My 1996 Vfr750 Streetfighter

This has been a long time coming... I started this about 6 years ago, with the intention of just tossing together a cool looking, naked, parts bin VFR. Some years went by and the project evolved into much, much more than I imagined in the first place. Having purchased some larger pieces of equipment (lathe, mill, and tig welder) have allowed me to really up the ante on my projects.

After dragging out my 83 VF750F build thread for years and still not finishing it, I decided I wouldn't post anything about this bike until it was done. Then Andy posted his beauty... and with a twinge of "dammit, he beat me to it", I really just sat back and took a bit more time on everything to make it tip-top.

I have about 1000 pics documenting the whole build, and matched that in 2 days on a recent photo shoot.

I will work on posting a lot of it here along with the full story over the next few days. You'll have to forgive me if I savor the moment a bit, after waiting 6 years... :wink:

[image: IMG_5336_zpsezqat7hg.jpg]

[image: 20150516_163448_zps3nt10chf.jpg]

[image: teaser2_zpsilxwr27k.png]

[image: 20150516_163413_zpspcxfim7x.jpg]

[image: 20150516_163249-1_zps45j9c16m.jpg]

[image: IMG_5597_zps8y3uxfst.jpg]

[image: IMG_5425_zpsxxamiq9a.jpg]

[image: IMG_5462_zpsrd5mqmia.jpg]

[image: IMG_5488_zpsfq2ejgfs.jpg]

Click this link for sound clip:

http://vid8.photobucket.com/albums/a49/SEBSPEED2003/20150521_204122_zpspzhd1bh8.mp4

This is what started it all... a spare motor obtained in October of 2009...

[image: 11-28-09001.jpg]

By December 09 it had gone through a couple iterations...

[image: 12-4-09018.jpg]

I originally saw it having clip ons and being more of a track animal

By January I had changed my mind a couple more times...

[image: 1-8-2010016.jpg]

[image: 1-9-2010021.jpg]

That evolved into a bit of rolling my own

[image: 1-17-2010024.jpg]

[image: 1-22-2010017.jpg]

[image: 1-22-2010015.jpg]

[image: 1-22-2010modded016.jpg]

[image: 1-22-20100102.jpg]

[image: PICT1182.jpg]

Yoshi helped clean the carbs

[image: 1-30-2010009.jpg]

Got some schmancy controls

[image: PICT1174.jpg]

I modified an RC51 SP2 front wheel to fit in the CBR forks

[image: 2-5-2010006.jpg]

[image: 2-5-2010007.jpg]

Added some PAIR block off plates - Hayabusa parts from ebay fit perfectly

[image: 6-4-10006.jpg]

Sold the FOX shock I had and picked up a nice Wilbers 641 with a fresh rebuild

[image: 6-4-10008.jpg]

It was around this time that I changed from clip ons to dirt bike bars

[image: 8-14-10006.jpg]ed

In September 2010, (my now good friend) Brian aka midlifevfr informed me that he picked up a 96 parts bike, and as it had lower mileage than the one I had, we negotiated a deal for the motor. Easiest way to drop 30k miles... the "new" lump has only 14,093 miles on it.

[image: 9-10-10012.jpg]

I decided that I wanted to paint the motor black. To accomplish this, I started by degreasing and washing the motor. I followed that with a soda blast, primer, and high temp ceramic black engine paint.

[image: 9-11-10002.jpg]

I am going to end up skipping around a bit in the timeline. The project took a bit of a turn 2 years ago after I was hit by a "lethal lefty" on my maiden voyage with my CB900F. That accident really messed with my head as I had put a lot of effort into that bike and it was difficult to see it laying on its side within 2 hours of putting the license plate on it.

It greatly influenced some decisions regarding this project - mainly the rear bodywork. I was planning to make a big deal out of creating some one-off bodywork, and I decided against this in favor of parts that I could adapt to the bike, and therefore also replace with relative ease if the worst case were to repeat itself.

Along the way, I found some rocking horse poop... Two Brothers full system!

[image: 10-9-10013.jpg]

This photo marks the end of the "make everythign from scratch" phase, and the beginning of the evolution into the bike you see at the top of the page.

[image: 10-16-10003.jpg]

With the freshly painted motor ready, and a spare swingarm that I sent out for powdercoat, I set about rearranging parts.

[image: 10-22-10001.jpg]

[image: 10-22-10004.jpg]

[image: 10-23-10002.jpg]

[image: 10-23-10004.jpg]

Another fork in the road... frame in hand, about to install on the freshly painted motor... leave it stock, or do something different with it?

Hmm...

Something different it is!!

[image: 11-2-10002-1.jpg]

At this time I also had some neat ideas for the forks. Knowing they were super short, I rebuilt them with heavier springs for my weight, and lengthened them internally by about 1/2". I also rebuilt the compression shim stack to my liking, and prepped them for paint.

