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craigs23
Mr Muscle



Joined: 08 Jun 2005
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PostPosted: 11:25 - 02 Nov 2017    Post subject: Multi Bike Projects Reply with quote

I haven’t been a regular poster here for some time now, and having logged on again recently to take a nose around the forum, I thought of making a new multi-bike show and tell thread as a little update to my two wheeled shenanigans.

First off, what’s in the current stable, and the little jobs here and there I intend doing:

Honda Hornet 250:
Owned for about a year and a half now, was in pretty good condition when I got it - recently fitted new tyres, rear shock, exhaust end can. Still needs a little TLC here and there, plus I’d like to replace the front headers with something less ‘matt black’.

https://i.imgur.com/lnfNCxW.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Z6AAygh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/7L8tGIW.jpg


Honda CB400 V-Tec:
Owned for about three years. Was written off (Cat D) in a rear end impact on the way to work one morning. Little cosmetic work was needed getting it back on the road - of which time I was in two minds of selling it. I guess that V-tec sound has kept it in the stable for the time being - as well as subtly tweaking the bike to look a bit more like a Freddie Spencer rep.

https://i.imgur.com/SY8ZH45.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/6t61mEN.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/mU9Cxnx.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/EYAMrwn.jpg


Honda CB400 Superfour:
Owned for about eight years - originally bought as a bike in need of a lot of TLC, and as a project bike that I actually used (as I was getting way too precious about my NC30 at the time). Probably went too far with the restoration, it only comes out now and again when the sun’s out :/ Would like to get the stands powder coated next I think...

https://i.imgur.com/VUiMGdM.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/4G1sXQh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/s94Yd2X.jpg


Honda CB400 Four:
Owned for about a month - planning on a little TLC, suspension (not sure on the imitation Ohlins..), brake and tyre refresh and what not. What can I say? I fell in love with that exhaust and all that shiny shiny chrome.

https://i.imgur.com/SDTyCOL.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/9ob5cCx.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/6trBdSH.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/B7FSlve.jpg


Honda CL400:
Owned for about four months - I’ve become a fan of off-road bikes and more retro machinery (must be getting old), plus as you may have guessed by now, I like to clean and tinker my bikes, and this seems to encompass that back to basics pride of ownership. Thinking of getting a slightly louder exhaust system made (whilst retaining the original twin set up), plus a little TLC here and there.

https://i.imgur.com/h5si4xN.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/7tvs4Qh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/0lH76Kr.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/uYbRIKK.jpg


Honda NC30:
Owned for about 12 years. Was forgotten about for about half of those whilst I moved house / got too busy with other projects / work / other lame excuses. Arguably the bike that gave me a bit of forum presence. Spent a fair few weekends recommissioning the thing - full carb rebuild, new battery, fluids, tyres, MOT - now constantly faffing around with suspension settings, as I think my riding style has changed quite a bit since I first refurbished the bike. Think a trip to Steve Jordan is required next spring…

https://i.imgur.com/gGo43Hq.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/YpyxARW.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/QUA9g1I.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/GvHZlbV.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Jdcu4Ip.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/9knGJZE.jpg


Other projects from the last couple of years:

https://i.imgur.com/KsFWSXx.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/tshjpti.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/giA3Bxr.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/6A9xCik.jpg
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Holdawayt
Trackday Trickster



Joined: 27 Jul 2015
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PostPosted: 17:25 - 02 Nov 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

Safe to say you're a fan of a Honda 400 then.
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TimNorwich
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Joined: 07 Apr 2008
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PostPosted: 18:29 - 02 Nov 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

These all look so clean, kudos! Where they this clean when you bought them or has it been a labour of love? If so, tell us your secrets! Wink
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craigs23
Mr Muscle



Joined: 08 Jun 2005
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PostPosted: 11:03 - 03 Nov 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

I do like a Japanese built 400 Very Happy I've had a fair few bikes over the years, but always seem to favour something which isn't too technologically advanced, and offers a nice balance between thrashability, frugality, and fun. And I'm getting old now, so tend to like machinery without too much plastic bolted to them :/

I did have a cleaning thread on the forum once upon a time. I tend to buy bikes that are mechanically and structurally sound, needing a bit of a refresh, service, and TLC. I might have some 'before' shots of some of the bikes, but the recent purchases have been pretty tidy to start with.

