I have mentioned previously that I am building a custom motorcycle - Project 39-1/2, and threatened to post photos. The connection with tools is sorta obvious but since I started this project my metric tool collection has improved in size and quality, as well as many many other tools used in cutting and shaping metal.
The bike started life as a 1968 Wards Riverside Mojave. I've collected a few Wards related items to go with the bike such as a key tag and some tools for the onboard tool kit. Below you can see the neat tool roll. Not sure if that will actually get used on the bike since the bike is mostly metric, but the key tag and adjustable wrench are definitely usable.
This is "the bike that Craigslist built". It began when I spotted this bike with the cool body work - a Wards Mojave 260 - built in Italy by Benelli.
The inspiration for Project 39-1/2 is the cover of Cycle Magazine Feb 1969 issue...The Benelli Scorcher 650. A 650 vertical twin engine in an almost identical frame to the Mojave.
Over time I found two affordable Triumph 650 engines - on Craigslist - here's a photo of the better engine...
Again - on Craigslist - I picked up this bike, an '85 Cagiva Alazzurra...
This machine would be a donor for the wheels, front forks and most of the rear suspension and of course the disc brakes.
So this contraption has been assembled and disassembled many times as work goes on combining these elements. It is still in a very rough draft state. I painted the bodywork because I was able to do it at work over the winter. (The entire paint job, primer, color coat, and clear coat is painted with spray cans of automotive grade paint from Real Deals dollar store - for a dollar a can). The frame is yet unpainted.
The engine is just a shell - the real engine is on the workbench. Many of the cycle parts used are from the Cagiva or original Mojave parts that have been modified.
Here is what it looked like the last time all the body panels were in place.
Thanks for lookin'. I am currently working on installing the spin on oil filter.
Al
