Still on the project M900W, the next element to sort out was the fuel system. The previous owner had really messed this up. I gutted the entire assembly and installed new fuel lines, a quick disconnect by the tank, a new fuel filter, a Pingel manual petcock, a new Mikuni vacuum fuel pump, and lastly pulled the already equipped Keihin FCR 41 carbs and thoroughly cleaned them.
This segment does not yet have a happy ending, as the electrical system was in even worse shape, so there was no chance of a test fire just yet.
The wiring harness had been cut through as if a kindergartner had been let loose on it with a pair of non-safety scissors. The taillight and turnsignal wiring was in shambles. Luckily, over the Christmas holidays, my father felt sorry for the poor bike's ugly wiring and sprung for Rizoma signals, which I believe he got from PJ's Parts. After some cutting, some soldering, some crimping, and some posi-locks, things are almost wired up. I still had a MotoLED tail light board from the M900V leftover when I upgraded to the Vizi-Tec system, so in it went as well. The tail was further chopped to accommodate a TPO taillight / license plate kit.
A Shorai battery just arrived from Motowheels, and I am excited to install it in the bike. But before a test of the bike can be performed, the electrical circuits must be reviewed again - the regulator had another ground wire coming off of it and running down the frame to the original battery location, and the fusebox contained all 30A fuses! These things will be remedied before its set in motion, and the regulator may be preemptively replaced/upgraded as well!
Other things done: All controls mounted on new handlebar (previous owner had poorly thought out clip-on installation), fresh oil, oil filter, oil cooler lines, bled hydraulics and put in new brake pads (will be upgraded masters to radial SBK masters with folding levers, purchased but not yet installed)
What's left to do? Tires, Chain, Clutch pack, install frame and rear axle sliders, CA-Cycleworks Exact-Fit Coils, sort out the remaining wiring, install shock and hoop, fill it up with gas, and hopefully ride off!
Showing posts with label Motowheels. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Motowheels. Show all posts
10 February 2011
M900 V v. W
It has been sometime since I have updated this blog. The projects in the garage have progressed, and I've added a second 1999 M900 to the garage. This bike has the "W" stamped heads rather than the "V" stamped heads among several other odd features, and will be referred to as the M900W (where the "W" stands for the heads it is equipped with, or 'wife', take your pick).
This bike is for my wife to learn to ride on and for me to piddle about in comfort (as it has been setup with comfort in mind). The bike came from a gent in Northern Arkansas who did horrendous and unthinkable things to the bike, the least of which was spraypainting the already red-powdercoated frame a dingy black color. (The true frame color, under the red powdercoat is the antique gold, like my original 1999 M900V).
Beyond the frame paint, which my wife has since resolved, the bike was not properly running. The fuel lines, fuel vacuum petcock, fuel pump, and carburettors were in disarray. The fuel filter looked dark through the white plastic exterior. The swingarm had been chewed through by a malfunction cush drive lug on the rear wheel.
The bright: A quick perusal of eBay got me a black powdercoated swingarm in good condition, and a clean cush drive. These things went in straightaway, as well as a new sprocket set: 14/39T ratio, 520 pitch. The front wheel turns out to have been bent - back to eBay and that problem is also resolved.
Perusing the Ducati Monster Forum, eBay, Ducati.MS and other classifieds, I was able to locate a carbon fiber oil-catching bellypan, carbon underseat sidepanels, carbon rear hugger, and other bits and pieces of carbon. My M900 recently received a second set of IMA SrL Triple clamps with superbike fork diameter boring, along with a BST front wheel, TPO lightweight front axle, and 996 era forks with Ohlins internals (more about that in a later post). That meant that the IMA triples that were on my bike, along with the forks with upgraded RaceTech internals were free to use on the M900W.
What's great about the IMA triples for the Ducati Monster is that they are true in shape and bolt location to the original Ducati triples, meaning that one can still mount a bar with riser to the top triple, and more excitingly, the original 'old-school' 1998-99 style front fairing. (This was not true of the CycleCat triples for that era bike). As luck would have it, the previous owner had the original fairing brackets and fairing (and I still had the front fairing from the M900V as well), so I was able to mount that up along with the upgraded forks and triples.
More good: I still had a sidemount Ohlins steering damper from my M900V that was on the shelf unused (I preferred the under-triple location of the Motowheels kit with 68mm damper). So on it went with no issues. The front end was not only functional, but now substantially upgraded from stock (More for me to enjoy than for the wife to learn on).
The bad: I sat on the bike with the new front end to feel the balance and was horrified. The back end sank down like an overloaded pickup truck. Enter Motowheels and an Ohlins rear shock with remote reservoir, and billet reservoir mount! This has just arrived and will be installed shortly to complete the suspension upgrades on this bike. All three components of a suspension system have been upgraded now: The forks, the shock, and a steering damper. The chassis has been upgraded in the front with new triples, and the only missing element to upgrade would be a billet rear hoop. Turns out, Style & Performance still has these in stock in Europe, and Anthony @ Desmoworks was able to order one up. When this gets in, the bike will essentially have all the great upgrades one could look for in a chassis/suspension for this era Monster. (The only two possible other upgrades is a braced swingarm from Metmachex/JMC and Superbike forks with good internals).
