Hi Guys, Thought I would start a post to document my journey to build a Honda RC162 tribute bike. Initially I want to see how far I can get on a limited budget. But I might have to sink more funds into the project as I get closer to sorting out the finer details (all those little costly bits to make the bike look as original as possible). The plan is not to go overboard on spending, but to focus on something practical that will make an enjoyable little track bike that others might admire. After a little research, I have settled on using 2 bikes as the basis for the build. The 250cc mechanicals will come from an MC19 that I purchased as a basket case. The frame, wheels, seat, tank and other bits and pieces will come from a Skyteam ACE (Chinese, Honda Dream 50 like derivative) that I purchased new. I have the ACE road registered and I am riding it around a bit to just understand a bit about its dynamics. It is dead slow compared to my MC22s. Depending on progress (mainly limited by regular daytime workload), I am hoping that I can get it sorted before the Broadford Bike Bonanza at Easter time. Lots to do in the meantime. Peter.
Here are some pics of the little ACE after delivery. It came in a box and a little assembly was required.
A change of colour to Hondanise the appearance of the ACE. Road registered and being ridden around for a while.
MC19 front end cleaned up, painted and polished. Triples/stem needs modification yet to suit ACE frame.
Next steps involve modifying the MC19 front end and brake disc assemblies to marry up with the ACE components. I will initially run a disc brake front end and then later change to RC replica drums. The replica drums for front and rear could be as much as $5000 with decent wheels. Outside my budget for the time being. I have purchased a new Hornet radiator which I will use as it is a bit smaller than the cbr unit.
Yes. Planing on using the ACE swing arm but ditching the needle rollers and replacing with a bush as others have done. The rear swing arm is quite stiff. This is a track only bike.
Dash recovered from MC19, modified and refurbished. Speed light will be re-purposed as oil pressure tail tale light.
If I do go for a front drum, I would like a 4LS setup to be as close as possible to the period style and also better stopping on the track. The MC19 disc will be adequate at least for initial shakedown riding.
Don't know if you've seen this, but these guys are making bits for replicas. Even pinch some of their ideas. https://www.d-mengineering.co.uk/index.php/projects/rc-162-project
Yes, I am aware of D&M. The objective of this build is to do as much as possible myself and to keep build costs under control. One of the main areas that I need to sort out is the fairing. It would be great to have an aluminium one but that is a lot of work and difficult to repair if you have an off (a risk on the track). FG ones are also hard to find. There are some out of Europe/UK but these are big parts to ship cost effectively. I probably need to see a similar fairing locally to get an idea of dimensions and fit around my frame etc. Anyone know of friendly, local (Victorian) RC replica owners that would be happy to have me look at their machines. Peter.
What about these? https://classic-motorcycle-fiberglass.com/gallery/fairings/Fairing_Mountain_Mile_Peel.htm
Yes. There are a few FG fairing options out of Europe. I would prefer to find something locally. I need to have a conversation with Race Glass.