Project 27 is making progress. With the swingarm removed for repairs and polishing, I'll deal with the tire and wheel.
The tread looks great — these tires probably have only 1000 miles on them.
But...they have a manufacturer's date stamp of 374, which translates to the 37th week of a year ending in 4...of the last millennium. The bike was made in '86, so that means that these tires are from 1994, a bit past their best-by date.
They're Metzeler ME55A Metronic, a mod-sounding model I've never heard of. In any case they're off to the trash bin, to be replaced with some modern Bridgestone BT-45 rubber.
The tread looks great — these tires probably have only 1000 miles on them.
But...they have a manufacturer's date stamp of 374, which translates to the 37th week of a year ending in 4...of the last millennium. The bike was made in '86, so that means that these tires are from 1994, a bit past their best-by date.
They're Metzeler ME55A Metronic, a mod-sounding model I've never heard of. In any case they're off to the trash bin, to be replaced with some modern Bridgestone BT-45 rubber.
Before they go, I'll check the trueness of the rim and brake disc. I do this on a balance shaft, holding a pointy object near the rim and disc. I like to use a pencil, as it leaves a nice trace on any high point without scratching anything.
In this case both are nearly perfect, so I'll remove the disc for refinishing off the wheel, then take the tire in for a mount and balance. I always replace the valve stem as a matter of course, no matter its appearance — too much to risk on a 34-year old chunk of rubber.
In this case both are nearly perfect, so I'll remove the disc for refinishing off the wheel, then take the tire in for a mount and balance. I always replace the valve stem as a matter of course, no matter its appearance — too much to risk on a 34-year old chunk of rubber.
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