[image: 10-25-10011.jpg]

[image: messybench.jpg]

While the carbs were still off, I opened them up to install new rubber and a Factory Pro jet kit.

[image: 11-2-10006-1.jpg]

[image: 10-20-10001.jpg]

I had a set of Vortex frame sliders kicking around from my CBR600, so I modified them to fit the VFR frame

[image: 10-23-10008.jpg]

Tasty

[image: 11-3-10007.jpg]

With visions of John Player Special livery dancing in my head, I set about dosing the CBR forks with some House of Kolors magic...

[image: 11-2-10003-1.jpg]

[image: goldforks1.jpg]

[image: 11-12-10002.jpg]

[image: 47d55bae.jpg]

Pagan Gold Kandy on the sliders, Orion silver on the bottoms. Custom decals by Throttlepimp (Kevin Sigler @ Switchblade Designs) - he is my go-to guy for custom graphics and he's been great for years!

Wheels were sent out to a V4bbs forum member who totally botched them, then they were re-done by a semi-local shop.

[image: sfwheelsbare.jpg]

I attempted to wrap the tank with black fiberglass, but that was a miserable failure.

[image: 11-27-10009.jpg]

Luckily, I was able to realize my error quickly, and peeled it back off before it really turned into a lot of work.

[image: 11-30-10001.jpg]

A bit of reassembly to cheer me up

[image: 12-04-10007.jpg]

[image: 255b27ba.jpg]

Rear down tubes were wrapped with black header wrap and stainless ties

[image: 87a0a861.jpg]

It took a bit of fanagling to get those tubes in place properly

[image: f44d6694.jpg]

Then this crazy idea happened... CRF250R exhaust can

[image: 1ae906d5.jpg]

Then another (much more infamous) idea:

[image: 2fb52e2b.jpg]

Raw cover and primered tank:

[image: 19ce0fe3.jpg]

Made up some front brakes lines using Earl's hose and fittings. These were later replaced for cosmetic reasons, but they worked well.

[image: 9c505af7.jpg]

[image: a592c3be.jpg]

How I made the tiny exhaust fit the bike...

[image: 5aa7292d.jpg]

[image: 0739b25c.jpg]

[image: 627a4d6d.jpg]

[image: 1e7d1de3.jpg]

[image: f7741fbf.jpg]

I opened the top of the can by chucking a mill cutter in my drill press... not the smartest thing, but it was kinda sorta necessary. It slipped out of my hand, and I had to touch up a few "chew" marks...

[image: 3b51c40b.jpg]

[image: beb3ce51.jpg]

Packed with ceramic blanket (thank you Travis!)

[image: 94d33db4.jpg]

I liked how the Honda dirt bike rear masters had integrated reservoirs, and I also didn't like the cost of billet parts... so I bought a CRF rear master, and reamed it out to fit the larger VFR brake piston parts. VFR is 1/2" vs CRF 3/8".

[image: 86dcdb00.jpg]

[image: 0db36e7b.jpg]

A little polish and paint, plus a pressure switch for the brake light, good to go.

[image: f3130348.jpg]

Bar end mirrors needed solid mounts not provided by the dirt bike bar, so parts had to be made.

[image: 831ee5fb.jpg]

They are retained with set screws hidden under the grips

[image: 68b8f2f8.jpg]

Use of the oil cooler mounted in a vertical position meant the fittings had to be reworked - more on this later

[image: 66517b8e.jpg]

The HRC 600RR quick turn throttle was coupled with a custom length throttle cable... and by custom, I mean that I cut a ST1100 cable to length, and soldered on a new brass end that I cut from a wood screw...

[image: 7dbd10a6.jpg]

I came across a build on customfighters.com where a member had used a KTM dirtbike headlight on a build. I really liked the look and shape of the light, I just had to have one and do my own take on it.

I started with the light, a sketch, and some cardboard, then replicated it in aluminum.

[image: ce8ce291.jpg]

[image: fd0f9459.jpg]

[image: IMG_4906_zps0dba47e0.jpg]

[image: IMG_4908_zps19479042.jpg]

[image: 0d379eca.jpg]

Around the same time, I found that I really preferred the shape of the 3rd gen 90-93 tank, the straight line vs the knee pocket really drew me in.

I think it transformed the entire build!

[image: 93426fae.jpg]

Fitting the tank wasn't all peaches and cream, I had to cut the rear mount off and replace it with the mount from the 4th gen.

[image: 4eeb799d.jpg]

[image: ebec68af.jpg]

That's coming to tmac right?

Sent from my SM-N900V using Tapatalk

Yessir. Just put the plate on yesterday.

Sweet! Nice job Seb, can't wait for more pics and the story.

HispanicSlammer

That's coming to tmac right?

It looks even better in person! :cool:

Oh dear lord, that sounds mean!

