How to bring a classic motorcycle back to life

If you are a motorcycle guy or gal, then you most definitely have an affection for classic models. What’s there not to like about a vintage ride? The motorcycle takes orders and does whatever you tell it to do. Let us not forget about the timeless beauty – in other words, the chrome glittering in the sun, vintage fuel tanks, and chunky tires. The vehicles are so beautifully designed that everyone can appreciate them. Vintage bikes are much more reliable than their modern counterparts are. As much as you like classic motorbikes, you may not like restoring them. What can you do? This hobby isn’t for everyone. If you have a vintage ride at home, it would be a shame not to try to bring it to life. you don’t even have to do it for sentimental reasons. You can do it for the financial gain. This is what you can do to bring the vehicle back to life.

Figure out how much it will cost you to do the project

Restoration means returning something to its original condition. This implies more than just framesets. It’s necessary to change everything from the exhaust system to the gas tank. If you have in your possession an original bike, then you’ll have to get your hands on the correct replacement parts, which can be pricey. When setting up the budget, don’t focus solely on your favourite part of the ride. What you have to do is a complete bike rebuild. If you don’t budget properly, you can end up with a financial drama on your hands. Determine what parts and services are necessary and see if you can afford them. The overall cost depends on the type of motorcycle that you have. For instance, a classic British motorcycle like the 1950 Manx Norton can cost you up to £10,000. Or more. The point is that you need to know what you’re getting into.

Things that you need to go through

Before getting to learn the art of motorcycle restoration, you have to make sure to check the service manual. It will guide you through the most important steps, from changing the oil to completely rebuilding the vehicle’s engine. When you get to the difficult tasks, you will see that there isn’t enough info. This is why you should have a specialist of some sort help you out. Equally important is to:

• Examine the battery - check the fluid level and add some distilled water. Once you’re done, give it a charge and carefully reinstall it in the bike.
• Check the fuel delivery system – drain the fuel tank, get rid of the old fuel, and ensure there are no signs of rust.
• Clean the carburettor - you can get away with a simple clean. All you have to do is remove the carb, bowl, float, needle, and jets. Yet, it may be necessary to completely rebuild the carburettor. To do so, you’ll need to purchase a new carburettor and a rebuilt kit.
• Pull the spark plus – take out the spark plugs and see in what condition they’re in. if they’re worn or damaged, then you have engine problems. Replace the plugs even if they’re not looking terrible because the motorcycle has been sitting for some time.
• Do an electrical assessment – turn the key to ON and start up the vehicle. If everything is working properly, then the wiring is okay. Each component is doing their job.

We have a tip for you

Do you remember when we said that you have to carefully plan money for parts and services? In terms of services, we were talking about motorcycle restoration. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that there are experts out there who can rebuild vintage rides after clients’ specifications. There are and it must be noted that they do a hell of a job. Bringing classic bikes to life is a difficult undertaking. This kind of work should be handled only by trained professionals. They have the necessary knowledge and tools to restore classic motorcycles. If you seriously want to ride your vehicle again, it’s better to call in the professionals. In a professional workshop, your ride will be made working and that much pleasurable.