Honda-SOHC

SOHC.co.uk Forums => Project Board => Topic started by: JamesH on September 28, 2020, 07:57:38 PM

Title: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on September 28, 2020, 07:57:38 PM
Restoration log for VRJ 460J..more details to follow...

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200928/e854d60cf1139b7f35cccd84e622ac2d.jpg)
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on September 28, 2020, 09:01:17 PM
So, I bought this bike literally in boxes ~4 years ago. She was purchased with two other early UK diecast 750’s (both Feb 1970 bikes) and all three had been dismantled and stuck in boxes.

All of the engines required a full rebuild and nothing else had been restored other than the frame / swingarms (which had been badly powder coated).

So, 4 years on and I’m finally getting to VRJ 460J.

She’s one of the elusive 36 transition K0’s (if you believe the figures) - so is pretty much all ‘K0’ but with later K1 carbs.

I’ll document the rebuild here as she progresses..
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on September 28, 2020, 09:03:37 PM
VIN number revealed prior to blasting off the horrible powder coat and getting the frame etch primed and 2-pack painted..

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200928/6ad4708a0a2ef75b7d41b910bc13bb4c.jpg)

The frame is back from the painters and ready for assembly to start...

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200928/ed835e68f8719ef63d866dc242e30f3e.jpg)
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on September 28, 2020, 09:05:23 PM
Swingarm treated to new bronze bushes, new ‘collar’ and all other frame parts have been stripped, primed, 2-packed.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200928/b662ea4ff364c9accd4f2b2bd0567c7d.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200928/d2601dcb7648c12010043920b8fe0ea1.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200928/325932e8a77ac8f7e3a2b37bb7be3cc8.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200928/a00bae017c2a9bc3f9a2a2c330fefa38.jpg)
Title: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on September 28, 2020, 09:06:18 PM
Engine waiting patiently to be re-united with the frame.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200928/ea1d8e73a8386d42104ef7b5bb807654.jpg)
Title: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on September 28, 2020, 09:09:06 PM
Some NOS goodies I’ve been holding back for this bike...

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200928/3fd14caf774de3cfdd75db8b1b1fdd5e.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200928/18c5fb7decb6bfd1d8a1ee96a04fda51.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200928/3f8cb1346c422f103827b2d6436b49e9.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200928/7b09fac07ea3304b2da23ea21644ac93.jpg)
Title: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on September 28, 2020, 09:14:36 PM
I suspect this bike that sold at Bonhams a couple of years ago was registered and sold at the same dealership (this bike was originally registered VRJ 895J):

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200928/071ac23b8cd22d212f1978a0427cdbc9.png)

https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/24131/lot/296/?category=list
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: AshimotoK0 on September 29, 2020, 08:14:26 AM
Great project .. a keeper I guess James  :)
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on September 29, 2020, 09:53:30 AM
Quote from: AshimotoK0 on September 29, 2020, 08:14:26 AM
Great project .. a keeper I guess James  :)
Definitely hope so Ash.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: paul G on September 29, 2020, 12:15:00 PM
Will watch with interest. They all have a price James ;D
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: AshimotoK0 on September 29, 2020, 12:42:23 PM
Anyone see the article on the French registered  Gold one that DS had and sold to James May?  I seem to remember everyone on forums etc questioned  that it was an interim K0/K1 but it looked pretty authentic to me. I guess Honda UK identified it's 'K0's' officially. Not so sure about other countries.

Images are courtesy of Chris Rushton. We guess that this document was used by John Wyatt to identify UK K0's in his book.


[attachimg=1][attachimg=2]

[attachimg=3]
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on September 29, 2020, 12:58:10 PM
Really useful information thanks Ash..
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: AshimotoK0 on September 29, 2020, 02:48:14 PM
Quote from: JamesH on September 29, 2020, 12:58:10 PM
Really useful information thanks Ash..

No worries ... ChrisR sent it to me but I think Jason (Woodside)  also may have sent me it too at the same time. There was eBayer (&restorer) named Mel Manning who had a really nicely restored UK 'K1' listed on eBay UK last year but it was in fact a true UK transition bike not a K1.

