Posts tagged as “Water Cooled”

Power Corrupts – 1993 Suzuki GSX-R1100

Published March 11, 2023 by Donn

Suzuki made so many substantive changes to the first water-cooled GSX-R1100 that reviewers were knocked cold and only colors were updated for 1994. Today’s GSX-R has low mileage, typical period mods, and excellent cosmetics.

1993 Suzuki GSX-R1100 for sale on eBay

Quite a few engine changes accompanied the switch from oil to water cooling – a slight decrease in displacement, with increased compression and bigger valves power came to 156 hp. The alloy chassis was constructed of pressed, cast and forged elements, with many of the extruded parts having five sides. While happy that the suspension was fully adjustable, most reviewers noted that changes should only be made incrementally, the delivered settings were that good. The 500-lb. barrier came and went, but the sharp chassis and 6-piston brakes made for a lighter feel under way.

With under 15K miles, this GSX-R shows well and appears complete. Rear signals and fender have been changed, but fairings seem to be original along with the sought after factory front turn signals. Tires might take a close inspection before a run for glory, and the smooth pillion cover might be a better idea than a co-rider. Notes from the eBay auction –

VERY ORIGINAL – HARD TO FIND THESE BIKES IN THIS CONDITION – 14,312 ORIGINAL MILES – VERY MINOR CHIPS, NO CRACKS IN PLASTIC – POLISHED ALUMINUM FRAME – AFTER MARKET WINDSCREEN – REAR FENDER ELIMINATOR – AFTER MARKET EXHAUST – THE BIKE RUNS AND RIDES EXCELLENT – NO KNOWN ISSUES – TITLE IN HAND – SPRING IS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER – TIME TO RIDE! THIS OLD SCHOOL BIKE HAS THE COOL FACTOR!

Always plenty of GSX-R1100 parts on eBay. Shop Now!

Though a bit of a beast, Suzuki engineers managed to keep the WP’s powerplant trim and even lower in the chassis. Beside increasing power, water cooling provided better longevity, part of the reason these continue to reappear. Photos are good but not comprehensive, showing a very clean GSX-R deserving of at least more investigation.

-donn

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Display Model – 1984 Yamaha RZ350 with 1,841 Miles!

Published January 22, 2022 by Donn

Besides being a midsize beast with 52 hp and under 400 lbs., the RZ350 was distinctive having actually been offered in the U.S. for a few years. Today’s Kenny Roberts commemorative has been on display at the dealer since your cell phone was 2G and looks extraordinary.

1984 Yamaha RZ350 for sale on eBay

Trying to modernize a venerable engine design, Yamaha threw the book at its 347cc two-stroke, including water cooling, oil injection, their power valve port system, air injection, and a lot more for California-bound bikes. Power delivery was peaky, with relaxed acceleration under 6,000 rpm, and whoa Nellie ! from there to the 9,500 redline. Elsewhere it looked its $2,400 MSRP with conventional steel frame, and suspension with pre-load adjustment only, though the triple disks, alloy wheels, and sharp bikini fairing were nice touches. Almost too obvious to mention, the classic livery celebrates the multiple AMA number 1 and first American GP champion, who went on to become a race bike builder and GP team manager.

After thirty years on display, this RZ is a fantastic piece but not ready to roll anywhere but into the workshop. It must’ve been well back from the velvet ropes, since there’s not a scrape or bruise to be seen. Every picture shows off its trim lines, period expansion chambers look the part, and the vapor canister missing from the engine bay seems to indicate it’s a 49-state model. RSBFS contributors raised a collective eyebrow at the seller’s use of the word “mint” on a non-running bike, but considering it’s pushing 40 the condition is remarkable. Just a note accompanies the eBay auction:

The RZ has been inside our dealership on display since 1991. It is in mint condition for a 38 year old motorcycle. It does not currently run/operate. It has a clear Texas title.

The bike comes with 1 original key, the original owners manual, and an original Yamaha brochure.

