M750 Scrambler Project

[amcjen]

Tons of great info, thank you!

[Howie]

Hmmm...Cagiva wheel.  If the axle size is the same and you could figure out a way to mount the stock brake that could be a low budget upgrade.

Since I don't ride dirt on purpose do take what I say with a grain of salt.  Front lifted a little higher should make the bike handle slower, but maybe a little more stable.  I think if any problems like wallow occur the front could just be lowered.  I also think the added gyroscopic effect from the heavier rim should help off road too.

My old bike handled very well overall, but real low speed full lock not so good.  The new bike with 1⁰ rake and a hefty rake increase of 2mm does notably better at low speed full lock.  Far from a revelation since there are so many other differences.

Miraculous improvement over stock?  I wouldn't expect that  I'm thinking scrambler, not dual sport.

[GK]

I look forward to a spin myself at some point down the track, no pun intended!

It’s looking great!

[koko64]

20180921_215027 by Tony Kokonis, on Flickr

I chose function over form, and you thought oem Mickey Mouse mirrors were ugly..
These Barkbusters are as ugly as a hat full, but they are very protective. There are other Barkbuster guards that are smaller and more sleek, but these not only protect your hands and controls from branches but are a barrier on cold days. When you're getting arthritis, this is important. I could have gone for a more hipster scrambler look but this is function first.

[koko64]

20180921_215133 by Tony Kokonis, on Flickr

Tried to fit an SS guard, but it wouldn't clear the hi profile tyre. That 70 profile MT60RS is tall. The guard was too nice to drill and I couldn't be stuffed making an alloy adaptor so I put it aside and ran the stocker. I'll have to get some fork sock type protectors that Velcro on. Edit: The SS guard will be stronger in my view so maybe I'll have to get off my arse and make an adaptor bracket.

[koko64]

20180921_214727 by Tony Kokonis, on Flickr


You can see the coverage here which is important since this is also the winter bike.
A mate and I once rode down to Yea on a 30F day. We were fine until we ran across a misty plain and the temp went down to 20F. He said his ST2's temp gauge plummeted as we rode through the mist. Both of us recall our knuckles hurting for a week.

[Howie]

cheap and functional:
http://www.biker.ie/forum/showthread.php?t=218828&page=2
Scroll down

On a more serious note, maybe something like this  https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/motorcycle_parts/content_prod/74265  or a gaiter.

[ducpainter]

20180921_215133 by Tony Kokonis, on Flickr

Tried to fit an SS guard, but it wouldn't clear the hi profile tyre. That 70 profile MT60RS is tall. The guard was too nice to drill and I couldn't be stuffed making an alloy adaptor so I put it aside and ran the stocker. I'll have to get some fork sock type protectors that Velcro on. Edit: The SS guard will be stronger in my view so maybe I'll have to get off my arse and make an adaptor bracket.

Try using a washer, or two, between the fender and fork on the upper hole. It will raise the fender enough to fit the 70 series tire.

[koko64]

20180922_195355 by Tony Kokonis, on Flickr

Quick mock up after succumbing to the cutting wheel.



20180922_200059 by Tony Kokonis, on Flickr

[koko64]

Had a hit out ln a nearby dirt road. It was hard packed dirt with a layer of gravel which is a pretty common combination around here. The bike handled it pretty well as an easy first test with the tyres and wide bars giving a lot of security. I'm glad I removed a disc and softened the shock, because accelerating is one thing and stopping is another. The very tall profile front tyre helps.
The bike feels very light with carbon pipes and the small Shorai battery, and with the airbox, seat cowl, bikini fairing (and brackets), rhs disc and caliper removed.

Any tips appreciated.

[ducpainter]

This dirt riding adventure will teach you what a rear brake is for.

[koko64]

For sure.
I used it on the track to help me get turned, but rarely on the street except for stability (and riding HDs). My Hyper strangely led me to use it more on the street, but that might be because I took it onto dirt roads for the first time.
A great thing about this sport is that no matter how long you've been riding or how old you are, you never stop learning. I'm quite excited to learn a different angle.

A good mate is a strong dirt rider and I introduced him to road and track riding, so he can return the favour.

[Howie]

I would consider fabbing some sort of bracket to get more space between the front tire and fender.  Mud can pack in wet stuff.  Maybe some sort of extension on the rear brake lever and some grippy foot pegs. 

[koko64]

Hmm. Even if the SS guard fitted it would have been close as they're a close wrap. I have thought about swapping the pegs for a broader MX type or early non rubber coated type. Servicing the rear caliper to avoid drag and improve it's performance is also on my list.

Did your 750 have much engine braking? I strongly suspect a light flywheel in this bike as it's quite spritely with more engine braking than I expected. The flywheel edge visible in the timing window looks polished and chamfered.

[Howie]

Good engine braking.  More than I would expect from a low compression motor.  Bike really felt like a small valve 900.  I'm trying to remember if the flywheel was chamfered.  I think so.

If you remove the rubber from your stock pegs you will find them like the Monster Dark pegs.