Bike 4 - Suzuki GS1100 - Completed

It's been a bit of a process.  Thousands of dollars and hundreds of hours later, the finished product is something I'm very proud of.  What started as a nearly un-rideable cruiser has evolved into a head-turning cafe racer.  Everything has been gone over on this bike.  Totally rebuilt forks, fender, brakes, controls, lights, carbs, exhaust, rear suspension, and seat.  A bespoke Italian leather seat was upholstered and an attention-grabbing red paint with white and gold stripes give the beast its color.  Not only does the LM004 (it's my 4th build, after all) look right, it rides wonderfully.  It feels capable on winding roads and very comfortable cruising on the freeway.  Now...what will the next project be?

Bike 4 - GS1100 Update 2

 I finally ditched the cracked old rubber that was on the 1982 Suzuki GS1100 and got some new Dunlops to get me around.  It's amazing what a difference new tires make.  Once they're broken in, it's like a new bike.  Maybe part of it is mental, but there is just a lot more grip and confidence there.

Over the last weekend I spent hours wiring up the new gauges and switches I got.  Thank heavens for the wiring diagram I found online to guide me through the frustrating process.

Bike 4 - Suzuki GS1100 Update

While waiting for parts to arrive, I've spent time with the carburators.  Two out of the four barrels were actually in pretty decent shape.  The other two were a bit dirty and one had a main jet that was completely clogged.

I swapped out the main and pilot jets on all the carbs to larger sizes to compensate for the pod filters and 4-1 exhaust I will be implementing on the bike.

Bike 4 - The Suzuki GS1100

My first liter bike.  It had to happen eventually.  After selling the XS750, I went six months without a motorcycle.  I'd watch people ride by in the rain or sunshine and pine for my return to two wheels.  While browsing Craigslist at work, I came across a 1982 Suzuki GS1100 that had been sitting in a garage for a few years.  The previous owner was a 93 year old dude who refused to stop riding until the bitter end.  He passed the bike on to his son in law, who never got around to riding it.

Bike 3 - The XS750

After a few years of owning and modifying motorcycles, I finally decided to take on a large project, complete with frame welding, and custom seat.  I found a wonderful start with a 1979 XS750 that was in decent condition.  Only some light modifications were needed to be out and comfortable on the road.