This bike is for my wife to learn to ride on and for me to piddle about in comfort (as it has been setup with comfort in mind). The bike came from a gent in Northern Arkansas who did horrendous and unthinkable things to the bike, the least of which was spraypainting the already red-powdercoated frame a dingy black color. (The true frame color, under the red powdercoat is the antique gold, like my original 1999 M900V).
Beyond the frame paint, which my wife has since resolved, the bike was not properly running. The fuel lines, fuel vacuum petcock, fuel pump, and carburettors were in disarray. The fuel filter looked dark through the white plastic exterior. The swingarm had been chewed through by a malfunction cush drive lug on the rear wheel.
The bright: A quick perusal of eBay got me a black powdercoated swingarm in good condition, and a clean cush drive. These things went in straightaway, as well as a new sprocket set: 14/39T ratio, 520 pitch. The front wheel turns out to have been bent - back to eBay and that problem is also resolved.
Perusing the Ducati Monster Forum, eBay, Ducati.MS and other classifieds, I was able to locate a carbon fiber oil-catching bellypan, carbon underseat sidepanels, carbon rear hugger, and other bits and pieces of carbon. My M900 recently received a second set of IMA SrL Triple clamps with superbike fork diameter boring, along with a BST front wheel, TPO lightweight front axle, and 996 era forks with Ohlins internals (more about that in a later post). That meant that the IMA triples that were on my bike, along with the forks with upgraded RaceTech internals were free to use on the M900W.
What's great about the IMA triples for the Ducati Monster is that they are true in shape and bolt location to the original Ducati triples, meaning that one can still mount a bar with riser to the top triple, and more excitingly, the original 'old-school' 1998-99 style front fairing. (This was not true of the CycleCat triples for that era bike). As luck would have it, the previous owner had the original fairing brackets and fairing (and I still had the front fairing from the M900V as well), so I was able to mount that up along with the upgraded forks and triples.
More good: I still had a sidemount Ohlins steering damper from my M900V that was on the shelf unused (I preferred the under-triple location of the Motowheels kit with 68mm damper). So on it went with no issues. The front end was not only functional, but now substantially upgraded from stock (More for me to enjoy than for the wife to learn on).
The bad: I sat on the bike with the new front end to feel the balance and was horrified. The back end sank down like an overloaded pickup truck. Enter Motowheels and an Ohlins rear shock with remote reservoir, and billet reservoir mount! This has just arrived and will be installed shortly to complete the suspension upgrades on this bike. All three components of a suspension system have been upgraded now: The forks, the shock, and a steering damper. The chassis has been upgraded in the front with new triples, and the only missing element to upgrade would be a billet rear hoop. Turns out, Style & Performance still has these in stock in Europe, and Anthony @ Desmoworks was able to order one up. When this gets in, the bike will essentially have all the great upgrades one could look for in a chassis/suspension for this era Monster. (The only two possible other upgrades is a braced swingarm from Metmachex/JMC and Superbike forks with good internals).
14 April 2009
Las Vegas
Getting ready for a big trip from Dallas, TX to Las Vegas, NV. I've ordered new clip-ons so the ride will be less taxing on my wrists (total trip distance = 2,800 mi). The CycleCat clipons will be coming off in favor of a set of the New SpeedyMoto Tallboy clip-ons, from Motowheels. This will likely require a new brake line since the bars will be an inch or more higher than before, and some time is involved as well. A big advantage in switching away from CycleCat is SpeedyMoto does not use proprietary parts so replacements will be easy to come by should I break something. This is not the situation with CycleCat, who has run itself out of business and has only select parts pandered through OnCycles.com (no thank you).
This requires removing top triple, existing clip-ons, and everything on the existing clip-on bars, putting them on the new bars, installing the new clip-ons, replacing the top triple, and a lot of adjustments to get things "just right".
As far as gear goes, I'll be wearing my Dainese lightweight mesh jacket (don't worry - still armored up and complete with backprotector), and to carry changes of clothes I'll be using a new Kriega R25 Rucksack, from Britain and provided by Matrix Motorsports.
The bike will also get new tires (finally). Replacing the ancient dunlop front and michelin pilot power rear will be a matching set of Michelin Pilot Roads. I had thought heavily about the Road 2's, with the 2CT compound but the price isn't quite where I could do it just yet. Along with basic maintenance like tires, I'll be changing the oil and replacing the old, O-ring chewing oil drain plug with a newer unit from Nirvana Racing that also includes a magnet to remove debris from the oil.
Some small electrical changes have been made, including more robust starter wires from DesmoTimes, and I had to replace a Rizoma Signal where the wires had been severed. PJ's Parts delivered the signal, along with a pair of spacers so I could remount the blinkers on the headlight brackets instead of using the GSG Moto fork brackets. This required new headlight brackets with signal holes drilled or the drilling of the existing brackets. As embarassing as this is going to sound, I don't have a drill nor an 8mm drill bit. So carbon fiber brackets with the holes already in them came from MonsterParts.com and several bolts were replaced with titanium from RaceBolts.com
Pictures next time, I promise.
09 July 2008
New Additions
I have just upgraded the suspension with a Ohlins Damper with the billet under triple mount supplied by Motowheels. The installation was smooth, as is its operation. Adjusting the damper is easy, and the bike seems to have much more composure mid-turn.
