Volume 36 / Number 5 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 • $5

The

WHAT’S INSIDE: Tale of a Yamaha YL2 KCVJMC Visits Allen Press Vintage Motorcycle Days at Mid-Ohio official publication of the vintage japanese motorcycle club of north america, inc.

IN THIS ISSUE Features EVENT: Kansas City VJMC’s COVER STORY 4th Annual All Japanese Motorcycle Rally 6 & Swap Meet The Survivor 40 PROJECT BIKE: Tale of a Yamaha YL2 12 EVENT: 10th Annual Antique Bikes 19 on Main

EVENT: 2015 Santa Fe Motorado 20 Bike Show

EVENT: Kansas City VJMC Visits Allen Press 24

PROJECT BIKE: My 1972 Honda cb750 K2 28 Restoration EVENT: 2015 ama Departments Vintage Motorcycle PRESIDENT’S LETTER: 44 Days at Mid-Ohio Partnerships Create Fun...... 5 RIDING SAFETY: BACK IN THE DAY: Vintage Motorcycle Honda CB750K2 / Richard A. McGuire...... 10 Safety 49 FROM THE EDITOR: Event Filled Fall, Winter Projects, & the Lady Yamaha...... 11 ODDS & ENDS: Attention Project ADVERTISER’S SPOTLIGHT: Deficit Disorder Spotlight on Advertising...... 54 53 TECH HELP: Tech Tip #10: More on Powder Coating & Bridge Rectifiers...... 55

Volume 36 / Number 5 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 • $5 On the EVENTS CORNER...... 57 The Cover “The Survivor”, CLASSIFIEDS...... 58 Scott Sturgis’s 1976 Honda ADVERTISERS’ INDEX...... 61 CB550F

WHAT’S INSIDE: Tale of a Yamaha YL2 KCVJMC Visits Allen Press Vintage Motorcycle Days at Mid-Ohio cover photo: OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE VINTAGE JAPANESE MOTORCYCLE CLUB OF NORTH AMERICA, INC. Scott Sturgis Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 3

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

Official Publication of the VJMC Partnerships Create Fun OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 he road to the future of this club is to create and strength- Volume 36, Number 5 en partnerships. Intuitively, we have always sought part- PRESIDENT T Tom Kolenko ners to leverage our limited resources and expand our reach. 770-427-4820 We are growing successfully because we have members who [email protected] have cultivated and nurtured events with partners. We are EDITOR all volunteers, and no one gets paid to prospect for partner- Michael Fitterling 863-632-1981 ships. Partnerships create great fun for all our members. [email protected] Whether it is in Indianapolis, Phoenix, Boise, or Kansas DESIGN DIRECTOR City, we have volunteers who have built relationships that ultimately serve our Nadine G. Messier members and their partners in that locale. These VJMC partnerships have [email protected] typically been with vintage-friendly dealerships and shops that support open CLASSIFIED ADS houses, meetups, rides, and shows. Gary Gadd 817-284-8195 I am always amazed at how many visitors to these events do not currently [email protected] own a bike or have one roadworthy enough to ride. But seeing the gathering of MAGAZINE DISPLAY Japanese iron rekindles the good vibes of the past. Intentions to ride increase, ADVERTISING DIRECTOR repairs move forward, and “new to me” motorcycles get purchased. Fresh tires, Bryan Bentley 864-923-0559 oil, tune-ups, riding gear, and other necessities are purchased where members [email protected] feel welcome. Successful local dealerships and shops have learned to invest in MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR these partnerships. Bill Granade Great local and regional VJMC partnerships can also be developed with ex- 813-961-3737 [email protected] isting or established motorhead events, like charity vintage car and aircraft shows. As invited guests, we often are provided with booth space and are part CHANGE OF ADDRESS of the show’s excitement. We help advertise the event and build visitor traffic, Please direct these requests to Bill Granade: [email protected] supporting the charity and vendors there. Devotees of vintage bikes, cars, and planes often have common gene pools. ADDITIONAL COPIES In order to minimize unnecessary expens- The VJMC has a strong national partnership history with the AMA Mid- es to the club, VJMC prints a limited number Ohio event; Barber Vintage Festival; IMS shows; Riding into History; Yama- of each issue of Vintage Japanese Motorcy- cle Magazine. However, we would be glad to ha; and, recently, AIMExpo and Ace Café Orlando. These organizations have accommodate any requests for additional copies been very generous to the VJMC each year, permitting us to grow and better from members. serve our members. They deserve our patronage and support. Please thank These requests must be submitted before the those partners who are so committed to creating great times for our members. 15th of the month preceding each issue. For ex- ample: for the Feb/Mar issue requests must be All these relationships have to be grounded in respect, sharing, and mutual received by January 15. benefits if they are to endure. We are often approached to promote or sponsor

MISSION STATEMENT: events which do not share these basics, and they typically do not work out. We The purpose of this organization is to promote recognize that we are a niche organization and focus on our members’ needs the preservation, restoration, and enjoyment of first. vintage Japanese motorcycles (defined here as those 20 years old or older). The VJMC also will Ultimately, it’s members that make events happen. It was Ellis Holman, Jim promote the sport of motorcycling and camera- Townsend, and Sean Carrigan and their fantastic team that created fun times derie of motorcyclists everywhere. again at Mid-Ohio this year. Similarly, Jack Stein and Bob Leonard kept the © 2015 Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club of North America, an IRS-approved Not-for-prof- annual West Coast Rally tradition alive in Arizona. These big events take re- it 501(c)(7) corporation. All rights reserved. sources, time, and dedicated volunteers to make them happen. Thank you all! No part of this document may be reproduced Events are important to our members, since an active club is a growing club. or transmitted without permission. All articles copyright by their respective authors. While our members don’t need excuses to ride their bikes, riding to a VJMC Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine is pub- event is always sweeter. I hope to see you all at the Barber Vintage Festival and lished six times per year, in February, April, June, other great fall events. August, October, and December. The views and opinions expressed in letters or other content are those of the author and do not necessarily Ride safe and often, represent VJMC policy. The VJMC accepts no lia- 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 6 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 Kansas City VJMC’s

All Japanese Motorcycle Rally & Swap Meet

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 7 8 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 event

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

ur fourth annual All Japanese Ral- Oly was held on Saturday, June 27th, 2015. This year we moved our annual swap meet to this event because of the need for more space to accommodate it. 2014’s event turned out to be our most attended event last year and was the one which people commented about the trunk or parked a trailer. most. This year turned out to be every bit Some of the first bikes to show up were as successful as last year’s. The weather two perfectly restored 1969 Honda K0 was great, the larger lot allowed for the CB750s, recently completed by Jerry swap meet to have plenty of space, and Jeunemann. The pair looked like they we had many new attendees join us. could have been sitting on the show- Each year and each show seem to be room floor or should be in a museum! very different from the previous. This There was an unrestored 1963 Honda year, the swap meet vendors came ear- C110 and an unrestored 1972 Honda ly, and the bulk of the bikes seemed to CB350 which was in really good original come in a little later. Each of our events shape. Randy Sams brought a gorgeous In all, we featured between 120 and are intentionally different. Our spring yellow Yamaha RZ350, and his son rode 150 bikes, and I estimate we had well show is intended to kick off our year- a Yamaha RD350. There was a fully re- over 400 guests. ly show and events season. This event, stored 1974 Kawasaki H1 in European We had guests from the Lincoln, Ne- the All Japanese Rally, is a more casual green, along with a really nice 1975 Su- braska, VJMC club, as well as Kathy and event, and our VJMC Regional is an at- zuki Titan T500. Pat Cipolla showed his Bob Steck, from Blaine, Minnesota. The tempt at a more organized show. We al- 1973 Suzuki TS400 with all the original Stecks came specifically from Minneso- ways end the year with a popular multi- paperwork from the original purchase ta to our event—that’s over 500 miles! club picnic. of the bike. Other bikes included a 1964 We love visitors, so please let us know if This year’s rally and swap meet was Super Hawk with the low bars, which you come to one of our events. We also a mix of about half vintage stock Japa- was fully restored, a restored Yamaha had numerous visitors from a 100-200 nese machines, about a fourth vintage XS650, an early Kawasaki Z1, and a nice mile radius. Japanese customs, and about a fourth original Honda 500T in the original Our next event will be the VJMC Re- were Japanese bikes from the late 1980s brown color. At mid-morning, someone gional Show, scheduled for Saturday, and later. We are finding that there are rode in with an original turquoise 1969 August 8th. At that show, held at the a lot of people who have “soon to be” Honda CB750 “sandcast.” What a great CAF Museum located at the New Cen- vintage Japanese bikes with no place to occasional daily rider! It was a genuine tury Airport, we will have more than show or share them. We are attempting sandcast engine and a very nice original just vintage motorcycles. At that event to cultivate VJMC membership among bike. we will be visited by the Kansas City Ex- every age group and are trying to inter- This year, we were honored to have otic Car Club. There will be Lamborgh- est a younger crowd as well. This show Greg Hageman’s 1983 Yamaha XJ900 inis, Ferraris, Maseratis, Panteras, and is primarily a vintage show, but we also café racer of TV’s Café Racer fame. (It other specialty and exotic cars. There open it up to newer bikes. Our other two can be seen in the May/June 2015 edi- will also be some special World War II shows are vintage bikes only. tion of Motorcycle Classics, page 51- airplanes. The planes will include a 1941 We have had at least one swap meet 55.) Greg has also shown a well-known PT13, a 1942 PT19, a Taylorcraft L 2, per year for the last three years. This one super nice Yamaha Virago café racer and several other vintage planes. was attended by at least a dozen vendors owned by Mike Martens in one of our We are serious about our shows so who used available spaces and others past events. These bikes are truly beauti- come and join us. Follow our activities who just parked a car and opened their ful creations, perfect in every detail. at www.kcvjmc.org. l Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 9 BACK IN THE DAY

Honda CB750K2

by Richard A. McGuire, P.E.

his photo shows my brother Ton my 1972 Honda CB750K2 back in 1974. While I was away in the military, my brother, Scott, was “taking care” of my bike for me. He says that he had lots of fun on it while I was gone. He took good care of it, though, because when I got back I took off on it for three weeks, traveling most of the west- ern US, without a single problem. Very good times! l

