories that those entering bikes were asked, in lieu make a man or woman look back and of an entry fee, to donate twenty dollars reflect upon the good times, the kind to the charity. Those funds, along with that tend to bring a tinge of sadness donations received through raffles, in- along with happiness; the kind that re- kind donations, and sponsor contribu- mind one man, starkly, of how quickly tions, meant over $3000 was donated the years pass, and instruct another, to the Humane Society by show’s end, like myself, to cherish the moments that and everyone benefited from the added youth has to offer. entertainment of the shelter dogs that We organizers are incredibly proud of TOP: came out to visit in hopes of finding a the successes enjoyed by 2015’s show, 1969 CB450P new home. and we look forward to even greater BOTTOM: Late in the afternoon on that warm successes in 2016. Our purpose has al- A sea of vintage August Saturday, I had the perfect op- ways been simply to share our love of portunity to reflect on the gravity of an- vintage motorcycles with the public and other kind of success the show achieved. to do a bit of good for our community For information regarding the show There I sat on my barn-found (and look- while we’re at it. Our continued goal is or any questions you might have, we , ing like it) 66 Norton Atlas, alongside a to grow the Western Nebraska Vintage can be found via Facebook at Western fellow organizer astride his CB500 and Motorcycle Show and Swap Meet with Nebraska Vintage Motorcycle Show and wearing the telltale signs of a bearded each year, and for it to one day be the Swap Meet, by email at registernebras- man with a satisfied smile. The con- preeminent vintage motorcycle show [email protected], or by telephone versation we engaged in revealed to me in Middle America. We cordially invite via Jim Neuwirth at 308-225-1967, or the truth of what a show like ours has to all VJMC members and readers to next myself at 308-641-2709. Please consider offer to many of the hundreds, if not a year’s show, August 20th, 2016 as en- joining us to share in our love of these thousand, visitors who showed up that trants or as guests. classic two-wheeled machines. l Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 35

event Rice-O-Rama Returns by Peter MacMurray, Massachusetts Field Representative

he Ninth Annual Rice-O-Rama Tswap meet and show exploded onto the fairgrounds in the central Massa- CLOCKWISE: chusetts town of Spencer on the morn- Ms. Lissa of the ing of Sunday, September, 13, 2015. This RICE-O-RAMA staff event has become and remains the larg- graciously adds flair to the humble VJMC est swap meet dedicated to vintage Jap- booth. anese motorcycles in the Northeast and Fuji Heavy Industries is a “must attend” event for many enthu- manufactured this siasts in the region. Rabbit scooter in 1963. Note the While this event retains the informal Virginia tag. atmosphere it has had from its modest Club members Bob inception by a handful of folks selling Moreau and El Perry parts in a small parking lot, it is by no pose with a few of means modest in size any longer. While the bikes which visited the VJMC booth. a growing number of larger vendors ar- rive on Saturday afternoon to get a jump on things, the vast majority of them show up the day of the event and are directed to their spots on a first come, first served basis by the event organiz- ers, brothers Dan and Mike Hayes and their partner Mike “Murph” Murphy. It appears very hectic, fast, and loose but it actually works, and this year the ven- dors’ field was completely filled in the first few hours of the morning. At the appointed hour of 10 am, the ea- ger throng of attendees began pouring in. Our trio of show organizers, as well as their energetic support staff, display an easy-going, festival-like behavior at a rain or shine event; the show is on as bike building. Even while maneuver- their event. Ask, “Dan, how many ven- sure as the sun rises, so the cool, cloudy, ing the bike trailer into the spot, peo- dors this year?” and he casts his eyes damp, and misty weather of the day ap- ple emerged and began circling like so quickly about, shrugs, and responds; “I parently did little to discourage the hun- many buzzards, before hurling ques- dunno, maybe 250, 300?” “Murph, how dreds of vendors and show bikes along tions such as “How much for the 175?” many visitors this year?” and he grins with thousands of attendees on the field “Sorry, lads, perhaps another time…” and exclaims, “Oh, it has to be eight that day. The mood was energetic and Within a short time the tent was erect- to ten thousand…” Question Mike on urgent, with the realization that the next ed, the club banner hung, and I was how many show bikes have registered, opportunity to score parts, a project or very pleased to see member El Perry ap- and he sleepily replies from under one of pristine bike, or any manner of other proaching with his remarkably restored his signature flamboyant hats, “Uhhh, “stuff” at Rice-O-Rama is an entire year Kawasaki Avenger to place on display, ask Dan, he keeps track of all that stuff.” away. and so began a busy day, indeed. Among However, the quantitative answer to all Your correspondent arrived early the show staff there was Ms. Lissa, a three of those questions could simply be in order to prepare the VJMC booth, delightful young lady whose chore “Many, many of them!” Rice-O-Rama is which this year was adjacent to the show that day was to make all the public an-

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 37 CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: One never knows what may turn up for sale at Rice-O-Rama. Cheaper by the dozen, a tank collection makes for interesting art. Harley-Davidson, Yamaha, Honda, Kawasaki; something for all tastes and interests. rived with grill and victuals, which he within the show building, while also promptly turned into a tasty lunch of cueing vendors with long trips home to burgers, steak tips, corn on the cob, begin packing up. Unfortunately, I was and more for the club staff and visiting unable to escape the booth to view the members. Bob further assisted in man- spectacle, but I was aware that member ning the club booth for the balance of Paul Paddock had entered his brilliant the day. CB450D for judging. A short time lat- Also visiting the booth was VJMC El- er, Paul swung by the booth, and we all nouncements. Unlike her counterparts, der Statesman and motorcycling legend learned that, true to form, his bike had who were identifiable by their day-glow George Duley. Widely known among taken first place in its class. Paul had T-shirts, her outfit was bright red. It oc- Japanese motorcycle enthusiasts in the earlier in the day acquired a very tired, curred to me that her outfit actually was Northeast as The Professor, George en- mostly disassembled CB750K1 on the remarkably similar to the color of one joys espousing the many virtues of early vending field. Look for this bike in a year of our display bikes. As fortunes would Honda twins. During his booth visit, or so after Paul has worked his magic on dictate, when asked, she most pleasantly the lively octogenarian held court with it. You will likely recognize it by the tro- agreed to stop by the booth during a lull enthralled listeners, recounting his old phy accumulation displayed next to it. in her activities to be photographed with road racing days and of finding many of By 3:30, the event was winding down, the bike. She did not disappoint, either. those briefly used CBs and CLs given to and Bob Moreau and I finally had a few A bit further on in the day, several him by former, disinterested riders, with moments to tour what remained on the other members brought bikes to the the proviso he remove them promptly; vending field. booth for display, including a second requests which he was, of course, very We genuinely enjoyed this, as most of bike brought in by El Perry, an extraor- pleased to oblige. Is that what he means those remaining also finally had some dinary 1966 CB160. Another attendee when he speaks of the “good old days”? slack time of their own which was un- wanted to display his unusual 1963 Rab- But don’t get the idea that The Profes- available to them when the crowd was bit motor scooter (built by Fuji Heavy sor is an easy touch for old Honda twin at its thickest, and thus we were able Industries and which he has named parts. He has been a VJMC member to meet, chat, and swap lies with other , Bugs). It remained in the booth until since the 70s and won’t even talk to like-minded enthusiasts. We escaped others urged him to enter it in the show, you before you show him your current the field at about 4:30, having enjoyed at which time it left. A short time lat- VJMC membership card! the day, eaten our fill, met old friends, er, however, the owner returned with a At about 2:30 in the afternoon, Ms. made new ones, and recruited nine new 1972 CB350 for display, as well as cash Lissa’s melodious voice was heard over VJMC members—an altogether satisfy- in hand to join the club. the field that the show bike judging ing day. Member and Yamaha devotee Bob results were about be announced, fo- You can visit Rice-O-Rama at: http:// Moreau went one step further and ar- cusing anticipation and rapt attention www.rice-o-rama.com. l 38 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016

he VJMC has been having a Christmas Ride in the Brooksville area for sixteen Tyears. This year saw the very popular Christmas Ride expand to two locations in Florida. This ride has always been a great year-ender for members to see each other one last time before a new year rolls in. The rides are really easy to organize. All it takes is one person to step up and make it happen. Just choose a place to meet up, usually a local dining establishment, then find a knowledgeable person to lead the ride, and that’s pretty much it. It would be great to see Christmas Rides expand all over the Southern states where early December is not too late to fit in a ride. If you’d like to see one in your area and can do the simple work of organizing, let our Events Coordinator know, and he will help you with the details, letting you know what is needed and what has worked successfully in the past.