Looks beautiful Seb! :beer:

Looking good! I'll take closer inspection next week.

fantastic Seb. I love all the little touches. Oil cooler looks awesome vertical.

paladinreed

fantastic Seb. I love all the little touches. Oil cooler looks awesome vertical.

Thanks. I spent a lot of time deciding whether or not to keep it, and then even more to figure out where to put it.

Have you logged many miles on it yet... Love to hear how it rides. (yes i was talking about the 750).

Can't wait to hear about the different parts that make up this project.

Great work Seb

I have actually logged 0 miles... first ride should be later today, if I have time.

Keep an eye out for geriatrics near petrol stations..... :unsure:

KevCarver

HispanicSlammer

That's coming to tmac right?

It looks even better in person! :cool:

:1: :1: :1: :1: :1:

And avoid Stewarts at all costs

YoshiHNS

:1: :1: :1: :1: :1:

And avoid Stewarts at all costs

Dutchy

Keep an eye out for geriatrics near petrol stations..... :unsure:

That's why i did the photo shoot FIRST this time... heh...

Absolutely STUNNING!!!!!!

What a awesome streetfighter. Attention to detail, and it shows, Seb. Nice!

Congratulations, Seb! That is one of the nicest, most integrated looking VFR streetfighters I have ever seen. You clearly have an eye for detail and design, and have the skills to bring these elements together. Awesome job! :tongue2:

Ciao,

Great job Seb! :fing02: Really like what I see!

But I really like to see the VF750F also as a final product!

Looks nice.

Bike is cool looking Seb - congrats. Is it the same blue as the one that Apex ANdy has on the front page of the forum? Similar look.

First ride went really well! Couple little issues but that was expected, nothing I can't fix this weekend in time for the trip to TMAC 2015.

Tomorrow I ride it to the dealer for its annual inspection, then a quick cleaning and it will be ready for the mountains. Trial by Dragon!

No Ken, my blue is much darker.

Very nice!

Looking forward to the build details.

That is by far the sexiest looking naked VFR... EVER!!

Fit, finish, funky and functional!!

Awesome skills, hawkeye for detail and mean means to pull it off!!

VERY NICELY DONE. As one would expect after seeing photos of a couple of your other projects Seb, you have done it again. And, where on earth did you get that clear window clutch cover from. Nice touch there, and the sliders as well. An excellent way to show off the parts that you have created. A window to the Viffer's soul and all you will pass you on the highway is a blue streak. Hmmmmmm, could be a name for the bike in there somewhere.

Soul Streak

Excellent work.

The cat has left the bag! Well done Seb. Now my spy photos are worthless.

Heh, now I can let it out.

I WAS IN LEVEL 5 LOCKDOWN FOR A GOOD PART OF THIS BUILD!

I've seen most of this thing take shape, and it's kickass in every way. Totally magazine worthy.

SO many people "think" they have a streetfighter, when what they really have is a crashed bike with no bodywork, a Suzuki Bandit headlight, and a rattle can paintjob.

This is absolutely polished and well thought out, and the furthest thing from a "parts bin special" it's not even funny.

Well done Sebastian.

Thank you Rob, for your praise and your silence. lol I did leak some glimpses here and there as I sometimes needed a bit of fuel to get through the more trying times during the build.

I've started adding background pics and story to the first post, it will take a while to cover it all.

Amazing looking bike, can't wait to read the full build story... unreal that you can create something like that.

This bike is incredible Seb :) The overall appearance is very aggressive yet integrated. But the most impressive thing to me is that as you get closer to the bike you notice more and more custom details. Custom fabricated parts that speak volumes of your skill, ability and vision. Well done sir!

switching between the stock and finished pics, the tank really makes a huge difference. Stock 4g tank would not have worked at all.

I do love how the 92 tank line matches the flares on the headlight.

I have back-to-back pics of the tanks, I will try to get those posted tonight.

Is that Mrs Seb in the picture?

Roland Sands, step aside. There's a new builder in town. Beautifully finished. Can't wait to see more pictures.

Dutchy

Is that Mrs Seb in the picture?

As a matter of fact, it is...

checksix

Roland Sands, step aside. There's a new builder in town. Beautifully finished. Can't wait to see more pictures.

I think RS has firmly secured his place in the world, but thank you!

I will try to get more pics up soon.

HORY SHEET! That looks beautiful Andy, could be something that just rolled off the line...reminds me of a (better looking version of) a FZ-1, which I'm guessing must have been some sort of influence on this?

[image: Yamaha%20FZ1%20Abarth%20Assetto%20Corse%]

apexandy

This bike is incredible Seb :) The overall appearance is very aggressive yet integrated. But the most impressive thing to me is that as you get closer to the bike you notice more and more custom details. Custom fabricated parts that speak volumes of your skill, ability and vision. Well done sir!

Seen it in person Andy. The thing is that the custom bits look stock, or what should have been stock. You need to look really close and know where each piece came from and it all just looks incredible and works together.

Finally :wink:

Awesome work mate.