10 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 FROM THE EDITOR Event Filled Fall, Winter Projects, & the Lady Yamaha by Michael Fitterling / [email protected]

y the time you receive this issue Bmany of you will be approaching the end of your riding season. I hope the summer provided you with many op- portunities to enjoy the fresh air from the back of a motorcycle, and hopefully, some of those rides were to go enjoy the great company of your fellow members at VJMC events. Lucky for us in the South, the really good riding season is just beginning, and it coincides with so many events that I hope I can keep up with them! By the next issue, I will have ridden to Capital City Bike Fest in Tallahassee, Barber Vintage Festival, AIMExpo, Nick Krupa won an Award of Merit in and the Florida State VJMC Rally and the Japanese Vintage, 1946-1968 class we will be reporting back to you about with his 1966 Honda CL77. Our apol- those events and the West Coast Rally, ogies to both of you for missing those. held in Arizona, as ya’ll settle into mo- torcycle hibernation in the North. Finally, I received more mail regarding For many, winter is the time to tack- the “Lady Yamaha” that member Tim le mechanical or restoration projects Hite had asked about recently. Larry before the riding season returns. The Warren sent this: story of your trials and triumphs in the shop make great reading and inspira- “I was just at a show in Prescott AZ tion for the rest of the membership. I and picked up a copy of your magazine. hope you will consider sharing your I was quite surprised when I opened stories with us via your magazine. Res- it up this morning and saw a picture torations, mechanical how-tos, histori- of a Yamaha very similar to one I have cal information, and riding stories are had for many years. It has been one of those, ‘I will get to it one of these days’ all great writing projects for those cold bikes, but so far, nothing. winter months. I thought I would share some pictures I want to mention a couple omis- I have just taken. Like Tim, I have next sions from the last issue. While we try to no knowledge of this bike, no pa- our best to be accurate and complete perwork and no idea if it will ever get when we publish each issue, sometimes finished, but it is unusual in that I have things “fall through the cracks” and never seen another. get missed. In the article “River Town You are welcome to share my email Vintage Bike Show” (Vol36/No4, page address if you wish.” ­ 6) we failed to mention that the pho- —Larry Warren tographs were from member Keith Schindler. Thank you, Keith. Also, in Thanks, Larry, every bit of informa- the list of winners in “2015 Riding Into tion is useful on rare bikes like this History,” in the same issue (page 45) we Yamaha. Larry can be reached at: missed one of our winning members. [email protected]. l Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 11 12 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 Tale of a

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 13 LEFT: Y2L Giro dash

14 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 PROJECT BIKE

by Richard Snyder / [email protected]

or the past decade, my motorcycling decisions have been directed by my enjoy- Fment of the United States Classic Racing Association’s (USCRA) MotoGiros. El- igibility is restricted to pre-1968 and displacement smaller than 305cc. A few years ago, I competed on a 1962 Honda C102, and I won the 65cc Class. Riding a step- through, push-rod fifty over two hundred and fifty miles in a time-limited road rally required staying folded up behind the handlebars for two days. I needed to get a bigger bike! A Honda collector friend I knew had two oddball bikes that needed a new home, so I traded the beautifully restored C102 for a pair of “projects.” It seemed like a good idea at the time. One was a 1967 Sears 106 Super Sport that had been in a lake too long. Once restored, it was very pretty. Unfortunately, it was too poorly made to ever consider riding in a MotoGiro. Sorry Gilera, but that was not your finest moment. The other bike was a very rough Yamaha YL2. Made only in 1967, this YL2 was a rotary valve 100cc street version of the popular trail bike. I could never understand why Yamaha called the Twin Jet 100 a “YL1” and the single cylinder 100 a “YL2.” Anyway, the bike came with an envious collection of NOS parts, and the Sears sold well on eBay, so I committed to the YL2’s restoration. As the photo shows, it was a mess. Mice had nested in it for so long the frame had been destroyed from the inside. Funny thing about mouse pee: it will remove all the metal without damaging the paint! My fingers went right through the rear section of the frame. Adding to my worries was the fact that I had a New York registration for the rotten frame. So, in a moment of insanity, I decided to salvage the neck (with the VIN) and look for a donor frame. That would be the first of dozens of eBay purchases. A jig was made around the donor frame, securely fixing five specific locations. A tightly-fitted core shaft through the steering neck was welded to a base plate, TOP: ensuring the final alignment. Careful measurements on both frames provided the 1978 YL2 before cutting points. Each section was sandblasted around the cuts. Before welding the restoration cuts, ten steel straps were welded inside to both sections across the seam. The entire BOTTOM: process took several weekends, but the end result was well worth it. By then, I was usable frame really committed. and VIN Next, my attention turned to the chrome items, since that would take some time to get back. There were twenty-six items needing chrome. I like using AC Plating in Bakersfield, California. Years ago, on a project bike, I sent parts to four different chrome shops around the country. In Louisiana, they lost an item. In the Northeast, it was way too expensive. In the Midwest, the quality was lacking. AC Plating was efficient, reasonably priced, and very well organized. Fabiola is always a pleasure to work with. AC offers show chrome or decorative chrome. I opted for the decorative chrome on this project, since it was not headed for the show circuit. The exhaust required many dents to be pushed out and the deep gouges filled through brazing, then filing flush. By locking a half-inch steel rod with a carefully bent tip in a vise and slipping the muffler over it, I used a torch on the damaged area to turn the surface red. The point that the rod touches from the inside will darken, allowing an exact location for outward pressure. It takes some practice, but it works very well. My goal was to get the muffler reasonably smooth but not flawless. Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 15 The rear shocks have plastic collars riatic acid and two pounds of stainless gaskets that were needed. Only after re- and are not meant to be dismantled. steel, self-tapping, metal screws—out- assembly did I find that the oil pump Once I figured out they are assembled doors, of course! With full protective didn’t work. I had to replace the shift- with a threaded shaft into the base gear on! I shook it in every direction, ing forks, oil seals, the injector pump, mounts, I was able to grind away the over and over. When I think I’m done, I the carburetor, and all things electrical. peening, unscrew the base and col- always shake it some more. Leaving the I installed a new wiring harness, rectifi- lars, and then work the dents out of the screws in, there were several flushes of er, horn, coil, condenser, etc. The head- collars so they could be chromed. Re- hot soapy water, then several flushes of lamp was made by cutting a one-inch assembly required a small weld on the clean hot water, followed by a thorough circle in the back of the lamp’s metal threaded end to prevent the base mount rinsing with dry gas. I then preheated housing and inserting an 1157 socket from coming unscrewed during use. my shop oven to 150 degrees, shut the and bulb. The gas tank, although originally oven off, and placed the tank inside and A large number of rubber items for chrome plated, was far too damaged let everything cool down. This ensured this bike came from Thailand. The to be re-chromed. The tank dents were there was no more moisture, even in the quality is not great, but it is far better pushed out in the same manner used deepest seams. When I was ready to use than rotten parts or none at all. Knee with the muffler. Body filler smoothed the POR 15, I gave it intermittent atten- pads, tank pads, seat cover, grips, de- things out, and the formerly chromed tion over several hours. Periodic rota- cals, are all remanufactured. Some ca- area was painted beige. I took artistic tion in all directions ensured a uniform bles were in the pile of OEM parts that liberty. coating. Lastly, I let the uncovered tank came with the bike. I made the choke The sealing of the inside was done us- sit for a week to cure. and front brake cables from leftover ing POR 15. I like this product because The engine was not immune from Montgomery-Wards/Benelli sheathing. it stays workable for a couple hours. having problems. The shifting shaft The paint (black and beige) is a three Prep work is critical. I began by seal- was broken off and bent, the side cases part enamel from NAPA. The fenders ing all the openings and then filling it were broken, and several fasteners were were painted with NAPA rattle can halfway with a mild mixture of mu- snapped off. I made most of the fiber aluminum. All painted surfaces then

16 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 received a coat of Eastwood’s two stage clear in a can— great stuff! Be sure to follow the mixing instructions. Shake it un- til you think your arms will fall off. Be sure to have every- thing ready to clear coat. Once activated, it does not have any real shelf life; twenty-four hours is about it. Coverage is roughly three square feet. Since Yamaha case paint seems to be unobtainium these days, I am always on the lookout for a substitute. I took a chance on Eastwood’s Silver Wheel Paint and was not disappointed. It is a light-colored silver that works well for engine cases. Some of the difficult to find hardware was sand blasted and then zinc-coated using East- wood’s DIY plating kit. The rims had to be replaced, and finding a set of 18 x 1.40 was not a problem. Each spoke was wire wheeled, polished, and clear coated. The spoke nipples were buffed using a brass wheel. The hubs were also buffed with the brass wheel and then clear coated. Tires were not as easy. I wanted a ribbed look for the front. Heidenau K40 (2.50) worked for the front, with the 2.75 rear tire being a reversed front with a block pattern, (Heidenau K39). After getting everything ready for fluids, I rolled the bike out of the house and added gas. The engine started! Yippee! However, I was truly discouraged to find that the clutch was not engaging. Out came the gas, and back into the house it went. I eventually found that the unusual clutch design per- mitted the splined hub to hang up when snugging down the clutch springs. Even though the springs were compressed, there was no pressure against the clutch plates. A very weird design, to say the least. There’s a good reason they don’t make them that way anymore. Round two of being out of the house showed the main jet to be too large. The replacement carb came with a #120, while the original bike came with a #95. I opted for a #100, which is working very well. A MotoGiro bike may have a six to seven mile uphill climb (like the time the route went up Mt. Gray- lock) and I’ve learned the hard way that a little rich is a lot better. The last piece to add was my Giro dashboard. There’s a scrolling route sheet holder, a clock, a thermometer, and a Cats Eye bicycle computer for accurate distances. I strive for the odometer to be within a one percent error. I measure the tire circumference by rolling it along a tape measure. After converting inches to centimeters, I multiply that figure by 1.007. Trial and error has given me that formula. I think that centrifugal force increases the diameter ever so slightly, once underway. I have a measured ten mile distance that I ride to confirm that it is accurate. I also added a perforated plate near the horn to attach the New York state inspection sticker. Those darn things will peel your paint off. In early October, the YL2 and I are headed off to Asheville, North Carolina, to compete in the USCRA’s Fall MotoGiro. Until then, I’ll ride the heck out of her, looking for anything that needs attention. Like in any relationship, the really cute ones require your best! l

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 17

HISTORYevent 10th Annual Antique Bikes on Main by Bryan Bentley, Advertising Director / [email protected]

he tenth annual Antique Bikes on TMain was held July 25 through 26, 2015, in Chesnee, SC. The VJMC was well represented this year at this yearly event. We set up a display in the swap meet area, and members joined us to sell surplus parts, as well as to recruit and educate others about our club. Six new members joined at the event, and many others took home information about our club. The event lived up to it’s reputation for being held on hot weekends, but with the shade of a canopy and a fan stirring the air, it was tolerable. Even hotter than the weather were the bikes. Just about CLOCKWISE FROM every make and model were represented TOP LEFT: including American, European, a very On the Edge stunt team performs nice group of Japanese, and some that were so old even I was not sure where Gasoline Alley, a separate area they came from. Only bikes from 1980 for race bikes and older were allowed to park on Main Enjoying pizza and Street, and the organizers had it covered friends at Wes from one end to the other, leaving some and Jeannette’s to scramble for a shady spot. The event included live music; The Gasoline Alley for race bikes; On the Edge Stunt Show; The Carolina Rid- er magazine Kamakazi Bike Show, in wiring harness to a complete CL77 and nette Robison at their home. Plenty of which VJMC members won two classes; anything in between. cold drinks, pizza, and tales of yester- and of course, the swap meet, where you Saturday was capped off by a member year were available, providing a perfect could buy any thing from a NOS CL77 get together hosted by Wes and Jean- end to the weekend. l

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 19 2015 Santa Fe

Bike Show

20 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 Several dozen classic Japanese two-wheelers filled their own section, including all four major manufacturers, although Honda dominated with many stunning CB750 and CB500 fours. Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 21 All F our Y ears o f H onda’’s C BX 1979 1980 1981 1982 Owner: Steve Steenrod Jack Jason Wes Anderson Vince Ciotti Albuquerque, NM Santa Fe, NM Perryton, TX Santa Fe, NM Weight 549 555 611 633 lbs Horsepower 103 98 98 98 Front forks 35mm 35mm 39mm 39mm Brakes: front Dual disks Dual disks Single Dual vented Dual vented Single rear Single disk disk Single disk disk Color (US) Red Black Silver White Fuel capacity 5.3 gal 5.3 gal 5.8 gal 5.8 gal Top Speed 140 130 130 130 Price New $3,798 $4,198 $5598 $5,598 # Produced 24,521 7,969 3,754 2,737 Oil cooler 4-­‐row 5-­‐row 5-­‐row 5-­‐row Distinguishing Polished engine Polished engine Full fairing, Full fairing, bags, Characteristics: block & Comstar block, black bags, ProLink ProLink front & 1 wheels, flat black wheels, rear front & rear air rear suspension, 2 air covers mini-­‐trunk suspension rear grab bar

