I decided I really want to lean into the pseudo-retro look for the Benelli/ATC250R. That means wire wheels and drum brakes. So the 19″ cast Virago wheel goes back in the parts … Wheel SelectionRead more
Front forks and steering clamps
Since I had previously determined that the aftermarket bearing cups I purchased could not accommodate a steering stem diameter larger than 26mm, I picked up a set of Honda XR200R triple clamps. … Front forks and steering clampsRead more
Monster engine test fit
Well, dimensionally speaking, I’ve proven it’s possible. But practical? Desirable? Those remain unanswered questions. There certainly isn’t much room to spare. Squeezing the fully assembled engine between the frame tubes was a … Monster engine test fitRead more
Revisiting the Retroblaster
With the completion of The Bride, I took some time to take stock of the various projects and parts I had squirreled away in corners of my basement. I decided I’m not … Revisiting the RetroblasterRead more
Expansion chamber tailoring
I bought an exhaust for it last August. With shipping and tax, the total cost was $240—not an inexpensive purchase. It’s an aftermarket, but I have my doubts about the seller’s claim … Expansion chamber tailoringRead more
Visual musings
With The Bride essentially complete, my thoughts have turned to the other bikes in my garage. The order of attack is Bultakenstein first, of course, then the Aermacchi-Ducati Special. The Benelli/Honda ATC250R … Visual musingsRead more
On-board video & glamour shots
I took advantage of possibly the last nice riding day of the year to cruise around town on The Bride a bit in the afternoon. I strapped on a GoPro chest-mount and … On-board video & glamour shotsRead more
Fuel Tank Graphics
I tried adding some heavy-duty 3M vinyl sheet to the tank to cover up the ghosted Can-Am decals. It went on impressively well and looked great initially, but it kept developing bubbles … Fuel Tank GraphicsRead more
The Bride hits the streets
I am happy to report that I have been able to put some miles on The Bride, and I feel it’s fundamentally a success. I traced the CVT’s erratic behavior to excessive … The Bride hits the streetsRead more
Instrument mount
I finally fabricated a permanent instrument panel, something I had been struggling to make both functional and reasonably attractive. The process required a number of iterations, and what I ended up with … Instrument mountRead more