40 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 cover story

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 41 16th Annual Central Florida Christmas Ride

by Michael Fitterling / [email protected]

n 12 December the weather couldn’t bikes, survivors, with a few modern Upon returning to Coney Island there Ohave been better for the sixteenth two- and three-wheelers sprinkled in, as were smiles all around and yet another year of the VJMC Central Florida well. We also had two chances to have Christmas Ride had come to a success- , Christmas Ride. The day dawned sunny a bite at the iconic 50s-style drive-in— ful end. l and in the low 70s, making for a brisk before the group rode out and upon our ride up from Lake Wales. But, by the return. I took advantage of both oppor- time forty-five bikes rolled out into the tunities. Florida countryside around Brooksville, Florida Field Rep Norm Smith was the temperature had risen to the low there, organizing things and leading 80s with low humidity—perfect riding the ride. Norm gave a quick safety and weather. ride briefing before we all mounted our Before the ride, club members had a VJMs headed for the surrounding ru- chance to catch up with old friends and ral area in staggered formation. This stroll around looking at the wide variety area offers some of the best riding to of motorcycles that had either been rid- be had in peninsular Florida, with un- den or trailered up—stock, café, show usually winding roads and hilly terrain.

42 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 Florida Panhandle Christmas Ride by Peter Slatcoff, VJMC Events Coordinator / [email protected]

ecember 12, 2015 kicked off the inau- The Panhandle Dgural Florida Panhandle Christmas riding group Ride. The riders assembled at the Pane- ra Bread Company in Panama City this first year. After some coffee and pastries, we gathered out in front of the restaurant, Bruce is widely known for a little café, the wonderful route selection. His sup- where ride captain Jack Kipp explained and of course, it is called the “Bruce Café.” porting cast of riders were Robbie Moon, some of the specifics of our route and It sits at the intersection of SR 20 and SR 81 Bob May, Lisa and John Hamilton, Rob where we would stop along the way. and serves some of the best Florida-style Schroeder, and myself. We left the restaurant in a northwesterly homemade cooking and is a popular rest In the last two years, membership in the direction out of Panama City toward De- stop for Panhandle riders. Florida Panhandle has grown significant- Funiak Springs. Joe led us through some We had a wonderful time. For some ly. The biggest desire of this new group of very nice, scenic country roads that were of us it was meeting other members for members is to see the Florida Panhandle a first time experience even for a longtime the first time; for others it was another become the next epicenter of VJMC activ- resident such as myself. After a couple of opportunity to enjoy established friend- ities. Their enthusiasm will surely make it stops to see the sights and just take time ships. The most important thing was that happen. If you have an interest in riding to enjoy the camaraderie of the group, we we all agreed to get together on a frequent the Florida Panhandle, or a suggested lo- headed to the little town of Bruce, Florida. basis for more rides. We thank Jack for cation for a ride, please let us know! l

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 43 VJMC Mountain Motorsports Birthday Bash by Tom Kolenko, President / [email protected] photos by Brandon Hardman

he VJMC partnered with the Mountain Motorsports dealership in Kennesaw, Georgia, November 14, T2015 to help celebrate its birthday bash. This vintage-friendly multi-line modern dealership pulled out all the stops to help make this day amazing. Store manager Sonny Farmer provided a rockabilly band, pinup girls, dynamometer tests, and catering, while the VJMC staged its people’s choice vintage bike show and Sounds of Japanese Horsepower contest inside. This indoor show drew many rare and extraordinary machines rarely seen outside of magazines or mu- seums. Best of Show went to Buck Mitchell’s 1964 CL72. Todd Booth brought out his early Hondas (1959 CS76 & 1960 CB92), 1958 Yamaha YD1, and a Yetman-framed CB72 dragster. Caféd RD400 Yamahas, entered by Joe Berastegui and Jared Morris, blew sweet smoke everywhere in the Sounds contest. MotoX racers included Milton Garner’s winning 1979 Honda CR250 and some 1973 Yamaha MXers that had never been started. Over twenty trophies were awarded at the end of the day. Best of all, the VJMC and Mountain Motorsports will do it again in 2016. Plan on joining the fun in Georgia. l

RIGHT: Todd Booth’s CB72 dragster

44 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 event

ABOVE: Buck’s Best of Show CL72 ABOVE LEFT: 1979 Honda CR250 LEFT: Jared Morris’s green RD400

Joe Berastegui’s white RD400 café

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 45

maintenance & restoration Polishing Aluminum to a Chrome-like Finish by Rafi Mohammed / [email protected]

y 1972 CB750 K2 build summary Mwas in featured in the Oct-Nov 2015 issue of this magazine, and I’m in- credibly grateful for that. I’ve received a lot of positive feedback and questions via the SOHC forums and from some Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine readers. Polishing aluminum and zinc plating have been the two most asked questions, so I thought it would be good to do a write up on these topics. Polishing aluminum seems to be more popular of the two, possibly due to the fact that zinc plating services are more easily available require heavy duty gloves; a good stan- than reasonable polishing services. This dard pair that is impervious to water is based on my own experience with the will suffice. Buffing, on the other hand, process. I pretty much learned as I went requires a good pair of heavy-duty, along and had some great advice from a heat-resistant gloves. As you progress few SOHC forum members. There are with buffing, the work piece gets increas- many schools of thought on the specifics ingly hot. I tried a few different kinds, of the whole process, but this is what I but settled with a pair of rough-finish, did, which gave me outstanding results. heavy leather gloves. These resisted the Hopefully, this will prove helpful for heat very well and were nimble enough those pursuing similar results in their to allow me to hold onto smaller piec- restoration projects. es without trouble. Running a small clip-on style fan aimed at your buffing ABOVE: Safety motor and work piece will help tremen- A variety of “before” pieces Safety is what most DIY anything arti- dously during buffing. Another thing cles tend to start with. As cliché as this to be mindful of is securely holding the out of your eyebrows and hair. Dispos- may sound, you may not want to cut work piece. When using large buffing able overalls are not a bad idea, either. corners with safety when attempting to wheels, there is a possibility that the do this yourself. I will not go into bor- piece will get snatched out of your hands Preparation ing details on why this is important, but and flung to the ground. So, good grip- The first step in prepping a piece is, I will share a few notes based on what ping gloves are essential. It also helps to obviously, thoroughly degreasing and went wrong when I did this. This is a have a couple of foam pads or yoga mats washing off any stuck-on debris. Next, dirty job, so it is highly recommended laid down around your buffing area, carefully remove any seals or gasket that you use a dedicated space in your in case a nearly finished piece ends up remnants that may be baked on. Some shop/work area for at least the buffing getting dropped. Use a good breathing of the old motorcycles, like the Honda process. When you start buffing, shreds mask. Protective eyewear is essential CB750, have a lot of aluminum covers of the buffing wheel and the buffing when sanding and buffing; there is sim- which are often covered with some kind compound will go everywhere. The ply no avoiding that. Better yet, a full of clear paint coat. For such pieces, the sanding process is also messy, especially face shield is a good idea when buffing. next step would be to use a paint strip- dry sanding. Cleaning the whole room The buffing compound and tiny shreds per to get rid of the clear coat. This is after sanding, buffing, and finishing up of the buffing wheel will violently fling easier than sanding out the clear coat, a medium to large piece is not fun. at you and may cause serious injury. Not especially from small nooks and cran- Protect your hands. Sanding does not to mention, it is really difficult to get it nies. Once the piece is free of all grease, Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 47 A variety of “after” pieces