3

6

7 5

22 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 event

by Vince Ciotti / [email protected]

n Father’s Day, June 21st, Santa Fe The Motorado is run by a group of lo- Ohosted its fourth “Motorado” bike cal volunteers, who donate their time show, with over a hundred and thirty gratis. Proceeds from the thirty spon- classic motorcycles on display from col- sors go to the Santa Fe Animal Shelter, lectors throughout the Southwest. For which out here probably benefits of lot a town of only 140,000 people, it was of us vintage Japanese bike owners. De- amazing to see how many vintage two- tails about the bikes in the show are giv- wheeled beauties showed up, includ- en in the captions of the photos. ing a large array of rice-burners. Many If you’re a regular reader of Vintage each year’s US color, so we had to show bikes were hauled long distances from Japanese Motorcycle Magazine, you our ugly mugs wearing them. From left: neighboring states, including Texas and may remember articles covering classic Me, Jack, Jason, and Wes Anderson. Colorado, and a large contingent of two- Japanese bikes we showed at previous Photo 4: Nine CBXs—Five other CBXs wheeled beauties drove up from nearby years’ Motorados: in 2012 and 2014, we showed up, to make a total of nine sixes Albuquerque. brought our “Three Sixes”—a Kawasa- altogether—which equals 54 cylinders ki KZ1300, a Honda CBX, and a Benelli and 216 valves! That’s Dave Liggon, the 750 Sei. 2013 saw a lineup of all of Hon- “Rice Burner” from Santa Fe, trying to da’s vintage in-line four cylinder bikes— count the number of carburetors. CB350, CB400, CB500, CB750, CB900F, Photo 5: Race Bike—The most amaz- and CB1100F. Attractions from the 2015 ing CBX had to be Dr. Tom Marquadt’s show include: race bike that he ran in AHRMA for Photo 1: CBX Display—A very rare many years and even took to Australia sight: all 4 years of Honda CBXs lined for some races Down Under. One can up in a row, with a superb example of only guess at the horsepower of this each year: monster, as there aren’t too many dynos • Steve Steenrod’s award-winning 1979, that can accommodate it. Tom trailered driven up from Albuquerque. it all the way from his home in central • Jack Jason’s immaculate 1980 with 13K Colorado, about five hundred miles miles—he’s the original owner! one-way. If he had driven it, it proba- • Wes Anderson’s 1981 with only 3K bly would have taken him two or three miles, hauled from Texas. hours, excluding time for tickets. 4 • My not-too-bad 1982, driven almost Photo 6: First Place—The judges ap- twenty miles from my home. preciated Tom’s racer enough to give it Photo 2: CBX Table—In case you can’t the First Place award in the CBX sec- Over two thousand spectators attend- read the sign in front of the CBXs, here’s tion. Dr. Tom even started it up, in just ed this stunning display of classic bikes, an enlargement of the table that explains two pushes, and blasted down a local many riding a wide range of machines the differences among the four mod- roadway to prove it wasn’t just a show themselves, which made the parking lot el years. Some debate about the details bike but still races today. almost as interesting as the show itself. (like did the 1980-on have 98 or 100HP? Photo 7: Warning—Lucky for Tom, Highlights of the show included a rid- and why the minor weight differences this New Mexico State Patrolman was ing display by the New Mexico police, between models?) but it’s an interesting busy chastising a young lady for racing the New Mexico Trials Association, summary for six addicts. her bike around the exhibit grounds. and a special section set up for Hon- Photo 3: CBX Hats—Most of the info Fortunately for her parents, she got off da’s six-cylinder CBX, including a rare on the table came from Ian Foster’s won- with just a warning. line-up of all four model years they were derful CBX Book II. (You can get a copy So what can we vintage Japanese bikers manufactured, from 1979-1982. This is from Louis Mintrone at www.usedcbx- around Santa Fe do for next year’s fifth the first time such a line-up occurred parts.com.) Ian sent us a series of col- Motorado? Anyone know of any vintage since a Barber exhibit many years ago. or-coded hats for each CBX, reflecting five-cylinder Japanese bikes? l Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 23 24 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 event Kansas City VJMC Visits Allen Press by Mark Bayer, President KCVJMC, Kansas/Missouri Field Rep / [email protected]

ast year I received a packet of Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazines from Allen LPress, which is located in Lawrence, Kansas. I was not aware that our national magazine was printed in a location so close to Kansas City. Kansas City and Law- rence are only forty miles apart! I thought it would be great fun to visit their facility sometime in the future. I brought this up at our KCVJMC monthly meeting last November, and the group thought it sounded like a great ride and a fun destination. I spoke with Lisa Mayhew, Account Manager at Allen Press, early in 2015 and confirmed that we could visit the factory. Furthermore, Lisa stated that we could visit their facility when a new club magazine was being printed—how great is that?! We scheduled the visit for Thursday, May 21st of this year. We also invited VJMC members from all over Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, and Missouri. We understood that, being a weekday, most would be working, but we sent the invites wanting to share the adventure with any VJMC members who could make it. From our Kansas City club, Randy Sams, Bob Guisinger, Mike Judy, Jim Koenig, Bill Bowring, Sandy Bowring, Drew Walter, Mike Kackley, Clifford Miller, Scott Williams, Frank Sere- no, and I attended. From Lawrence, Kansas, George Paley, Lynn Metzger, and Tim Dunham attended. There were two additional people from Lawrence but I failed to write down their names; sorry. We left Kansas City with nine motorcycles and two cars, riding the back roads led by Jim Koenig, an avid motorcycle enthusiast and legendary long distance touring rider. Randy rode a GL1100 Gold Wing, previously owned by his father, Scott rode , a vintage Kawasaki two-stroke triple, and Mike rode his 78 Kawasaki KZ1000. When we got to Allen Press, Lisa had secured an area for our bikes to be parked. The Lawrence guests showed up about the same time we arrived. We did several photo shoots of the group, the building, and the bikes, then Lisa led us into the main building, where we received guest badges. Our first stop was overlooking the area where the magazine pages are grouped and assembled together for stapling. We walked through this area into the place that the four-color web printing press was located. The press appeared to be around forty feet long and at least ten feet tall. This was where the printing is done. We stood there as the machine was turned on and the club magazine was being printed. Our tour guide, Dean Mills, who is the Director of Plant Operations at Allen Press, pointed out the location of the large rolls of paper, explained how the paper weaved through the press to be printed, and pointed out where the finished product TOP: was collected. KCVJMC and Once printing started, the men running the press had to dial in the alignment so our hosts at that the printing was clear and crisp. We saw samples of the first copies, which were Allen Press cloudy, then saw adjusted copies until the pictures were clear and perfectly aligned. BOTTOM: We were treated to seeing the first section of sixteen pages printed in one sheet of Our sample sheet of a paper before it was trimmed into individual pages. Completed groups of the printed section of pages were then palletized. We marveled at the complexity of the process and how the VJMC magazine this sheet of disjoined printed pages would form one section of the magazine. Lisa gave us samples of these sheets of paper. Each sheet represented sixteen pages of the magazine. Once all the pages are printed, they are taken to the next area, where they are stacked into complete magazines then stapled together. Once stapled and trimmed, the magazines are sent to be packaged and mailed. Plenty of time was given for questions, and our members indicated that they real- Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 25

ly loved the tour. We were then taken to we liked about the magazine. Everyone the corporate conference room, where agreed that they enjoyed articles about club members again thanked those who unique and rare bikes. Most also liked had helped us with this event. stories about bike restorations. Several We had the senior Allen Press staff noted that they appreciated event ads line up for pictures, then our club gave about activities and events going on them the KCVJMC “Award Of Excel- around the country. Everyone thought lence” plaque for the exceptional work the magazine was a great resource for that they do. Our club thrives on peo- services and products, and many keep ple going beyond minimal efforts and older issues for the resource lists alone. wants to recognize excellence whenever Above all, the magazine is seen as a we can! Allen Press truly has earned this quality product which allows our com- award. From the time we rode into their munity to keep in touch with the larger parking lot, to entering the building, community of Japanese motorcycle en- taking the tour, and asking dozens of thusiasts. questions, Allen Press staff were profes- KCVJMC wants to thank Allen Press sional, courteous, and thoughtful. Fur- for their product and VJMC for their thermore, the facility was clean, well-or- commitment to maintaining such a ganized, operated efficiently, and, above great magazine. We would also like to all, their product is first class. VJMC is thank Mike Fitterling for his efforts TOP: Our hosts, from left to right: served well by Allen Press! as editor. I would encourage all VJMC Bridget Bowles, Marketing Specialist, Our club was then able to have a short members to enjoy and fully use each is- Lisa Mayhew, our Account Manager, and Dean Mills, Director of Plant meeting and enjoy the cookies and sue of the magazine as a resource and Operations who led the tour. drink provided by Allen Press before we point of connection with other Japa- went on our way. nese motorcycle enthusiasts. Our club BOTTOM: The Award of Excellence that At our meeting in the Allen Press saw, firsthand, the work it takes to pro- we presented to our hosts. conference room, we discussed what duce one! l

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 27 My 1972

CB750 K2 Restoration

28 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 29

PROJECT BIKE

by Rafi Mohammed

’ve always wanted to restore a classic motorcycle but couldn’t get around to it for Iyears. In August of 2013, I started looking into what was nearby to finally get start- ed. There was a 1972 Honda CB750 Four on Craig’s List, which the seller offered to deliver for free if the buyer was along his route to work. It was too good to pass up. The bike was mostly there and was being delivered for free, so I made him an offer and I had a bike the next day. When it arrived, it had a king-queen seat with a pillion back rest on it, the gas tank was dented in a few places, there were no side covers, the oil tank cap had a screw going through it, the rear wheel was from a later year 750, and the carburetors were a mix and match from two different models without over- flow hoses. The engine crank cases were intact, but the top end had been altered, as it had an F model head on it. It had an aftermarket four-into-one exhaust. The gauges were from a later model 750, as well, the master cylinder was from a Kawasa- ki Z1, the handlebar was aftermarket, and the handlebar controls were from a later model. When I took the tank off, I found that the two smaller frame tubes on either sides of the back bone were cut to enable work on the top end with the engine in frame. All of the electrical components were in really bad shape, with poorly made splices all over. At that point, I decided that it was not safe to get the bike running in its current condition and it needed to be gone through in its entirety. I signed up on the SOHC4.net forums and have had incredible help from the members there.

