Who is it? OOOO! ... Hello Pat, what brings you here? We drink a cup of coffee?

These Italians are just crazy!

Ciao Pat!!

Chapter 2: Well, with all the things going on on this site it is time to post my slow progress on this project. Actually, more problems have been solved, and decisions made, than are obvious. Made the muffler hangers and got them attached, fabricated the front fairing/oil cooler bracket, and made the fairing brackets. Was especially glad to get past the fitting of the windscreen; they always frighten me because they are so delicate. I am beginning to like the way this is heading. Two photos added 6/29. Having trouble picking a fender that goes well. MikeV

Looking really good. BTW where did you source the reverse cone mufflers? This is exactly the system I would like to run on mine, have been trying to track down a set of reverse cones from the 851/888 era, with no luck. Did you make these?

...no doubt it will sound good

Like many things, I bought these off fleaBay several years ago. They were sold as for a 750 Sport, and they are open. But I also have a black chrome set for a 750 Sport that are baffled, and they fit right in perfectly. You might try Ian Gowanloch (Jim is now handling things) to see what they have left. Every now and then they list things like this on eBay. I am trying to get the guy in Germany (Rolf) to do the magic welding thing to open up the central collector, but he is confusing the issue because of his fear of customs. MikeV

Mike:

Nice to see you finally putting one together again - I think it's hot!

Love the pipes!

I take it you're bringing that one to the Symposium in the Fall?

Yes, Steve, like you did last year with your TT1, and I did in 2011 with the Slinn/Rutter Pantah, there will be a mad dash to the goal line. MikeV

Chapter 3: Finally got all the front end and swingarm parts to fit together. Amazing how many small adjustments and modifications are needed to do this; the rear wheel just squeezes in. Also, the wheels are my first use of epoxy primer and single-stage urethane paint; makes me feel a bit more "professional". Am thinking about building a vertical bike (after all, Dan Gurney built a really-low horizontal one), but may not have time to work out the steering. I hate using body filler (stuff is just nasty when it is sanded, and my first mix turned solid before I got it off the mixing plate --- it was over 90 degrees here that day), but you have to use it on so many fairings. When I finish that all the bodywork can be painted and then frame can be finished and painted. Then to the best part --- the engine. Photos to follow later --- having trouble uploading them right now. MikeV

Chapter 4: Got some real nice days in where I could prime, paint, and clear coat. Did much better than on the No. 8 Pantah racer in 2011; but still not as good as D'Angelo. Took forever to do some of the bodywork to make it ready. Colors are tomato paste red, Italian parsley, and white chocolate; with silver and black pinstripes. Nothing has been buffed yet, and may not even do that. To paint the frame, swingarm, and instrument bracket next, and then I can start assembling it. MikeV

Il Parmigiano Reggiano lo porto io!!!

Your work is fantastic, Bravo! I am very happy that Italy is one of your reference point, we hope that the Italians are not disappointing!

Beautiful Bike! Your work must continue on this path.