Project 36 Completed!

Not to be too maudlin, but finishing a project is often a little bittersweet. Yes, they're mechanical objects, a collection of metal, rubber and ABS, but we know that the whole transforms into something more than those parts. As Dr. Frankenstein said, "it's alive!" — and a finished bike is alive; a rumbling, moving, beautiful companion, capable of stirring emotion and physical thrills. Some of us are lucky enough to know the intimate connection that comes from just sitting in the garage with a cup of coffee (or a beer) gazing at a special machine — much like appreciating any piece of art. I hope that Project 36 can do that for Marty, its new caretaker.

This bike came to me from Tom in Boise, Idaho, back in December of last year. It has an amazing 4580 miles but had been low-sided on the right side. Tom had made a great start on the bike but I began at the beginning, finishing with a complete repaint and seat upholstery. Some of the upgrades include:
• RaceTech Gold Valve emulators and fork springs
• M-Shock set up for Marty's specs
• Owner-supplied OEM mufflers & center stand, saved from a previous VFR
• Bar risers
• Venhill braided brake lines in black
• Refinished valve and engine covers

Photo Album here
Short walk-around video

Paint by Steve Nick Customs, Woodstock, IL
Upholstery by CM Wiltberger II, Twin Lakes, WI