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 31 The goal of the restoration was to build themselves were in good shape but had wheel were intact and came apart with- a bike that was better than when it rolled worn out to the point where the first out much trouble. The top fork bridge/ off the factory floor. over-sized pistons were going to be triple tree had been modified to fit the necessary. later year gauges that were on the bike Tear Down I split the crankcase next. Everything and were all recycled. The rear swing- I started tearing it down slowly, one in there was untouched and in decent arm showed signs of bushing wear, as component at a time, over the winter. shape. The crank’s main bearings, as there was some side to side play while in Once the engine was out of the frame, it well as the connecting rod bearings, frame. The seat, handlebars, gas tank, was much easier to work on the bench. were in good shape and within spec. and oil tank were all recycled. Most of the JIS screws holding the en- The cam chain and the primary chains Engine Improvements gine covers in place had corroded bad- had stretched a bit, but not much. The After thoroughly cleaning all the en- ly. I purchased a set of JIS screwdrivers transmission showed some significant gine parts, I began inspecting every- from RRRToolsolutions.com along with wear on the gear engagement “dogs” thing closely to determine what ma- their heavy-duty impact driver, which for the lower gears, which is typical chine work was needed. I found the , worked really well on the corroded for these bikes. The roller bearings correct 72 engine head on eBay from screws. throughout seemed to be OK, without a very low mileage bike. I had James The F model head showed signs of any squeaks or squeals. The oil pump Rieck, another highly respected forum poor machine work. The camshaft was was intact but, upon close inspection, member known for his exceptional an aftermarket Web-Cam 41-a with the showed some wear on the internals. porting work, review and rebuild it. stock sprocket and heavy duty valve The frame was a bit more challenging The head got a good amount of port- springs. All of this ended up being re- when it came to taking it apart. The , ing for the stock set up, along with all cycled, as I wanted to use the correct 72 ball bearing races in the steering neck new honed iron valve guides, stainless CB750 K parts for the restoration. and stem were especially difficult to steel valves, and Kibblewhite springs. Once the top end was off, I noticed remove without damage. Other than The cam towers and rocker arms were that the pistons were original/stock size the cut tubing, the frame was intact well within specification, but the tap- and hadn’t been changed. The cylinders and true. The front suspension and pets and their adjusting nuts were in

32 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 33 rough shape. They were replaced with ones from SKF. gear were in excellent shape. The clutch , new ones from Honda. I acquired a 72 The transmission shafts used bear- basket was modified by adding addi- CB750 K correct new old stock (NOS) ings that had grooves cut on their tional oiling holes to improve oil supply. cam via long time forum member outer races, along with semi-circular All the clutch plates and springs were Frank in Canada. A new cam sprocket retainers to keep the shafts from mov- replaced with new ones from Honda. was still available from Honda, so the ing. The new SKF replacements had The oil pump on the Honda CB750 old one was recycled. The cylinders the grooves in the correct place but was well overbuilt for the engine, so were too close to the factory specified weren’t wide enough for the retainers even with some wear and tear on the maximum tolerance, so I decided to to seat properly, so I had those widened impellers, these pumps produced suf- get them bored to the first over-sized by a machine shop in Lowell, Indiana, ficient pressure for normal operation. pistons. I went with new reproduction called Midwest Accurate Grinding. I was able to find a set of pristine im- pistons from yamiya750.com, as new The gear shift forks were in good shape pellers and their retaining end caps or NOS pistons from Honda were un- with some wear but within specs. The with virtually no wear on them. The available. The head and cylinders were gear engagement “dogs” on the second Honda CB750 has a “dry sump” design, milled flat to match. The connecting gear showed enough wear to warrant so the oil stays in the oil tank, instead rods showed virtually no wear and were a replacement. I obtained a full set of of the crank cases. The oil pump has a well within specs. The plain bearings gear shift forks and second gear parts stopping valve that keeps the oil from for the rods showed some wear and off of a practically unused bike from draining into the crank cases, but after were replaced with new ones. The crank another well-known forum member forty years, this rubber piece had worn was micro-polished, and all the main and CB750 pro racer, Bill Benton. I out and would cause wet sumping. This plain bearings were replaced with new also replaced the gear shift drum with stopper valve is no longer available from , , ones, as well. The cam chain, as well as a near new one from a 77/ 78 CB750, Honda, but another well-known SOHC4 the primary chains and their respective which had better grooves that allowed forum member, Elan Morales, started tensioners, were all replaced with new for smoother shifting and made it eas- making accurate reproductions right ones. The needle roller bearings on the ier to find neutral. All of the remain- about the time I tore down the engine. primary shaft were replaced with new ing gears and the kick starter shaft and He also makes reproduction springs for

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 35 36 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 the bypass valves and filtering screens my swingarm and replace the old worn used in these pumps. All the rubber out bushings with new oillite ones. The seals, springs, stopper valve, and screen frame, rebuilt swingarm, and all the lit- were replaced with new ones or repro- tle pieces attached to them were pow- ductions from Elan. der coated to match the original factory All engine oil seals, nuts, washers, color. the correct set of carbs from Bill Ben- bolts, and rubber hoses were replaced The steering stem ball and race bear- ton, fully tore them down, and cleaned with new ones from Honda. All the ings were replaced by modern tapered them ultrasonically. All of the indi- aluminum engine covers were me- steering bearings. The front suspension vidual pieces were zinc-plated; screws, ticulously sanded and polished to a was fully rebuilt using modern Progres- nuts, and washers were all replaced with chrome-like finish, then installed with sive Springs. The fork lowers were sand- new ones. All of the brass jetting com- new gaskets and screws. The oil lines ed and polished to a chrome-like finish, ponents and rubber seals were recycled from the oil tank were replaced with along with the brake caliper mounting and replaced with brand new ones from new ones from Honda, as well. bracket. Honda. The float bowls and carburetor The rear brake drum was cut and trued top crowns were polished to a chrome- Chassis Improvements by the local machine shop. The front like finish. They were assembled and The biggest issue with the bike was brake rotor was Blanchard-ground by bench synchronized for the initial start- the cut frame. It was deemed unsafe to Midwest Accurate Grinding. New brake up, then vacuum synchronized after a ride, despite the backbone of the frame pads for the front and new shoes for the few break-in miles. being intact. A highly respected forum rear from Honda were installed. member, Gordon East, owner of RRR- All of the wheel bearings were re- Electrical & Tools Toolsolutions.com, reached out to me placed with new SKF bearings. Both the The entire old wire harness was recy- and informed me of a special frame wheel hubs were sanded and polished cled, and a new reproduction one was splicing kit that he had engineered to a chrome-like finish, along with used. All of the electrical components when he ran into some issues with his their accompanying pieces. They were are brand new from Honda. I was able own CB750 restoration. He sent me a laced and trued using new spokes and to locate them all through several deal- kit, along with the proper tubing that rims from Honda, then balanced after erships, as almost all of these parts are was needed to regain the frame’s in- mounting Continental tires with Met- no longer available from Honda. The tegrity and strength. I had my welder zeler tubes to retain the stock look. I charging coil wires were refreshed install the frame kit, and it was good cleaned and zinc-plated the center stand with new sleeving and terminals. All of as new. Before installing the kit, I pivot and spring retaining brackets, the sub-harness components were re- treated the entire frame’s insides with along with the pillion foot rests and rear placed with new reproductions. The old Eastwood’s internal frame coating to brake rods, at home. lead-acid battery was recycled and re- prevent any rusting from the inside. placed with a new sealed AGM mainte- Another highly respected and well- Carburetors nance-free battery. I was able to find all known forum member, Mark Paris, The incorrect set of carbs that were of the tools and the toolkit pouch new aka “Hondaman,” offered to rebuild on the bike were recycled. I acquired from Honda individually. Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 37 experienced powder coater Marc Gul- lichotte, from Creative Candy Powder Coating, did a great job with these piec- es. The small lettering on the handlebar controls were also done with powder, a very intricate detail which isn’t easy to do, even with paint. All of the chrome pieces, except the exhaust, (fenders, grab rail, etc.) were re-chromed. The HM341 exhaust pipes are brand new from Hon- da. These have been discontinued for years now, but I was able to locate a new old stock set. The seat is brand new from Honda, but is now discontinued. Body & Cosmetic cap and fuel petcock were brand new Conclusion The old gas tank was recycled and from Honda. The rearview mirrors, The bike has been broken in and rides replaced with a reproduction from handlebar grips, and throttle cables nice and smooth, precisely what these yamiya750.com. Yamiya sells a paint- and sleeve were all brand new from CB750s were known for back in the day. ed body kit that includes the gas tank, Honda. The clutch and brake levers It has been a long fun journey rebuilding side cover, fork ears, and the headlight were polished to a chrome-like fin- it, and I’ve made a lot of friends along bucket, which is pretty convenient, ish. The handlebar controls and the the way. I’m still active on the forums as these parts are no longer available master cylinder were anodized black and will be signing up for the SOHC from Honda. The emblems and logos from the factory, but had faded very Owner’s Club’s “Godzilla” tour later for the tank and side covers, howev- badly over the years. To avoid that, I this summer. I’ve also picked up anoth- er, are still available from Honda and had them powder coated, instead. Fo- er CB750 since, which I will be slowly were used on this bike. The gas tank rum member, highly respected and working on over the next few years. l

38 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 39 40 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 cover story

The

by Scott Sturgis / [email protected]

n August of 2013, I had recently sold an XS650 and Iwas browsing Craigslist when I saw an ad for a 1976 Honda CB550F Super Sport. The ad listed it as a one owner bike with only 5,065 miles. I was the first caller and convinced the seller to let me ride over right then to take a look at it. It was getting late, and he wanted to wait until the next day. I work a twelve-hour shift rotation, and I knew that if I waited twenty-four hours it would be gone, so I convinced him to meet me. He was a local and only about ten minutes away on the other side of town. The seller’s father owned the local Honda/Suzuki/ Kawasaki dealership, and the 550F was his sixteenth birthday present! Before it ever left the showroom, he had installed 400F handle bars and a set of Les- ter mag wheels with the desirable eighteen-inch rear. Also included in the sale was a period Kerker exhaust, Shoei color-matched fairing, and three or four boxes of parts, many of them NOS Honda parts or like-new “take offs” that came from the dealership. He rode the bike around on the MSO [Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin] until 2000, when his father told him that the dealership had long since been sold, and he should probably go ahead and title the bike.

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 41

While it was low mileage, it wasn’t perfect. There was a small dent on the stock Super Sport muffler and a small scratch and pea sized ding on the tank, where something had fallen over on the bike while it was in storage. The aluminum on the engine cases, forks, etc. showed a little oxidation, and the brakes and carbs felt “gummy.” But it was all original, including the paint. It turns out that he and my superin- tendent from work knew each other and used to race together back in the day. After convincing him that “I’m the guy” that he should sell the bike to, we shook hands, and he said he’d deliver it the next day. I was chomping at the jet was in the wrong groove. It was in bit all day at work the following day, upside down! After correcting that and overly anxious to get the bike home installing a new plug on number four, to my garage. I had owned a couple of she hasn’t missed a lick. And I picked CB500/550s before and have a soft spot up five miles-per-gallon! for the Honda middleweights. I was The bike is an absolute joy to ride. The very excited to get my hands on such original owner’s manual is still under a nice “survivor.” I spent the next few the correct brown Super Sport seat. The weeks trying to preserve, rather than exhaust is so quiet I can hear the valves restore, what was there. The caliper was whirring away beneath me. It always rebuilt, and I installed braided stainless surprises me, when I think that it’s not steel lines up front. The tank was clean really running that hard, only to look and only need a rinsing with Evaporust. down and see that I’m at sixty miles- I repaired a broken petcock filter and per-hour or more. It’s so civilized, yet cleaned the carbs. pulls hard and really comes alive above In the box of spares was a NOS end 5,000 rpm. Just today, I had the joy cover for the head/valve cover. I used of watching the odometer turn over that as a guide and sanded the engine to 7,500 miles. In less than two years, cases, fork lowers, etc. with a series of I’ve already put on half as many miles sandpaper, Scotchbrite pads, and 0000 as the original owner did in the first steel wool until they all matched that thirty-seven years, with many more to end cap—not too shiny, but as they come. This one’s a keeper. l would have been from the factory. I sold a few of the spares, which paid for a new set of tires. The bike was beautiful and ran great, but the carbs would still occasionally overflow. I pulled them and had them ultrasonically cleaned. For about the next year, I chased a rich condition but only on the number four cylinder. I gave that bike so many tune-ups it was ridic- ulous. I checked compression, valves, timing, etc. but just couldn’t figure out why it wasn’t running right. Only af- ter pulling the jets on number four, for what seemed like the hundredth time, did I notice that the O-ring on the main

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 43 Ohio member Jerry Meade’s freshly restored ‘79 CBX

BELOW: Kawasaki Z1R with an XS650 in the background

ABOVE: Don Cecconi’s original ‘89 Hawk 650

RIGHT: John Bova’s Kawasaki H2. Mechanic Hilo Ito is holding the trophy.