Post is here about it:-

 http://www.sohc.co.uk/index.php/topic,21213.msg189687.html#msg189687
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Laverda Dave on September 29, 2020, 04:08:17 PM
Looking forward to the updates James.
What happened to the sandcast you were restoring, was it finished, maybe I missed the final updates?
The CX in the background looks tidy.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Spitfire on September 29, 2020, 04:59:28 PM
This was my interim model bought it from Bill Smith Motors in Chester in 1971, it was my first CB750 and the one bike that I wished I still had, it had Irish plates.

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/5532/ZYa5PD.jpg)

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img924/2484/2OQZjM.jpg)

Cheers

Dennis
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: philward on September 29, 2020, 05:10:22 PM
Quote from: Spitfire on September 29, 2020, 04:59:28 PM
This was my interim model bought it from Bill Smith Motors in Chester in 1971, it was my first CB750 and the one bike that I wished I still had, it had Irish plates.

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/5532/ZYa5PD.jpg)

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img924/2484/2OQZjM.jpg)

Cheers

Dennis

That picture of you riding the bike Dennis is iconic of the late 60's & early 70's - suberb!
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on September 29, 2020, 11:36:17 PM
Quote from: Spitfire on September 29, 2020, 04:59:28 PM
This was my interim model bought it from Bill Smith Motors in Chester in 1971, it was my first CB750 and the one bike that I wished I still had, it had Irish plates.

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/5532/ZYa5PD.jpg)

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img924/2484/2OQZjM.jpg)

Cheers

Dennis
Thanks for sharing Dennis. Bike looks awesome. Do you recall the engine / vin numbers??

I also see the bars on yours are relatively high. The only bars I can find in the pile of spares that I think are from this particular bike are of the low UK type...which is what I’m planning to use for the rebuild...

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200929/283c406323f4c0f581f91f56a63c6cc2.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200929/8b6d760a3633757fe27e1064b5a2098c.jpg)
Title: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on September 29, 2020, 11:49:12 PM
Reunited the frame and engine this evening. Now the fun can begin building her back up.

Frame ready to accept the engine:

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200929/c3cec2ef6933d14f67ed6fcd8e2cf30e.jpg)

Engine sitting nice and square for dropping the frame ‘over’:

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200929/cd065416c4a318ec6bde4db3072a21aa.jpg)

Et viola!:

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200929/b21d4ce3d4fcfdd967c9aad56dcddecf.jpg)

Few more bits back from polishing ready for the next stage of rebuild:

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200929/172041646127e5c15017d46824ef32de.jpg)

Picked up a NOS rectifier for the build a few weeks ago:

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200929/ec58b15c397ac274d8d9fa48cba37dc8.jpg)

Plan is to use the low UK type bars that I believe were fitted to this from new:

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200929/b59a6ca72ee6e72a36f67905b2a0151c.jpg)

Note the additional ‘p’ position on the RH controls:

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200929/711bb8225ed5d3ce3d80f44a5a1d002b.jpg)
Title: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: SteveD CB500K0 on September 30, 2020, 06:54:43 AM
Much as I admire your bike building skills James, I see no violas.

Is there a special bracket or was it particular to the transition model?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on September 30, 2020, 08:39:46 AM
Quote from: SteveD CB500K0 on September 30, 2020, 06:54:43 AM
Much as I admire your bike building skills James, I see no violas.

Is there a special bracket or was it particular to the transition model?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Auto-correct fail (that’s my excuse anyway).
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Spitfire on September 30, 2020, 09:54:16 AM
Sadly James I do not have any more info on the bike and have only about a dozen photos of it, I sold it to buy a new K2 in 1972 but was most disappointed with the K2 it was so bland so I sold it and bought a K1 which was a great improvement.

Cheers

Dennis
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: AshimotoK0 on September 30, 2020, 10:16:23 AM
The transition bike on eBay had high bars but may have been changed. If you can track down the restorer Mel Manning who restored it  he may know James. Or ChrisR perhaps?

Also ..interesting on the red kill switch knob because I got one NOS UK style one LpH  that came originally from Honda's Service Dept. in Nottingham and it had the black knob but the lower half was for the two throttle cable setup.

Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: K2-K6 on September 30, 2020, 11:53:57 AM
Unsure if anyone has a copy of the following

https://www.amazon.fr/CB-750-cylindres-r%C3%A9volutionn%C3%A9-moto/dp/2907051873

as it has quite some detail accompanied with photos of the early bikes.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: sprinta on September 30, 2020, 12:16:19 PM
Quote from: Spitfire on September 30, 2020, 09:54:16 AM
Sadly James I do not have any more info on the bike and have only about a dozen photos of it, I sold it to buy a new K2 in 1972 but was most disappointed with the K2 it was so bland so I sold it and bought a K1 which was a great improvement.

Cheers

Dennis

What did you feel at the time was lacking in the K2 that the K1 had over it, as apart from the exhaust, which did rob it of a few horses at the top end, they were very much the same bikes? Wonder if you would feel the same today?
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Spitfire on September 30, 2020, 02:21:03 PM
The K2 was very bland it had no character, it was nice and refined, but at the time I was racing around with my hair on fire at ridiculous speeds, going from it and on to the K1 was a step change back to the CB750.
The K2 would probably fit in better with me now as I'm more refined now, old some might say.

Cheers

Dennis
Title: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on October 10, 2020, 08:27:14 PM
Some more progress on the build.

Have pretty much everything ready now to complete the build, minus the correct Honda UK spec push/pull throttle cables and clutch cable.

Some progress photos:

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201010/bf1d2146ded11be6f9f3453cb29a10e6.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201010/4fa5b17b56978c389b4053f315714485.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201010/0b471e87ba76400fec3039e5fd4e9371.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201010/c95cee731f87f475a3a8a2c68d68ab37.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201010/695ff96056c2f6be10435a2af0323ee1.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201010/bd2652d846abc2f0ea54319c79e986ab.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201010/568c8f62c21ec76b49a00b2e1efecdb8.jpg)
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Johnny4428 on October 10, 2020, 09:06:18 PM
Very nice job done so far! Good to see it taking shape.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Laverda Dave on October 13, 2020, 03:07:40 PM
Looking great so far James.  How long have you been collecting the NOS parts for prior to the build, you seem to have everything you need? My problem has always been resto's coming to a grinding halt mid way through whilst I try to source parts.  My Triton rebuild I thought would take 3-4 months, that was last October, it remains sitting on the bench to this day due to either a lack of spares, incorrectly made spare parts or waiting for outside suppliers to return parts.  Japanesse and even Italian bikes are much easier to restore!
Keep the progress photos coming.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on October 14, 2020, 02:51:43 PM
A little more progress yesterday evening.

Realised I've bought the wrong spec rear oval lens - so will need to source the correct UK spec lamp.

Rear indicators fitted, chain and sprockets installed, rear brake fully installed.

Moving ahead with the front end Thursday evening so more progress then.

 (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201014/03584f8d99f291d28317e52ac2d95bd7.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201014/11b46403e4be91fe9bdcf23ed0b9086a.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201014/a5b3ee9cb4487147a5c31621411fdb87.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201014/e775e579b9b2f0d2371707623dc05545.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201014/4abf7d3dfe9ba9edbff0c9d925f223bf.jpg)
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Andrew-S on October 14, 2020, 03:37:53 PM
Looks stunning as usual James - whenever I have a dip in morale and need a little inspiration I read through your rebuilds.

Thanks,
Andrew
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: philward on October 14, 2020, 04:22:23 PM
Is the rear guard a re-chrome, NOS or repo James?
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on October 14, 2020, 04:42:24 PM
Quote from: philward on October 14, 2020, 04:22:23 PM
Is the rear guard a re-chrome, NOS or repo James?
NOS Phil..
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: philward on October 14, 2020, 04:45:20 PM
looks great - like the rest of the bike!
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: AshimotoK0 on October 14, 2020, 08:01:05 PM
Quote from: JamesH on October 14, 2020, 02:51:43 PM
A little more progress yesterday evening.

Realised I've bought the wrong spec rear oval lens - so will need to source the correct UK spec lamp.

Rear indicators fitted, chain and sprockets installed, rear brake fully installed.

Moving ahead with the front end Thursday evening so more progress then.