The bike also sports reverse, or GP shift pattern using a Motowheels reverse shifter in a champagne color. Due to the Monster's rearsets being set quite forward, the elliptical adjustment of the shifter is completely forward, and the unit works well. The shift pattern is much easier to use when riding the bike hard, and it did not take long to have "up is down" ingrained in memory.
Comfort has also been increased with the addition of a Sargent Seat - long rides are not an issue at all anymore, and the bike swallows 100-150 miles with out a batted eye.
Future plans to upgrade the suspension now lean towards Penske and the 8983 (provided by Traxxion), with several bells and whistles. The fork treatment is still up in the air, but the ultimate goal may be the Traxxion AK-20 cartridges.
The bike also sports reverse, or GP shift pattern using a Motowheels reverse shifter in a champagne color. Due to the Monster's rearsets being set quite forward, the elliptical adjustment of the shifter is completely forward, and the unit works well. The shift pattern is much easier to use when riding the bike hard, and it did not take long to have "up is down" ingrained in memory.
Comfort has also been increased with the addition of a Sargent Seat - long rides are not an issue at all anymore, and the bike swallows 100-150 miles with out a batted eye.
Future plans to upgrade the suspension now lean towards Penske and the 8983 (provided by Traxxion), with several bells and whistles. The fork treatment is still up in the air, but the ultimate goal may be the Traxxion AK-20 cartridges.
28 December 2007
Winter Work - 2007-08
Not too much new for the bike this winter. A set of Ducati Performance Reverse Megaphones has replaced the Ex Box as the classic, or retro look was desired. Gold Anodized Vee-Two cam pulleys have been installed as well as CA-Cycleworks Ignition Coils to liven up the spark. Alain @ Corse Motorsports supplied the work, but obviously the slipons were a breeze to install, and the cam pulleys were relatively painless (said Alain) and just required proper degreeing. The ignition coils installation has been covered ad nauseum so it would be silly to remind you again how painless this install is.
On order from Motowheels is a custom Sargent seat to replace the stiff, improperly angled stock seat. The often colored welt will remain black on my seat, with the Italian Flag on the side and the CarbonFX seat material insert. The seat cowl will still adorn the rear as it fits over the Sargent without too much issue. The underside of the aftermarket seat has increased storage making stowage of a wheel lock or wallet much easier.
Shifting has changed as the bike is now setup with a GP-style shifter from Motowheels. Their new style reverse shifter has an upgraded curved look with your choice of anodized color for the toe piece, but is unfortunately too long for Monsters with the large diameter bolt kickstand and stock rearsets. Their other unit, with replaceable toe piece is shorter, however, and should work fine. Riding with the new shift pattern may be tricky but a post-it on the tach reminding "down for up" will help me. Pictures will be featured below within a few days.
On order from Motowheels is a custom Sargent seat to replace the stiff, improperly angled stock seat. The often colored welt will remain black on my seat, with the Italian Flag on the side and the CarbonFX seat material insert. The seat cowl will still adorn the rear as it fits over the Sargent without too much issue. The underside of the aftermarket seat has increased storage making stowage of a wheel lock or wallet much easier.
Shifting has changed as the bike is now setup with a GP-style shifter from Motowheels. Their new style reverse shifter has an upgraded curved look with your choice of anodized color for the toe piece, but is unfortunately too long for Monsters with the large diameter bolt kickstand and stock rearsets. Their other unit, with replaceable toe piece is shorter, however, and should work fine. Riding with the new shift pattern may be tricky but a post-it on the tach reminding "down for up" will help me. Pictures will be featured below within a few days.
Next up on the list? Tail Chop, Reworked forks, New
rear suspension, clutch plate & cover.
04 March 2007
A Work In Progress
It is unfortunate that the Spiegler lines do not fit correctly just yet, so the rebuild progress has slowed significantly until the problem is remedied. The good news is that Brian at Motowheels was kind enough to go out of his way to contact the manufacturer and arrange the proper corrections to be made.
Since these lines run through the front fairing area is would be silly to take the time to place new gauges on just to take them back off. So that is also waiting for a time. The new CycleCat top triple clamp does not use the standard '99 fairing mount brackets so the use of my new painted fairing will be limited. A fellow DML'er has traded me (money for parts) his new style fairing off a 2000 M900 which will fit the bill perfectly. It will be sent out to be striped when the bellypan is sent to be painted and will be installed at the same time as the new top triple.
In other news, a similar transaction occurred with fellow DML Ducseven, who is having to part out his M900. This is terrible for him and the bike (it was very well done) but it benefits me as I will be the proud owner of a Rizoma Billet Suspension Arc and rear wave rotor soon. He's a pleasure to do business with, but it is unfortunate for him to have to part out his Monster.
Without further ado, here are some pictures of the current build progress.
The new tank paint job and front end work can be seen here.
The wiring still needs to be hidden behind the frame, but this shows the removal of the side panel and rear hugger, the Nichols breather, Axle Adjuster Plates, and more of the new paint job. Things really seem to be coming together.
And this is THE Alain, who has helped so much. Notice him pulling the "Wilson" from Home Improvement:
One last shot from the front of the Duc showing the work-in-progress front end.
Since these lines run through the front fairing area is would be silly to take the time to place new gauges on just to take them back off. So that is also waiting for a time. The new CycleCat top triple clamp does not use the standard '99 fairing mount brackets so the use of my new painted fairing will be limited. A fellow DML'er has traded me (money for parts) his new style fairing off a 2000 M900 which will fit the bill perfectly. It will be sent out to be striped when the bellypan is sent to be painted and will be installed at the same time as the new top triple.
