After five years sitting on the back burner due to a succession of VFR priorities, I decided that it was time for my dirty side to resurface.
My idea of the perfect dual sport classic — a 1981 Honda XL500S with a 550cc big-bore kit. Honda's final year for dual shocks, 6-volt electrics, and that bodacious 23-inch front wheel. Kick-start only. Vintage.
When I acquired the bike I immediately stripped it to the frame and slowly built her back up with Progressive suspension front & rear, enduro-style tail light, and everything refurbished, replaced or upgraded. The final touch was having the bodywork finished in a straw camo hydrostatic dip. Last weekend I participated in a brutal off-road event in West Bend, WI as an ultimate shake-down ride. The bike performed flawlessly — the same can't be said for me as it's been a few years since I've abused myself quite so much on a motorcycle. This thing is great fun.
My idea of the perfect dual sport classic — a 1981 Honda XL500S with a 550cc big-bore kit. Honda's final year for dual shocks, 6-volt electrics, and that bodacious 23-inch front wheel. Kick-start only. Vintage.
When I acquired the bike I immediately stripped it to the frame and slowly built her back up with Progressive suspension front & rear, enduro-style tail light, and everything refurbished, replaced or upgraded. The final touch was having the bodywork finished in a straw camo hydrostatic dip. Last weekend I participated in a brutal off-road event in West Bend, WI as an ultimate shake-down ride. The bike performed flawlessly — the same can't be said for me as it's been a few years since I've abused myself quite so much on a motorcycle. This thing is great fun.
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