THE PLAN – to build a period Café/Superbike from the CB550 Honda. In 1970’s America the café racer style morphed into the American Superbike. Basically this new design was personified in Cycle Magazine’s Gentleman’s Express build model. Take an existing UJM and turn it into a racer for the street. The concept is to keep the same identifiable style as the original but add lower handle bars, better suspension and brakes and of course a modified engine with a four into one exhaust system. The idea was that the bike must be relatively comfortable to ride and reliable, thus a striped down and more aggressive version of the standard street bike.
THE BUILD – We wanted to use as many of the existing up rated parts as possible, just like builders would have done in the 70’s. The bike would be a “sleeper” built along the same lines as an American Superbike/Café Racer. The machine will resemble a CB550 but what’s under the skin is heavily modified, hot rod style! Obviously the CB750 model could supply many stock looking but upgraded components for the build.
CHASSIS
CB750 forks – same diameter as 550 but heavier springing, retained CB550 triple trees to have correct stem height and stock rake and trail numbers. A tapered roller bearing kit will replace the balls for enhanced feel and control. Tarozozzi fork brace will offer increased stiffness and control during braking and cornering.
CB750 front wheel and rotor – same width and diameter rim as 550 but a 1” larger brake rotor. The rotor will be drilled to lighten it and improve wet weather braking. I will use EBC sintered metallic disc brake pads for stronger fade free performance. Fitting a one piece braided steel line for better feel and pressure as well as the larger CB750 brake caliper, piston and master cylinder
CB750 rear wheel assembly – the 750 rear rim is one size up (WM3) from the 550. The hub is also a touch wider and has bigger brake shoes for improved stopping. power. I’ll run a 130 section tire on the back for additional cornering and acceleration potential. Rear sprocket is a custom aftermarket unit at 38 T to increase acceleration a touch yet not affect high speed running by under gearing for highway.
SHOCKS – Boge/Mulholland – 13 ½” with 75lb spring, longer than stock and stiffer to transfer more weight onto front wheel and quicken steering. This was a period after market shock absorber change for much improved dampening.
TIRES –Bridgestone Spitfire, Superbike style pattern, 100/90 front and 130/90 rear.