In other news, a similar transaction occurred with fellow DML Ducseven, who is having to part out his M900. This is terrible for him and the bike (it was very well done) but it benefits me as I will be the proud owner of a Rizoma Billet Suspension Arc and rear wave rotor soon. He's a pleasure to do business with, but it is unfortunate for him to have to part out his Monster.
Without further ado, here are some pictures of the current build progress.
The new tank paint job and front end work can be seen here.
The wiring still needs to be hidden behind the frame, but this shows the removal of the side panel and rear hugger, the Nichols breather, Axle Adjuster Plates, and more of the new paint job. Things really seem to be coming together.
And this is THE Alain, who has helped so much. Notice him pulling the "Wilson" from Home Improvement:
One last shot from the front of the Duc showing the work-in-progress front end.
08 February 2007
Italy & Australia
Two big parts came in recently. The Rizoma Belt Covers (ZDM018A's) brought to me from Italy by PJ's Parts and the Vee-Two Pulleys (V2-12-305) straight from Australia. The pulleys are billet with gold anodizing and one of the last of the color anodized sets available. They are adjustable and the gold anodizing will be visible through the windows in the billet belt covers. This improves significantly on the appearance of the motor as the stock belt covers were worse than ugly and the pulleys were non-adjustable. It is luck that the gold was still available as it has been discontinued (they only make 'clear' finish now) and this piece compliments the majority of the billet on the bike which is gold (the rest being silver, save the handlebars and new top triple, see below).
Also in recently with pics up now are the Spiegler custom brake lines in red and gold, with gold banjo bolts and gold fork preload adjusters to boot. See the pics below. From Motowheels.
The other big thing to come in recently is a CycleCat DTC-2 Top Triple in Titanium anodizing. This matches the CycleCat DBR-3 clipon handlebars (also in Titanium) that are currently on the bike. The top triple was technically a blem though you'd be trying really really hard to be able to find a blemish anywhere on it. It is simply beautiful. Purchased directly from OnCycles.com
22 January 2007
Brake Lines & German Parts
So it seems I have finally conquered the front blinker dilemma (The "GP" Brembo master cylinders were positioned alarmingly close to the turn signal stalks, and the length of the Rizoma Track '01' Signals appeared to conflict with the headlight fairing so I had to figure something out. Removing the fairing was not an option as I had just paid to have it painted) .
A phone call to Wild Hair Accessories led to a very pleasant phone call and the solution. Fork mount brackets for the signals. The brackets are made by GSG in Germany and are CNC machined clamps that look quite slick. Unfortunately they will be shipped from Germany with an estimated time of 3-4 weeks but with the weather like it is, I am in absolutely no rush. I recommend Wild Hair Accessories, especially with their policy on customer service (talking with the customer=good and it alleviates possible mistakes, highly important as parts are coming in from Germany).
Similarly a quick phone call to ensure that the custom brake and clutch lines were coming along left me still a very-satisfied customer. Brian @ Motowheels had all the answers and personally checked to make sure the preload adjusters in gold were actually in stock, as well as getting gold banjo bolts all around to match the brake & clutch fittings. There will also be a set of high performance plug wires in the package to add to the look as well as the overall performance of the bike.
Above is a shot of the recent gear that was added to the bike. The DP tach and carbon fiber cluster as well as STM frame plugs (20mm) and the set of Rizoma Track '01' Indicators for the front. Things have come together and it looks like I may almost be finished (for the time being of course...)
A phone call to Wild Hair Accessories led to a very pleasant phone call and the solution. Fork mount brackets for the signals. The brackets are made by GSG in Germany and are CNC machined clamps that look quite slick. Unfortunately they will be shipped from Germany with an estimated time of 3-4 weeks but with the weather like it is, I am in absolutely no rush. I recommend Wild Hair Accessories, especially with their policy on customer service (talking with the customer=good and it alleviates possible mistakes, highly important as parts are coming in from Germany).
Similarly a quick phone call to ensure that the custom brake and clutch lines were coming along left me still a very-satisfied customer. Brian @ Motowheels had all the answers and personally checked to make sure the preload adjusters in gold were actually in stock, as well as getting gold banjo bolts all around to match the brake & clutch fittings. There will also be a set of high performance plug wires in the package to add to the look as well as the overall performance of the bike.
Above is a shot of the recent gear that was added to the bike. The DP tach and carbon fiber cluster as well as STM frame plugs (20mm) and the set of Rizoma Track '01' Indicators for the front. Things have come together and it looks like I may almost be finished (for the time being of course...)
10 January 2007
Latest Progress
Tomorrow is the final day I'll be able to work on the bike in person for some time. I was able to resolve several issues with fitments and decide on my game plan for the next few weeks.
The brake/clutch lines are due in late next week or the beginning of the following from Motowheels in California. Again, Brian & Ed have done much to make things go as smooth as possibly for me. Along with the brake lines I should also be receiving a set of billet fork preload adjuster knobs for the tops of the Showa forks. They'll give me the opportunity to change the preload when I desire, and just as important, they will look quite nice.
