Good news and bad news from today:

The cleaning went well. The white walls look much better but could still use some work. I think I'll try a different cleaner.

The chrome could also use some polishing, as most of it had spot stains. I had a little polish but should really go over everything again to bring the shine out.



Bad news is that the battery was really low (6 volts) and I couldn't jump it. It's probably bad though, so jumping it and going for a ride probably would have been trouble. I'll try to hit-up a Batteries Plus tomorrow and maybe go for a ride. I can't tell you how frustrating it's been NOT getting to ride it yet.

 

What a difference a white-whitewall makes!

 

New pics post-detail! Sorry if I'm posting too many pics, just really excited!

 

Lookin good bro...just a reminder, you only got 2 bolts holding that rear fender on, so dont have anyone sittin on the pillion til you get the other 4 bolts in there...oh and as soon as possible, you need to lay out your budget in a thread so we can start spending your money

 

Somewhere up my sleeve I have a guitar that color . . .

 

Thanks for the reminder- that's definitely something I'll keep in mind before I let the wife jump on the back! Worst case scenario I just throw the saddle bags back on there.

 

Looks great -- lots of room for modding or just enjoy it the way it is. Congrats!

 

Welcome!

Great job cleaning that pretty girl up.

Definitely get the strut bolts back in there and then I'd look for a mustang vintage wide or other seat that will sit you up and back more. At your height that stock seat is going to get old fast.

 

Take one of the bolts to Lowes and get some stainless socket head screws and washers (that's what I did). Looks fine and will hold you over until you get something prettier.

 

I actually stopped by Patriot HD today and picked-up quick-attach bolts for the sissy bar. The wife really wanted to go for a ride so I had to act quick, haha.

There were a few things that came up during the ride. First, I realized I really do need a seat, because after a short while I felt like I had a pinched nerve in my sacrum. At constant speeds I could use the highway pegs to push myself further into the back of the seat and it remedied it completely. I think with another seat I'll be golden.

The second thing I noticed is that the bike makes a strange noise in 5th gear. It's only under load, but it sounds like a squealing belt. Anyone know what this could be? I know I might have to start a new thread to get some fresh eyes.

Thanks again for everyone's help!