Another GL1000 build..."Therapy"
Posted: Wed Jun 04, 2014 10:50 am
Greetings!
One build was not enough for me, so decided to start another GL1000 project. I finished my first project a couple years ago (see 1st pic), and subsequently donated the bike to my brother. The link to my build can be found within this forum here:
http://ngwclub.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=30&t=42370
My first built: The past 16 months have been a nightmare for me with the passing of my wife and two small children. I gave the bike to my brother because, well… I wanted (needed) to do something that would make me feel good, albeit for just a brief moment. The bike was originally his prior to rebuilding it, and felt he would like to have it back.
Anyway, flash forward to a couple months ago I was desperately looking for something to keep my mind of the tragedy. I loved working on my GL, as it was always a way for me to escape the reality around me and just be one man with his tools and motorcycle. Therefore I knew what I needed to do.
I shopped around on Craigslist and really wanted an early model (76’-77’). I always liked the styling versus the late models (my last bike was a 78’). I found one that was in pretty decent shape for about $900. It turned over fine, but the carbs were frozen shut so it would not start. I took a gamble (don’t we all with these bikes) and made the purchase.
My current project, after a good washing… 4hrs later… Almost ready for painting… Currently everything has been disassembled and just about ready to paint the engine and get everything else off to powdercoating. I replaced the timing belt, installed a new Barnett clutch with EBC springs, and replaced the water pump. I am far from rich, but have already made up my mind that money (or lack there off) will not prevent me from doing what I want to this bike.
I am going with the dual Weber Carb setup. I have already purchased Randaak’s manifold kit and patiently waiting for their arrival. My priority is having a well performing bike, so everything will be overhauled (brakes, bearings, electrical, etc). Will go with new coils and electronic ignition.
It was so nice to work on a bike that I have come to be very familiar with. I learned a lot (sometimes frustratingly so) the last time around, so I am very confident in my skills. Of course you never know what is lurking around the next rusty bolt or screw…
I will keep you updated on my progress.
One build was not enough for me, so decided to start another GL1000 project. I finished my first project a couple years ago (see 1st pic), and subsequently donated the bike to my brother. The link to my build can be found within this forum here:
http://ngwclub.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=30&t=42370
My first built: The past 16 months have been a nightmare for me with the passing of my wife and two small children. I gave the bike to my brother because, well… I wanted (needed) to do something that would make me feel good, albeit for just a brief moment. The bike was originally his prior to rebuilding it, and felt he would like to have it back.
Anyway, flash forward to a couple months ago I was desperately looking for something to keep my mind of the tragedy. I loved working on my GL, as it was always a way for me to escape the reality around me and just be one man with his tools and motorcycle. Therefore I knew what I needed to do.
I shopped around on Craigslist and really wanted an early model (76’-77’). I always liked the styling versus the late models (my last bike was a 78’). I found one that was in pretty decent shape for about $900. It turned over fine, but the carbs were frozen shut so it would not start. I took a gamble (don’t we all with these bikes) and made the purchase.
My current project, after a good washing… 4hrs later… Almost ready for painting… Currently everything has been disassembled and just about ready to paint the engine and get everything else off to powdercoating. I replaced the timing belt, installed a new Barnett clutch with EBC springs, and replaced the water pump. I am far from rich, but have already made up my mind that money (or lack there off) will not prevent me from doing what I want to this bike.
I am going with the dual Weber Carb setup. I have already purchased Randaak’s manifold kit and patiently waiting for their arrival. My priority is having a well performing bike, so everything will be overhauled (brakes, bearings, electrical, etc). Will go with new coils and electronic ignition.
It was so nice to work on a bike that I have come to be very familiar with. I learned a lot (sometimes frustratingly so) the last time around, so I am very confident in my skills. Of course you never know what is lurking around the next rusty bolt or screw…
I will keep you updated on my progress.