Unfortunately for me came the realization that the sidestand mounts on my M900 are the older much larger diameter style and thus the CycleCat Billet Sidestand (DKS-35) will not work with my system unless I change the mounting to a newer style configuration. This looked quite feasible until the costs were investigated. A quick look at the mounting plates and costs through BikeBandit schematics show that the system is around $100 and at this point I'm not willing to spend nearly 250 big ones to have a better looking and slightly better functioning sidestand.
The installation of the Nichols Breather went without any problems as one might expect and the K&N filter slid neatly on top of it and came supplied with the necessary plugs to close off the airbox where existing hosing ran. Quite convenient and easy to use. In the same neck of the woods the gas vapor canister and oil breather box have been completely removed as have the carburetor vent pods. Other body parts I have decided to remove from the bike include the model indicating side panels as well as the rear-hugger. I may decide to revert to a rear hugger after several rides so I am keeping all parts for just such an event.
The removal of the existing license plate bracket and blinker mounts in the rear went smooth, though it required the removal and disassembly of part of the rear brake light to access all the appropriate bolts. The TPO license plate bracket bolted right up and the wiring for the blinkers, etc was relocated to the under seat area. The Rizoma blinkers were slightly trickier to plug in than I originally anticipated but not because of the stock wiring but because of the proprietary plug in the middle of the LED signals wiring. Apparently my fingers were a little big, but with a narrow straightedge the problem was solved.
Alain installed a new tire on the rear as it was due while he replaced the chain and both sprockets. The tire is a Michelin Pilot Power while the chain is a D.I.D. 520ERV3 purchased along with the AFAM sprockets in a group buy on the DML. This proved a very cost effective method of changing to a 14T front sprocket and a 40T rear. While installing the tire, chain and sprockets, I purchased from Corsair Industries a set of billet chain adjuster plates that are much nicer looking and have less "slop" in them (as Alain defines it).
In other news, the fiberglass short bellypan purchased from Red Racing will be mounted tomorrow morning and trimmed as necessary before it shipped out of state for paint. This is to be coupled with the receipt of the Ducati Performance carbon dash with tachometer in the mail to me that should be here on the 16th. Talk about things all coming together! Sorry There Were No Pictures in this LONG Post!
The brake/clutch lines are due in late next week or the beginning of the following from Motowheels in California. Again, Brian & Ed have done much to make things go as smooth as possibly for me. Along with the brake lines I should also be receiving a set of billet fork preload adjuster knobs for the tops of the Showa forks. They'll give me the opportunity to change the preload when I desire, and just as important, they will look quite nice.
Unfortunately for me came the realization that the sidestand mounts on my M900 are the older much larger diameter style and thus the CycleCat Billet Sidestand (DKS-35) will not work with my system unless I change the mounting to a newer style configuration. This looked quite feasible until the costs were investigated. A quick look at the mounting plates and costs through BikeBandit schematics show that the system is around $100 and at this point I'm not willing to spend nearly 250 big ones to have a better looking and slightly better functioning sidestand.
The installation of the Nichols Breather went without any problems as one might expect and the K&N filter slid neatly on top of it and came supplied with the necessary plugs to close off the airbox where existing hosing ran. Quite convenient and easy to use. In the same neck of the woods the gas vapor canister and oil breather box have been completely removed as have the carburetor vent pods. Other body parts I have decided to remove from the bike include the model indicating side panels as well as the rear-hugger. I may decide to revert to a rear hugger after several rides so I am keeping all parts for just such an event.
The removal of the existing license plate bracket and blinker mounts in the rear went smooth, though it required the removal and disassembly of part of the rear brake light to access all the appropriate bolts. The TPO license plate bracket bolted right up and the wiring for the blinkers, etc was relocated to the under seat area. The Rizoma blinkers were slightly trickier to plug in than I originally anticipated but not because of the stock wiring but because of the proprietary plug in the middle of the LED signals wiring. Apparently my fingers were a little big, but with a narrow straightedge the problem was solved.
Alain installed a new tire on the rear as it was due while he replaced the chain and both sprockets. The tire is a Michelin Pilot Power while the chain is a D.I.D. 520ERV3 purchased along with the AFAM sprockets in a group buy on the DML. This proved a very cost effective method of changing to a 14T front sprocket and a 40T rear. While installing the tire, chain and sprockets, I purchased from Corsair Industries a set of billet chain adjuster plates that are much nicer looking and have less "slop" in them (as Alain defines it).
In other news, the fiberglass short bellypan purchased from Red Racing will be mounted tomorrow morning and trimmed as necessary before it shipped out of state for paint. This is to be coupled with the receipt of the Ducati Performance carbon dash with tachometer in the mail to me that should be here on the 16th. Talk about things all coming together! Sorry There Were No Pictures in this LONG Post!
08 January 2007
Lots of To-Do Recently!
There's been lots of To-Do recently regarding the rebuild progress.
I ran into a problem mounting the Choke Control seeing as I have upgraded the clutch master cylinder with a billet Brembo "GP" 16x18 unit. Now things are beginning to look a lot better up front but the choke formerly mounted on the old master cylinder. You might think redoing a choke control to be easy as pie, but it proved to be more daunting than one might think. Brian of Motowheels has been most helpful as he has a quite similar if not more personalized Monster. Brian also has a custom set of brake/clutch lines coming that will not only allow my new master cylinders to function, but will aid in performance and look quite slick.