Nothing like a stock showpiece to set the bidding on fire, and with a whole week to go this one will probably set some 350cc records. Tires will stay wooden originals, but a few things could be shined up here and there, and maybe clean out the fuel system for the long term. Then it’s probably off to a private museum for this RZ350, though it had a nice run in the dealership window.

-donn

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Bit by Bit – 1991 Ducati 907 I.E. Paso

Published January 12, 2022 by Donn

The 907 I.E. is the most sorted of the Paso line, almost a transformation of the earlier 750’s. Today’s Paso is a California native wearing paint seeming newer than what lies beneath, but looks like a good first sportbike.

1991 Ducati 907 I.E. Paso for sale on eBay

Last-gen Paso’s were finally water cooled and fuel-injected, better suited for Tamburini’s enclosed bodywork design than air cooling and carburetors. Weber electronic injection stretches out the power band for the hydraulic dry clutch and 6-speed. Some reviewers hold that the chassis geometry on the earlier Paso’s was better, but the handling and convenience of a pair of 17-inch wheels are part of the I.E. package. Ducati’s tough square-tube chassis is under the soap bar, with Marzocchi multi-adjustable anti-dive forks and monoshock.

Beside a quick repair on the near side mirror, the bright re-paint on this 907 I.E. would be helped by some factory decals, which shouldn’t be hard to source. Then presuming no mechanical show-stoppers, the new owner could fix a little and ride a little – refinish the GPR mufflers, get the Corbin re-covered, new sprockets and chain, powdercoat the wheels, etc. Could be a sharp example in no time. Short comments from the eBay auction:

1991 Ducati 907 Paso this bike is getting harder to find
has after market exhaust an has been jetted to it
also just out in a new battery
really clean bike

The Paso was tasked with fending off the imported competition, and it had plenty of character, but at a slightly premium price. Some years over a thousand were sold, but not always. The neat complete fairing had its fans, but the company got busy with development of the 916, Supersport and Monster, closing the Paso line in 1992. For sure a rarity at this point, and an important Ducati with sport touring, a more modern engine, and Tamburini design in its gene pool. Hopefully the reserve will keep newcomers in mind.

-donn

8 Responses.

Who You Calling Old ? – 1992 Ducati 907 I.E. Paso

Published September 1, 2021 by Donn

Even though this final year Paso is coming up on its 30th birthday, its innovative design still checks a lot of boxes. This example has had a long term owner who made some substantive improvements.

1992 Ducati 907 i.e. for sale on eBay

Massimo Tamburini’s first Ducati commission for the new Cagiva owners, the Paso hid an easier to build ( and robust ) chassis under full molded bodywork. The 907 I.E. had the best drivetrain of the series, after binning the single Weber and air-cooling, both of which resented the enclosed sauna. 17-inch alloy wheels were now standard, and a longer swingarm soothed the increased horsepower. 1992 brought the largest brake rotors of the model run, with multi-adjustable 42mm Marzocchi forks. Luggage manufacturers have made all manner of bags and boxes for the Paso’s if a longer trip is in your plans.

Looking good in the factory black / white / grey, more and better pictures would be in order before jumping in. The tail looks a little too tidy, but out-of-production Staintune mufflers likely play a street beat. Comments saved on capitalization and punctuation but get the point across – engine rebuild, ECU update, and suspension blueprinting. All the heavy lifting done, tires way overdue. From the eBay auction:

Owned by an old man the rides are to the store I’ve had this bike for 16 years and think it’s one of the most beautiful bikes ever made these bikes in this condition will only go up in value rare anthracite charcoal color Moto to cams ported and polished heads 888 computer stain tune exhaust stainless steel braided brake lines Lindeman forks Penske shock 16,500 miles.

Actually a post-Paso since they retired the name, with production numbers less than a couple of thousand per year, it’s surprising this rarity stayed in the line-up until 1992. The 750 is still revered as the best handling, with small changes breaking the magic on the 906 and 907. This last edition could do with a bit more attention, but is attractively priced and won’t be held back by worn-out mechanicals when it’s in concours condition.