The Phantom

Finally :wink:

We're waiting impatiently Murray..............

Take a bow, Mr Seb. Nicely done. Like other posters have mentioned, the closer shots reveal many subtle touches that impress. I sat here for 10 minutes looking the pictures over in detail. It wouldn't be "your" project without the trademark clear clutch cover, hehe. How long did it take to clean up smooth and paint that swing arm?

That's two AMAZING streetfighter builds on VFRD this last couple years (yours and apexandy)

Wow! That's a masterpiece!

Very nice Seb.. :fing02:

Awesome work, Seb. Like the others have said, there's a different custom detail that catches my eye every time I return to look at the pics. Looking forward to all the build pics, but for now the final product will do :goofy:

Thought about submitting to BikeExif or Pipeburn? They occasionally feature fighters, and they'd be stupid not to take a look here.

How do I submit to those blog thingies?

SEBSPEED

How do I submit to those blog thingies?

http://www.bikeexif.com/submit-your-motorcycle

For example. Can't say I know anything beyond what they say about having good lighting, etc. Reading a few of the other featured bikes gives an idea of how much detail they'd look for.

Edit: here's Pipeburn too.

http://www.pipeburn.com/submit-a-bike#.VWJhWU9Viko

Both sites seem pretty sticky on not having overlap, so getting on one pretty much nixes the other.

SEBSPEED

How do I submit to those blog thingies?

Click blog at the header below the banner. Top right has a button for 'create blog'. Do the agree thing and start filling it out.

So this is the special project, now I will be very honest as we all like different things I'm not a fan of street fighters, cafe racers or naked bikes, my idea of a naked format is a MX or enduro that I can cover in mud in the bush. But what I like about this bike that appeals to me is 1. it's blue my fav colour. 2. the gen5/6 rear wheel I'm sick of everybody thinking the gen 3 rear wheel is the bee's knees, again my fav is the gen 5/6. 3. the CBR 08> tail it is again in my opinion the best looking stream line tail, it is a shame on the CBR the front is pig ugly. 4, attention to finishing everything with detail.

Great work seb but were is the gun holder, some of your gun modifications are my fav mods you do outstanding :-)

FSAE

SEBSPEED

How do I submit to those blog thingies?

http://www.bikeexif.com/submit-your-motorcycle

For example. Can't say I know anything beyond what they say about having good lighting, etc. Reading a few of the other featured bikes gives an idea of how much detail they'd look for.

Edit: here's Pipeburn too.

http://www.pipeburn.com/submit-a-bike#.VWJhWU9Viko

Both sites seem pretty sticky on not having overlap, so getting on one pretty much nixes the other.

Thanks. Once I bring you guys up to date on the build, I'll see about submitting to one or both of these.

zRoYz

So this is the special project, now I will be very honest as we all like different things I'm not a fan of street fighters, cafe racers or naked bikes, my idea of a naked format is a MX or enduro that I can cover in mud in the bush. But what I like about this bike that appeals to me is 1. it's blue my fav colour. 2. the gen5/6 rear wheel I'm sick of everybody thinking the gen 3 rear wheel is the bee's knees, again my fav is the gen 5/6. 3. the CBR 08> tail it is again in my opinion the best looking stream line tail, it is a shame on the CBR the front is pig ugly. 4, attention to finishing everything with detail.

Great work seb but were is the gun holder, some of your gun modifications are my fav mods you do outstanding :-)

Thank you sir. I realize it's not for everyone. I've wanted a SF for a while and I'm so glad I was able to pull it off with a VFR.

No built in holster, but there is just enough room in the tail that I could stash my Sig if I had the desire. :wink:

Hey Seb

This article on BikeEXIF, "How to make a living building custom motorcycles":

http://www.bikeexif.com/build-custom-motorcycles

"But: full disclosure here. Chris asked me to contribute this article, and I wasn’t going to turn him down. Maybe this becomes my first advice: If you get the chance to appear on Bike EXIF, take it."

:fing02:

What a great looking build - well done mate.
You must be stoked with the result.

Very nice Seb! I can hardly wait to see it in the metal and paint instead of SVGA comp screen...

Between this and ApexAndy's I have no hope for mine............ it would look like shit in comparison....... very stellar bike :)

I love fighters, and this is absolutely beautiful.

And don't forget 

http://www.flat-out.com/

i just listened to the vid. That noise is why i wanted a vfr. I'm going to the garage tonight.

Can someone post  avid from Tmac so i can here a heap of vfr's together?

Between this and ApexAndy's I have no hope for mine............ it would look like shit in comparison....... very stellar bike :)

NEVER under estimate the power of your passion, you may surprise yourself & everybody else, it is amazing what just cleaning/polishing/painting achieves, have fun with your build.

Beautiful work Seb!  But the pic with the lady in the black dress needs moar F-stop.   :biggrin:

Gorgeous bike and master craftsmanship! 

