how much work?

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arbalest
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how much work?

#1

Post by arbalest »

I have seen this bike at the Barber Motorsports 10th Vintage Meet at the Barber track in Birmingham, AL in 2014. I have been in love with this bike since I saw it. I never got to talk to the builder, so I have no idea what it took to build this. So here I am. Can you give me a general overview of what would take to do this to a GL1100? The rear frame mod is obvious.
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dontwantapickle
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Re: how much work?

#2

Post by dontwantapickle »

relocate the battery and electrical stuff from under the seat and find a gas tank that will straddle the backbone.
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wingrider
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Re: how much work?

#3

Post by wingrider »

If you really want it to look like that, you also get to cut the upper part of the seat frame and put that kink in it. Get some low bars, and some aftermarket megaphones, and a catch can for your coolant. Once you have all that, then make it your own.
2002 1800 Wing
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Track T 2411
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Re: how much work?

#4

Post by Track T 2411 »

The above advice is good, and I'll add a few details. First, the bike pictured is a 1000, which means that some of the 'looks' you might find appealing would require a bit more work if you're staying with an 1100.
Spoked wheels, '75-77 only. Significant modification/ part swaps would be needed, but not impossible.
Headers. I believe '75-77 headers are pictured. '78-79 headers are similar, but have a more pronounced 'upturn'. All 1000 headers have a slip-on flange to mount the muffler. 1100 headers are 'heavier' looking, not really tubular, and have no flange. Each side is a welded, one piece unit from header to tail pipe. All 1000 headers will fit the 1100 engine and frame, but clearance near the swing arm is kind of tight. Definitely doable, if you plan it out.
Most everything else will depend on your imagination, determination, and monetary denomination(s). lolol lolol lolol
"I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein

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arbalest
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Re: how much work?

#5

Post by arbalest »

Thanks for the responses. I just love that look, but for me, the bike will be a pusher for a sidecar rig. It doesn't sound like that look requires any major modifications.
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230Rocket
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Re: how much work?

#6

Post by 230Rocket »

What they all said plus an unlimited source of patience. Things do not always fit first time, ideas need to be converted to actions, your vision up against your determination will do it.

Get a donor and join the chaos.

Cheers
Dean
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Fred Camper
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Re: how much work?

#7

Post by Fred Camper »

Pretty sure it was also lowered some. Nice patina for sure.
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Easter
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Re: how much work?

#8

Post by Easter »

Remember this bike well "El Guacho" if I recall. Deceptively (un)simple modifications. But making it work as this builder did is a real challenge.
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83 XL 600r with a 2004 XR650L engine
And a slightly worse for the wear BMW GS adventure bike awaiting repair
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