paint, and rubber parts, wash it one last straight to buffing with red compound. time with dish soap, then rinse with wa- Given enough time, red compound will ter. A clean piece will help you see and even remove the clear coat, but this may gauge scratches and gouges much better. be tedious and uses up the compound. (Thanks for this tip, John Hathaway Sanding from Wisconsin.) When sanding out Before beginning the sanding process, scratches from somewhat flat surfaced closely look at the piece and determine if pieces, it helps immensely to wrap the it has suffered major scratching or goug- sanding paper around a small piece of ing and if it has excessive casting imper- construction Styrofoam. This is soft fections. For thin pieces with too deep enough to be easy to hold without press- scratches, it may be better to look for a ing too hard, and at the same time helps replacement piece, instead. Casting im- with sanding the surface evenly. If the perfections from the molds may either piece is in good shape, with just one or ever, these areas are also the least likely show up as bumps or craters. Bumps are two scratches, resist the temptation to to have any deep scratching or gouging, obviously easy to sand or grind down, only focus on the scratch when sanding. so you can skip the low grit paper and but deep craters may need some delicate It is important that the scratch is sanded go straight to wet sanding with higher aluminum welding to fill and refinish. out while keeping things even with the grits. Be extra cautious when sanding Again, for pieces with severe casting im- rest of the surface. Otherwise, you may around stenciled areas, such as logos or perfections (especially craters), it may be end up with small depressions on the gear shift markers. It is very easy to sand easier to look for a replacement in better surface that become glaringly obvious them to level, so again, be very careful shape. after polishing. While the Styrofoam around them. Repeat this incrementally Begin with a low grit sanding paper, block works nicely with nearly flat sur- up to 500 grit paper except use a criss- usually between 300-400 grit, depend- faces, it may not be as effective on curves cross sanding pattern with each grit ing on the deepest scratch/gouge. Some or tricky contours. In that case, you (400 goes NS, 500 goes EW, etc.). pieces that have fared well and have can try carving out a smaller block, or Once satisfied with the removal of any shallow scratches you can begin sand- simply use your hands for better reach. visible scratches or gouges, proceed to ing with finer grits like 1000 or 1200. Some really hard to reach places, like re- wet sanding using incrementally higher For pieces that are immaculate, you can cesses around a screw head, will only be grit sanding papers, starting at around skip the sanding altogether and proceed reachable with hands and fingers. How- 800 grit. Make sure that the sanding 48 february / march 2016 paper is the “Wet-Dry” type, general- wheel, just a little bit at a time to cov- ly available at hardware stores. Follow er the circumference. Apply it several the same process as with dry sanding. times, if needed, but do not apply a lot at It helps to soak the sanding paper in once, as it will clog the wheel and start water for a couple hours in water be- sticking to the piece in lumps. If you fore sanding. Use water liberally when end up applying too much by accident, sanding to keep the piece constantly use the buffing wheel rake to clear it out wet. Also, sanding with each higher and start over. It takes a while with the grit paper takes less time than the pre- red compound before you start seeing a vious grit, before it evens things out. By nice and clean reflective surface. Make 1200 grit, the piece should start to look sure that this finish is even across the very smooth with a dull sheen. Wash piece and revisit any areas that may be it thoroughly with dish soap and rinse is important to only use one compound lacking. Do not press the piece too hard with water. Do another close inspection per wheel when buffing, do not reuse against the wheel, it just needs to make in good lighting to see if any lingering wheels when changing compounds. The contact. Hold the piece firmly and do scratches are left. If so, repeat sanding red and green compounds will need to not let it get snatched out of your hands. steps as necessary. If all looks good, pro- be used with a spiral sewn wheel, while The piece will get progressively warm- ceed to buffing. the final white compound needs to be er, so it’s a good idea to have a small fan used with a loose wheel. Follow the in- running nearby. You can also start with Buffing structions that come with the buffing two pieces and alternate between them, Buffing, like sanding, is done in stag- motor to securely install and remove allowing a cool down period in between es using various polishing compounds the buffing wheels along with any safety the pieces. and their corresponding wheels. The procedures described. When satisfied with how the work most common aluminum polishing Before you begin, review the safety sec- piece looks, let it sit and cool down. kits minimally include the red (Tripo- tion one more time. If the work piece has Change out the spiral sewn wheel with li), green (Stainless), and white (White small areas where a wheel will not reach, a new one for the green compound next. Rouge) compounds along with spiral it is best to start buffing those hard to Once the work piece has cooled down, sewn and loose wheels. Some kits also reach areas using a rotary tool first, ide- it needs to be cleaned thoroughly to include a more aggressive gray (Emery) ally with an extension shaft for best con- remove any remaining red compound compound along with a sisal wheel, but trol. Common rotary tools like Dremel that may contaminate the new wheel. that is typically too aggressive for alu- usually come with a small number of I found that denatured alcohol works minum, especially on pieces already buffing pads in a few sizes, and that incredibly well for this. It’s easily avail- sanded to 1200 grit. A wheel cleaning may not be enough. Fortunately, there able, but it’s a very hazardous substance, rake may not always be included in a are several kits of 10-20 pieces of assort- so do not use it without wearing some kit, but is required. Compounds and ed pads available on eBay for cheap. As heavy-duty, chemical-resistant gloves. wheels come in varying sizes, typical- with buffing wheels, do not reuse the Double up if you have to. This is some ly based on your buffing motor’s size. pads when changing compounds. To nasty stuff. The other option is to use The common 6-inch buffing motor will begin, start with the red compound and White Diamond Metal Polish with a work, but the process will be slow. A cover all the areas that need to be done soft cotton rag. This will take some ef- good 10-inch buffing motor will speed using the rotary tool. Then move on to fort but cleans just as well in the end. things up considerably, but smaller piec- the buffing wheel, starting with a small Once the work piece is clean, like with es will need extra care. Eastwood’s kits area to get a good feel for it. You do not the red compound, first start with small and buffing motors work quite well. It need to use a lot of compound on the hard to reach areas with the rotary tool. Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 49 Use a new pad and green compound. Proceed to the buff- ing wheel after that and follow the same steps as earlier. You will notice with the green compound that it takes a lot less time to really shine up the work piece. Make sure to evenly cover the entire surface area, then set it down to cool when done. Follow the cleaning steps again before proceeding to the white compound. Change out the wheel and use a loose sewn wheel for the white compound next. Again, use a rotary tool with a new pad for hard to reach areas first, then the buffing wheel. The white compound takes the least amount of time, and you will begin to see the chrome-like finish. Take a little extra time to go over the piece, as it will be hard to tell if everything was covered. When done, and the piece has cooled down, the final step is to use White Diamond Metal Polish one final time to en- sure that oxidation is slowed, if not completely stopped. If the work piece is not going to be installed right away, then it should be carefully packed using old newspaper.

