Vintage Look Fuel Tank

While I am waiting for a rectifier to come from Japan, I decided to tackle painting the tank. It was always going to be painted matt black. But what to do with the tank decals?
Seeing as how this is a vintage project I thought it would be appropriate to use some vintage materials. So I am experimenting with the use of wood veneer as a panel on the sides. The lighter colour is teak and the darker one is wenge. I must admit that I did not like it much at first, but it is definitely growing on me.

Crispy #01 - Wiring fun-daa-mentals

This is what the bike looks like at the moment. I am going to test all the wiring before going any further. I just need to buy a new ignition switch and battery. Its much easier to sort these problems out now than with everything else assembled.

Crispy #01 - Bits 'n' Pieces

Old bike, renovators delight! Pictured above is all the rest of the pieces. Apart from the frame it appears as if there is at least two of everything. Even came with new engine gaskets, some new cables and a workshop manual. Should have it running by lunchtime!!!

Crispy #01 - Got some forks

Been looking for months and months for a front fork for Crispy #01. And I am pleased to say that I finally found some, at the right price of course! They are actually Kayabas from a '94 KX250. They are in good nick and the seals are not leaking!

Crispy #01 - Found an engine!

Found this engine at the right price. Has good compression, barrel is good apart from a few fins broken off, even the clutch is within specs. I just need to find a carby, exhaust and coil to get it running. I'm not going to say what it is but its bigger than 400cc and a two-stroke (obviously).

Crispy #01 - Concept 2

This concept is based on the ubiquitous Suzuki Ts185 but with a slimmer tank , 17s and Ohlins USD forks.

Potential base bike for Crispy #01

Found this old clunker for sale. It looks like a potential base bike for Crispy #01, its an extremely well-used Suzuki DR400, probably around 1980 model. Note the sports air-filter and two-tone paint scheme, cool! I will hopefully get a look at it in the next few days. Check out how f-ugly it is! Looks like its still got most of its road gear on it too!