The other recent concern was the mounting of indicators. I have never liked the look of the stock units and upgrades to billet LED systems are not cheap (even though I have redone my rear ones with Rizoma Track '01' Signals). The upgrade became mandatory recently when I learned that it not only cluttered up the look of the handlebar area, but it also could be in the way of my levers of the new master cylinders. The solution came way of aftermarket mounts and a lower placement near the bottom triple. Mounting brackets were not as easy to find as one might think, the appropriate search name for such an appliance is a "fork tube clamp" and this turns up only a few relevant results.
I plan on using the same signals as I had previously ordered for the rear in the front application. I got them before from PJ Pijanka of PJ's Parts and plan to do so again. The prices for Rizoma pieces can't be beat and the service is top notch friendly. One catch - a Paypal account is a must.
I ran into a problem mounting the Choke Control seeing as I have upgraded the clutch master cylinder with a billet Brembo "GP" 16x18 unit. Now things are beginning to look a lot better up front but the choke formerly mounted on the old master cylinder. You might think redoing a choke control to be easy as pie, but it proved to be more daunting than one might think. Brian of Motowheels has been most helpful as he has a quite similar if not more personalized Monster. Brian also has a custom set of brake/clutch lines coming that will not only allow my new master cylinders to function, but will aid in performance and look quite slick.
The other recent concern was the mounting of indicators. I have never liked the look of the stock units and upgrades to billet LED systems are not cheap (even though I have redone my rear ones with Rizoma Track '01' Signals). The upgrade became mandatory recently when I learned that it not only cluttered up the look of the handlebar area, but it also could be in the way of my levers of the new master cylinders. The solution came way of aftermarket mounts and a lower placement near the bottom triple. Mounting brackets were not as easy to find as one might think, the appropriate search name for such an appliance is a "fork tube clamp" and this turns up only a few relevant results.
I plan on using the same signals as I had previously ordered for the rear in the front application. I got them before from PJ Pijanka of PJ's Parts and plan to do so again. The prices for Rizoma pieces can't be beat and the service is top notch friendly. One catch - a Paypal account is a must.
Newly opened MonsterParts.com is going to supply the new Ducati Performance tachometer and carbon fiber instrument cluster. The site is run by Jeff H. who was most curteous is his response to my emails as well as investigating a part for me.
The images below are the current build progress. As you can see things have been going a little slowly, but progress is steady. Alain has been most helpful and the Corse Motorsports shop is a terrific place to do business as well as visit. A big thanks must go out to my friend Will in Knoxville for pointing me in the right direction here in Nashville.
11 December 2006
My Tank is Here
Brad did a phenomenal job on this tank. The pictures don't do it justice (but are included below, of course). I look forward to seeing it back on the bike soon. Note the retro (60's-70's era) logos and the Corse-style center stripe.All the dents are gone and the paint looks so deep and glossy. The fairings are smooth and plastic damage has been repaired. I couldn't be happier with the job from Speedzone Paint & Bodyworks. Brad really did a fantastic job with my crashed tank.
Below are images of all three parts that Brad did for me:
Meanwhile, I have also received several parts to complete mods while the bike is in the shop. A little housekeeping is to be done and the DesmoTimes Case Saver Insert is to be installed soon. The rear ride height is going to be raised to quicken turn-in and to compensate for the increased lean angle at rest, a CycleCat sidestand that's a little over 1/2" longer will be used.
To clean up a large amount of tubing mess behind the motor, a Nichols Crankcase Breather and K&N Breather Filter are also going to be installed. As many of these mods have costly parts, the open clutch cover, a SpeedyMoto Flow Design, is going to have to be put off even further. Meanwhile, I have decided to slowly 'spruce' up the internals so when the open clutch cover is installed, there is already a considerable amount of "Bling" to show. To do this, I had already installed Stainless Steel Springs, but I now have Titanium Spring Retention Bolts and Red Billet CycleCat Spring Keepers.
The collection of new parts came from a number of different sources. The vendors include TPO Parts, CA-Cycleworks, and MotoWheels. An image below shows the collection of new parts that will be installed at the beginning of next week (hopefully.)
06 December 2006
Parts are in, Tank on the way!
The K&N breather filter Kit, Nichols Crankcase Breather, CRG Mirror, Custom Xenon Headlight, CycleCat Billet Spring keepers & sidestand, DesmoTimes case saver insert, and the like have all arrived, no problems. Parts from MotoWheels, CA-Cycleworks, & TPO Parts. Looks like the full rebuild is a go.
I have CAD'ed up a license plate bracket and bought the sheet of aluminum, I only lack specific hole location measurements now before I start the tail chop process. I'll be ordering frame plugs from DesmoWorld.de, as their plugs have a unique design to them, and I'd like to do business with the guys at that shop. Should something arise and I find the STM plugs on a large discount I won't be hesitating to buy them as I also like the look of those, inasmuch I like any of the billet pieces, just not plastic plugs!
Recent phone call to Brad of Speedzone Paint & Bodyworks. The tank is shipped and billed, I should have it by the end of the week. He broke out the cost for me shown below, the total was $880.00:
I have CAD'ed up a license plate bracket and bought the sheet of aluminum, I only lack specific hole location measurements now before I start the tail chop process. I'll be ordering frame plugs from DesmoWorld.de, as their plugs have a unique design to them, and I'd like to do business with the guys at that shop. Should something arise and I find the STM plugs on a large discount I won't be hesitating to buy them as I also like the look of those, inasmuch I like any of the billet pieces, just not plastic plugs!
