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NEWS
Bikesales Build part three: Honda VTR250
The 'winter project' pushes into summer as supplier issues conspireSufficed to say it's been a long time since we last spoke. What started as a 'winter project' has become a half-year saga as we get the run-around from suppliers – and wait what seems like an eternity for 'that' engine.
It seems that just as oils ain't oils (thanks, Sol), all powdercoaters are not that same, either. The first supplier we entrusted with our parts muddled up the order, lost parts and took perpetuity to get things done, while the second (who we had hoped would be quicker) did such a terrible job that the whole lot had to be stripped and started again.
Our engine was likewise delayed. A supplier sent our engine builder the incorrect parts and, after weeks of waiting, it was found the little V-twin couldn't be assembled save for a couple of gaskets.
On the plus side, the crew tasked with painting the tank and front guard did a sterling job. The petrol matte grey duco and Honda Tokyo-sourced decals combine to look the goods... on my kitchen bench at least.
The same could also be said for my hand-painted forks, cut-and-shut subframe, swingarm, exhaust and a number of other odds and ends.
The electrical work is ticking along. A former colleague and aircraft engineer has helped sort the modified wiring loom and the headlight, front indicators, ignition barrel and engine loom are now all set to go. A new lithium-ion battery has been ordered to reduce space and weight under what's left of the seat, too. We'll knock up a carrier for the battery, reg-rectifier and fuse box soon, and then get the whole lot screwed together and off to the trimmers.
Our plans for the seat have changed since we last spoke, with the tail cowl eliminated in favour of a 'cafe' style seat. We'll tuck the rear indicators up under it as well, while the number plate and stop-light will likely hang to the left-side of the rear wheel.
So when will it all be finished? Who knows? I'm yet to get a concrete answer from the cast and crew involved, and without an engine there's simply no way of completing the rest of the bike. The VTR's swingarm attach points pick-up with the rear of the gearbox, and the subframe and battery box cannot be installed until we have the donk in place.
What was that they said about good things coming to those who wait...?
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Written byMatt Brogan
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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.
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