What are your thoughts on the modded CBR exhaust now that you've put some miles on it?  

:beer:

Love the Deals Gap pic... tell us more Seb!

:fing02:

Got some more process pics posted, hope to get the rest up later today.

I liked the 08 CBR1000RR subframe from the first moment I saw it on the new CBR. It was an inspiration from the beginning, and once I made the decision to use a factory subframe vs a scratch built one, the search began for a CBR setup.

I found a complete tail section on ebay from a guy that was parting out his bike. After a few minutes of eyeballing all looked well, so with a few cardboard templates mocked up I went ahead and cut some aluminum adapters.

The aluminum dogbones attach the subframe to the mainframe with grade 8 bolts.

[image: 8BBE6DF2-4A5D-45F2-870F-D78E3189023F-184]

[image: 74881BE1-9B24-4999-AC14-79D6FE3B21CE-374]

[image: D84E950F-20ED-401B-B2C9-423E0C4D614E-374]

[image: 3D9B5FA4-D908-453A-B908-83FC59B1E4A8-374]

Those Grade 8 bolts were quite unsightly, so I made up some dress up caps.

[image: IMG_4909_zpsd64c9a06.jpg]

I attached them by drilling & tapping the heads of the bolts.

[image: CA649CB2-47EF-4D7F-B6F4-E8F2F1BB6B42-645]

Attached with stainless cap screws.

[image: 662C1803-1DA3-4302-AE8B-869877F15498-645]

I also modded the front sprocket cover to remove some material and offer a racier look

[image: 2d0b17c3.jpg]

This it just amazing - I'm a builder my self - but for sure you're a champ

After fitting the subframe, the next step to having a clean finish was to transition the bodywork from the tail to the tank, and then fit the seat to the tank.

I used the stock CBR side filler panels as a starting point, and created a cardboard template to bridge the gap between the tank and the filler.

I was fresh out of aluminum sheet, so I cut a pair of parts from a steel car fender.

[image: 8858D9F9-6E72-484D-BEE5-0059C191E137-394]

There was a bit of an evolution as I was cutting them, the creative juices were flowing and it turned out well. Cut, check fit, cut, adjust shape, cut again, etc.

[image: 98A90D25-6A89-4F15-ADDD-3A4E78F0AB73-394]

[image: 1C2B3475-703D-42FD-A999-0776B1AA1942-394]

[image: BC8813E3-8A3D-49A9-B989-7303627352EA-394]

[image: A4AF3B09-6360-4F82-A43F-4E071FC8CED4-482]

Seat angle was a touch too steep...

[image: 19DAD6C1-4136-4F5A-8336-843E1896373A-394]

Although the shape was similar, the gap to the tank was wholly unacceptable.

[image: 5C0065CB-E7F6-4343-B569-A63FE9092865-394]

[image: 7292E0E9-2514-47D3-AFF9-4BFDD0EB77D9-394]

I made an attempt to fill the gap with race foam, but I found the results to be less than desirable.

[image: 70AFE2F1-F553-452B-B44F-1E1A58DB0E67-159]

[image: 9DC3E5AD-05F7-4EBF-B097-E775A8BADB68-344]

Now for the seat... I'm really happy with how this turned out. I used Plio Grip and sheetrock mesh tape to create the extension. This material can be stapled into when cured, just like the stock pan.

Here is a pictorial sequence of the process:

[image: IMG_6072_zps848c5797.jpg]

Wax was used to create a gap for the future seat cover to fill.

[image: IMG_6073_zps8735da6c.jpg]

[image: IMG_6077_zpsb88c72ac.jpg]

[image: IMG_6083_zpse747f4be.jpg]

[image: IMG_6084_zps83456600.jpg]

[image: IMG_6088_zps1e0ae933.jpg]

[image: IMG_6089_zpsc73a6c71.jpg]

[image: IMG_6091_zps2599db23.jpg]

[image: IMG_6094_zpsf1cd4dbc.jpg]

[image: 5772CE6B-C6A5-4ABD-BE84-CB7B40B74FFB-717]

[image: B1FED335-DD6F-4A0E-BB5D-D205292A2F2F-717]

My friend Travis Bowen of Bowen Upholstery in Wisconsin did the fantastic work on the foam and the seat cover. We worked together on the design, and he made an extra section of red welting to be used on the solo cowl later.

[image: P2050003_zps6760d898.jpg]

[image: P2060003_zpseda0c9b8.jpg]

[image: P2100001_zpsc72a5537.jpg]

The wiring needed to pass from the handlebars into the area in front of the airbox... but the lovely clean lines of the VFR tank prevent that... so I had to cut & shut the front of the tank.

[image: 3B8353BC-4424-470A-8337-4AA6B3420EA1-482]

[image: 3EEC9D0F-8388-40D0-887D-F4AF4E34BE78-482]

[image: 641736DD-7285-462B-9424-3DDF239B890C-604]

The subframe needed an undertail, the stock plastic tray would not do at all. I couldn't fit all my parts in it, and it was unsightly.

