Motorcycle projects

[john Edminson]

I am new to this whole process and looking into projects to weld/ fab motorcyle frames for my own enjoyment. Does anyone have any hints tips and product information that would help me?

 

[paul33]

Do a search for TONY FOALE - what this man does not know about frames and chassis design is not worth knowing!
He has a large selection of articles on his web site and has published a few books on various bike related topics. Good luck and have fun!

http://www.tonyfoale.com

 

[Sam]

Motor-cycle chassis design the theory and practice by

Tony Foale and Vic Willoughby: Publisher Osprey Publishing ltd. ISBN 0-85045-560-X

 

[Angusdog]

Although it's blindingly obvious, it should be said just in case: Nearly every single weld on a motorcycle is structural. Therefore, every single weld needs to have full penetration, no undercutting and for the rider's reassurance, no spatter.

Have a read of this thread on weldingweb.com. It makes for very scary reading and may serve as a reminder not to attempt something beyond your skill set.

I'm not implying you'd create anything unsafe, just a reminder that while you may be confident of your welds and it's you who's taking the risk, subsequent owners of anything you fix/create are relying on your judgement and skill.

Other than that, the last rule is to put up any finished projects for admiration. What style of motorbike? Streetfighter? Harris-style CB900 racers? Supermoto?

 

[oz.]

Have a read of this thread on weldingweb.com. It makes for very scary reading and may serve as a reminder not to attempt something beyond your skill set.

I took one look at the welds and could see a distinct lack of penetration. The whole thing looks a bodge. And the poor bloke paid $4000 (about £2750) for that! Shocking

Aaaanyway. I'd say look at a bike thats already out there ad adjust the design slightly - learn how far you can take the rake comfortably

 

[john Edminson]

Thanks guys that is very helpfull. I have looked at what you have said and decided to go to collage to learn a little more before commiting. I dont want to have ice cream and jelly for the next 6 months assuming I survive a cash lol...

 

[Normsthename]

Before you start welding steel, check the regulations regarding registering a home-built frame.
I think there is quite a lot of red tape involving frame numbers etc


Andy

 

[Spacecowboy]

Try and get some info from Blackjack if you can, he's done quite a bit of bike building.