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Workshop


Harley-Davidson Sportster service
The 1200cc vee-twin had delivered three years’ unblemished service to owner Kev but now was the time to visit ‘Dr’ Rod Gibson’s surgery for a medical...
Measuring camshaft clearances
Rod Gibson gets to grips with the science of camshaft design, and enters a world full of ramps, overlap, lift and durations. But will it make the bike go faster?
Seats can be rejuventated with a new cover
When it comes to restoring motorcycles, you can almost bet your hat that the seat is going to be a bit tatty around the edges and requiring a bit of tlc. This month Steve Cooper brings us a guide to re-covering them...
Suzuki GT750 workshop rebuild
Rod Gibson had already dismantled the Suzuki GT750 down in his workshop and we start the online feature at the first stage of reassembly. With the engine to one side, Rod concentrated on the cycle parts, having already arranged for the metalwork to be powder coated...
Motorcycle wheel building
Egged on by editorial pressure, editor Rod Gibson explores the art of wheel building for the first time, and discovers the black art isn't as mysterious as it looks
Makes notes before disconnecting loom
Motorcycle steering head bearings take a lot of abuse and if ignored they’ll make a good machine handle like a cranky mule. We show you what's involved in keeping things smooth and silky...
Adjusting motorcycle carb throttles
Rod Gibson’s offers tips and advice on balancing muliple carburettor installations, to keep your four cylinder engine running smoothly...
Cleaning motorcycle engine barrel threads with a tap
A motorcycle strip-down will often stall with fasteners stubbornly stuck in situ. Before resorting to the electric drill, a range of agents, planned force and tools often removes all but the most awkward customers...
BSA A7/A10 service notes
'Polly' Palmer, chairman of the BSA Owners Club goes through the A7/10 Bri-Tie style!
Give your exhausts an overhaul...
Is a 25 percent power increase for less than the cost of a takeaway for two really possible? Find out as we delve into the carbon-encrusted twilight zone that is often found in two-stroke exhaust systems...
Yamaha 650 XS1
Our 1979 Yamaha XS650 had struggled on the daily commute, then got packed away and forgotten in a damp cellar for almost five years, so it wasn’t a pretty sight. You join the overhaul with the engine already removed from the frame and stripped...
1970 Honda CB750K2
The Honda had given 33,000 miles of solid service but an overhaul was due, so it was time to think about getting the engine out of the frame for a closer inspection of its internals. Rod Gibson dons his overalls...
Honda CB750 engine, awaiting overhaul
The engine from our restoration bike has given 33 years’ solid service and warranted a good looking-at before being pressed back into service. Now, I have to admit it's some time since I last plunged into the innards of an sohc 750 Honda so I was relishing this opportunity to become reacquainted with the beast...
Honda CB750 frame and ancillaries come back from powder coaters
Last month I stripped the engine down on our Honda CB750 project bike and found signs that it had been well cared for in its 34 years of service. I'll be replacing the main and big end bearings, primary and camchains. There's also a little wear on the cylinder bores, so I'll get those checked over, too...
Honda CB750K2 overhaul's nearing the end...
Looking good! Our project Honda CB750K2 takes a big step towards completion, as Classic Mechanics editor Rod Gibson finishes the engine and re-fits the wheels and suspension...
All done...
Rod Gibson carries out the final tweaks and adjustments to our project Honda CB750K2 restoration, and it looks like it's just left the factory. But what does it ride like?
Yamaha 650 XS1
Rod Gibson rolls up his sleeves and completes the Yamaha's engine and gearbox rebuild but it’s not going back in the frame just yet – the owner is so pleased with the motor that he’s now going for a full restoration...
Get that ignition timing sorted!
There’s a time and place for everything in life, including that all important spark for your bike’s engine. This month Steve Cooper talks us through flywheel magneto engine timing...
Details of the Calthorpe engine-shaft shock absorber
Restoring an old model including notes on spoke lacing, fitting new bearings, hub lubrication, brake reassembly and testing and primary drive transmission matters. Part 3...
Can-Am 250 needed some tlc
Are we mad? ‘Yes’ seemed to be the popular answer to that question from visitors to Wrighty’s show, where our new Can-Am project bike was unveiled. But we’re determined to get this Can-Am up and running for a grand – £1000 for those reading outside the UK...