Tips and Tricks One of the most difficult pieces to polish is a wheel hub. They are heavy and awkward, making sanding and buffing them a challenge. While the outer surfaces can be sanded and buffed with some effort, the inner grooves on the hub are not the easiest. Personally, I recommend skipping sand- ing the grooves and only buffing them. But if you want to sand them down, then securely chucking the hub onto a lathe or a drill press at low RPMs can help speed up the sanding process, but it will get messy when wet sanding. The grooves are generally too narrow to allow full contact with the buffing wheels and gives an uneven finish. In or- der to get in between those tight grooves, I took a loose wheel, undid all its stitches at the center, and separated the individual cloth discs into three stacks, making three sepa- rate narrow wheels. Then I sewed the three narrow wheels back together and used them individually. This helped reach deep into those grooves and get a good even shine. SOHC forum member Ryan Brown, who does aluminum polishing professionally, was kind enough to share this trade secret with me. Small pieces like valve and tappet adjustment covers or oil galley caps can be a bit difficult to work on. They are too small to get a proper grip to sand and buff them. Typically, if there aren’t any deep scratches or gouges, they will not require sanding. Buffing, especially with larger wheels, will heat them up too quickly, so you may need to rotate a few of them to keep them cool. For the CB750’s tappet covers, I found that a small prescription medication bottle is pretty close in size to hold them in place. I stuffed a small piece of cardboard to make the seal tighter. This way, I could com- fortably hold the bottle, instead of trying to hold on to the tiny awkward tappet cover. For pieces which are smaller or larger than the CB750’s, pieces of PVC pipe will work just the same as the bottle. l 50 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 EVENT 2015 Florida State Rally by Michael Fitterling / [email protected]

ovember 6 kicked off the Florida NRally, which was for the third time held at Silver Springs, nestled between Ocala on the west and the beautiful Oc- ala National Forest on the east. The cold weather we had experienced at the last LEFT: two rallies was replaced by sunny skies Members get ready and warm temperatures, which held to roll on the Saturday morning ride. throughout the weekend. Several members arrived on Friday BELOW: before noon, and with not much more Riders take a break at Meadors Corner needing to be done until the evening’s at Forest Road 8 & meet and greet, we decided to have SR314A. lunch together at Sonny’s Barbecue, about a mile from the rally hotel. After catching up with each other, the group headed out for an afternoon ride in the warm sunshine. We eventually found ourselves at Earl’s, a local vintage bike shop and an epic graveyard of motorcy- cles of every description, mostly VJMs, and a house stacked full of vintage, an- tique, and rare bikes. Earl was his usual genial self and indulged our desire to see what he had stored away. Next up was a stop at Martin Yamaha to check out the new models. From Martin Yamaha, we rolled back to the hotel via back roads, in anticipation of more arrivals. More and more members poured in, and bikes were parked up in the shade of the hotel entryway and along the drive, while members hung out chatting and sharing stories. By 6:30 it was time for the ice breaker and some pizza served The ride through up by La Rocco’s III just across the cor- the Ocala National Forest ner from the Holiday Inn Express, the host hotel. When we could eat no more, we wandered back to the hotel and gath- ered outside under the entryway roof, or inside the meeting room for some foot- ball on the TV, before calling it a day. Saturday morning found our members at the breakfast buffet at the Holiday Inn, loading up on energy for the day’s activities. About nine o’clock, bikes Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 51 were lined up outside, engines running, with members ready to head out again for a romp through the Ocala National Forest countryside. By the time we re- turned, the bike show was underway. With the smaller number in atten- dance this year, it was decided to hold it right at the hotel, which saved mem- bers having to move bikes to the State Park, a mile or so away, and avoided the additional fee for park entrance. Bikes were lined up in front of the hotel, and while waiting for voting to end, mem- bers wandered off to various points for lunch or hung out at the hotel shooting the breeze with their friends. By the time five o’clock rolled around, the votes had all been tallied, and the group moved into the hotel dining room. Before dinner, awards were handed out, with Joao (John) Chavez winning Best of Show for his Yamaha 750. Everyone then queued up at the serving table for big helpings of the offerings provided by Fat Boy’s BBQ. After dinner, most of the members stayed and discussed the event and made plans for next year. This year’s turnout was smaller than the past rallies and people offered their thoughts on why that might have been and what CLOCKWISE could be done to improve it. Most put FROM CENTER: The line up at this it down as a fluke or its timing with so year’s bike show many other events happening around Our host hotel, the the same time. The consensus was that Holiday Inn Express it would take a long time to exhaust the in Silver Springs great riding opportunities in the area Joao Chavez picks florida state rally and that the venue was also top notch, up the Best of Show trophy. bike show winners so Silver Springs should continue to be a viable option for future rallies. Per- Murray Milne, aka BEST OF SHOW “The Cooking Kiwi” joAO CHAVES haps the cold weather of the last two listens attentively as ABOVE: rallies put some off this year, but those future events MERIT AWARDS Digging in at the are discussed. Dick Altman who stayed home missed some of the Saturday night Thomas Batchelor buffet best riding weather we could have had. Scott Bernardi With awards, discussion, and dinner for another ride in the area as a part- Obis Brea Tony Colorado over, Florida Field Rep Norm Smith of- ing activity in the once again stunning John Davis fered to play a vintage motorcycle movie weather. Terry Deacon or two and let the members pick from Overall, the rally was a great success Tom Ewing Peter Fenninger among the many he had brought with again this year. Although our numbers Michael Fitterling him. The World’s Fastest Indian won were smaller than in years past, that just Steven Hall hands down, and we settled in for some lent itself to making the event more in- David Hammer Toby Jones entertainment, watching this classic timate and the camaraderie more per- Mike Kersey film for the rest of the evening. sonal. I doubt any of those attending the Mark Merrill Sunday morning again found us at the Florida State Rally this year will want to Murray Milne breakfast room before heading outside miss it next time. l Norton Muzzone David Shotsberger Norman Smith 52 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 D Jay Snyder Ken Wogaman CLUB BUSINESS Your VJMC Board of Directors for 2016-2017 by John Herke, Director

er the VJMC’s bylaws, an elec- 1982. In fact, the only bikes he has ever Ption was scheduled for November owned and ridden are vintage Japanese and December of this year to select Bryan Bentley motorcycles. For Sean, attending major the club’s 2016-2017 Board of Direc- waterloo, sc events such as Mid-Ohio and the Barber tors. Also per the bylaws, the Board Vintage Festival are high points each is to consist of up to fifteen Direc- This is Bryan’s second term on the year, but the regular interaction with tors, of whom three are non-elected Board. He has been an avid rider of club members in his local greater Cin- (the Magazine Editor, the Member- smaller Japanese bikes since his first—a cinnati/Kentucky chapter is what really ship Chairman, and the Webmaster). Honda CL90—when he was fourteen makes the VJMC special for him. The The remaining Director positions (up years old. He has continued to enjoy the Cincinnati/Kentucky chapter has gotten to twelve) are filled by election, with hobby and began collecting and restor- very active with regional events, a ben- voting being done by the existing Di- ing Japanese motorcycles around 2005. efit ride for an injured member, online rectors and the club’s Field Represen- He has participated in numerous events communication, and working together tatives. since joining the VJMC. He has also on a charity bike build (1977 CB750K However, the bylaws provide that if organized VJMC shows held in con- café-style) completed last spring. He for- there are fewer than twelve nominees junction with a BBQ festival in Laurens, merly served as a Field Representative. for the (up to) twelve open Direc- SC. His specialty is the smaller singles, tors’ seats, then all the nominees are including a 1964 Honda C102 that has deemed elected and no election shall been on loan to the Motorcyclepedia Mike Fitterling be held. That was the case this year, as Museum in Newburgh, NY. Bryan for- lake wales, fl we had nine nominees for the twelve merly held the position of Membership seats. Nominations for this year’s Retention Manager and is now Maga- Mike joined the VJMC in 2009. In 2013, election were solicited by email from zine Display Advertising Director. he took on the editorship of Vintage Jap- among all eligible Field Representa- anese Motorcycle Magazine, the club’s tives and current Board Members. magazine. He has worked in the pub- The nine nominees are deemed Sean Carrigan lishing industry since 1996 and in the elected, and they will join the three alexandria, ky printing industry for years before that. non-elected Directors to make up the Since 2010 he has owned a publishing VJMCs new Board of Directors begin- This is Sean’s second term on the Board. company with two imprints: Lost Clas- ning 1 January 2016. Seven of the nine He was bitten hard by the vintage bug sics Book Company and Road Dog Pub- nominees are current Directors; two about eight years ago and has since re- lications, a riding and adventure travel are new or returning Directors. A brief paired, restored, and rescued numerous book imprint. Mike attends most of the biography of each Director follows. Japanese classic models from 1972 to club events in the southeast US. He owns