44 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 Hodaka Super Rat event 2015 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days at

by Sean Carrigan, Board Member & Kentucky Field Representative / [email protected] photos by John Emmons

intage Motorcycle Days at Mid- VOhio Race course once again at- tracted big crowds of fans and loads of bikes over the weekend of July 10th You meet the nicest people at Vintage Days. through the 12th. The VJMC was well represented in both the swap meet area and in the infield on Champ Row. The club featured over thirty-five excellent Ellis Holman, who agreed to come be classic machines in a large tent supplied one of our three judges after he finished by the American Motorcyclist Associ- judging the AMA competition. And, ation (AMA). AMA provides that to thank you to expert restorer Bill Hov- clubs, such as ours, who can bring in is, of Cincinnati, and Chuck Murray, of many high quality vintage motorcy- nearby Ashland, who also judged. The cles for the fans to see and learn about large crowds of vintage fans and mem- and provide a speaker on a related top- bers alike enjoyed our quality display ic. VJMC board member Ellis Holman of bikes, once again. We had machines presented a history of the Honda Gold spanning thirty years, from 1965-1994. Wing (the 40th anniversary of that One of our goals was to bring in as model) in the seminar tent near us. many fresh restorations as possible and Champ Row was hopping this year other classics that were not on display as the AMA display tent, seminar tent, last year. We accomplished that goal. VJMC display, Thunder Roads Ohio Ohio members Jerry Meade, Brett Bal- magazine, and the large AMA bike di, Steve Kerr, and Wayne Peters pro- show competition were all set-up there. vided eye-popping, recently restored Speaking of bike shows, a big thanks to classics. My northern Kentucky neigh-

Mike Humpert’s ‘75 CB550 café

ABOVE RIGHT: Glenn Rumberg and his Judge’s Award winning 1966 Suzuki X6 Hustler NEAR RIGHT: Wayne Peters and his People’s Choice award winning1971 Honda SL100

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 45 bors, Mike Humpert and Don Cecco- Evansville, Indiana, saved the day by MID-OHIO 2015 WINNERS ni, also brought some top-notch bikes. bringing three Honda gems: a 1965 Mike has been building an amazing, CL72 Street Scrambler, a 1967 CA78 ground-up ’75 Honda CB550 café for Dream 305, and a sparkling red and PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD WINNER nearly three years and just got it done silver 1965 S65 step-through. I need to WAYNE PETERs in time. Don’s bikes always improve thank three other members who came 1971 HONDA SL100 any display, and his award-winning through with important bikes that are RUNNER UP Cub and Hawk were crowd favorites, as really essential when displaying vintage JOHN BOVa was his Hondelles music. We were also Japanese motorcycles: Jeff Kilcoin’s re- 1973 KAWASAKI H2 750 fortunate enough to have several nice stored ’73 Kawasaki Z1, Jim Ratti’s JUDGE’S AWARD condition, unrestored bikes on display. 70/71 Honda CB750k, and Matt Wil- WINNER Glenn Rumberg Two were also original owner and unre- liams (of Williams Vintage Cycle in Xe- 1966 Suzuki X6 Hustler stored: Stillwater, Pennsylvania, mem- nia, Ohio) who provided an exceptional RUNNER UP ber David McDermott’s 1978 Kawasaki original ’77 Honda GL1000. BRETT BALDi Z1R with all documentation and the Thank you to all the members from 1975 Yamaha RD350 original large poster ad; and George around the region who provided so Griffith, of Benton, PA, brought his many great machines and volunteered 1981 Yamaha XJ750R Seca. I also need many hours for the club. Besides the to be a part of this next year. Besides to give special thanks to John Emmons chance to meet fellow members, your having the nation’s largest vintage swap of Ohio, who took most of the photos efforts helped bring in over sixty-five meet and vintage road and dirt racing, for this article and brought his recently new and/or renewed memberships. AMA’s Mid-Ohio event features lots of revived 1976 Yamaha XS650c in gor- AMA’s vintage event draws thousands other great activities. For more infor- geous French blue. of fans of old motorcycles just like us, mation, check their webpage for Vin- A few weeks before the event, we were so it’s important we be a big part of this tage Motorcycle Days and click on the , coming up short on bikes from the 60s, special weekend. Look for club email tab on top labeled “Gallery” to see the but thankfully, Barry Schonberger, of blasts in the winter and early spring many sights of Vintage Days. l

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 47

RIDING safety Vintage Motorcycle Safety by Mark Bayer, President KCVJMC, Kansas/Missouri Field Rep / [email protected] photos by Mark Bayer

have been riding motorcycles for a lit- First. Safe riding should always be an Itle over forty-five years and have had priority never to be diminished. You only one accident while riding on the have to prepare to ride thinking “safe- street. That accident was in 1967, and I ty.” don’t ever want another accident! Second. Your bike should be in good First, let me discuss some very gener- operational condition. Are the tires alized statistics before getting into some aired up, are there any loose nuts or important safety rules for motorcyclists. bolts, are your tires in good condition, Across the country, there are over nine- have your mirrors been adjusted, do ty cars registered for every motorcy- your brakes work properly? Don’t ride cle. This, of course, changes with each a motorcycle that has some mechanical geographic part of the country, but the problem, such as a poorly functioning fact is there are a lot more cars on the clutch, carburetor problems, or any The number one form of road than motorcycles. Partly because other issue which could become a prob- motorcycle accidents is a of this, motorcycles are less visible. single vehicle accident. The lem while riding. rider goes down because of Secondly, about half of all motorcycle Third. As you pull from a standstill, be a slippery surface, hits an accidents are single vehicle accidents, aware of what is around you. Are there obstacle, or is going too fast to properly stop. meaning that another vehicle was not other moving vehicles? Are there any the problem! Speeding, reckless driving, animals or children around? Is the road poor road conditions, or drinking while smooth? Where are stop signs or other riding are typical culprits. The majori- traffic signals? Being cognizant of other ty of motorcycle deaths and injuries are vehicles, road conditions, connecting connected to head trauma. Wearing a lanes, and how fast cars are moving are DOT-approved helmet reduces that fig- all important to your safety. ure by around forty percent. Further- Fourth. Be aware that other drivers more, riding a motorcycle increases the may not see you. I can tell you from potential of having an accident by over experience that you can look another ten times compared to driving a car. driver in the eyes, and he may still drive Motorcycle accidents which result in a as though he never saw you. Many se- fatality increase over thirty-five percent rious accidents happen when you’re when compared to automobile crashes stopped by the road or at an intersec- with fatalities. tion. Automobile drivers often don’t see The statistics can be endless, but the the motorcycle and will run right into point is this: riding a motorcycle is them. I always assume that other driv- much more dangerous than driving a ers may not see me and am ready to act car. Automobile safety is very import- accordingly. Be especially careful when ant, but motorcycle safety is infinitely going through intersections or chang- more important. Cars or trucks have a ing lanes. I won’t cross an intersection body around them, while a motorcycle without being able to see up and down leaves you in the open with little protec- the road. If the road is not clearly visible tion. If you are going to drive any kind and the lanes safe, I will just turn right of vehicle, including a motorcycle, safety and take another route to my destina- should be a huge concern at all times! tion. When in heavy traffic stay with- Below are some general safety rules for in the sight of other drivers’ mirrors. all motorcyclists and after that some ad- Drive where you can best be seen by ditional ones for the vintage rider. others! I will often drive on back roads Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 49 or side streets in heavily trafficked ar- your time schedule. If you are riding in a eas to avoid congestion. group and are separated, don’t frantical- Fifth. Riding on public roads is never ly try to reconnect. Have agreed upon a place to race, do tricks, show off, or meeting places like parking lots, well- wheelie. Never do risky things. Don’t known businesses, or other locations in break posted speed limits and always case someone gets separated to make it observe and follow all the rules of the easy and safe to regroup. road. Riding is a privilege. Seventh. Always be aware of poten- Sixth. Even when in a hurry, don’t tial dangers like slick surfaces, opening The rider could hit a vehicle rush. Make safety more important than car doors, really bad roads, objects in turning in front of him. Moving vehicles constitute a major type of motorcycle here are my TOP TIPS accident. • Don’t ride with others who you feel are poor or risky riders. • When you pull off a road, pull completely off the road (not close to the traffic). • Always wear an approved helmet and safety clothing like leathers or heavy Clothing designed for safe motorcycle riding. • When riding a motorcycle with which you are not familiar, get used to it in a parking lot before going out on the streets. • Don’t follow other riders into unsafe patterns or traffic areas. • Take a certified motorcycle riding course. • Always think about an escape route in case a problem occurs and keep as large a safety zone around you as is safely possible. • under or over inflated tires can be a problem, as well as both old and new tires can be slick. (Put on at least 200 miles on new tires to rough up the surfaces.)

