Classic Motorcycle Build

Classic Motorcycle Resources

There's a great satisfaction from keeping an old motorcycle from becoming a parts donor, or worse (scrap metal). Bringing a dead machine back to life is a feeling like no other.

Read: Five Reasons To Buy A Basket Case Motorcycle

basket case motorcycle build

Read: Motorcycle Project Choices

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So here we are in 2024, and classic motorcycle restoration is as expensive as it ever was. What does this mean to us? Simply that, parts will be more expensive to buy, shop rates go up, but your labor remains the same.

how to bore motorcycle cylinders

Read: DIY vs Machine Shop

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Unlike classic car builders, who can order a crate motor and have it delivered to their door, the classic motorcycle builder has just two choices when needing an engine overhaul; find a shop that is reputable, dependable, reasonably priced, and familiar with vintage engines, --or-- rebuild the engine themselves.

old motorcycle repair

Read: Motorcycle Engine Build

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Everything is easier when you have the proper tools.

valve spring compressor tool for motorcycle engine

Read: Motorcycle Repair Tools and Equipment

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electrical wiring for motorcycles

Read: Electrical Wiring For Motorcycles

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There's plenty of hydraulic sealants on the market, but only one is advertised to safely work with brake systems. Permatex 54540 seals any metal thread and will not contaminate brake fluid.

best sealant for brake fittings

Read: Best Thread Sealant For Brake Fittings

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AGM batteries are sealed, spill-free, and maintenance-free. They have a much lower discharge rate than a conventional battery, making them a great choice for motorcycles that are not ridden every day.

AGM battery for motorcycle

Read: AGM Motorcycle Battery Review

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Minibikes!

Although first seen in the 1940s, it wasn't until the go-kart craze of the 1960s that brought the mini-bike back into vogue. As with karts, the list of manufacturers grew quickly, including brands such as Rupp, Rutland, Fox, Lil Indian, Cat, and many others.

Read: Minibike History

Classic Minibike Build

Read: Classic Mini-Bike Build

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There are dozens of products to seal engine cases, and the ones that are sold at automotive parts stores are almost always wrong for your motorcycle.

best sealant for engine cases

Read: Anaerobic Gasket Sealer Review

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Carburetors are designed to mix a small amount of gasoline with the right amount of air so that an engine runs properly. How complicated can mixing two things be?

Linkert carb on Harley 45 flathead

Read: Motorcycle Carburetor Problems

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What is it from and what does it fit?

Wide Glide conversion

Read: Harley Forks Identification

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"The crappier my week was, the longer my Sunday ride is." - Motorcycle Mike

best motorcycle quotes

Read: Best Motorcycle Quotes and Sayings

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Wavian has been manufacturing metal gas cans for various NATO militaries for over 80 years. They're simply the best Jerry can on the market.

Wavian Jerry Can Review

Read: Best Metal Gas Can

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Isle Of Man race course

Read: Isle of Man TT

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I've worn my Bell Qualifier DLX through five winters and five summers. Even after two-hour rides, it's still comfortable.

 Bell Qualifier DLX review

Read: Bell Qualifier DLX Helmet Review

Read: Motorcycle Helmet Choices

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Falling off a classic bike will hurt just as bad as falling off a modern bike! When I ride with proper safety gear, I enjoy the ride better.

Read: Motorcycle Safety Gear

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Motorcycle Accident Legal Help - Approximately two-thirds of all motorcycle accidents are caused by drivers of other vehicles. Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see than other vehicles, and drivers that do not have motorcycle awareness will not be on the lookout for motorcycles. Motorcycle usage is increasing, and having motorcycle awareness can save lives.

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Ride Safe - Always Look Twice

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The best way to ensure every ride you take will be safe and enjoyable is to perform motorcycle maintenance at the recommended intervals.

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MotorMouthRadio - If you like cars and like to laugh, dial in Chris and Ray's automotive talk show, live Sundays from noon to one. Listen Livestream or download the shows and listen to them anytime! (WHPC 90.3 FM Garden City, Long Island)

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If you store your bike over the winter, untreated fuel may go bad in as little as six months. Longer than that, a fuel system cleaning is recommended. In order to prevent damage from corrosion and inactivity, follow these storage tips.

motorcycle cover for classic bike

Read: Motorcycle Storage Tips

Read: Best Motorcycle Covers

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Having a battery jump pack with you when traveling means never getting stranded with a dead battery. They're handy for cars, motorcycles, ATV's...any vehicle that doesn't get driven regularly.

best battery jump starter

Read: Battery Jump Pack Review

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Harley Shovelhead history

Read: Kick-Starting An Old Motorcycle

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I first read 'Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance' back in 1983. It's really not about Zen, and there's not too much on motorcycle maintenance, but some of it stayed with me for 40 years.

Zen motorcycle build

Buy: Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance

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