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 53 a 1968 CB350 that he found neglected ly, President. After seven years with and dusty and restored to running con- Ellis Holman General Motors, he has enjoyed work- dition. The CB experience is what got carmel, in ing as a university professor for the him involved in the VJMC. He has also past thirty-seven years. Tom rides and resurrected a 1986 Suzuki Savage from Ellis has served in various capacities in restores Honda CB400Fs and Japanese a pile of parts into a running bike and the VJMC, including Vice President and step-thrus from the 1960s. He enjoys most recently acquired a 1974 Honda Membership Chairman. Ellis is current- meeting and working with our mem- CL200. Mike’s goal for the magazine is ly the Central Indiana Field Representa- bers at national rallies, shows, Mid- to see it shoulder-to-shoulder with other tive. For the last several years, Ellis has Ohio, and the amazing Barber Vintage national motorcycling magazines and to helped organize the VJMC presence at Festival. He is committed to growing make it an even better incentive for peo- Vintage Days at Mid-Ohio. Ellis also or- the VJMC at the local, regional, and ple to join the club. ganized the VJMC presence at the first national levels using sound fiscal man- ever International Motorcycle Show at agement. Indianapolis last year. Ellis has worked Bill Granade professionally as a Honda mechanic tampa, fl and parts-person. He now primarily Bob Leonard concentrates on restoring Hondas. Ellis vallejo, ca Bill has been a member of the VJMC is committed to helping grow the club for fourteen years. During that time from the regional level and to helping Bob joined the Board in January 2012. he has served as Treasurer (4 years), gain national recognition for the VJMC Bob served one term as the club’s Secre- Membership Chairman (10 years and as the premier vintage club for Japanese tary. He is currently its Treasurer and counting), Event Coordinator (2 years) motorcycle collectors. served as an Arizona Field Represen- and Insurance Committee member (3 tative before moving to California last years). When Bill became the Mem- year. Bob began his Field Rep tenure bership Chairman in January 2004, the Robert N. “Bob” Kelly by establishing a Yahoo! Group for the Club had 1,388 members. Today our boulder, co club’s members in Arizona. This led membership is 3,832. As Membership to numerous events over the years as Chairman, Bill sends out over 11,000 Bob will become a first-time Board the members became better connect- letters each year to our club’s members. member in January 2016. He has been ed with each other, and VJMC mem- Bill enjoys riding his restored 1975 Gold the VJMC Field Representative for Col- bership in Arizona grew by over thir- Wing around the central Florida back orado since 2009. Bob plans two events ty percent. Bob is also one of the lead roads with other local VJMC members. each year: an annual Vintage Motorcy- organizers for the club’s annual West cle Show and a cookout for the Colorado Coast Rallies. Bob’s first motorcycle VJMC members. Bob has been a mem- was a 1971 Kawasaki 100. This make John Herke ber of the VJMC for the past fifteen and model was the start of Bob’s vin- mandeville, la years. He has written many articles for tage collection, and it was the bike that the VJMC magazine over the past five Bob rode the first time he rode in the John joined the VJMC in 2007 after vis- years and has volunteered at the VJMC club’s annual Death Valley Ride. Bob’s iting its booth at Bike Week in Daytona booth at the Las Vegas Mecum Motor- focus on the Board is looking for ways Beach, Florida. He joined the Board of cycle Auction. Bob received a bachelor’s to improve communications through- Directors in March 2013. Prior to join- degree in Business from Regis College. out the club so that everyone can easily ing the Board, John volunteered his le- He retired from the United States Air interact with their fellow club members gal services to the club on an as-need- Force in 1998 and currently works for to get all the benefits that club mem- ed basis. He enjoys participating in the Ball Aerospace as a Contracts Manager bership has to offer. VJMC national rallies and has attended in Boulder, Colorado. the Barber Vintage Festival almost every year since its inception. At the 2013 Vin- Randy Mayes tage Festival, he acquired a 1974 Honda Tom Kolenko castalia, nc CB 750 which has joined a 1974 Honda kennesaw, ga Elsinore CR 125 and a 1988 Honda “Su- Randy became a VJMC member in per Magna” in his slowly growing stable Tom has served the VJMC in various 1981, after her serendipitous acquisi- of bikes. John hopes to continue assist- leadership capacities over the past sev- tion of a candy apple blue 1971 Honda ing the club with any necessary legal enteen years including Director, Trea- 125SS. Her motorcycle experience be- work and to help grow the club’s local surer, Regalia Coordinator, Georgia gan with around-the-yard rides on an activities in his home state of Louisiana. Field Representative, and most recent- XR75 but quickly graduated to other 54 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 interesting motorcycles, including a the same time ensuring every member Moto Guzzi V-7 Sport and a Triumph Pete Slatcoff always knows what’s going on every- TR7RV (single carb Tiger). After her panama city, fl where within the club. later-to-be husband, Warren, bought what would be her daily college com- Peter joined the Board in January 2012. muter bike, a 1974 Honda CB350-F, He brought with him a hallmark of “if Jim Townsend, there was no turning back from vin- there’s no plan, there’s no execution.” warsaw, in tage Japanese motorcycles. For over As the club’s Event Coordinator, he has fifteen years, her regular rider has quadrupled event attendance through Jim has been an officer of the club since been a 1976 Honda CB400F. Ran- mass communication to keep the mem- 1999 when he was appointed President. dy is a frequent participant in VJMC bers informed, along with online event After taking over as President, Jim in- National Rallies, from the first one registration and an increased number corporated the club and appointed a in 2002 in Asheville, NC, to 2015 in of quality events nationwide. For exam- Treasurer, Secretary, and Director. He Pigeon Forge, as well as the Barber ple, in Florida alone there are now nine served as President until 2006 and is Vintage Festival. From 2006 through major events annually and growing. currently a Director. During his tenure, 2011, she served as Secretary on the He enjoys participating in the various the club grew from about 650 members VJMC Board of Directors, stepping VJMC activities, but it’s his personal in- to over 2,000, which was a high point down only to devote more time to her terface with the members that he enjoys for the club at that time. He also start- day job. Although the VJMs are cen- most. Pete rides and restores Yamaha ed club events such as National Rallies, tral to her involvement in our club, TX-750s and has an affinity for his retro hosting two in Asheville, NC, and one it’s the heartfelt friendships cultivated Honda CB 1100 and Honda Grom. He in Heber Springs, AR. Jim also worked over the years that make her want to is committed to increasing the number to set up the 2012 National Rally in In- contribute more to the benefit of our of quality events and increasing the in- diana, which is where the VJMC’s 2016 members. volvement of the membership, while at National Rally will be held. l

