2005 Yamaha V Star on 2040-motos

Moto blog

Filling a void with an RD350LC

Last winter I managed to fill a void in my life when I stumbled on a very reasonably priced Yamaha RD350LC.  It was a tad scruffy, had the wrong exhausts but most importantly it was blue and white with all numbers matching.  I had the usual euphoria when the deal was done but I underestimated how much pleasure this particular purchase would continue to deliver another eight months down the line. The difference with this old bike is, instead of just taking it for the occasional ride I was talked into doing a full nut and bolt restoration.  Having never taking a bike apart completely before, initially it was quite daunting but I soon found the RD is easy to work on so it turned into a truly satisfying experience.  I’ve had some help from LC enthusiasts with the rebuild, however, the stripping, sourcing and organising was a total labour of love.  And call me sad but it has made me bond with this bike like no other which only adds to the feel good factor.  The bike cost £1800 and I’ve spent around £1000 but I reckon my mint Elsie is now worth a fair bit more.   I fancy rejuvenating a Fizzy  next time but there’s lots of other cheap 70’s and 80’s winter projects  out there so why not have a go yourself?

Baby Yamaha SR125

For two months, the mechanics managed to turn the "ugly duckling" born in 1989 into a masterpiece. A new subframe and seat were made for the motorcycle, a Renthal handlebar and branded CRD controls were installed. The engine has been completely restored, the crankcase covers are sanded and varnished.

Removable baffle exhaust for latest Yamaha R1

GRAND PRIX Evolutions has released a series of handmade exhaust silencers for the latest Yamaha R1. Each silencer has a circlip retained db reducer and a removable in line baffle. This unique set up gives more versatility than any other exhaust brand on the market.