 

Your need is greater than mine James ..pop yours in the post to me and I will send you a NOS UK style one. I will put yours on one of my CB250K0's .. It will give the purists something to discuss.   ;)
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on October 15, 2020, 08:54:15 AM
Quote from: AshimotoK0 on October 14, 2020, 08:01:05 PM
Quote from: JamesH on October 14, 2020, 02:51:43 PM
A little more progress yesterday evening.

Realised I've bought the wrong spec rear oval lens - so will need to source the correct UK spec lamp.

Rear indicators fitted, chain and sprockets installed, rear brake fully installed.

Moving ahead with the front end Thursday evening so more progress then.

 

Your need is greater than mine James ..pop yours in the post to me and I will send you a NOS UK style one. I will put yours on one of my CB250K0's .. It will give the purists something to discuss.   ;)

Ash - only if you're sure. I'll send you a whatsapp message.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: AshimotoK0 on October 15, 2020, 09:29:32 AM
Quote from: JamesH on October 15, 2020, 08:54:15 AM
Quote from: AshimotoK0 on October 14, 2020, 08:01:05 PM
Quote from: JamesH on October 14, 2020, 02:51:43 PM
A little more progress yesterday evening.

Realised I've bought the wrong spec rear oval lens - so will need to source the correct UK spec lamp.

Rear indicators fitted, chain and sprockets installed, rear brake fully installed.

Moving ahead with the front end Thursday evening so more progress then.

 

Your need is greater than mine James ..pop yours in the post to me and I will send you a NOS UK style one. I will put yours on one of my CB250K0's .. It will give the purists something to discuss.   ;)

Ash - only if you're sure. I'll send you a whatsapp message.

Yea I  am sure ... a friend had a really early UK CB250K0 he restored and it had that style of lens and also a chainguard that was slightly different to all of the others I have seen. Mine all had the lens you need but I will sneak the one you have in just to different.  ;D
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on October 15, 2020, 06:14:45 PM
Quote from: AshimotoK0 on October 15, 2020, 09:29:32 AM
Quote from: JamesH on October 15, 2020, 08:54:15 AM
Quote from: AshimotoK0 on October 14, 2020, 08:01:05 PM
Quote from: JamesH on October 14, 2020, 02:51:43 PM
A little more progress yesterday evening.

Realised I've bought the wrong spec rear oval lens - so will need to source the correct UK spec lamp.

Rear indicators fitted, chain and sprockets installed, rear brake fully installed.

Moving ahead with the front end Thursday evening so more progress then.

 

Your need is greater than mine James ..pop yours in the post to me and I will send you a NOS UK style one. I will put yours on one of my CB250K0's .. It will give the purists something to discuss.   ;)

Ash - only if you're sure. I'll send you a whatsapp message.

Yea I  am sure ... a friend had a really early UK CB250K0 he restored and it had that style of lens and also a chainguard that was slightly different to all of the others I have seen. Mine all had the lens you need but I will sneak the one you have in just to different.  ;D
Ash you’re an absolute Gent.
Title: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on October 15, 2020, 06:19:02 PM
Switched focus onto the carbs for a while as it’s a time consuming process.

Carb bodies stripped, cleaned and then plastic media polished by a local aerospace supplier. Not cheap at £80 for the set, but they do come up beautifully. That price includes the float bowls as well.

I prefer the process as the bodies retain a slightly nicer more natural finish compared to vapour or soda blasting.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201015/cf99f5a74c1bce7b00d88b181bb07087.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201015/6c5a564fd0438772b49c005246171d60.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201015/bbb6fc465706e375247b7532445b1b5e.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201015/4dcad69c75b62f63eb0e441fdb3355e6.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201015/0f05244213bb24f7bea266240e07997f.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201015/11c14b18c7e78db9329b474f0cb1d413.jpg)
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: AshimotoK0 on October 15, 2020, 08:38:27 PM
Carbs looking great J  :)

Here is the lamp lens ... pretty sure it's the correct one.

[attachimg=1]

[attachimg=2]

Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on October 19, 2020, 10:41:46 PM
Small but a bit more progress...