So I made a new one from aluminum sheet. I attached it with 2 DZUS fasteners, and welded it to one of the factory braces.

[image: 5144C3AF-B79E-4429-A024-4B00F1F9ECA6-563]

[image: 63663232-3F17-40A9-AB1C-50A087F483D2-563]

[image: DDA2F420-31F7-40FA-A18C-CF238B5EC5C5-563]

Doing this caused a new issue - the bodywork on the underside of the tail no longer fit flush to the undertail.

Plio Grip to the rescue! I wish I had taken some before pics, but I was on a roll that day.

[image: 3FFDF435-C763-46BC-84FA-C1087BBD7907-463]

[image: 7C041DBF-118A-4ACB-AE1A-BC61E3950B85-463]

It was really starting to come together at this point

[image: 4659F8D4-E317-42BB-A0F6-40A22E037F10-819]

I found a 600RR fender with a few cracks on ebay for little money, repaired it easily and improved the look IMO

[image: 10A586C9-D050-49CC-94C5-83E0221A23B9-164]

Began mocking up the gauge mount and pod

[image: E259A74C-26B1-4C39-9E8E-3B5A5EBADE91-819]

Made a buck to form the final configuration to

[image: 46AD9FF5-A3D9-4381-AEBB-5C6957A322B5-111]

And the part, just before being prepped for paint.

[image: B4EB1124-29F3-4729-9B62-CE2AF440D950-578]

[image: 90343E5D-016A-44DD-8183-3B00C6B35F8C-578]

I still can't believe that I spent an entire 8hr day making the release for the solo cover. But I did, and it works very well. The entire bike is keyless.

[image: 6D09E012-2C2A-4F1E-BC87-36AFF116153D-111]

[image: E2DF634B-F431-4935-A1EA-564C3B8D63B7-111]

[image: CD9DEB00-FC6D-487D-9E10-31C8E8AF1BEF-111]

License plate holder was fabbed from aluminum sheet. Light is an led strip.

[image: 58342ACA-32E4-4C82-93CF-B205D4E2C4AC-111]

Battery tray made from aluminum angle and foam

[image: 84FDEB4D-027E-41C9-BD57-DE9C5078DB86-324]

[image: E65F370A-83F0-4CAE-86B4-5AD2A085C5C1-324]

It attaches directly to the subframe, in one of the passenger peg mount holes. It is completly independent of the undertail.

A pc fan turns on with the ignition to cool the r/r

[image: C4E12ACA-9BC4-4119-8477-A2D37B05092F-324]

Here is the completed undertail assembly.

[image: 32832DF7-4131-4064-9B0A-C85E7C36D541-578]

[image: 71D2E68C-9504-47D5-BBCC-B859E5499B30-578]

[image: 340BB5EB-46FE-447D-8423-445019438079-578]

I took the 2 piece factory trunk sections and molded them together. I also filled in the signal and license plate holder holes, and then shot it with primer. I decided to wrap it with carbon vinyl for ease of cleaning down the road.

[image: 589E8909-0911-46B2-85FF-10E914BBA0B9-205]

[image: 165F1010-69DE-4FDB-90FD-C0AE72BC6F51-205]

[image: 55AC5870-2FB5-4382-AB31-C3ECF2338900-205]

[image: 45DA3341-1C4D-432E-9FBA-149C26957952-205]

The carbon vinyl was very easy to work with, I highly recommend it!

Time for some carbon fiber fun...

All my parts were cosmetic, so a simple overlay process was all it took to score a high end look.

[image: 463A9AD6-1AE0-4A9E-A442-95A9007FD50A-227]

[image: 6C07BE33-EC49-4E26-860E-9F630CB84D80-160]

[image: BB4D5FD8-B190-4CC3-9C5C-D2A3F3CD9409-160]

Sanding and a coat of auto grade clear adds UV protection and brings out the depth that carbon is known for.

[image: B5CCAD2B-11B2-4D66-B507-FD9D3D5564DB-934]

[image: 554F0F6E-DD76-42C9-839C-D7757380150C-934]

[image: B0B28C91-B605-40D7-BF92-DC0A8C7C1FD5-530]

I didn't like the heavy steel caliper torque arm the factory provided, so I made a lighter one from aluminum.

[image: 6AF84ACB-104E-4A22-91DF-F8BA2450BE9F-214]

Rear cylinders got coil-on-plugs from a GSXR (600, IIRC) to get rid of the bulky stock coils that I didn't really have room for.

[image: F44997B6-42D3-40E4-964F-F6052768776C-168]

Seat lock lock hole was filled in

[image: EDE114F3-4473-44A1-B59D-3EAEDAD5462D-463]

Last year, I painted all the parts.

