Bikesales Build part four: Honda VTR250
The end is finally in sight for our little project bikeWhen last we spoke, the Honda VTR250 project was awaiting an engine and some powder-coating. Now, with those items in hand, the little grey beast has finally begun to take shape – though not without a few niggles.
The engine slipped into the frame without a drama and was simple enough to plumb and wire. Not scratching the newly powder-coated parts was the hardest task, though some of the powder-coated parts had arrived back better than others.
It seems that despite trying two separate suppliers, there are always going to be issues. The supplier first was hopelessly slow in turning things around, and occasionally required items to be re-done. The second was much faster, but sent items back with 'hang marks' from where the wire used to support the part during the coasting process was evident. Not happy.
On the plus side, the electrical work is now sorted. The micro instrument cluster is wired and functional, while the LED indicators and tail-light are serviceable, albeit for a faster-than-legal flash rate (this will be fixed soon by way of a plug-and-play diode).
I've also (finally) managed to find an upholsterer willing to cover the seat. After speaking to a number of trim shops I could find none willing to tackle the seat frame itself, but one that was willing to sculpt the foam and cover the seat as required once I'd done the work.
Getting the seat to fit and function as it should without compromising its integrity – and fitting the look of the original sketch – was difficult, though not impossible. It's certainly a case of measure twice, cut once, and now that I've done it, I’d say is something I'd try again – and that if you're building a bike to not be afraid to try it yourself. Just be patient.
The seat heads off to the trimmers next week and should look something like that shown in the (photoshopped) pic above. This will leave only the rear light cluster remaining before we take that first ride.
Watch this space...
Bikesales Build part one
Bikesales Build part two
Bikesales Build part three
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