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 55 ADVERTISER’S SPOTLIGHT Spacecoast Plating by Bryan Bentley, Display Ad Director / [email protected]

lthough I have not had the oppor- Atunity to personally send parts to Spacecoast Plating, I have had the plea- sure of viewing many pieces of their work, and they speak for themselves. This is some of the best chrome plating I have ever seen. Spacecoast uses the cop- Almost any per and nickel chrome process, rather metal found on than the nickel chrome process, on ev- erything but exhaust. Yes, I said they do a motorcycle exhausts, also. can be plated. Most exhausts can be done, however, there are some “ifs.” Spacecoast Plating Aluminum, only uses a two step, nickel and chrome steel, brass, process for exhausts due to the low melt- ing point of copper. This also limits the pot metal, and amount of repairs to pitting and dents die-cast are that can be done, as copper, solder, or lead, which is normally used as a filler some of their to repair these pits and small defects, specialties. will also melt when used on exhaust. fy you before they begin. Occasionally, Dents can be very tough to remove, they receive parts that are just too far also, as it is hard to access the inside of gone to repair and plate. Rather than most mufflers. On all other parts, all of patch and hide, they will turn down the these materials can be used to smooth job. They offer a one year warranty to out your part, and most dents can also non-abused parts, and of course, they be removed. can’t offer this warranty to a poor-qual- Almost any metal found on a motor- ity patch job. cycle can be plated. Aluminum, steel, What about custom work for those of brass, pot metal, and die-cast are some you who prefer a different look? Yes, of their specialties. They also can polish they offer what you need. How about your aluminum and other nonferrous copper plating for a different look on metals to a show-quality finish. They do your custom? Maybe you would just like recommend a protective coating, which to try a nickel plate for the old-time yel- they do not supply after polishing, but low chrome look, rather than the slight- they will be happy to recommend a ly blue tone of chrome plating. They will proper coating to be used. also either polish or flash chrome your So, how do you find out about cost, stainless steel. Stainless should be flash shipping, turnaround time, and other chromed if you are trying to match a factors? Just visit www.spacecoast-plat- chrome finish. Although polished stain- ing.com. Although you won’t find pric- less looks great, when it is placed next to contact info es listed due to all the variations, they chrome the difference is obvious. That welcome a picture of your parts and can is why the flash chrome is offered. Spacecoast Plating give you an estimate. After arriving at & Metal Refinishing, Inc. Give them a try and be sure to tell 321.254.2880 their facility, the part is inspected, and them the VJMC sent you. You won’t be www.spacecoast-plating.com if there is any difference, they will noti- disappointed. l 56 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 tech help Tech Tip #12: Winterization and Storage of Motorcycles by Jim Townsend / [email protected] & Ellis Holman / [email protected]

Ellis: Jim, now that the weather’s cool- bike for storage important, but where the tires. Spray WD-40 on all chrome ing off, I’ve been getting a few calls you store it is sometimes more import- and metal rims, spokes, engine cases, from folks about winterizing their mo- ant. For instance, if the bike going to be handlebars, all nuts and bolts, chain torcycles for a long winter’s nap. The stored in a carport with only a cover, and sprockets, and put a coat of wax on basics are pretty simple; drain the car- that is far harder to protect than a bike all painted surfaces. Oil all the cables b(s), put the choke full on and crank the in a temperature and humidity con- and everything that moves. I also use engine over to pull residual fuel out of trolled garage. Armor All on all grommets and rubber the carb. As for the tank, there are two There are some things that should be parts, including tires and seats. If your schools of thought. One, drain the tank done no matter where you are storing seat is leather, use a leather protection and spray something like WD-40 liber- your bike. Everything you mentioned product. ally around the inside, or two, fill the should be done, but the battery real- Cover the bike with a dust cover. Old tank completely with fresh gas and Sea ly needs to be removed if it is going to bed sheets work quite well and are cheap. Foam or Sta-bil to keep the fuel stable. be stored for more than two or three Either method works. The whole point months. Lead acid batteries rarely last Ellis: Jim, those are all good thoughts. is to prevent condensation in the tank, over two years with the best of care, and One of the best ways to store a bike, which will lead to rust. for that long of storage, it just doesn’t regardless of where you store it, is one Fully charge the battery and get a so- make sense to leave the battery in the of the vacuum bags made by compa- called “float charger.” Attach it to the bike, even if it is in a temperature and nies like VAC-BAG®. These are bags battery and plug it in. A float charger humidity controlled space. designed to have the air pulled out of will keep the battery fully charged For carburetors, I drain the float bowls them using a vacuum cleaner. When during the months you aren’t riding. If and the petcock if it has a fuel bowl. used with silica desiccant to absorb any your bike has a selenium rectifier (usu- Most of my bikes have fuel bowls on ambient moisture, bikes can be stored ally a finned orange or red square), dis- the petcocks. The gas tanks take lots of virtually anywhere for long periods of connect the ground lead to the battery. care. Filling them with treated gas will time with no damage to the bike. This This will prevent the battery from dis- work for a few months, but for the long works especially well for people who charging. term, I remove mine and I put about a live in apartments who may not have Change the oil and filter, if your bike quart of WD-40 in them and slosh it access to a garage. Give extra attention has one. Don’t forget the transmission around and then pour most of it back to polished aluminum, especially if it on two-stroke bikes. For long term stor- into a container. I do it with the gas cap isn’t coated. Over time, the bare alloy age of more than three or four months, and petcock on the tanks. A bit of WD- will corrode and turn black. A light use a storage oil that meets REF: MIL-L 40 left in the tank won’t hurt anything coating of WD-40 or similar product 21 260. Pull the spark plugs and spray and keeps any possible moisture out of will help to prevent corrosion of alloy the cylinders with WD-40, or you can seams in the bottom of the tank. parts. If possible, park the bike on its use storage plugs which contain silica Sitting around in the camp at Barber center stand and block the frame so gel which turns from blue to pink when in October, one guy said that you should that the front tire just clears the ground. moisture is absorbed. never store a bike in any building with This will help unload the suspension livestock. The moisture in their breath and prevent flat spots on the tires. Jim: I received an email from Mark Gro- will (not may, but will) cause rust and chowski who said he had ten bikes and corrosion on all metal. Never do it. Jim: I think we’ve about covered every- wanted to store some of them for a cou- Buildings with dirt floors will be high thing. I had forgotten about the plastic ple of years. If a person needs to store in humidity as well and so will build- bags and desiccant. bikes that long, it is going take some ex- ings with no moisture barrier under a If you have a topic you want to see tra care to protect them. A small group concrete floor. covered, just email either or both of us were discussing this, and one per- I notice I haven’t said much about the of us: [email protected] or buddy. son said that not only is preparing the bike. Put an extra five pounds of air in [email protected]. l

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 57 58 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 events