Oil tank internally cleaned and externally painted. New oil lines (refurbished original fittings) ready to fit.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201019/2103105250ef8a1f81f58951c00c3295.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201019/913140414566077518547f8fdb987dc4.jpg)

Front wheel finished and assembled ready to fit. Original disc in lovely condition.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201019/1291f9fe31f36ea5cdb3d842c9c96957.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201019/6ae8e87accbdb513d0d0dabc7303326e.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201019/ec8acbb23adc76a6b247c8f2b72dbad3.jpg)

NOS switchgear (correct UK spec RH switch)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201019/3eb5dfef306eb25b3e2412a2e5f78ca3.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201019/a29fa906c9eaf6df1c62ac8ee476f74e.jpg)

Fork ears ready to fit with NOS hardware..

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201019/7b8b29213fc5fc6b2805bb0e927bfb05.jpg)

Just waiting for fork lowers to come back from the polishers for a second time (wasn’t happy with the finish first time round) and then they’ll be assembled with new seals and I can start fitting the front end.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: paul G on October 20, 2020, 08:01:17 AM
Coming on nicely James.
I love the Continentals on mine feel great :D
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on October 24, 2020, 12:59:09 PM
Massive thanks to Ash for the rear light lens swap. Ash - have sent mine in the post on Wednesday.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201024/de5946178bca7ea6b4a05790bfb5edea.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201024/4d76b328dc368a91e217b4a2c09e16fb.jpg)

Rear end almost finished. Front end coming together now.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201024/f7b46e32468d9b1e2f954493f203b7cc.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201024/2c938d64414f26673c70b437973181b2.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201024/58d604e0e62a7fd8c7e910f9cd232510.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201024/6eaecb8689c2f6d1f5b5072d6013cb07.jpg)
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Bryanj on October 24, 2020, 03:24:27 PM
Thats looking like well up to your normal standard James
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on October 27, 2020, 01:54:01 PM
Quote from: Bryanj on October 24, 2020, 03:24:27 PM
Thats looking like well up to your normal standard James
Thanks Bryan appreciate it.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on October 27, 2020, 01:59:34 PM
Bit more progress.

Oil tank lines fitted and tank secured (total ball ache getting the ‘new’ lines to conform to shape lol).

Headlight bucket and indicators fitted.

Rebuilt gages and gauge looms fitted.

Front calliper arm.mount and front mudguard secured.

Rear brake pedal fitted and adjusted.

Carbs fully rebuilt, bench synchronised and fitted (carbs alone probably took 12-14 hours).

Horn rebuilt & fitted (managed to make one good horn from two spares)

On the home straight now.....

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201027/ac7de551d0d5f5111f44028b3cce9f68.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201027/f7d5f38cc3c9ecd6f47e5d39fd2f4575.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201027/869d2c07b866273afe4c84a53b905493.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201027/728f8ba6d557a2b9bf8aff5f39e50cc1.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201027/04c9aa89062f4c99e267b24bbef57b29.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201027/812b785dba99f58f5428e9e230fba9b2.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201027/347edd5080ca3793cea5002e7d23e88a.jpg)
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Andrew-S on October 27, 2020, 02:11:42 PM
Absolutely stunning.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on October 27, 2020, 03:00:55 PM
Quote from: Andrew-S on October 27, 2020, 02:11:42 PM
Absolutely stunning.
Thanks Andrew
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Erny on October 27, 2020, 10:46:19 PM
Great job, James!
no doubt it will be beutiful bike, my favourite color on top!
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on October 28, 2020, 11:51:37 PM
Quote from: Erny on October 27, 2020, 10:46:19 PM
Great job, James!
no doubt it will be beutiful bike, my favourite color on top!
Many thanks Erny.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on October 28, 2020, 11:55:16 PM
A little more progress this evening.

Electrics finished and tested.

Had some fun with the UK RH switch. Thanks to ash for pointing me in the direction of the German soec wiring diagram in the Clymer manual.

NOS HM300 pipes ready to fit..

