My '83 XVZ Transformation

[VR2Sure]

New to the ORG, but have been lurking a bit to get ideas for my ride. Was going to chop it then I saw an idea that got my attention, and now am going to build it. It is different enough to get attention. The colors are yet to be determined. It looks like a bumble bee now cause my wife wants it to stand out, since I'm going to be sitting low and maybe less visible.

Just about done with the design.... Going to start fabrication soon. Frame and engine mounts are being fabbed today.

Original stripped down, screaming chop me, chop me!!
http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/4944/donorxvz1200drivetrainfg5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/4944/donorxvz1200drivetrainfg5.3ce484c954.jpg (http://g.imageshack.us/g.php?h=338&i=donorxvz1200drivetrainfg5.jpg)

Started with a vertical full size grill from a '42 and decided it was too bulky. Using original handle bars, rear suspension, front wheels, brakes. The '42 roadster style front end with a drop axle with a spring leaf suspension will work great and allow the frame to pivot so I can lean into the turns.
http://img133.imageshack.us/img133/2363/trikeview11eo2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Second design version... more speed...
http://img67.imageshack.us/img67/3975/choppedroyal4lr5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img67.imageshack.us/img67/3975/choppedroyal4lr5.00786ee399.jpg (http://g.imageshack.us/g.php?h=67&i=choppedroyal4lr5.jpg)

I will take pictures of the fabrication process. Contemplating doing the front clip in carbon fiber and don't know how I will do the grill yet.
http://img239.imageshack.us/img239/4849/choppedroyal5kh9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img239.imageshack.us/img239/4849/choppedroyal5kh9.02fccb796a.jpg (http://g.imageshack.us/g.php?h=239&i=choppedroyal5kh9.jpg)

Side view
http://img239.imageshack.us/img239/3128/choppedroyal6pg1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Could use input from all you critical critics. Let me have it!!

[cliffno350]

cant wait to see some progress a buddy has an 83 parts bike and wants to do a simalar design keep us updated...

[Freebird]

I think that's a very creative idea and could turn out to be an ultra cool ride. I really like it and wouldn't mind doing something like that myself if I run across a donor bike to try it. Please keep us updated.

[cliffno350]

I may have found a donor bike for 100bucks today wohooo

[Redneck]

Looking forward to seeing the progress that will be cool.

[VR2Sure]

Ok, spent the weekend working through the design a bit more and started the frame cutting. Beefed up the base to 1 1/2" x 3" rect. tube. Gonna have to cut/bend the front end and weld up to get the curve. Found a 5 gal tank to mount but have to mod it to clear the steering column. Changed the colors and I like it. Less like a bumble bee and more like a bike. Heheheh.

Thanks for the comments so far. Gotta get in the shop and start fabricating.

A computer rendering.... ain't technology wonderful!!
http://img225.imageshack.us/img225/5402/choppedroyal2ju6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[shriva]

any update on this? looks cool.

[sarges46]

Ye it does look very neat. Can I ask a dumb question.....where are ya gonna put the fuel cell?

[Skid]

Cool Kinda looks like the Can-Am Spyder...:thumbsup2:

[Squidley]

Very trick idea, I too will be waiting to see how this unfolds :thumbsup2:

[Tartan Terror]

I think I see the fuel cell being on the lower front frame where the Radiator would normally go. Looks like a barrel if I see right

[GigaWhiskey]

He should have no cooling issues with all that radiator.