I need a garage... or maybe I could squeeze some of them in the living room....
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neatbik
World Chat Champion



Joined: 27 Jun 2007
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PostPosted: 14:58 - 03 Nov 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

Good to see you still have the NC30, and its as clean as ever!
That 400 4 is a bit tasty..
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Minty
World Chat Champion



Joined: 23 Dec 2005
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PostPosted: 15:04 - 03 Nov 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

This thread absolutely reeks of Autosol - good to have you back Craig. Thumbs Up
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Snod Blatter
Crazy Courier



Joined: 21 Nov 2014
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PostPosted: 23:13 - 03 Nov 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

With the Super Fours, do you prefer the VTEC version or the non-VTEC? I understand the VTEC version is supposed to be mega but they're rare to see here in the UK while there are plenty of the older non-VTEC bikes. Basically, as a potential buyer, is it best to hold out until a VTEC bike comes up for sale?
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craigs23
Mr Muscle



Joined: 08 Jun 2005
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PostPosted: 09:08 - 04 Nov 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

Thanks for the comments so far Thumbs Up

I've a few odd jobs here and there to do on various bikes, just simple stuff (most likely with an added dollop of Autosol), so may continue this thread to show how I go about tidying up the bikes I own.

The Superfours, on paper, are very similar - and even when riding them, the V-Tec probably only has an edge post 8/9000 rpm, but which I prefer depends on what mood I'm in; they can feel very different despite their similarities.

I've tweaked the V-Tec more than the stock earlier version - it carries SP2 front callipers, a radial brake master cylinder from an 04 Blade, Ohlins rear shocks and fork springs, a full titanium exhaust system... In other words, performance wise doesn't feel 'detuned' like the earlier model can - the throttle response is a lot crisper - feels more like the CBR400 I had last year in fact - with an addictive howl in the exhaust once the V-Tec's kicked in (and it's a proper V-Tec system too, not the 2-4 valves per cylinder system found on the VFR800s).

But I wouldn't call it better than the earlier model. The earlier bike feels more classic, even when the V-Tec model was in stock form, the earlier model felt more... hmmmm... 'quaint', like a bike I'd just bible around on enjoying the scenery - a bike I'd cruise around country lanes rather than aim to improve my corner complex lines like I feel myself doing on the V-Tec model.

The earlier model's a bit of a 'sleeper' bike though, it still pulls so cleanly and readily at the top end (for a 400), and isn't that far behind in the performance stakes. It also comes with the added practicality of a centre stand, a more comfortable saddle, a rear calliper that doesn't fill with road grime every few hundred miles...

If it were me, I'd still be very tempted if an earlier model in good working order came up - then go take a look at a V-tec model if one did surface on the market thereafter - you'll have a good base for comparison that way too, and I'd doubt you'd lose any money on the earlier model if you did decide to change.

https://i.imgur.com/oGh23oh.jpg
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Snod Blatter
Crazy Courier



Joined: 21 Nov 2014
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PostPosted: 19:55 - 04 Nov 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

I had no idea the VTEC version had lost the centre stand, that makes the decision much easier!

I do quite like them, they're a bit (very) lardy for the power but they seem very usable.
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UncleFester
World Chat Champion



Joined: 30 Jun 2013
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PostPosted: 08:15 - 05 Nov 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

We have a CB400SF too - it's got different exhaust ( think it's made by Again) and headers, rear sets, fork brace and some other non standard bits but what I love about it ( it's her bike not mine ) is the height / weight distribution and the noise it makes.
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Irezumi aka Reuben
Carrot Top



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PostPosted: 23:43 - 09 Nov 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

Where are you getting all these 400's? Are they all grey imports through a dealer or are they just used local/national ads?