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201028/95d1f4c2d46020cd7f54328422b5be67.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201028/466c4665fb19ab0cd497766494e083ff.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201028/c71328beffd0d85d0c3c16c0d59588d5.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201028/9a36059a555913865372d02cfda96ba9.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201028/6e8c3b2da9a43e7dbb59dcefb01f25f3.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201028/1d22195078733942747c061e57144038.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201028/895d54c8e86a37c4e12cea3bb36ee728.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201028/68232658b4bfd8db4e0f9682eceab02f.jpg)

Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: woody928 on October 29, 2020, 11:01:42 PM
I'm not really an OEM kinda guy but wow! Just wow!! This is stunning  8)

The attention to detail you've given this build is amazing, really making me think about all the bolts and aged fixtures or fittings that I've just sympathetically restored and left due to additional cost....

Really looking forward to seeing the finished product, keep up the good work.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on October 30, 2020, 03:01:55 PM
Quote from: woody928 on October 29, 2020, 11:01:42 PM
I'm not really an OEM kinda guy but wow! Just wow!! This is stunning  8)

The attention to detail you've given this build is amazing, really making me think about all the bolts and aged fixtures or fittings that I've just sympathetically restored and left due to additional cost....

Really looking forward to seeing the finished product, keep up the good work.
Thanks for the feedback and compliment. Always helps spur these projects along.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on October 30, 2020, 03:08:07 PM
Made some more progress early today before work.

Front caliper fitted and system fully bled. Interestingly the UK low bars need a shorter upper brake line that isn't listed for the UK spec 750. I've found a UK spec CB400f line works well (slightly on the tightish side but acceptable in my opinion).

I had to shorten a pair of Honda throttle cables to accomodate the low bars as well.

This weekends job will be to fit the exhausts, airbox and seat, fit and time the electronic ignition, then all being well I should be ready to fire her up for the first time next week

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201030/676f8fa77bd829cc261fb0ea850a06a3.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201030/f4ed6562ff5a51517968527d0786a2b9.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201030/daeb0d7b1ba3f8696159864be9b50855.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201030/0a51c5fca719ae02e2074124b90b0c8e.jpg)

Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: paul G on October 30, 2020, 03:18:58 PM
Looking sweet as usual James.
Brings back memories  ;D
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Laverda Dave on October 30, 2020, 09:59:49 PM
It's looking fantastic. Post a video of it running if you can James, I'd like to hear it as well as see it. Great build.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Trigger on October 31, 2020, 10:36:11 AM
The fun of doing a UK bike James  ;)
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: SumpMagnet on October 31, 2020, 10:43:55 AM
It's not until you try and do a restoration/refurb yourself that you really appreciate the amount of time, sweat, blood and hard cash needed to get something looking that good.

But boy is it inspiring to see what can be done :)
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Lobo on October 31, 2020, 11:35:05 AM
Beautiful to see, really appreciate the time it must take to allow see the progress James.

I’m intrigued, given how accurately you restore these bikes, that you’re fitting an electronic ignition. Is this a customer request?

Also, what’s your preference when you let go of them... to be used & ridden, or become Living Room art?

Gawd I’d love one....
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on October 31, 2020, 11:55:39 AM
Quote from: Lobo on October 31, 2020, 11:35:05 AM
Beautiful to see, really appreciate the time it must take to allow see the progress James.

I’m intrigued, given how accurately you restore these bikes, that you’re fitting an electronic ignition. Is this a customer request?

Also, what’s your preference when you let go of them... to be used & ridden, or become Living Room art?

Gawd I’d love one....
Hi Lobbo. Purely a hobby for me and I don't build to order. But they do need to eventually go to make way for the next project.

In terms of ignition - I've tried a few and honestly find the DSS unit (which is made.by Kokusan in Japan who were an OEM supplier to Kawasaki in the 70’s) is rock solid and good value.

I prefer them to be used for sure.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Sgt.Pinback on November 03, 2020, 02:49:54 PM
Great work, excellence is expected!

What kind of airfiltercase are you going to mount?
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on November 03, 2020, 03:33:45 PM
Quote from: Sgt.Pinback on November 03, 2020, 02:49:54 PM
Great work, excellence is expected!

What kind of airfiltercase are you going to mount?
Painted air-filter housing Uli - that’s what the bike came with originally as far as I can establish.