50 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 the road, animals on the loose, or trees condition. Many older Japanese bikes blocking road signs. Actively looking have small taillights, and bikes manu- for any dangers around you is a great factured before the late 1960s often have potential benefit to safe riding. This is no turn signals. Older cables, which especially true regarding weather re- may have not been maintained well over lated issues. Examples are high winds, the years, may not function smooth- riding in the rain, riding on icy surfaces, ly and, under some conditions, might and night time riding. break while in use. Some electrical cir- Finally. Ride strategically. Try to stay cuitry will not work efficiently when it’s away from other vehicles as much as raining or when there is a great deal of possible. Often this is not easy to do, moisture in the air. A poorly-serviced but, as much as is practical, keep a safe- older bike may overheat. If a motorcycle ty zone around you. I typically ride in has been modified, especially with an the right hand part of the lane because altered frame, the motorcycle may not The vehicle driver could hit it gives me more space between me and be safe at speed. Motorcycles were safety a rider as he enters an in- tersection. Many accidents the center of the road and oncoming tested when new; decades later they may occur because of vehicles traffic. There is typically less debris in not be as responsive or safe as your new not seeing each other as they enter an intersection that part of the road as well. Continually bike or when they were new. or not being able to stop look down the road to see what is com- Remember that many of the vintage once they have entered an ing up and regularly look for fast driv- Japanese bikes are smaller, often under intersection. Poor vision in intersections has caused ing cars coming up from behind. 250cc. Smaller bikes just don’t have the many accidents. Because of the variety of problems power of larger ones. Many of the older which may occur while riding, there is two-strokes have an on-off power band. lic streets is never a time to prove that always something which can be missed There is little power available, then they you or your bike still “has it.” in a discussion on safety, however, al- have a huge burst of power. Just take I love to ride my newer bikes, as well ways be aware of the big three: actively these notes into consideration. as any vintage bike I might be on. As think safety (which includes riding a If you find that your group will be rid- riders, we just need to ensure our mo- safe motorcycle), be aware of what’s go- ing for a stretch on the highway, your torcycles will pass any safety require- ing on around you, and don’t take risks. 90, 125, or 175 may not be able to safely ments and we need to continuously be The things listed apply when riding all keep up. In most cases, alternate routes aware of what’s around us. We need to motorcycles, however, there are some should be made when smaller bikes are consciously not take risks and, finally, additional considerations for the vin- in the mix. we need to be good examples of consci- tage motorcycle rider. One time on a club ride, I was alone entious riders for other riders as well as When heading out, make sure that on my 1800cc bike behind a 50cc bike the public. l your tank is full. We often don’t have re- carrying two people. I could barely op- serve warning lights and if you have to erate my bike without almost hitting big three safety practices switch to reserve your engine will sput- the two people on the high strung 50cc ter until gas fills the carb bowl(s). The two-stroke. I had to stay so far back that 1. Make sure that you and your few seconds between the regular tank people behind me tended to stay on my MOTORCycle are both fully and your reserve can be dangerous if tail. Understand that, if your CB160 has prepared and ready for the your wheeling down the road. a top speed of 75mph, any speed over 50 Ride at hand.

Be aware of old tires being either worn mph will come slow. 2. Be aware of what is around or hard. They can be especially danger- Take care to not over tax older or you at close distances, as well ous when on sand, oil, or on slick sur- smaller motorcycles. Most vintage Jap- as things down the road, and faces. If tires have been shined for show, anese motorcycles are still very reliable, BE prepared to respond appropriately to any potential they may be slick from the compound however, never ride them with the same Hazards; the greater the used. energy as you would a new bike. The ba- Distance between you and any Take into account age-related quirks, sic rule for riding a vintage motorcycle is OBJECT or hazard, the more time which can come into play at inoppor- to understand their condition and don’t you have to respond. tune times. Keep in mind brakes with ride older bikes which have not proven 3. Follow the rules of the road reduced capacity, a throttle that is not to be safe and reliable. Take greater care and don’t do unwise things to smooth, lights which do not shine and never push a bike beyond its limits. show off your abilities or the Bike’s potential. brightly, or an engine which does not It’s better to stay well under its potential respond smoothly because of its age or than to push its capacity. Riding on pub-

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 51

Odds & ends Attention Deficit Project Disorder by Floyd Finch / [email protected]

ell, it was another rough week no way you could ever get me near the Wat that thankless job that I go bandsaw, so I threw it back on the pile, to every day of every week to keep the got the timbers, and headed back inside lights on around here until my web to prop up the dirtbike. Hopefully, I can store catches fire and I can sell enough find it again when I am sober and have products to retire from everything but some time on my hands, as it would go blogging. My original plan for the eve- so well with my Hawken, powder horn, ning was to go climb up in a tree and etc. In fact, it would look really sweet try to shoot Bambi’s father, but it was hanging up next to my black powder starting to rain kinda hard when I got shotgun, if I ever finish building it… home so, instead, I decided to grab a Can you see the pattern here? It’s a beer and carry the forks that the mail serious disease that afflicts middle-age carrier just dropped off from the house men. ADPD—Attention Deficit Project What’s under your desk? out to the shop and maybe work on fit- Disorder. It’s incredibly dangerous, be- ting them to the CM400 bobber that cause the problem just gets bigger and I’ve been tinkering with for the last bigger. You become an addict, scan- few months. Instead, I decided that the ning eBay and Craigslist for just the shop really needed cleaning up a little right item at the right bargain base- before proceeding, so I pushed some ment price. The problem is that you of the junk bikes out into the rain for don’t need it; there are a dozen proj- more room. ects, plus your honey-do list, ahead of Then I moved the two portable work it. And, just as sure as hell, your boss benches back to the sides of the shop to will start demanding extra overtime on clear up floor space. Then I decided to top of what you already work, so your go ahead and start soaking my new-to- discretionary income is temporarily me, old pile of junk Suzuki with pene- enlarged while your time to enjoy it is trating oil so that it would come apart diminished. This leads to more shop- easier when I go to replace the rear ping and less doing, until your place inner tube and the forty or fifty other starts to look like a salvage yard and parts it probably needs to be trail-wor- your neighbors start calling you Fred Deal of the century! thy. Of course, it’s a lot easier for an G. Of course, this is also the time when old fart to work on a motorcycle if he everything in your house will break to give the old CB650 a good going over doesn’t have to bend over, so I grabbed down, too, so you’ll have to take care and adjust the chain, so I stopped to do the old furniture truck ramp from the of those things first. Sure, you could that instead. Hey, you got to look after yard and dug through my lumber pile pay someone to fix the plumbing or the your main squeeze if you want her to for a couple of timbers to set it up on, light fixture but for two things: One, look after you! since my motorcycle lift table is load- the guy you call can’t do it any bet- Well, it’s been fun writing with a little ed down with my CB360T restoration ter than you can and maybe not even buzz going on, but right now I need to project. For some reason, as I was dig- as good. Two, you just scored the deal find a carb kit and battery for the 1969 ging through my scrap lumber pile, a of the century on another old piece of CJ5 under the carport and figure out misshapen piece of wood that was left junk motorcycle, gun, car, jeep, boat, when I’m going to get time to fix my over from some long forgotten con- plane, or whatever your addiction is tractor so I can keep the wood lot clean struction project jumped into my hand and spent the money already. and get the garden ready for next year. and said, “Hey look at me. Wouldn’t I At any rate, I got the TS185 up on the Then, maybe I can relax and watch a make the perfect Plains Indian gun- ramp so I could work on it. But since little television while checking out stock war club?” But by that time I had the weather is supposed to be nearly Craigslist on my tablet. enough of a buzz going that there was perfect for riding tomorrow, it was time Peace y’all! l Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 53 ADVERTISER’S SPOTLIGHT Spotlight on Advertising

by Bryan Bentley / [email protected]

normally use my space in the magazine to highlight our ad- Ivertisers. However, this month I would like to ask for your help making our advertisers happy. When I began this job at the beginning of 2015, I thought I knew everything I needed to know for the task after being in the wholesale and retail trade for more than thirty years. I knew how to write my own ads and was very successful. It didn’t take long, however, to discover that being the Ad- vertising Director of Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine wasn’t going to be as easy as I thought. The magazine adver- tising world turn out to be much different than I had imag- ined. One of the problems I faced has been reaching the proper person to talk to at a company. Most advertisers get calls all day from people selling ads like me. Their secretaries take my number, but usually, no one calls back. I believe my num- ber is probably placed in more circular file cabinets than any other. I also have trouble convincing advertisers that mem- bers are reading their ads and buying their products. Sales are very difficult to track, and sometimes we, as customers, don’t make it easy. This is where I need your help. When you call or email one of the advertisers in our magazine, make sure you tell them you are a member of the VJMC. I have probably been guilty of omitting this on more than one occasion myself. An add- ed bonus is that many of them also offer a discount to our members if you let them know you’re in the club. If you are ordering from someone who is not advertising with us, ask them, “Why not?” and refer them to me. If you know of a product that you think would be a good fit for our magazine, contact me and provide as much information as possible, and I will contact the company. If you have a con- nection with a company that should be advertising with us, mention it to them and give me their contact information. Calling a company where I know someone is much easier than making a cold call. Remember, this is your magazine, and I volunteer my time to sell these ads. That doesn’t mean that you can’t help as well. l

contact info

Bryan Bentley “Saving Old Motorcycles One at a Time” Advertising Director [email protected] (864) 923-0559

54 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 tech help Tech Tip #10: More on Powder Coating & Bridge Rectifiers by Jim Townsend / [email protected] & Ellis Holman / [email protected]

Powder Coating fixing any breaks, the part must be reb- tors that causes resistance, and resis- lasted where you have repaired it. At this tance causes heat. The heat will melt Jim: I think it is time to clear the air point, you take the part to the powder wires, which will give you a shorted about a couple things. The first is “pow- booth and blow on the powder. Since wiring harness. The Radio Shack rec- der coating.” The other topic is “bridge the powder is attracted electrostaticly, it tifier mentioned in an earlier column rectifiers.” is blown on at a very low pressure, just to will work for smaller bikes. If you are There have been a lot of mistaken ru- get it in the air near the part. fitting one to a larger bike (125cc and mors spread about powder coating. Just Usually a trolley has the part hang- up), you may want to get a rectifier with to review what we mean, here is a short ing on it, and the trolley takes the part, a higher Peak Reverse Voltage, (PRV). review. which is not to be touched, into an oven NTE has the NTE5344 rectifier rated Powder coating requires absolute and baked at about 450 degrees. The at 40A / 1000 PRV. This is especially cleanliness of the part. Of course no powder liquifies and adheres to the met- important on bikes with older lighting rust, but also not a speck of the previ- al. When cured and cooled it is ready to switches. For example, Honda’s CB77 ous finish or any oil or grease. For that use. have a “dead” spot between the high reason, the parts are usually washed and Since the blasting has given the part a and low beam that momentarily discon- degreased and then sand blasted to re- texture, the liquid coating almost joins nects the load. Even smaller bikes can move every bit of rust, oxidation, or old with the metal in a very smooth and spike a high voltage when rev’d up. This finish, and then the part is washed again permanent finish. It can be sanded and can cause voltage reversals, which can to remove any possible remaining par- painted over and is very resistant to damage the rectifier if it does not have ticles of dust from the sand blasting or chipping. Since the finish is almost part a high enough rating. Ideally, you’d also bead blasting. of the metal, it is very permanent. want to use a regulator to get protection At this point the part will start flash for lights and other sensitive circuits. rusting, if it is not taken directly to the Rectifiers For smaller bikes using a six-volt bat- booth where the powder is blown on. tery, Honda made a regulator for their However, when the part is sand or bead Ellis: There are few points to clear up on XL250/350 series machines that can be blasted, cracks or breaks will stand out the subject of using modern silicon rec- adapted to other bikes. like a sore thumb. Of course, you will tifiers. Feel free to email us about your tech- want to reweld or braze any cracks or Connections must be tight and clean. nical problems or suggestions on other broken welds before proceeding. After If there are loose or corroded connec- topics we should cover. l