All look great, particularly like the old style CB400, any more info on that?
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craigs23
Mr Muscle



Joined: 08 Jun 2005
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PostPosted: 16:41 - 26 Nov 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

I seem to have a habit of scouring Ebay and Autotrader when getting an itch for a new project, or finding something I haven't owned before. It's probably a manifestation of some bizarre Autosol addiction, the shiny shinies of classic looking bikes seems to attract me a lot these days.

The old style CB400 is an NC36 - essentially a lardy Superfour, albeit lacking a centre stand and sixth gear, and in need of a diet (think it's some 20kgs heavier, which is a lot for a bike with a relatively low power output). But those spoked wheels, chrome mudguards and 4 into 4 exhaust swayed me to get my hands on the thing. It feels a lot more laid back than even the Superfour, which I feel can be quite relaxing to ride. Feels like a proper classic bike though, not too dissimilar than the mid 90s 750 my Dad had, surprisingly adding a completely different flavour to the Super that its based on.

Did a little work on the thing lately - the brakes desperately needed looking at - some loon had fitted PVM cast disc brakes to the thing, possibly because they couldn't fathom which other discs would fit.

https://i.imgur.com/XHmdR9D.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/IAxdDVh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/uNN1gRZ.jpg

I also replaced the rear shocks to something more in keeping with the look of the bike (although I'm still in two minds about them). The front tyre's date stamped 2002, so that really needs changing to something to match the relatively new Metzler on the back. I've been getting quotes for having the seat resculptured, as well as thinking of changing the rear mudguard / tail light to something a little sleeker; if the CL's rear end would fit, that could work.

I took advantage of the drier weather by taking each of the silver 400s out this weekend, surprising how different they all are. I may have treated them each to a bit of a clean (I do have a reputation to keep after all), as well as a dollop of ACF50 here and there).

https://i.imgur.com/3jyDjb3.jpg
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SM.Morgan
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PostPosted: 21:45 - 03 Jan 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

I also haven't posted or been on here in ages but felt the need to say, I loved following the build of the Konica 400 nc30 to what it is now. Thumbs Up
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chris-red
Have you considered a TDM?



Joined: 21 Sep 2005
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PostPosted: 11:34 - 04 Jan 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

If I won the lottery I would buy you and make you live in my Garage with the complete range of AutoGlym products.
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craigs23
Mr Muscle



Joined: 08 Jun 2005
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PostPosted: 10:17 - 30 Apr 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

Lol, I suppose tinkering and cleaning bikes has always been a bit of a hobby of mine - some days I wonder if I should subsidise my day job with a little two wheeled valet service. Some of my neighbours have wondered if I'm a bike dealer :/

I still have some photos from yesteryear of my old Konica and Blade projects, although due to the Photobucket fiasco I'd have to sift through the archives....

A few changes in the stable over the passed few months; sold both the CL and four-gunned CB400 to consolidate the fleet a little, namely into one of these:

https://i.imgur.com/U5535Ga.jpg

Rear shock's a bit pants, so think I'd look into sorting its bouncy bits. I've recently fitted an exhaust system too (further pics to follow when we get another 'heat wave'.

I also bought myself a winter hack (right in time for spring lol). And there was some people who used to think I just bought Hondas...

https://i.imgur.com/uX4Hv2O.jpg

Not much planned for it, debating whether or not to stick some SM wheels on it though. Planning on doing a bit of touring later on in the year, so this will most likely be my steed of choice for doing so.

Other winter jobs included keeping the white Superfour and NC30 running over winter (still planning a trip to Steve Jordan to get the '30's suspension set up again (as I'm a bit of a different rider to how I was ten years or so ago)), plus my Hornet's exhaust system arrived from Japan Very Happy

https://i.imgur.com/tOS5y2P.jpg

Suffice to say it doesn't sound too bad Smile

Other news: Found this on my doorstep recently. Must be a stray. Think I'll adopt it. Be cruel not to right?

https://i.imgur.com/jNtthUl.jpg

The little beasty has a few subtle mods on it so far, I'm not planning to go overboard project wise on it as I've always been a fan of the older models. Few little trinkets en route though Smile
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stevo as b4
World Chat Champion



Joined: 17 Jul 2003
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PostPosted: 19:14 - 30 Apr 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

All looking very nice (spotless) and impressive, just not sure on the colour or the styling of the big Yamaha though?