Recent phone call to Brad of Speedzone Paint & Bodyworks. The tank is shipped and billed, I should have it by the end of the week. He broke out the cost for me shown below, the total was $880.00:
- Tank Repair + Ducati 'Rosso' Red Paint - $440.00
- Tank Striping - White Center Stripe - $75.00
- Tank Decals - Retro Logo in White with Black Border - $40.00
- Seat Cowl Repair + Ducati 'Rosso' Red Paint - $135
- Headlight Fairing Repair + Ducati 'Rosso' Red Paint - $115
- Seat Cowl and Headlight Fairing Striping - White Center Stripe - $75.00
Brad was incredibly easy to work with and I would recommend him to anyone (and I will be recommending him!)Pictures should be in by the end of the week.
27 November 2006
More Parts for the Bike, Tank Update -
Lots of New Parts have been ordered recently. Here's the breakdown (quick and dirty).
From CA-Cycleworks, I will be enjoying a Nichols Crankcase Breather, I didn't forget the crush washer, and while I was there I picked up a matching CRG Hindsight Lane-Split Mirror for my RH Side, as well as the DesmoTimes Case Saver Insert. Might as well pick up the necessities while I'm there I figured.
To go with the Nichols Crankcase Breather, I have ordered the K&N Filter & Air Box Plugs Kit from TPO Parts. While I'm picking things up there, I decided to try out there "Custom Xenon Headlight" for Monsters, as a brighter lighting option. Since things things are adding up, I've chosen to equip the Duc with a less expensive method for letting the rattle out, and that's with the Clutch Cover Spacers Kit.
To take on the predicament of fluid reservoirs at the handlebars for the clutch and brake M/C's, I have decided to go with the Rizoma Bottom Outflow Reservoir's with Window (CT0017) in Titanium. This round the CycleCat bars, which are also in Titanium to give a less conspicuous mounting. The reservoirs are being shipped from PJ's Parts, as I have had several pleasant dealings with them so far.
The last of the parts come again from MotoWheels. To begin the clutch improvement, I ordered the Titanium Clutch Spring Bolts & CycleCat DSK-1 Billet Spring Keepers in Red. The future plan is for the pressure plate to be gold, red caps, behind a titanium color SpeedyMoto "Flow" Cover. The Titanium Spring Bolts and Billet Caps go with the SS Clutch Springs and STM Clutch Pin Holder already installed on the bike. The main reason for this shopping extravaganza began with the CycleCat DKS-35 Billet Sidestand in Silver. This is the slightly longer sidestand to relax the lean angle when the bike is at rest. My stock sidestand is completely nasty and covered with scratches, etc and this will go well with the rear ride height raise that is being done by Corse Motorsports while its in getting put back together.
TANK NEWS:
Brad emailed from Speedzone to let me know that everything looked great and just required a little more time before it was shipped to avoid impressions from the shipping packaging, etc. The decals came out fantastic, and it looks like the bike will be back on the road and running by Christmas.
From CA-Cycleworks, I will be enjoying a Nichols Crankcase Breather, I didn't forget the crush washer, and while I was there I picked up a matching CRG Hindsight Lane-Split Mirror for my RH Side, as well as the DesmoTimes Case Saver Insert. Might as well pick up the necessities while I'm there I figured.
To go with the Nichols Crankcase Breather, I have ordered the K&N Filter & Air Box Plugs Kit from TPO Parts. While I'm picking things up there, I decided to try out there "Custom Xenon Headlight" for Monsters, as a brighter lighting option. Since things things are adding up, I've chosen to equip the Duc with a less expensive method for letting the rattle out, and that's with the Clutch Cover Spacers Kit.
To take on the predicament of fluid reservoirs at the handlebars for the clutch and brake M/C's, I have decided to go with the Rizoma Bottom Outflow Reservoir's with Window (CT0017) in Titanium. This round the CycleCat bars, which are also in Titanium to give a less conspicuous mounting. The reservoirs are being shipped from PJ's Parts, as I have had several pleasant dealings with them so far.
The last of the parts come again from MotoWheels. To begin the clutch improvement, I ordered the Titanium Clutch Spring Bolts & CycleCat DSK-1 Billet Spring Keepers in Red. The future plan is for the pressure plate to be gold, red caps, behind a titanium color SpeedyMoto "Flow" Cover. The Titanium Spring Bolts and Billet Caps go with the SS Clutch Springs and STM Clutch Pin Holder already installed on the bike. The main reason for this shopping extravaganza began with the CycleCat DKS-35 Billet Sidestand in Silver. This is the slightly longer sidestand to relax the lean angle when the bike is at rest. My stock sidestand is completely nasty and covered with scratches, etc and this will go well with the rear ride height raise that is being done by Corse Motorsports while its in getting put back together.
TANK NEWS:
Brad emailed from Speedzone to let me know that everything looked great and just required a little more time before it was shipped to avoid impressions from the shipping packaging, etc. The decals came out fantastic, and it looks like the bike will be back on the road and running by Christmas.
09 November 2006
Rizoma Indicators & CycleCat Components
The Rizoma Indicators (Track '01' Style) are in and they look phenomenal. They were shipped practically the same day I ordered them from PJ's Parts - a topshelf company if there ever was any. The price can't be beat for Rizoma products and I had them in a few short days. The finish is fantastic and there length makes me curious as to if I should get a second pair to peak out from behind the fairing on the front. I think they'll look trick as soon as they are installed.
