Tax Time Teaser

Well, it's certainly been a minute. Time for an update.

The frame and swingarm have both been stripped completely bare of parts, most grease, and some paint. After calling around, I ended up going with Full Blown Coatings in Murray for sandblasting and powdercoating, as they do both services in-house, have done a lot of motorcycles in addition to their other work, and appear to be very highly-rated. I was quoted $300, finished with their in-house glossy black, which I think is a pretty good deal in the current economy. They seem to know what they're doing.

Final photo before blasting and coating:

On the "hurry up and wait" front, it's currently tax season here, which means PARTS PARTS PARTS! Let's just go down the list:

Parts from Honda:

• Enough seals and o-rings to rebuild both front forks
• Oil seals for the chain tensioner bracket
• Swingarm pivot tube grease seals
• Rear wheel tensioner bolts/nuts
• Fuel tank cushions

NOS/aftermarket replacements:

• Honda swingarm pivot tube bushings
• New front/rear tire tubes and strips
• Brand new front/rear spokes and spoke nipples from Buchanan's Spokes
• Brand new front/rear Bridgestone Trail Wing tires in sizes 3.00-23 & 4.60-18

Upgrades (Factory and aftermarket)

• Custom 7" side-mounted single round headlight from 4into1
• 1979-1981 XL500 stator/alternator (higher output, bolt-on upgrade)

For the new headlight, I went with the classic "70s Honda" look with the glossy black bucket and chrome ring. I debated heavily on getting a grill for it, and I'm kinda regretting not getting one. I'll think about it.

New tires! What a size difference:

I've also acquired a few new tools, including a bench vise and ultrasonic cleaner. Both have already paid for themselves in time and effort saved alone.