1979 Suzuki GS850 Cafe Racer

I have been messing around with it on and off, cut the frame up a bit more of unwanted tabs and the rear footpeg mounts. A week ago the 2008 Suzuki GSXR1000 front end arrived and threw it on. It will need some machine work to get the stock 19" rim to work with it. I really want to keep the front stock rim other than the GSXR front rim. I have decided to get rid of the dual shocks and go with a mono shock off a GSXR1000. So their will also be some modification to the rear driveshaft swing arm. I will be using GSXR rearsets on the bike.

This bike will be a slow moving project, but as long as it's moving in a progressive manner I'm happy! It should have a very aggresive stance to it when finally sitting as a roller. The electrics will be done just as the 76 XS500 I have done. And most likely there will be other changes during the process. I do know I want to make a custom 4-into-1 exhaust using an aftermarket street bike pipe.

That's about it, Enjoy!

making the xs500 seat pan

Starting out with a card board template, cutting wheel and some 16-gauge sheetmetal.

After rough cut, grind down to the template.

To get the curves, use a piece of gas pipe and an old ass ball peen hammer and that other do-hicky metal mini anvil thingy. It works.

Marked up with red marker to figure where the bends need to be.

Sits right on the custom cafe seat! Taped up so I don't damage that carbon fiber wrap.

Bolts welded up  so it drops right onto the seat which is at the upholsterer's getting covered. Should be done sometime next week! Went with a flat black vinyl pleated seat.