I’ve been a bit delinquent in posting lately, though it’s not for lack of activity or projects. I’ve had several things going, including the construction of a utility/small vehicle trailer and the repair of a brush cutter for a friend, both projects of which will be featured a bit later here. I’ve also been occupied with this beauty – an early Honda single-overhead cam 750 four. This bike had been passed around between three brothers and has sat outside for sometime, which it’s condition clearly reflects.
The current owner/brother called me recently asking if I could look at the front brake (a single caliper disc) as he had no front brake at all. The lever depressed freely all the way to the handlebar. This condition is typically caused by the brake fluid drying up and leaving behind a residue of solids that plugs the hydraulic lines. Adding fresh fluid usually doesn’t work, the lines have to be purged of the old, dried fluid.
So, this is exactly what I did, and the brake now works fine, though I advised the owner that the brake lines should be replaced. In fact, I’d rebuild the entire brake system; caliper, master cylinder, new lines, the whole nine yards.
The owner took my advice seriously so towards this end, it looks like the bike is coming back in late this Fall for a little over-the-winter TLC, to get it back in solid running condition. Though it starts and runs OK, it sorely needs basic maintenance and a little love.
First thing I’m going to ditch are those funky ape-hanger handle bars and install a stock set of bars. The 70’s fringe, kicked out front fork and leather bags have to go too. I’d like to toss the stepped seat also, but I don’t think the owner will let me… sentimental reasons as I understand it.
This situation was *almost* a waste of a great iconic motorcycle, but we’ll see if we can’t get her back to condition appropriate for such a classic bike.
The photo below shows what this bike looked like new…
- Honda CB750 Four 1977