Test fitted the HM300’s prior to proper fitment.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201103/083e1697a0bb78f214d0392df6cf3aef.jpg)
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Sgt.Pinback on November 04, 2020, 08:59:39 AM
Referring to that "Super Profile" 750four booklet from the early 80th (that was my bible when I did my first K0) I learned those transition K0 had later K1 airfilter case. But that might be not correct.

Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on November 04, 2020, 09:32:01 AM
Quote from: Sgt.Pinback on November 04, 2020, 08:59:39 AM
Referring to that "Super Profile" 750four booklet from the early 80th (that was my bible when I did my first K0) I learned those transition K0 had later K1 airfilter case. But that might be not correct.
I’ve seen two original ‘UK’ transition K0’s, both of which had the painted airbox. I had a painter airbox in the pile that came with the bike so I’m confident that’s what it had originally.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Spitfire on November 04, 2020, 09:45:26 AM
Mine had a painted airbox.

Cheers

Dennis
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: sprinta on November 04, 2020, 05:47:24 PM
Surely the early side panels would not fit with the later airbox and if it had both the later airbox and side panels then it would just be a K1?
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on November 04, 2020, 05:53:37 PM
Quote from: sprinta on November 04, 2020, 05:47:24 PM
Surely the early side panels would not fit with the later airbox and if it had both the later airbox and side panels then it would just be a K1?
The early panels do fit the later airbox. But it’s not ideal.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: sprinta on November 04, 2020, 07:20:31 PM
Quote from: JamesH on November 04, 2020, 05:53:37 PM
Quote from: sprinta on November 04, 2020, 05:47:24 PM
Surely the early side panels would not fit with the later airbox and if it had both the later airbox and side panels then it would just be a K1?
The early panels do fit the later airbox. But it’s not ideal.

Thanks.

Always thought that early and late airbox's and side panels could not be mixed, but clearly they can.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: JamesH on November 06, 2020, 09:47:25 PM
So, pretty much done with the K0 now.

Just need to fit the number plates, fit some of Diego’s decals and road test and she’s signed-off.

Sadly that will have to wait until post-lockdown - more than likely in 2021 (running video will have to wait until then).

Some final pics for now...

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201106/8dc4b9b22d8c6b320755c6e2db4e6d3e.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201106/bb8a77781396dc4c049d4291eeb1d96d.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201106/debe9414d0f51c1b8a54f4de6c17788b.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201106/3fc96f6bd305899cb33119037d2d0ba7.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201106/09c88acf0de5305fe0dac054f966788d.jpg)
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Nurse Julie on November 06, 2020, 10:03:04 PM
Looking great James.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: philward on November 06, 2020, 10:13:09 PM
Fantasic James!
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on November 07, 2020, 03:25:52 AM
How depressing for me to see such a brilliant restoration it makes me want to almost give up now before I have really started.

I will never ever get close to that as new look on such a grand scale never mind the cost what about the man hours.

Highly polished alloy everywhere gleaming chrome my only consolation is that you will never ever use it outside.

You will be in constant fear of rain and humidity keeping the bike in a heated cocoon 365/24/7.

Envy is a deadly sin I guess..............sigh.

Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: taysidedragon on November 07, 2020, 10:37:07 AM
That's a beauty! Well done.
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on November 07, 2020, 11:33:30 AM
Quote from: taysidedragon on November 07, 2020, 10:37:07 AM
That's a beauty! Well done.

That's what I meant to say - my post was at 3.00 am ish with raging Insomnia in full swing so I posted before I thought it through properly.

This morning I am inspired to make my restoration the best I can do but I know it will fall short of this superb project. How I wish I had the skill set to get  close to the standard displayed by James.

Well done James it's got to be close to the Gold Standard - and built from 4 boxes of parts what a brilliant build.

(Not wishing to take anything from others here who have done similar work)
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Bryanj on November 07, 2020, 12:49:39 PM
That is one hell of a nice looking bike, way better than an uncrated new one||||
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: woody928 on November 08, 2020, 10:12:21 PM
SIMPLY STUNNING!!!  8)
Title: Re: Restoration of UK CB750 K0 - one of the 36 UK ‘Transition’ K0’s
Post by: Laverda Dave on November 09, 2020, 09:22:56 AM
Stunning build James.
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