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1985 Yamaha XJ 550 to a chopper/bobber

Joined
Nov 29, 2007
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Location
Houston
I normally don't show bike projects but this one has come quite a long way. About 2 years ago I bought a XJ550 with intention of chopping it and testing my fab skills..

Well life stalled the build for quite a while ( new son was born, and other "life" events always got in the way ) Well today I got back on the project and thought I would share what I have done. I have quite a few pics, but these are just a very small few to show what was done.

To start, the frame was chopped off right behind the engine and a new one built using DOM tubing, slugs at the frame joints ( old to new frame ) and gussets all around.

anyway....

Start of day 1: bike all together.

Before1.png


End of day 2. Rear swing arm supported and cut getting ready for the stretch. most parts removed:

0622091657a.png


End of day 6. Yup LOTS of work over the 4 days:

IM000012.png


quick shot of the pipe joining and gussets on day 6:

0705091257.png


Around day 10: lots cleaned up, primer on to keep rust at bay.

01.png


Then it sat for quite a bit ( this is when life hit, funny how this happens ) I was finally able to get back in the garage and start putting a few things back on, Testing fitments, figuring out how the wiring will run. LOL carbs needs a SERIOUS rebuild. etc. etc. I have to build the exhaust and a whole slew of other small things. I am fixing what needs to be fixed. But the end goal is more of a rat rod chopper..

IMG_20110219_161011.png


And for good measure, the Kat and the yami side by side:

IMG_20110219_161128.png


anyway just thought I would share. :rider:
 
Where or what type of back fender is that?

I have a Honda 450 CL Project in mind for a similar treatment.
 
Sweet start to your build.

Hopefully the thread serves as more of a motivator now that you've let the cat out of the bag. We expect progress...
 
Thanks all
Ya been real busy getting the bandit 1200 engine into the Katana. And I still need to mod the swingarm on that to fit the wider tire... but I did get a seat designed for the chopper. But need to be redone to flow with the bike.

The rear fender is from a first Gen goldwing. Lol got it free :)
 
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