Events Corner UPCOMING EVENTS march 4-6 Destination Eustis by Peter Slatcoff, Vice President, Events Coordinator / [email protected] Eustis, FL april 30 Bikes on the Beach appy New Year! As we enter the 2016 Rally at Spring Mill State Park in Mitch- Panama City, FL Hevent year, you will first find us in ell, Indiana. This rally brings members May 20-21 Miami, Florida. For the first show of the from all across the country and Canada. Riding into History year the Event Team will be at the 2016 Time after time I beg Jim Townsend to St. Augustine, FL Progressive International Motorcycle share the secret of why Spring Mill State June Show. Let’s give a big round of applause Park is such an attractive place for a ral- Idaho Rally to Andre and Mary Alice Behrens and ly which brings so many people from so Boise, ID Obis and Sharon Brea for stepping up to many places together. This year I will give us a hand at the show. It’s a shame not feed him until he shares the secret. June 23-25 VJMC National Rally that with all the members in the South The remainder of the year, we have the Mitchell, IN Florida area that there are not more peo- West Coast Rally, Barber Vintage Fes- ple involved with VJMC activities there. tival, AIMExpo and Retro Affair Vin- July 8-10 Well, not to worry, because this year tage Motorcycle Show, and the Florida AMA Vintage Days Lexington, OH there are many new events being added State Rally. There will be more on these to our event program, not only in Flori- events in upcoming issues. July 28-30 da, but all over the country. I still get those emails and calls with VJMC East Coast Rally For example, 2016 brings the Inau- “Why don’t you do events in my area?” Gettysburg, PA gural East Coast Rally, which will take Well, to tell you the truth, it’s hard to get August place July 28th through July 30th at the local individuals to help organize and Midwest Rally historic Gettysburg National Park, in execute an event. Even in Florida, with Kansas City, MO Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. There are al- as active a program as we have, we could September ready over ninety guests committed to use more participants in a number of West Coast Rally attend from more than ten states. geographic areas. Location TBD Other legacy events returning this So this year we are looking to expand October 7-8 year are Destination Eustis Vintage Mo- into areas that have been dormant for Barber Vintage Festival torcycle Show and Swap Meet at Lake many years. For example, the Florida Leeds, AL County Fairgrounds on the first week- Panhandle we believe will be the next end of Daytona Bike Week; Bikes on the epicenter for Florida VJMC activities. October 13-16 AIMExpo Beach at Ron’s Kawasaki, Panama City, Members from Pensacola to Jackson- Orlando, FL Florida in conjunction with Thunder ville are already stepping up with ideas Beach 2016; followed by an event that and how they plan to organize and exe- NOVEMBER 4-6 VJMC wholeheartedly supports, Riding cute them. South Carolina has added a Florida State Rally Location TBD into History, at the World Golf Village couple of Field Reps who are organizing in St. Augustine, Florida; the proceeds their event calendar. Another hot spot DECEMBER of this event supports the Wounded is Texas—new Field Reps and new en- 17th Annual Warrior K9 Unit. ergy. We added a Field Rep in the state Florida VJMC Christmas Ride Brooksville, FL Let’s not forget John Fiorino in the of Washington where there are high ex- great state of Idaho and their annu- pectations, also. al Vintage Motorcycle Show in Boise Did you ever wonder: Why do some of the members who travel to other lo- (June, TBD). During the same time pe- areas succeed while others fail? It’s all cations for periods of time and their im- riod, Mark Bayer and the Kansas City about the positive ions. The successful pact in those locations. Chapter host the famous Mid-West Re- areas are those where a single member Watch future issues of your Vintage gional Rally, while Sean Carrigan will makes an effort and the transfer of the Japanese Motorcycle Magazine for an- be hosting the VJMC presence at AMA positive ions becomes contagious— nouncements of new events Vintage Days in Lexington, Ohio. More it’s this positive attitude that makes it in more diverse locations. If on these events in the next issue. happen. you want to become conta- Then we have our VJMC National Next month, we will talk about some gious just touch the ion! l Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 59 A “Vintage Japanese” motorcycle is 20 years old or older and, of course, CLASSIFIEDS Japanese. Please be aware that ads may/will be edited to conserve space. 12 lines of print will be free to club members. PLEASE NOTE: Please be aware of publication deadlines. For an upcoming issue, ads are due by the 20th of the month of the preceeding issue’s release. For Ads will be run for one issue only. Please example, ads for the April/May 2016 issue are due February 20. resubmit via the VJMC website or email if If you have business related ads, please consider taking out a commercial display ad. Contact Bryan Bentley ([email protected]) or me for details you wish an ad to run longer. Also, contact our and rate information. Classified Ads Editor, Gary Gadd, if your post We can include color photos with your ad. Cost is a minimal $10 per pho- to per issue. Payment via Paypal is available on the VJMC website. For has been fulfilled, again via the VJMC website payment by personal check or money order, please address payment or email ([email protected]). This will help keep to “VJMC” and send to the address below. Photo ads will appear in the magazine issue following payment. our classified ads as current as possible. GARY GADD • 3721 HOLLAND ST. • FORT WORTH, TX • 76180 / 817.284.8195

Complete, 8016 miles, not run- ki T125, B100P, Yamaha DS6, KAWASAKI ning currently. Matching num- YAS-1, G6S-B, 305 Catalina, YL2. FOR SALE bers frame and engine. Not a Various Clymer manuals. Other 1985 Kawasaki 900 Ninja. The show bike but reasonably de- subjects, boats, marine engines, first model superbike. Unre- cent in appearance for a 40 year automobiles, ask for additional HONDA stored, but mint. New premium old bike. $150 in spare parts information. Most of the litera- tires, Corbin dual seat, and all (gaskets, misc., etc.) included. ture is mint perfect. Would pre- For Honda CA95, Parts. original parts plus spares in- Not installed NOS tank valued at fer to sell as a lot. Greg, Canada, Mostly cluded. All receipts and invoices $200 included. Numerous man- [email protected] cosmetic and body parts, fend- also included. 66000km. $2700 uals included: owners, parts, ers, chain guard, front end, US cash or certified check. shop. $950 cash only. Clean In- side cover, handlebars, and Tony Dotchin, 905-685-0637, diana title. Numerous pictures switches, much more. Cheap. St Catharines, Ontario, Canada, available on request. Email Contact me for information and [email protected] pictures. Fred Klopp, 717-273- preferred as initial contact. Will 0141, Pennsylvania, fkk@com- accept calls, but not my first cast.net choice. No texts, please; I will SUZUKI not reply. Steve Koontz, 765- 661-1471, Gas City, Indiana, For 1965/69 Honda CA 150/95, 1993 Suzuki GSX1100. 14k [email protected] CA/CB/CL 160, S65, NOS and miles, red, shaft-drive. This is a used parts. Lots of good stuff sit up straight bike in excellent For 1981 Yamaha XT250, NOS 1968/81 Hondas. 50 Japanese left over from restorations. condition. Everything works. Good prices, all must go. Paul red fuel tank. As new except bikes, mostly Hondas, $100 100hp/72ft lb. James, 517-851- for tiny scrape on the bottom of each or will part out. Also in- Enz, 321-268-5461, Titusville, 7402, Stockbridge, Michigan, Florida, [email protected] tank. Never had gas in it. Also, cludes 1978 Gold Wing engine, [email protected] NOS gas cap, NOS petcock. $450 front wheel and fender, carb plus shipping. Have original box set, manifold, cooling fans, and For 1960’s/70’s Honda, Keys. sent to Fairfield Yamaha in Fair- other GW parts. Deal on whole I have over 300 lbs of origi- YAMAHA field, CT on 02/10/1981. Also lot. Also 2 Yamaha Big Bear nal pre-cut Honda OEM mo- have NOS left side cover for Scramblers and Yam and Honda torcycle keys. Two (2) keys For 1960’s Yamaha, parts. same bike. $175 plus shipping. mopeds. Lots of seats and side including mailing in the USA Large lot of parts for YA6, YDS3, Photos on request. Dick Wer- covers. For CB750. Gas tanks. for $18. Specify “T” or “H” YM1, YAS1c, YL2c, YCS3c, HS1, ner, 608-538-3403, Wisconsin, For Bridgestone 100/150 seat, including the four digit num- HS1b, RD60. Mostly cosmet- [email protected] very nice, $100. Dream and Su- ber. Mark Troutman, 503-703- ic and body parts. No springs per Hawk frames with attached 8511, Lake Oswego, Oregon, and bolts. Good eBay stuff. fenders, electrics, wheels, etc. [email protected] Contact me for information 1965 Honda dream engine, and pictures. Fred Klopp, misc. FOR SALE 150 cc, $100. Ask for prices or deal on large or whole lot. Lo- 1976 Honda GL1000. 717-273-0141, Pennsylvania, Two bikes. [email protected] cated near Rhinebeck, New One is 95% complete; one 1960s and 1970s sales bro- chures and manuals. 13 cartons York, AMC super meet site. This needs putting together. A lot stuff has to go. Ken Krauer, 845- of Honda parts. One 900cc mo- 1973/74 Yamaha TX500. Two of material, sales brochures, parts manuals and shop man- 266-3363, Salt Point, New York, tor, one 1000cc Kawasaki mo- bikes. 1974 is nearly complete. joankrauer@ yahoo.com tor. $3500 for everything. Billy Needs battery and starter uals. Honda part manuals: Shankle, 662-934-8419, Court- clutch. 1973 is a basket case. 1963/65 50, CA125 and CA95, land, Mississippi, billyshankle@ Several totes full of parts and lit- S90, C200, CA/CB160, CB550, gmail.com erature. Contact me for pictures CA/CB/CL72/77, CB/CL450, WANTED and details. Asking $1645 obo. 1969/70 CB750. Yamaha parts Michael, 201-247-5948, New manuals: YL1 and YL2, YD3, 1979 Honda CB125S. Extensive- Jersey, [email protected] YDS-3, YM1, YJ1 and YJ2, U5, HONDA ly refurbished and ready to ride. YG1, TAS-1C and YAS2C, YGS- $1800 obo, or trade for small 1. Shop manuals: Honda C200, For 1965 Honda CL72, looking dirt bike. Richard Renstrom, 1975 Yamaha RD125. Little CB/CL125, CB/CL175, CA95, 50 for complete 250cc engine. I 208-459-8786, Caldwell, Idaho brother to the RD250/350. and 65, Hodaka 100-MX, Suzu- have a CL77 305 engine to trade