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 55 56 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 events Events Corner

by Peter Slatcoff, Vice President, Events Coordinator / [email protected]

irst, I would like to remind everyone place. Future issues of the magazine Fto mark their calendars and finalize are going to feature insets of these local UPCOMING EVENTS their arrangements for the Barber Vin- events. tage Festival in Leeds, Alabama, and the Your efforts may be just what it takes to October 9-11 AIMEXPO—Retro Affair in Orlando, encourage others to engage members in Barber Vintage Festival Florida. For more details see the event their area to do something similar. If Leeds, AL ads located throughout the magazine. you need help getting the word out, you October 15-18 By the time you are reading this mag- may contact me at [email protected], AIMExpo/Retro Affair azine issue, we will be approaching the and I will be happy to help you. Orlando, FL end of 2015. Now would be a good time I would like to announce that new for to be thinking about the 2016 event cal- 2016 will be the VJMC Northeast Rally. NOVEMBER 6-8 endar. Near the end of each year we send Plans are that this rally will take place in Florida VJMC State Rally Ocala, FL out numerous emails requesting mem- Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, the weekend ber input on events. We ask for informa- of August 12-14, 2016. One venue under DECEMBER 12 tion regarding events you may be plan- consideration will provide an indoor fa- 16th Annual ning to have or events you would like to cility for the bike show and social func- Florida VJMC Christmas Ride Brooksville, FL see happen. tions, minimizing the impact of weath- The VJMC views events in several cat- er conditions. However, before these egories, such as national, regional, and arrangements are finalized, two things ing: ride captains familiar with the lo- local. On the national and regional lev- need to happen: cal area, bike shows, tiddler ride/tour of els we have seen several events become First, we need forty or more members the battlefield, spouse/guest activities, annually recurring activities. As for to pre-register for the event. There is no and some general helpers. Please note local events, in many cases we are not risk to the member. If the event is can- that several members have already of- aware of what’s happening and where. celed, you will be issued a refund. Once fered to support this event. We would like to change that. For exam- we meet the pre-registration require- So far, interest is very high and being ple, if some activity is taking place for ment, the VJMC will sign the contracts a Pennsylvania boy myself, I am very the first time or even on a regular ba- with the venue. excited about doing an event in Gettys- sis, share that with us. Send us an email Next, we will be asking for volunteers burg. If you are interested and would stating the location, what the activity is, to assist with its execution. Specifically, like to help, I can be reached at events@ a picture or two, and a little of what took three to four volunteers for the follow- vjmc.org. l

Hey members! Tell us YOUR story! SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS: The best way this magazine can accurately TEXT: • .pdf, .rtf or .doc file formats reflect what our members are up to is if you tell us what you’re doing! • include your byline, photocaptions, and credit for the photographer The VJMC magazine is only possible through member interaction, and we’ll pay you for it! PHOTOS: • high-resolution color pictures (300dpi) We pay $100 for feature stories (typically at • typical file size of a .jpg will be at least 500kb least 2 full pages with 4 or more photos). • 1mb - 3mb per image is preferred If your story is selected for publication, you will receive extra copies of the issue in which it appears. Send your stories and high res photos to: [email protected]

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 57 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 will be free. 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 ex- Ads will be run for ONE ISSUE ONLY. Please ample, ads for the December 2015 /January 2016 issue are due October 20. resubmit via www.vjmc.org or contact our If you have business related ads, please consider taking out a commercial display ad. Contact Bryan Bentley ([email protected]) or me for details Classifieds Editor Gary Gadd by email: and rate information. [email protected] if you wish an ad to run We can now offer color photos to accompany your ads. Cost is a min- imal $10 per photo per issue. Payment via Paypal is available on the longer. Also please contact Gary if your post VJMC website. For payment by personal check, please address payment has been fulfilled. This will help keep our to “VJMC” and send to the address below. Photo ads will appear in the magazine issue following payment. classified ads as current as possible. GARY GADD • 3721 HOLLAND ST. • FORT WORTH, TX • 76180 / 817.284.8195

frame parts, new fuel tank, new or redone chrome parts, FOR SALE new electrics. Hi-output Rick’s stator system, electronic igni- tion system (no points), new HONDA gauges and lights, new battery, new seat, new mirrors, much 1964 Honda Cub 55 C105. more. Bike is fully operational Excellent running condition. including manuals, tool kit, cor- Only 1500 miles. See on you- rect registration. Payment cash tube: https://www.youtube. 1967 Honda CB77 Super Hawk. or Paypal, no checks or trades. com/watch?v=pbyxp9Ni- Original excellent condition. Contact for more details. De- 1975 Honda SL175. Great con- U6g and www.youtube.com/ Only 9000 miles. Everything nis Gagnier, 626-844-7157, dition, runs well, 8386 miles, watch?v=SAN4XiiYVb4. Asking works including electric start- [email protected] clean title. Call for more infor- $2000. John Rakos, 613-853- er. Seat is original. New tires, mation. Nice bike! Hank Lory, 6750, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, new battery, recently rebuilt 410-504-7521, Upperco, Mary- [email protected] carbs. No dents on the chrome 1972 Honda CL350. This bike is land, [email protected] tank, original tank emblems. mint and runs great! All origi- Excellent collector or show nal with new battery. Just over bike. Frame and engine num- 11000 miles. $2500. Mike, 701- bers match. Small cold patch 205-2075, Moorhead, Minneso- on inside of left muffler is not ta, [email protected] visible unless looking between the muffler and rear tire. Kept it 1974 Honda CL200 Scrambler original vs replacing the muffler. South Carolina registered, clear (manufactured date 10/73). In title. Patrick, 864-979-7853, good condition with 4664 miles. Simpsonville, South Carolina, Runs and electrics work. I have [email protected] cleaned the tank, petcock, and 1965 Honda CL77 Scrambler. carbs and installed new tires 1980 Honda CT70. Excellent con- Very nice bike. Total engine over- and tubes. Paint and chrome dition. I have 2 turn signals with- haul. Restored eight years ago 1967 Honda CB77 350cc. Clean- all original. Right side cover has out lenses. Runs great. $1200. with 800 miles since then. 9473 ing out garage. Have vintage a hole in it and muffler had Jeff Anderson, 260-224-2681, total miles. No winkers. Has racer, a bit rough but has race rusted through on back side, [email protected] Snuff-or-Nots. Good title. Silver cam, worked head, enlarged which I repaired. $1300. Mike and black paint. Phil Pitts, 913- intake valves, board carbs, light- Fitterling, 863-632-1981, Lake 681-0648, [email protected] ened and balanced crank, four Wales, Florida, [email protected] 1981 Honda CB900 Cus- leading shoe brake. Parts box tom. Complete project bike. and a bunch of odd parts Pick Comes with parts bike and 1966 Honda S90. Nice running lots of extra parts. Brad bike with many new parts. up only. Roy Seem, 518-643- 8971, [email protected] Mathis, 336-407-5832, Win- Chrome and body look great. ston-Salem, North Carolina, Black color. An easy 8-8½ out of [email protected] 10. $1950. John Shepherd, 828- 837-3571, Brasstown, North Carolina, [email protected] 1982 Honda CBX. Metal parts rough, paint good. Has Corbin seat and back rest, rear rack, re- mote reservoir, fork brace, jet kit, 1977 Honda Gold Wing. Red, larger smoked windshield, front Visit us online! restored like new and very road- braided brake line. Has all stock Join or renew @ worthy. Has bags and fairing. parts. Asking $2300. Come and Picture on request. $5200 obo. get it. Roy Seem, 518-643-8971, www.vjmc.org 1968 Honda CL350 K0 Scram- Gary Ewing, 817-596-3134, [email protected] bler. Fully dismantled and Weatherford, Texas, gero116@ overhauled. Powder coated hotmail.com 58 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 classifieds

1983 Honda V30 500cc. Bike runs great, $3000. 1996 CR400, ing. Bill Sebek, 515-238-0332, has been sitting for a cou- mint original example, $2900. MARUSHO Norwalk, Iowa, bill.tunes@ ple of years. Needs an ignitor. Brad Powell, 678-576-4258, hotmail.com Looking to sell for parts or res- Marietta, Georgia, 4yankeez@ Marusho Lilac parts. Heads, toration. Allan Epstein, 732- comcast.net barrel, camshaft, gas tank (no 462-1645, Freehold, New Jer- dents), newly upholstered seat, TOHATSU sey, [email protected] stainless seat trim, re-chromed 1990 Honda GB500. Complete- handlebars, brake pedal, brake ly original, 1763 miles on bike. For Sale or Trade for Kawasaki rod, and hub lever. Mufflers Parts: 1967/68 Honda OEM fuel 1984 Honda Shadow 750cc. I have owned this bike for 15 (scraped a little), speedome- Bike has been sitting for a few years and am the second own- tank for CB125, $225. Tohatsu ter, carburetors, new chrome Trailmaster/Runpet fuel tank, years and when I stopped was er. Asking $6950. Joe Gojmerac, front fender, side cover, gaskets, running. Nice, never laid down. 651-402-6807, St. Paul, Minne- $150. http://www.johnnysvin- new universal joint and misc. tagemotorcycle.com/Parts/ Needs some tender loving care. sota, [email protected] parts and pieces. Al, 623-546- Lavender custom paint job, girls Junk-Drawer.aspx for more info 7742 Surprise, Arizona, alsjunk- and images. Johnny’s, www. like the color. Probably needs [email protected] carbs cleaned and a new bat- johnnysvintagemotorcycle. tery. Allan Epstein, 732-462- KAWASAKI com 1645, Freehold, New Jersey, [email protected] 1974 Kawasaki Mach III 500cc. MIYAPET Rebuilt and modified. Christof YAMAHA Bauer, 904-669-1593, St Augus- Miyapet, parts. I have a lot of tine, Florida, christofbauer@ Miyapet parts available. Bob bellsouth.net Barron, 740-546-3968, Ade- 1964 Yamaha YG1. Fully re- na, Ohio, lynn.bob.barron@ stored, totally fresh motor, very comcast.net nice original muffler and tank 1981 Kawasaki KZ-CSR1000. chrome, otherwise mint, $2500; Bike has not been driven in 1967 U5E Step-through 50, red, years. Low mileage and comes very nice original, 3500mi, just with saddle bags. Al Bernhardt, SUZUKI missing rt cover, complete oth- 708-382-0550, Orland Park, Il- erwise and runs great, $1600; linois, a.h.bernhardt@gmail. 1974 Suzuki GT550. Very good 1975 RD400, excellent original com 1986 Honda Nighthawk. Less shape, original body paint, example with 15k, new cham- than 25000 miles. Red and all stock, 10k original miles. bers, orig. mufflers, new chain, black paint, soft sided luggage, Marcelo Seixas, Marietta, Geor- sprockets, top end, etc., runs trickle charger, and helmet gia, marcelonoronhaseiexas@ very well, $4000; 1976 DT400 case. $2800. Darryl Head, 615- hotmail.com with fresh motor, has black plas- 415-9510, Nashville, Tennessee, tic fenders, nice rider, $1400; [email protected] 1974 TY250, nicely restored but not quite mint, $2500. 1987 BW80, fully restored but no de- cals, fresh motor, runs excellent, $1200. 1972 U7E, all original example, one owner, $1200. 1985 Kawasaki 900 Ninja. The Brad Powell, 678-576-4258, first model superbike. Unre- Marietta, Georgia, 4yankeez@ stored but mint. New premium comcast.net tires, Corbin dual seat and all original parts plus spares in- 1974 Suzuki GT750. Full frame cluded. All receipts and invoices up restoration including engine also included. 66000km. $2700 down to the crank. New inter- 1986 Honda CB700S Night- US cash or certified check. Tony nals, many NOS parts used. hawk. A real head turner. In Dotchin, 905-685-0637, St. This is a show quality bike and very good condition and reg- Catharines, Ontario, Canada, runs perfectly. Asking $6500. ularly serviced. $2650. More [email protected] Thomas Herman, 804-590- pictures available via email. Mi- 1239, Chesterfield, Virginia, chael Chauveau, 215-620-3728, [email protected] Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Kawasaki. 1989 Kawasaki [email protected] EX500. One owner, 12k, all orig- 1972 Yamaha R5C 350cc. 3200 inal, new starter and full service, 1979 Suzuki GS750E. Good con- original miles, six speed conver- real sweet. $2300. Also 2000 dition. Upgraded ignition, front sion, excellent condition for age, 1988 NX650. Excellent original W650 in excellent all original forks rebuilt, swing arm and condition with 10k, blue, tires new tires, new battery, runs example with 7200 miles, bone front wheel bearings replaced, great. $3000 obo. Colin Camp- replaced but that’s it, runs ex- stock and runs excellent, $5700. rear bearings repacked. Dun- cellent, $3000. 1977 MX125 bell, 772-595-3089, Fort Pierce, 2000 Sherpa 250, all original, lop tires have less than 2000 Florida, [email protected] Elsinore, fully restored, needs low miles, runs great, $2700. miles on them. 6100 miles on nothing, $3000. 1965 CT90, Brad Powell, 678-576-4258, the chain and both sprockets. runs great, low miles, nice yel- Marietta, Georgia, 4yankeez@ 23300 miles. Clear title. Oil leak 1972 Yamaha XS650 Track- low repaint, $1400. 1974 ST90, comcast.net on right side. #2 carburetor has very nice original yellow with er. Beautiful pearl white and slow fuel leak when parked, grey custom paint, Brembo 2700 miles, runs great, $1500. possibly float valve not seat- 1966 CL160, very nice original, front caliper and mc, new Pire-