[image: 20140522_182433_zpshrl647sk.jpg]

[image: 20140522_191819_zpspl0zczcn.jpg]

[image: 20140522_204545_zpswepkmmra.jpg]

Digital slim ballast HID hi/lo kit goes in here:

[image: 20140523_101045_zps9d8x2dl6.jpg]

Made my own brackets for the fluid reservoirs

[image: FB_IMG_14038994425395055_zps3bsrjkph.jpg]

Made a coolant overflow tank

[image: 20140708_184601_zpsmw256hme.jpg]

[image: 20140708_191756_zpsba1wiytm.jpg]

[image: 20140708_191826_zpsnwvawx9r.jpg]

[image: 20140708_193217_zpsmwqv32uy.jpg]

[image: 20140708_195940_zpsmqzvttki.jpg]

Well, it's a tiny tank, 14 litres, no idea in gallons.

In comparison, a ktm 640 motard had an 11 L tank, and a 5th gen Vfr has 21L

They may have done it to keep weight down.

I had my old gsxr 711 down to 190 wet. I didn't realise how porky the Vfr was- that motor is heavy.

Apparently money - and time - was no object. Very nice, though.

keef

Well, it's a tiny tank, 14 litres, no idea in gallons.

In comparison, a ktm 640 motard had an 11 L tank, and a 5th gen Vfr has 21L

They may have done it to keep weight down.

I had my old gsxr 711 down to 190 wet. I didn't realise how porky the Vfr was- that motor is heavy.

You're making me want to go buy scales now so I can get a more accurate number... lol

Roughly 4 liters in a gallon, the VFR's all have similar size tanks, right around 5.8 gallons.

I'm not sure where else I could save weight without making drastic changes. I already have a tiny battery.

VFRMarc

Apparently money - and time - was no object. Very nice, though.

Thank you Marc. The whole bike was built on a pretty tight budget. Just about all the parts were in good used condition. I spent a lot of time shopping for good deals.

I did put in an enormous amount of time. This project spanned more than 5 years while I did pretty much all the work you see now. All the sanding, painting, designing, cleaning, wrenching... all me...

SEBSPEED

I'm not sure where else I could save weight without making drastic changes. I already have a tiny battery.

I've come to the same conclusion. I've weighed mine with a bathroom scale (one wheel at a time, add both numbers), and the local department of transport scale, both times I came up with close to 415 lbs dry (no fuel). Which is quite similar to your numbers Seb. Which does represent a 70lb weight savings over stock however!

Lighter wheels, different swingarm… after that it's basically shaving grams from other parts. Although custom headers would probably help me a little…

Bike still looks amazing Seb!!

Forged wheels are about all you've got left. And maybe brake tech carbon rotors.

apexandy

SEBSPEED

I'm not sure where else I could save weight without making drastic changes. I already have a tiny battery.

I've come to the same conclusion. I've weighed mine with a bathroom scale (one wheel at a time, add both numbers), and the local department of transport scale, both times I came up with close to 415 lbs dry (no fuel). Which is quite similar to your numbers Seb. Which does represent a 70lb weight savings over stock however!

Lighter wheels, different swingarm… after that it's basically shaving grams from other parts. Although custom headers would probably help me a little…

Bike still looks amazing Seb!!

So if I subtract 34lb of fuel, I come out with a lighter bike than yours :tongue2: :wink: :goofy:

I have to say, the Two Brothers header is very light. I could switch to a carbon can and save bit, drop 15-20lbs switching to a conventional swingarm and wheel... but I like my can and swingarm. It is what it is!

You win this round Seb! But I still own the category of "most girly color" :woohoo:

and "Flappy Honda Wings Award"..... :goofy:

apexandy

You win this round Seb! But I still own the category of "most girly color" :woohoo:

lol

Dutchy

and "Flappy Honda Wings Award"..... :goofy:

Oh that's just mean :)

Yeah, little below the belt... he's not the only one to have done it. Right Austin? :wink:

Finally heard back from BikeExif...

"Hi Sebastian

Thanks for your mail, and sorry for only responding nowit's been a little crazy here!

Nice work on the VFR, however we feel it's not quite right for Bike EXIF, so we're going to pass on featuring it.

All the best

Wes"

WTF is that supposed to mean? They can feature shit bomb CB750's and Ducati scramblers, but your bike is not quite right for them? I think Bullshit Hipster Bike Video's is spot on about that website. They like the idea of bikes as art, not bikes.

http://hipsterbikevideos.com/

Just in case you aren't familiar with that site. Lots of fun. Seb, your work is fantastic. Don't read into that email too much.

Move on to the next bike magazine. There are surely a couple others out there that are worthwhile.

Seb - simply beautiful. Marvelous machine work, glass and carbon fiber work. You've managed to merge all of the stock bits along with your custom fabricated parts into a GORGEOUS machine. I tip my hat to you, Sir. :)

Amazing work, beautiful bike Seb!

