After pulling the diesel engine out of the bike, I tried positioning a couple of other NOS engines in the frame to see how they might work. First was a Tecumseh OH195SA. … A change of engine?Read more
First (attempted) engine start
With the primary chain sorted, it was time to start up the Chinese Yanmar clone motor for the first time. I decided to attempt a static “pad test,” the primary chain fitted, … First (attempted) engine startRead more
Jackshaft complete
I was able to get back into the workshop long enough to button up the jackshaft assembly. I shortened the keyed shaft, then faced it and cut a channel for the circlip … Jackshaft completeRead more
Rear sprocket fitted
A rear sprocket to fit my Yamaha rear wheel that takes #35 chain isn’t really a thing, so I modified a go-kart sprocket to fit. I had a heck of a time … Rear sprocket fittedRead more
Primary chain tension adjusters
When I designed the jackshaft brackets, I included provisions for adjusting the primary chain tension. The bottom pillow block mounting bolt hole is oval, so that the jackshaft can shift fore and … Primary chain tension adjustersRead more
Front tank shell mount
I have warmed up to the Yamaha XV535 tank shell, and I’ve started figuring out how to mount it to the frame. At the front, I attached it to an existing bracket … Front tank shell mountRead more
Jackshaft spacing
I tried fitting the jackshaft assembly and engine into the frame together for the first time. The throttle and governor assembly is mounted to the rear of the crankcase, which is a … Jackshaft spacingRead more
Front fender test-fit
I originally bought this no-name universal fender off Amazon for The Bride, but I didn’t use it because I decided it was intolerably ugly. It didn’t get any better looking while in … Front fender test-fitRead more
Footpegs mounted
I recycled Bultakenstein’s Yamaha YZF600R footpegs for the Benelli. I considered a bunch of locations and mounting configurations, including floorboards and adapting an entire Kawasaki ATV footrest assembly. But in the end, … Footpegs mountedRead more
Handlebars & controls
The sun came out between thunderstorms, so I rolled the diesel Benelli out into the driveway for a couple of quick progress photos. I bought a higher handlebar for $30 off Amazon, … Handlebars & controlsRead more