The transformation of my CB

[kennyw]

I started out by by randomly buying a CB750C this spring. It was a good bike but ended up needing more attention than I had time for. This lead me to notice the new CB1100 when I went liking for a newer bike with fuel injection and ABS.

After a little number crunching I brought home a used twin of the new one I test rode.

The new bike was so much nicer to ride than a 30 year old bike with bad brakes. But I didn't have a way to carry stuff and keep it dry yet. I attempted to fit the rack of of the old bike as a temp fix but it didn't work out. [Link to be added later] This left me riding with a tank bag only to start with. It got the job done but didn't keep everything dry in heavy rain.

My first real mod came in with ordering replacement mirrors from a CB500F. [Link to be added later] They are lower and slightly wider than the crome mirrors yet still OEM Honda parts for a great fit and finish.

Next up was a cheap and easy mod. Metalmaven's license plate bracket to clean up the rear fender. [Link to be added later]

Next I purchased a used Tiros-K seat as I find the stock seat uncomfortable after 45 minutes.

This seat was far more comfortable on my commute because it was taller and wider than stock for more support.

A rear rack also arrived around the same time as the seat. However, the hardware kit escaped the package in route. I managed to scrounge up everything I needed at a decent hardware store while the store I purchased the rack from tracked down replacements.

Of course I added the top box immediately after that as I was reusing it off of the old bike.

 

[kennyw]

Of course since I'm reusing accessories from my old bike where possible, I had this hideously large windscreen. After a 6" trim off the top it wad fitted.

On a trip to Nebraska, I came across one of the best modifications from a SpaceX recruiter.

After a day long ride around Mt Rainier, I realized that the Tiros-K seat wasn't going to work for me on long trips.

I heard some good things about the Airhawkseat pad and wanted to try that before dropping $400 on a new seat. Unfortunately, it didn't feel right to me. I was disconnected from the bike and uneasy in the corners so it went back.

 

[kennyw]

So, the Tiros-K was sold and I picked up a Corbin to replace it. I also painted the inside of the windscreen hammered black.

 

[the Ferret]

So what is next kenny?

 

[kennyw]

Rear turn signal relocation and ammo can saddle bags.
I will probably repaint the side covers as well.

 

[kennyw]

Working on the turn signal relocation and a few paint changes.

Of course my helpers didn't want to be left out.

 

[immgunn_imp]

Great pictorial Kennyw. Thanks.

 

[kennyw]

A little more progress on a prototype turn signal relocation bracket.

I set this up to work worth metalmaven's plate bracket. I plan to send him the information to build it for a cleaner finished product. Either as a one piece bent plate or a pair of add-on parts like this. The challenge is in getting one design to work for both stock and aftermarket turn signals.

 

[Randy B]

A little more progress on a prototype turn signal relocation bracket.

I set this up to work worth metalmaven's plate bracket. I plan to send him the information to build it for a cleaner finished product. Either as a one piece bent plate or a pair of add-on parts like this. The challenge is in getting one design to work for both stock and aftermarket turn signals.

I would think using the largest hole needed and supplying bushings would be the answer for that problem.

 

[kennyw]

Yes, other than lack of space. But I'll see what I can come up with. The 1" x 1" angle I used here is too small for the larger hole needed for stock turn signals.

 

[Motogeezer1949_imp]

Looks excellent

 

[Chapomis_imp]

Very simple and clean solution on the relocation hdwr.

 

[metalmaven_imp]

Wow, you aren't afraid to dive in and do some work! I like it. Great idea using the 1" alum angle! The new turn signals look sweet too.

 

[the Ferret]

Will also help with the size of soft saddlebags you can use and how they sit on the bike

 

[Krupator_imp]

Nice CB! I love seeing functional mods.

 

[kennyw]

A little more progress on a prototype turn signal relocation bracket.

I set this up to work worth metalmaven's plate bracket. I plan to send him the information to build it for a cleaner finished product. Either as a one piece bent plate or a pair of add-on parts like this. The challenge is in getting one design to work for both stock and aftermarket turn signals.

I would think using the largest hole needed and supplying bushings would be the answer for that problem.

I think having the hole sized for a 10mm stud will accommodate the 8mm stud with a small bushing like McMaster part number 91145A178 that costs $6.39/100.

I don't think I can accommodate the stock lights with the same part as the aftermarket version. But I will see what that version looks like in CAD. Obviously one design that works for everything is easier from a manufacturing/ordering stand point.

Will also help with the size of soft saddlebags you can use and how they sit on the bike

Having more room for bags is the reason for relocating the lights.

I have found an nice route for the wires running up under the taillight housing. There is a small gap in the bottom of the plastic gasket between the fender and housing. This will allow running wire up under the taillight and possibly in with the taillight wire loom.

 

[kennyw]

Here is a mockup of the new luggage.

Better pic with the rack.

 

[Cormanus]

I hope you're going to repaint the tank and the fairing in Ural green.

 

[4 Paws_imp]

I hope you're going to repaint the tank and the fairing in Ural green.

Hey! I resemble that remark.

Like the mods so far, well done functional and moderate cost.

 

[Southpaw50_imp]

I like it!