SEBSPEED

Nice work on the VFR, however we feel it's not quite right for Bike EXIF, so we're going to pass on featuring it.

All the best

Wes"

Their loss... I'm a little disappointed they're limiting their niche to the cafe and scrambler scene strictly... A well-done custom bike can transcend these borders. *shrugs*

Chasing a new magazine opportunity... and, I finally bought some pics from Killboy & co. :smile:

[image: 963541_zpskcarausv.jpg]

[image: 963544_zpsmbunxcfw.jpg]

[image: 963537_zpsqivtfxsv.jpg]

[image: 963543_zpsidi4508a.jpg]

[image: 963540_zpsdotm8vrx.jpg]

[image: 963531_zps1zocesxy.jpg]

[image: 963532_zpsfwwwvmrz.jpg]

[image: 963533_zpsaenjgje6.jpg]

[image: 963534_zps4hzmnliv.jpg]

[image: 963533_zpsaenjgje6.jpg]

[image: 963562_zpsf1efzvt6.jpg]

Nice Seb :fing02:

Ride like a champ!

My bike was featured by Worldwide Bomber, a streetfighter/custom bike magazine based in Finland.

The text is the same as the previous feature in Super Streetbike, but they did a nicer job on the pics by presenting it as a magazine layout.

Older issue so no subscription needed to view!

Just click here: http://www.worldwidebombermagazine.com/issues/issue8/#/article/26/page/1

Hey SEBSPEED, looks like you used CBR1000RR4/5 fork legs, what about the yokes/triple clamps? Top looks like CB1000R, yes? What about the bottom, same? Are your forks at 214mm spacing/width?

Any problems with the rad and tyre clearance with those shorter forks?

Yes, 2005 forks. Top yoke is CB1000R, bottom is custom billet. Spacing is 214mm.

Clearance is tight, but no issues yet.

I lengthened the forks internally, and the CB top has a bit of drop to it.

Thanks for your confirmation on the fork parts. Why make your own bottom yoke though? Surely you could have used one from a CBR1000RR (or even 929 or 954) or RVT? Not criticising, just wondering if there's any reason and that I should look out for.

Also, what preparation did you perform on the fork outers prior to spraying? Did you sand them down at all and/or use any primer?

I've long wanted to find that colour for forks. Now I have to find a way to obtain that paint in the UK.

I wanted 35mm offset.

No primer on the fork tubes, just a scrubbing with a scuff pad. It is a bit fragile, but looks great

The fork colour certainly looks great. I guess I'll find out how fragile.

Regarding the fork offset, surely if the CB1000R has the 35mm you want (as it must be if you use that top yoke), could you not have used the CB1000R bottom yoke also? Was there a reason why that would not fit?

I don't remember exactly why, it was either to do with tube size, or reverse drop of the yoke, or maybe a combination.

In any case, I wanted the beefy billet lower so I had it made. One of the very few things I didn't do myself.

Understood. In truth, Honda don't make the best looking bottom yokes. I like the idea of a wide clamp with 3 bolts entering from the rear and hence largely hidden from view. So having a bottom yoke made is an option I have considered.

Can you confirm though the CB1000R uses a 35 mm offset? The VFR is 40mm and the CBR/RVT etc is 30mm IIRC, so the CB1000R is in between? I have no data on that bike (apart from using handlebars and other things on my FireFighter). I wasn't aware it is not the usual 30mm. Or maybe I was and simply forgot. Now where was I...

It is 35mm. I found that data through research, and verified by measuring the part myself before commissioning the new lower.

Hmmm. Food for thought. Thanks Seb (I assume it's Seb, correct me if I'm wrong)

Just don't call me late for dinner :wink:

hohohoh is so beuty! esta jodidamente hermosa!

Seb, could you explain more about refinishing the engine. You said "soda blast", but was that something you did, or did you take the engine somewhere?

Was all the cleaning and painting done while the engine was complete?

All the cleaning and painting was done with the motor assembled. I did the soda blasting myself, I used a hopper-style blasting gun with grocery store baking soda. I did a thorough clean and degrease before blasting, and washed it a few times more before primer.

I did the soda blasting in my driveway, it washes away easily with water.

Thanks for that. I think I want to go black engine, so good to get the low down on how you did it.

I hate painting engines, if I were rich I'd break it down and have it all powdercoated

Man, step away from VFRD for awhile and this is going on. Late to the party but nicely done Seb! Haven't been over to CustomStreetFighters lately either where I'm sure you had a thread.

Kel

Looks nice.

Kel

Man, step away from VFRD for awhile and this is going on. Late to the party but nicely done Seb! Haven't been over to CustomStreetFighters lately either where I'm sure you had a thread.

Thanks Kel :biggrin:

Bike is FOR SALE, to fund the next project! Message me if interested!

Somebody is gonna get a hella nice bike. 

You should buy it, then you would own my two favorite VFR's.