The MSX looks a giggle, and seeing as I was reading about Yamaha Banshee's earlier with silly American big bore conversions, I did wonder what with all the Japanese and Chinese big cc clone engines and tuning parts, if anyone has made a twin cylinder version of these engines yet? An MSX 250 twin would be a pretty cool thing to have because!
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Sean.S
Trackday Trickster



Joined: 20 May 2015
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PostPosted: 08:36 - 01 May 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

I have to say, you’ve done a beautiful job of your nc30. Ive always liked the look of the usd fork conversion, and i would have fitted some to mine if it wasn’t so expensive to do. Mines suffering with some kind of charging issue atm (i know, big surprise!)
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trevoriv
World Chat Champion



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PostPosted: 19:26 - 01 May 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

I'd pay a fair few hundred quid to get my zx6r looking half as clean as these. Mine hasn't been cleaned since 2014.
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bacon
World Chat Champion



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PostPosted: 19:57 - 01 May 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

Those 400s are dreamy! Lovely stuff
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craigs23
Mr Muscle



Joined: 08 Jun 2005
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PostPosted: 06:51 - 03 May 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

trevoriv wrote:
I'd pay a fair few hundred quid to get my zx6r looking half as clean as these. Mine hasn't been cleaned since 2014.


Sounds like a project in the making Wink

With spring seemingly making a comeback this weekend I'm tempted to properly get some of the bikes out on the road again; although the XSR's quite a new addition and haven't gotten round to bonding with the thing much.

I suppose it's an acquired taste; verging on being a tad hipster. But I do like the shed-built hues of the thing, it's neo-retro kinda look, plus the sound and delivery of its power plant. I've also seen some interesting projects based on the XSR, although with my other bikes needing a bit of tinkering from time to time, have to be careful not to go too far.
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craigs23
Mr Muscle



Joined: 08 Jun 2005
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PostPosted: 06:54 - 03 May 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

Sean.S wrote:
I have to say, you’ve done a beautiful job of your nc30. Ive always liked the look of the usd fork conversion, and i would have fitted some to mine if it wasn’t so expensive to do. Mines suffering with some kind of charging issue atm (i know, big surprise!)


When I had an 08 600RR I was still a bit surprised that the reg/rec was checked when having it serviced; I knew they were weak points on older Hondas, but was a little perplexed as to why Honda hadn't sorted it on such a late bike.

Hope it doesn't cause too much grief to remedy Thumbs Up
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craigs23
Mr Muscle



Joined: 08 Jun 2005
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PostPosted: 11:08 - 07 Jun 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

Just a small few updates since summer has now started:

I’ve been having a little fun on the Grom lately - including fiddling with the suspension a tad, plus a few cosmetic tweaks. Still doesn’t handle quite as well as my previous black version, but hey ho, something to tweak over time. Probably my favourite bike to do my weekly shopping on, although I haven’t been quite brave enough to the peruse the aisles of my local Tesco whilst riding it yet.

https://i.imgur.com/ffDNpZz.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/RoHz5jy.jpg

I’ve also been having a bit of fun making a lot of noise (and relatively not going very fast) on the new-exhaust mounted Hornet. Doesn’t seem to accelerate until 10,000rpm, but makes its rev-happy howl oh so addictive to utilise. Probably my favourite thrasher bike for that reason, but I am yet to get the NC30 and white Superfour MOTed again for the year...

https://i.imgur.com/QEF5vhY.jpg

But speaking of soundtracks, the XSR sounds so much better with its Tec exhaust fitted. I’ve been tempted to take the baffle out a few times, but living in a small cul de sac and enjoying making the use of early-morning weekend rides has meant it’s stayed in for the time being. A better rear shock is on the wish list though - the OE version is way too soft and bouncy; but does offer a bit of character to the riding experience.

https://i.imgur.com/gZz90CK.jpg

The V-tec passed its MOT last week, so looking forward to getting out and about on that soon - but as mentioned, I’ve a little attention to adorn the other Superfour and NC30 too…

https://i.imgur.com/tAAlmor.jpg
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