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine 59 classifieds lli Sport Demons, Omar’s Half 941-320-0344, Katy, Texas, Prefer black/grey or black/blue. Mile pipes and many other [email protected] Prefer a well maintained, origi- KAWASAKI custom parts. Those of you in nal rider, not a show bike. Ready the southeastern region know 1960s and 1970s sales bro- to pass on your pride and joy to For 1968 Kawasaki C2TR Road- the bike. Our own Buck Mitch- chures and manuals. 13 car- someone who will take good runner, need an upper chrome ell built and owned the bike tons of material, sales bro- care of it? Bob, 515-554-4016, chain guard. It’s approximate- for several years. I saw it at the chures, parts manuals and shop Des Moines, Iowa, bcwigger@ ly 14 inches long. I think the Helen National Meeting two manuals. Honda part manuals: gmail.com 1967/69 parts will work as years ago and fell in love with it. 1963/65 50, CA125 and CA95, well. Any condition is fine. $3000. For further information S90, C200, CA/CB160, CB550, Larry Green, 650-224-1792, and pictures contact me. Bob, CA/CB/CL72/77, CB/CL450, For 1969 Honda CL175K3, look- Napa, California, mvla_larry@ [email protected] 1969/70 CB750. Yamaha parts ing for a good used front fender yahoo.com manuals: YL1 and YL2, YD3, in Candy Topaz Orange. Must be YDS-3, YM1, YJ1 and YJ2, U5, in good presentable condition 1981 Yamaha SR250TH. All YG1, TAS-1C and YAS2C, YGS- for an original bike. May send For 1982 Kawasaki GPz550, original. I have replaced the 1. Shop manuals: Honda C200, photo with details to me via looking for the stock black fork seals, installed brakes front CB/CL125, CB/CL175, CA95, 50 email. Bob Billa, 760-636-3288, engine case savers/engine and rear, changed oil and filter. and 65, Hodaka 100-MX, Suzu- La Quinta, California, ryding@ guards for this bike as well as Everything works as it should. ki T125, B100P, Yamaha DS6, earthlink.net a complete front signal light. JF Has a trunk instead of rear seat, YAS-1, G6S-B, 305 Catalina, YL2. Jutras, 705-566-6434, Sudbury, I do have rear seat for it. Red in Various Clymer manuals. Other Ontario, Canada, pejuta@ 1972 Honda Z50 K3. Looking for vianet.on.ca color, tank is clean on the inside, subjects, boats, marine engines, excellent original bike in candy tires are good. Bike is complete. automobiles, ask for additional gold color. Would like to find an Includes tools, owner’s manu- information. Most of the litera- original paint bike. Sean Mor- al, original sales brochure, and ture is mint perfect. Would pre- phew, 562-698-7484, Whittier, SILVER PIGEON a documented history of the fer to sell as a lot. Greg, Canada, California, vintage1948house@ bike. Pictures available. $1250. [email protected] yahoo.com For 1955 Silver Pigeon C90, Carl, 720-884-6064, Centennial, need owner’s manual and Colorado, [email protected] 1968/81 Hondas. 50 Japanese any parts or info for this mo- bikes, mostly Hondas, $100 For 1974 Honda CL200, need a tor scooter imported and sold each or will part out. Also in- right hand side panel emblem. through Montgomery Ward. cludes 1978 Gold Wing engine, New or used part #87126-378- Bob Barron, 740-546-3968, Ad- front wheel and fender, carb. 000. Can use the emblem, and ena, Ohio, lynn.bob.barron@ Set and manifold, cooling fans, or a side cover with emblem. comcast.net and other GW parts. Deal on The emblem is the same left or whole lot. Also 2 Yamaha Big right side. Richard Blue, 979- bear scramblers and Yam and 324-8084, College Station, Tex- SUZUKI Honda mopeds. Lots of seats as, [email protected] and side covers. For CB750. Gas Suzuki M30/M31 50/55cc. tanks. For Bridgestone 100/150 Need qualified, experienced Looking for a 1960s “Suzy Suzu- 1991 Yamaha SRX 600. Rare seat, very nice, $100. Dream mechanic in Michigan’s up- ki” step-thru. Prefer complete, electric start, monoshock, and Super Hawk frames with per peninsula (zip codes 498 running, titled. Will discuss any 17” wheel version of the Su- attached fenders, electrics, and 499) for occasional work condition. Joseph Baird, 724- per Single. Grey market im- wheels, etc. 1965 Honda dream maintaining my restored 1978 224-1680, Pittsburg, Pennsylva- ported from Japan in 1997. engine 150 cc, $100. Ask for GL1000. George Goldhammer, nia, [email protected] Only 2000 produced. Race prices or deal on large or whole 906-241-9419, Little Lake, Mich- Tech emulators, Ohlins shock, lot. Located near Rhinebeck, igan, georgegoldhammer@ For 1969 Suzuki T500, need a FZR brakes, dual EX250 carbs New York AMC super meet site. yahoo.com tuned by Wheelsmith Racing, This stuff has to go. Ken Krauer, new or very good seat. Has dia- Yoshimura Thumper exhaust, 845-266-3363, Salt Point, New mond pleats and name in gold. full engine rebuild. Cosmetical- York, [email protected] 1983 Honda CB1100F. Look- See June 2013 VJMC magazine, ly original with rust on fasten- ing for a nice running and p. 38. Doug Strange, 610-683- ers and oil lines. 41348 miles riding bike. Let me know 5855, [email protected] (7000 since rebuild). $7500. WANTED what you have. Steve, 806- Jay Adams, 415-987-9360, San 440-1573, Pampa, Texas, Francisco, California, jay@ [email protected] YAMAHA jayadamsdesign.com HONDA For 1988 Honda ZB50, need For 1982 Yamaha Seca 900, For 1966 Honda CL77, new OEM original parts. Also need a looking for parts. Especially misc. FOR SALE member looking for coils for a left side battery cover for a 1985 need a fuel tank, front and rear Scrambler. Also need parts for Honda XL80S. If you have some- suspension, all rubber lines ie: Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha. Yamaha LT2. Steven Steele, 307- thing please contact me. Ken fuel and brakes, cable hous- Seven bikes for sale. Three 701-2434, Cheyenne, Wyoming, Hutto, 803-331-7529, Lexing- ings. Please contact me or call 1964/65/66 Yamaha YM1s. One [email protected] ton, South Carolina, kfzyh76@ after 7am EST. Dana D’Esopo, 1972 Yamaha SL2-100cc. Two gmail.com 603-493-8227, Londonderry, 1970/75 Suzuki T500s. One 1980 New Hampshire, ddesopo@ Kawasaki LTD440A. Call and 1966/67 Honda CL77. Looking comcast.net make an offer. I can deliver with- for a very good condition, orig- in 200 miles. All or none! Frank, inal, ready to ride Scrambler. www.vjmc.org

60 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 ADVERTISER’S INDEX dealership items including ban- ners, signs, ashtrays, lighters, ADVERTISERS APPEARING IN THIS ISSUE: Misc. WANTED hats, clocks, promos, etc. Rare, weird and old is good. Tom AHRMA...... 17 Kolenko, 770-427-4820, Atlan- Need bikes for museum dis- ta, Georgia Atlanta Motorcycle Works...... 47 play. Kawasaki W1, W2, and W650 and a 1969 H1. 1969 Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum...... 4 Honda CB750 with sand cases Honda CBX 1000cc 6 cyl mem- and a 1969 die cast case model. orabilia for museum and the Buchanan’s Spoke and Rim...... 35 Also an early 1968 Honda Z50 “CBX Book” I am presently writ- Mini Trail. Al, 559-688-8844 ing. Any brochures, adverts, CMSNL...... 64 posters, owner’s manual, work- shop manual, set-up manual, Japanese NOS mopeds and David Silver Spares...... 32, 63 motorcycles from the 60s and toys/models, old photos, etc. related to the 1979-1972 CBX. 70s for our showroom. If you Diamond Gusset Company...... 54 have anything to offer please Also period aftermarket fair- ings/bodywork. Let me know contact me. Mike Buttinger, Dime City Cycles...... 2 [email protected] what you have and how much you need! Thanks. Ian, 626- Eagle Screens...... 19 Dealer memorabilia. Collector 444-9358, California, ian@ seeks 1950s-1980s Japanese netvigator.com l Festivals of Speed...... 10

Gasolina Boots...... 32

Hagon Shocks...... 50

Honda Restoration...... 55

JDV Products/Vessel...... 31

Jess Bikes...... 55

Johnny’s Vintage Motorcycles...... 39

Kenda Tires...... 46

• NOT ENOUGH VINTAGE RIDES in your area? Marbles Motors...... 17 • NOT ENOUGH VINTAGE BIKE SHOWS in your area? MikeXS, Inc...... 27 • NOT ENOUGH VINTAGE TECHNICAL EVENTS in your area? • MISSING OUT ON International Motorcycle Show Motorcycle Yamiya 750...... 52 participation and other major events in your area? • MISSING OUT ON weekly or monthly Motorsport Publications...... 39 “Vintage Bike Nights” in your area? • NOT SURE OF the VJMC members in your area or National Motorcycle Museum...... 36 how many are missing the same things? YOUR CLUB NEEDS YOU! Nor’Easter Blastworx...... 30 STEP UP AND BECOME A VJMC FIELD REPRESENTATIVE TODAY! Precision Motorcycle Painting...... 16 Rick’s Motorsport Electrics, Inc...... 38

Road Dog Publications...... 54

Schmitt Mulhern LLC...... 18 . org Speed and Sport Yamaha...... 26 Vapor Honing Technologies...... 42 Our experienced team will provide you with membership listings and MENTORING to get you started. We’ll HELP you with that first invitation all the way Vintage Suspension (Race Tech)...... 36 though planning and holding your member events. CONTACT any of our Directors and let them know that you want more from your VJMC. Western Hills Honda...... 36 One of our board members will answer your questions and start the process. www.vjmc.org/officers.shtml Workshop Hero...... 48 Yamaha Powersports Division...... 34 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]