In other news, the bar ends for the CycleCat clipons arrived safely in California at the MotoWheels shop. Once they arrived, I called Brian to order the CycleCat reservoir brackets and they should be shipped out today with the CRG-style bar end sliders to complete my handlebar set up. I'm anxious to see the whole set up on the bike. It looks like I may be ordering the Rizoma Fluid Reservoirs to mate up with my system before the end of the month. (I have a birthday coming up - 11/22). To continue to throw praises at MotoWheels as well, Brian is a topnotch employee, and they "get" the whole customer service idea. A quick phone call, and he remembers me, asks about the bike, etc. It left me with a good feeling about everything when the call was over, and that's the way it should be.
...a topshelf company if there ever was any.
In other news, the bar ends for the CycleCat clipons arrived safely in California at the MotoWheels shop. Once they arrived, I called Brian to order the CycleCat reservoir brackets and they should be shipped out today with the CRG-style bar end sliders to complete my handlebar set up. I'm anxious to see the whole set up on the bike. It looks like I may be ordering the Rizoma Fluid Reservoirs to mate up with my system before the end of the month. (I have a birthday coming up - 11/22). To continue to throw praises at MotoWheels as well, Brian is a topnotch employee, and they "get" the whole customer service idea. A quick phone call, and he remembers me, asks about the bike, etc. It left me with a good feeling about everything when the call was over, and that's the way it should be.
30 October 2006
My turn to Ship parts
Shipped out the tank, headlight fairing, and seat cowl to Speedzone Paint & Body over the weekend, and they depart today. The shipping wasn't as expensive as I had imagined for UPS Ground but the insurance in case they "lose" my tank nearly doubled the cost.
In a non related shipping event, the bar end sliders for the CycleCat Clip-Ons sent to me were the standard large size bar ends and unfortunately I needed the CRG style ends. Not a big deal, a quick email to MotoWheels and the matter was cleared up. This was shipped back at the same time to California as the tank. In the email conversation, Brian will include the CycleCat reservoir mounting brackets as my new brake M/C does not have a bracket built in, nor do I have any existing bracket apparatus. There will be additional costs but I find they will likely be negligible. I could go on for days about how great the staff at MotoWheels treats the customers.
In a non related shipping event, the bar end sliders for the CycleCat Clip-Ons sent to me were the standard large size bar ends and unfortunately I needed the CRG style ends. Not a big deal, a quick email to MotoWheels and the matter was cleared up. This was shipped back at the same time to California as the tank. In the email conversation, Brian will include the CycleCat reservoir mounting brackets as my new brake M/C does not have a bracket built in, nor do I have any existing bracket apparatus. There will be additional costs but I find they will likely be negligible. I could go on for days about how great the staff at MotoWheels treats the customers.
24 October 2006
2nd Delivery
MotoWheels Box o' Goodies was delivered on time as promised by the folks at FedEx. A large Quat-D box that was unmistakeably for me was awaiting my return from an oil change today. In the box was:
- Complete Quat-D Ex Box System for M900 Ducati Monster
- 2 Quat-D Stickers
- No Quat-D Installation Instructions!
- Several Italian only "Authenticity" papers for Quat-D
- Brembo Radial "GP" Master Cylinder 19x18
- Speigler Dual Line Brake Switch Banjo Bolt
- Swirl Pattern Billet Aluminum Steering Head Bolt
- Titanium Crankcase Cover Bolts (2)
- Titanium Color SpeedyMoto Crankcase Cover - "Iron Cross"
- SpeedyMoto Stainless Steel Crankcase Cover Bolts (2)
- CycleCat DBR-3 Adjustable Riser Clipons - Titanium Colored
- CycleCat Installation Instructions
- CycleCat Bar End Sliders
- CycleCat DS-7 Frame Slider - Spare Delrin Slider
19 October 2006
Parts Shipped
One day after ordering:
Ferracci shipping confirmation received:
Motowheels shipping confirmation received yesterday:
Ferracci shipping confirmation received:
Package to be delivered on 23 October 2006 via UPS .
Motowheels shipping confirmation received yesterday:
Package to be delivered on 24 October 2006 via FedEx.
18 October 2006
Ordering Repair Parts
PARTS
Parts ordered (9):
FERRACCI -
Parts Ordered (1):
The first round of parts have been ordered. Two seperate orders were made, one at MotoWheels and the other through Fast By Ferracci. I have differing opinions on both transactions from the very beginning.MOTOWHEELS -
Parts ordered (9):
- Spare Cycle Cat DS-7 Delrin Frame Slider
- Cycle Cat DBR-3 Adjustable Riser Clipons, Titanium Color, 2.5" Riser, CRG Bar Ends
- Brembo "GP" Radial M/C 19x18
- Mini Banjo Brake Switch - Dual Line
- Quat-D Ex Box Exhaust - M900
- Billet Exhaust Flange - 2V Ducati
- SpeedyMoto Crankcase Cover - "Iron Cross"
- Titanium Crankcase Cover bolts
- Billet Monster Steering Head Bolt - "Swirl"
FERRACCI -
Parts Ordered (1):
- Airbox Conversion w/ K&N Filter Element. For Carburated M900.
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