Restoring a BLUE '87 VFR700F2H

Sorry, I didn't start a thread on this one because it didn't really warrant one, yet. I only mentioned it because just recently became hard to start so going to do the carbs, which should resolve things. Otherwise not in bad condition so I will be working mostly on the RC 26 bikes. 2 Blue and 1 Yellow.

BTW....I wouldn't mind swapping out that white Corbin seat for a gray OEM one day, so please keep me in mind if you run across one.

Sorry again for any confusion and appreciate all the help. You guys are great!

 

Well folks....the Ninja ran unreal today - 18 miles and didn't miss a beat! Guess I did OK on the carb rebuild. Found out why the return throttle was binding - it was the nuts holding the cables ends by the carbs. Loosened them up and voila....problem solved! It's such a sweet bike. Fun to ride and wicked acceleration! Now onto the RC36. She's on the operating table awaiting the doctor......

The front tire valve stem is messed up so I had to roll her with no air in the front tire....that wasn't fun.

 

That seat looks TERRIBLE on that bike. Don't think I would even like it on a white '93.

 

Agree and it's on my to-do list to replace with an OEM in Gray.

This one's a Corbin.

I figured I could even buy an OEM with the cover in poor condition and just re-cover it. I've worked with seats before - reshaping the foam and re-covering. Like (almost) anything else on these bikes.....it's just a process that you follow.

Hey I just rode my Blue RC26 (the subject of this thread) over to my storage unit and it ran FANTASTIC! I really need to get you guys a vid of that Kerker. I don't know if someone took a baffle out or anything but it sounds SWEET! More so than other Kerkers I've heard. And that says a LOT....lol.

I stopped at my mechanic's place and he gave his approval. He also gave me the contact info for a local shop that can help with tire repairs/changes, etc. I'll need that with the front tire on the RC36.

Making progress......

 

I just sold a seat off of my 92 (it was black tho). If you would have shared the RC36 earlier I would have made you a really good deal.

I scored a brand new seat and solo pad in October.

 

Adding insult to injury....there was a nice condition one in GRAY on eBay from a seller in Greece. Would have been >$100 all told. I snoozed and lost - someone snatched it up quite quickly. I'm trying to prioritize things right now with so many needs on these various bikes so the seat isn't even on the short list right now.....but really appreciate that you would have helped me out, Captain.!

 

My carb kit just came for the RC36. Keyster K-1487. All the way from Canada! Got here in 2 days! I will toast one of my Molson Goldens tonight to our friends north of the border. The ones who sent me the kit anyway.


I also ordered a kit for my RC 26 bikes, but it wasn't a Keyster because I don't think they make one or at least I couldn't find one from them. It's an "All Balls" brand - the same brand that the Ninja kit was, so should be just fine.

Edit - I just checked the return address label and the parcel was sent from Tillsonburg, Ontario. That's just on the other side of Lake Erie so not such a far distance.

We have some inclement weather moving in starting tonight so I spent some time today tucking all my stuff away to prevent any damage from rains so the carb work will have to wait until things clear up.

 

Quick question about the Red bike. If I wanted to swap out the valve stem, how much work is it to do without removing the wheel and tire? I've seen YT vids of people using a clamp to squeeze the tire together where the stem comes through. Seems like it would work.

I'm not opposed to doing it the conventional way but curious if anyone has tried the method I mentioned. Or a different way.

This is on the front wheel, BTW. I tried changing out the core but for some reason it just doesn't accept any air without a lot of fiddling around. And then the air slowly leaks out. I think a new stem would resolve the problem.

TIA!

 

If youve got the bead broken, levering off and reinstalling just one side of a front tire is extremely easy. Would likely save you a lot of time, cursing and knuckles.

 

Awesome - thanks, Capt! Will report back with results. I have some valve stems coming that have a 45 deg angle so that will help too. Carb kit is already in hand. Should be a productive week in getting her back on the road!

 

Depending on the valve stems you ordered, they may or may not fit. I think it was the Bikemasters 90deg ones that I couldn't use due to the wheel design (or I'm dumb and couldn't figure it out). Someone on these boards suggested I use these Tire Supply 90deg valve stems, and they worked great on both VF500F and VFR700F wheels. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07CWY6SM8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1



It may not be an issue at all for you though depending on the stems you are installing.

 

OK thanks for the input, Colddevil......really appreciate it!

Is that you in your avatar? Whoa.....cool photo!

I just looked and guess the ones I ordered are 90 degree not 45. They are also rubber instead of the metal ones that you used. Hopefully they will work but I will report back one way or the other.

Here's the ones I ordered. They should be here by Tuesday:

AMAZON

 

Yep yep, got to take the 500 to the track in September. Very cool experience.

Regarding your stems, I don't think those will pose an issue. The issue on the set I tried (which are multi-piece and require a nut to thread on to secure it) was that it didn't have adequate clearance. Since the ones you linked are the more traditional rubber squeeze in type, I think you're going to be fine.

 

That's awesome - really great shot there. Your bike looks insane too!

And thanks again for the input on the stems - will let everyone know how it works out.....

 

Hey everyone.....

Well today I was going to do the carb rebuild and tire stem change out on the Red bike.

Now she's back to starting and running again....so guess the carb rebuild can wait.

What do you think....sound OK? Yeah I know the tach isn't working.....

 

I have an old can-o-ale that I have on a trainer in my shop for my cardio facing one of the TVs.

 

I used to use my Nashbar trainer and watch "The Love Connection" every day when I didn't ride. Great show to watch while spinning! This was back in the 90's of course...

 

Phone audio is tough, especially with that exhaust, but that sounds about right. Throttle response seems decent and it settles back into idle pretty good.

How old are the plugs?

Tach not working?

 

I got new plugs for her. Tach not working - correct. Thanks!

 

NO DESIRE to be out on the road in my area. That's what motorcycles are for. It freaked the fuck outa me. Shop cardio only. Plus if it's normal hours of the day and nice out... I'm on a motorcycle.