-donn

6 Responses.

Blue-Grey Smoker – 1989 Yamaha RZ350

Published May 25, 2021 by Donn

Today’s RZ350 is the fully-faired F2 model which was never imported to the U.S. Looks like a very nice survivor which should be an easy import.

1989 Yamaha RZ350 for sale on eBay

Water cooling let the RZ350 make better power with 63 hp, than its air cooled predecessor, the RD400. And the YPVS power valve stretched the power band, though reviewers reported a big character change at 6,000 rpm. Expansion chambers were factory equipment, as were multi-adjustable forks and pre-load adjustable MonoCross rear. Triple 260mm disks were appropriately sized and 18-inch wheels were cast in black aluminum. The full fairing had the same big side vents as the older brother RD500.

The RZ looks quite stock with astounding paint, if it’s indeed original. Details of the faux pas seems to be attributable to a single incident. Both blue and black seats have been seen with this livery, so this one might be factory, though most RZ350 rims have a polished edge so they may have been sprayed. Guess a magnetic tank guard will be a little late to the party but will cover those nicks. Comments from the eBay auction:

Legendary two stroke Yamaha bike in very good original condition (they are only original once as they say).

– Numbers matching – original motor, never taken apart – original tool kit

– Collector owned, stored in indoor heated space. Running and riding bike – has been out for use in 2021

– 11,000 original km (6835 miles)

– Oil injection functional (no need to mix gas/oil)

– Runs great – lots of power

– Canadian spec model – 2^nd last year of production

– Great colour scheme – never available in the USA (Canada’s run of RZ350 went from 1983 to 1990 whereas the USA only got them 1983 and 1984)

– Front brake rebuild 2021

– Tires are in good condition – needs nothing to pass safety certificate

Even though is was only here for a couple of seasons, the bikini-faired RZ was pretty popular, so imports aren’t all that common. The full bodywork hides the water-cooled mill and looks pretty racy to boot. It’s high ( reserve ) season, so we’ll have to keep an eye on where this auction goes.

-donn

3 Responses.

Middle Child – 2000 Honda CBR929RR

Published March 15, 2021 by Donn

some lucky owner bought-it-now last night, but this CBR is still worth a look… Donn

When the liter-bike sweepstakes heated up, Honda stuck with a small displacement increase and concentrated on weight saving and tech. Here’s a KC example with low miles in super nice shape with a boatload of new parts.

2000 Honda CBR929RR for sale on eBay

The SC44 brought major changes, at least internally, with a more oversquare architecture, lightened hard parts and 152 hp. Leading edge devices controlled the intake and exhaust, 50 psi fuel feeding the 40mm throttle bodies, and a trick titanium valve that tailored the size of the exhaust collector to engine speed. Sideplates on the chassis were deleted in favor of the load bearing crankcase with a subframe to hold the swingarm and footpegs. Inverted forks were terminated with 330mm brakes, and finally a 17-inch front wheel. Bodywork included a triple headlight, making nighttime sorties less of a nail-biter.

Shown by the 2nd owner and friend of a FireBlade superfan, this 929 is wicked clean, and bristling with new factory components. Maybe the RC51 wheels are lighter, but they’re all but invisible behind the brakes. Multiple windshields and tailcones are on the list in the eBay auction:

– New Bridgestone triple compound tires

– 2002-06 RC51 SP2 wheels powder coated gloss black w/new bearings & hardware. These wheels look amazing on the bike!!

– Custom HRC wheel decals

– 520 RK Gold chain conversion with Renthal ultra light sprockets 2-up in the rear.

– New Honda turn signal rubber stalks

– New Honda brake pads and Core Moto stainless brake lines.

– New Honda fuel pump

– New Honda air filter

– New Honda clutch & throttle cables

– New Honda grips, levers, bar ends, and hardware.

– New Honda rear cowl last one available super unicorn, original was scratched (2 imperfect backups included)

– New Honda windscreen last one available super unicorn + you have a zero gravity clear screen as a back up.

– New Honda oil and filter

– New headlight & taillight bulbs

– Mint, stock exhaust + period correct, last available, super unicorn, Jardine bolt-on (sounds great), which is the system that factory Honda was running in superbike competition at the time.