60 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016 ADVERTISER’S INDEX or will buy outright. Mike Weets, boots. Will look at what you have ADVERTISERS APPEARING IN THIS ISSUE: 563-503-0373, Iowa, mikeri- for this model. Larry Ward, 330- [email protected] 502-4197, Youngstown, Ohio, Acme Zoom (Mule Pack Panniers)...... 20 [email protected] 1972 Honda Z50 K3. Looking for Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum...... 28 excellent original bike in candy gold color. Would like to find an Misc. WANTED Buchanan’s Spoke and Rim...... 55 original paint bike. Sean Mor- CMSNL...... 64 phew, 562-698-7484, Whittier, Dealer memorabilia. California, vintage1948house@ Collector yahoo.com seeks 1950s-1980s Japanese dealership items including ban- David Silver Spares...... 63 ners, signs, ashtrays, lighters, For 1989/90 Honda GB500, look- hats, clocks, promos, etc. Rare, Diamond Gusset Company...... 23 ing for the under seat tool tray weird, and old is good. Tom Ko- and cover. Bill Spurlock, 707-448- lenko, 770-427-4820, Atlanta, Dime City Cycles...... 2 4792, [email protected] Georgia Gasolina Boots...... 34 Honda CBX 1000cc 6 cyl memo- Hagon Shocks...... 15 RABBIT rabilia for museum and the “CBX Book” I am presently writing. Rabbit 90 scooter, need whole Any brochures, adverts, posters, Honda Restoration...... 50 bike or parts. Jay Snyder, owner’s manual, workshop man- [email protected] ual, set-up manual, toys/mod- JDV Products/Vessel...... 26 els, old photos, etc. related to the 1979-1982 CBX. Also period Jess Bikes...... 53 aftermarket fairings/bodywork. SUZUKI Let me know what you have and Johnny’s Vintage Motorcycles...... 15, 50 how much you need! Thanks. Ian, For 1966 Suzuki B100P 118cc, 626-444-9358, California, ian@ Kenda Tires...... 18 looking for clutch side battery netvigator.com l cover, ignition switch, and fork Marbles Motors...... 20

MikeXS, Inc...... 29

Motorcycle Yamiya 750...... 4

National Motorcycle Museum...... 22

Nor’Easter Blastworx...... 24

Paul Miller Motorcycles...... 25

Precision Motorcycle Painting...... 43

Rick’s Motorsport Electrics, Inc...... 30

RJ Cycle...... 53

Road Dog Publications...... 34

Schmitt Mulhern LLC...... 46

Spacecoast Plating...... 23

Speed and Sport Yamaha...... 32

Vapor Honing Technologies...... 8

Vintage Suspension (Race Tech)...... 25

Western Hills Honda...... 50

Workshop Hero...... 39

Yamaha Powersports Division...... 36 Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 61 VJMC REGALIA ORDER FORM

You can also order online: VJMC.ORG/STORE SHORT SLEEVE T SHIRTS: • White 100% cotton, printed front & back, Available in sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL ...... $15 • Gray 100% cotton, 35th Anniversary shirts, Available in sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL...... $15

POLO SHIRTS: • Black, red, or white embroidered with club name & logo on left chest in 100% cotton • Available in M, L, XL, 2XL ...... $25 HATS • Black or Gray, cotton, baseball style with embroidered club name & logo ...... $15 • Red cotton “TEAM VJMC” embroidered baseball style ...... $15 CLUB MEDALLIONS: • White/black or Black/Gold metal with 1/4” top tab mounting hole ...... $10 DRINK KOZEE: • Red foam with white club name & logo screenprinted ...... $1.50 KEYCHAIN: • White soft vinyl with club name & logo screenprinted fastened to chrome ring ...... $1 VJMC PIN ...... $7 NEW VJMC CIRCLE DECALS • Available in 4”, 8” 12”...... 4” $3 ...... 8” $7 ...... 12” $20

Quantity Item Description Size Price Total

Shipping Charges $

Add shipping and handling costs to your order: Enclosed is my check or money order made out to “VJMC” for the total of $ • All items sent U.S. Priority Mail with Ship to: item and $4 each for additional items for USA only. Name: • Canadian orders multiply U.S. Mail rate by 1.5 to determine S&H Address: charges. City, State, Zip Code:

SEND YOUR ORDER TO: Tom Kolenko • 2445 Elmhurst Blvd. • Kennesaw, GA 30152 Questions?: [email protected] VJMC REGALIA ORDER FORM

You can also order online: VJMC.ORG/STORE SHORT SLEEVE T SHIRTS: • White 100% cotton, printed front & back, Available in sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL ...... $15 • Gray 100% cotton, 35th Anniversary shirts, Available in sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL...... $15

POLO SHIRTS: • Black, red, or white embroidered with club name & logo on left chest in 100% cotton • Available in M, L, XL, 2XL ...... $25 HATS • Black or Gray, cotton, baseball style with embroidered club name & logo ...... $15 • Red cotton “TEAM VJMC” embroidered baseball style ...... $15 CLUB MEDALLIONS: • White/black or Black/Gold metal with 1/4” top tab mounting hole ...... $10 DRINK KOZEE: • Red foam with white club name & logo screenprinted ...... $1.50 KEYCHAIN: • White soft vinyl with club name & logo screenprinted fastened to chrome ring ...... $1 VJMC PIN ...... $7 NEW VJMC CIRCLE DECALS • Available in 4”, 8” 12”...... 4” $3 ...... 8” $7 ...... 12” $20

Quantity Item Description Size Price Total

Shipping Charges $

Add shipping and handling costs to your order: Enclosed is my check or money order made out to “VJMC” for the total of $ • All items sent U.S. Priority Mail with Ship to: item and $4 each for additional items for USA only. Name: • Canadian orders multiply U.S. Mail rate by 1.5 to determine S&H Address: charges. City, State, Zip Code:

SEND YOUR ORDER TO: Tom Kolenko • 2445 Elmhurst Blvd. • Kennesaw, GA 30152 Questions?: [email protected]