Honda-SOHC

Thanks for the insights Matthew - was originally going to go the pod route, but like you said, I'm think it's going to be more reliable in stock configuration.  If will look into the k&n filter though.

I'm have to replace my rims, would you guys suggest going a size wider?  Does that make it easier to find tires?

This would be my ideal (minus the exhaust wrap)...


But thinking I'll start closer to this as it looks a bit more realistic for a first timer...

Hi all,
I mentioned in my last post that I've just bought a 1977 cb550 F1.  It's in rough shape, so not a restoration project,  but some repairs and modifications are in store to make it my style.  I'm trying to come up with a to do list for this build.

It's my first bike and I'm hoping to make it my daily rider, so it needs to be reliable.  I'm going to take the engine in to a pro and get it sorted out, as I don't have the knowledge to do it myself and I don't want to screw it up.    However, I think I'll be able to tackle the rest of the maintenance and repairs myself.

So, now to my question - I want to do this right, and make the bike as good as it can be (within financial reason), so what type of non-engine maintenance or improvements would you make to ensure the bike will run smoothly for years to come?

I'm thinking of doing the wheel and steering bearings with all balls roller bearings, rebuild the front suspension using progressive springs, replace the fuse panel with one that accepts blade fuses, adding an electronic ignition system, replacing the swingarm bushings, redoing the wiring and battery (to accommodate new lights, gauges,  etc), run clip on bars, add a second front disc...  that's all I can think of at the moment. 

I need your help.  Which parts/manufacturers would you recommend?  What have I missed?  Is there anything I shouldn't do? 

All advice and opinions greatly appreciated.

I found these - havent ever used hem but am interested as well.  Are these the ones youve used? 
http://m.ebay.de/itm/131207862914?nav=SEARCH

Hi Trigger6969,  gotta collect from Ashford Kent.

Thanks for the tips Matthewmosse and Steve D!  Will give these things a try once I have the bike.  At the moment have hit a bit of a snag, as the eBay seller is asking for immediate payment via bank transfer instead of PayPal or cash on collection.  A bit leery of that so trying to sort a solution.  I hope this doesn't fall through!

Hi ladies and gents, I've been lurking on this forum and soaking up advice for awhile, but since I just bought a 550 last night I thought I'd introduce myself.  I'm totally new to the bike scene - never owned a bike before and didn't like any of the new stuff coming out. I'm also a project kind of guy, so I bought my bike with the intent to fix and customise into a brat/cafe style.  As my wife said, I can't ever do anything the easy way.

First things first - I'm going to pick up the bike in a fews weeks time (out of the country currently), so any suggestions on what to tackle first on a bike that has spark, turns over, but doesn't start? Clean and flush fuel system? Carbs?

Thanks in advance for all the help I'm sure to get over the next while!