– Extra Honda key

Reviewers quibbled with Honda’s horsepower and weight numbers, and either way the blue R1 wasn’t coming down off its pedestal. Competitive pricing and build quality made the CBR a safe bet, but not the winner Honda was hoping for, and engineers went right back to it and produced another update for 2002. Almost a collectible, the CBR929RR has great potential, especially as updated and presented here.

-donn

3 Responses.

Out in the Yellow Paint – 1985 Yamaha RZ350

Published March 9, 2021 by Donn

A classic in part because it’s the last year of U.S. imports, Yamaha’s Kenny Roberts edition typifies two-stroke fun. Here’s a windy city example with low miles, excellent cosmetics, and Jim Lomas expansion chambers.

1985 Yamaha RZ350 for sale on eBay

Yamaha had their air-cooled 350 in the house since 1973, but liquid cooling brought more stable cylinder head temperatures and better all-round running to the RZ. YPVS electrically tuned exhaust ports made for a wider torque band and 59 hp. The RZ had Yamaha’s first perimeter frame on a road machine, in steel tubing with a racer’s drop-in fuel tank. Other race-bred improvements like triple disk brakes and monoshock rear were making their way on to more popularly-priced bikes. Yamaha’s day-glow GP race livery reflected their Marlboro sponsorship, but the AMA series speed block livery is adorned with Roberts’ autograph.

Apparently for sale by owner, this beauty shows just half of the 25K miles a lot of RZ’s have, with just a couple of paint chips to show for 36 years. Throaty exhaust notes in the too short video posted – here –, and just a couple of comments from the eBay auction-

Kenny Robert’s edition, the most desirable year of the most desirable color combination Yamaha RZ 350. Very low original miles (12,647), clean title with owner of record since 1991 and matching VINs. Runs well, idles perfectly, fires up first kick and it was jetted for JL pipes.The bike is in overall in great rider quality condition, it has some very minor imperfections shown in the pictures below. The bike sits in my climate-controlled building and is available to view anytime.

Winning two Grand National Championships, and three World Championships ( and being runner-up in each once ), Roberts is a champions champion. There have been other yellow and black comemmoratives since the RZ350 was legislated out of existence, but this is still number one. For a fan of the man, the brand or the sport, a fresh-looking two stroke sportbike would be a great tribute to have in the garage.

-donn

4 Responses.

Class Leader – 1993 Honda CBR600F2

Published March 3, 2021 by Donn

The second generation CBR600F2 was a giant step forward for the middleweight, with a sharp eye on the invoice’s bottom line. This example has somehow been protected from the overuse and outdoor life of so many bargain sportbikes, with just over 12,000 miles and lovely cosmetics.

1993 Honda CBR600F2 for sale on eBay

Updates started with the engine architecture, significantly more oversquare than the F, with flatter valve angles and flow-optimised heads to claim a nice round 100 hp. The twin-spar chassis was executed in steel tubing, holding the engine from top and rear, and containing cost. Conventional forks had been upsized to 41mm, and the adjustable monoshock supported a Pro-Link swingarm. Brakes were mid-sized at 276mm, with weight and yen-saving slide calipers ( dual pistons on the same side ). Wheel sizes were also bumped up from the F, and the cast alloys were RC lookalikes. The full fairing presented fresh if not ram air to the airbox, and was closed in the knee area, sending engine heat overboard.

Coming out of Vegas-based Eurocycle, this CBR doesn’t come with any history, but does have rarely seen turn signals, reflectors, and the tail has been tidied up just a bit. The color saturation had me thinking re-paint, but nothing else about this bike has been updated. A one-liner from the eBay auction:

100% FACTORY ORIGINAL AND UNDAMAGED.

The Honda 600 regularly appeared at the top of magazine review “shootouts”, and later showed up on best used bike compendiums. With many riders thinking lighter weight and better skills, these mid-size bikes are coming into a re-newed focus. By model number it’s not rare, but with so many run into the ground, a really nice one might be a thing.

-donn

7 Responses.