81 GPZ 550 cafe build

Here is an 81 GPZ 550 that I got in boxes filled with zip lock baggies. I was trying for the bratstyle Wrenchmonkee thing but this is what I ended up with. I traded a 1/2 cord of wood to my buddy who had this project laying around. It started off as you see it here, a motor in the frame and rear wheel and various other things. I was a heap to say the least.

I made the tray to hide the battery and wiring in with fiberglass kit.

I made the seat with the original seat pan and some of the original seat foam. I than covered it with a Harley vest I had in the closet! My buddy, who rides that brand couldn't believe i would cut up a HD vest like that!! HA! I ain't doing the Village People Tribute band anymore so I dont' need to wear it, I told him.


I chopped the rear tail section off and made the hoop using two 90 degree electricican conduit peices. Yes, held on there with electrician conduit clamp. I have a lot to do still but this is a rideable, fun, wicked cool bike that I will enjoy riding all summer. Next phase can wait till fall.


With the help of you guys, Patton and Loudhvx, I go this badass up and running like a champ! It's an absolute blast to ride! Check it out.

The woods gone but the bike lives! Very Nice.

Nicely done dfinnegan71.
Have fun, and ride safely.

Thanks rstnick! And this is only phase 1.

A Firestone Champion Deluxe rear tire and Tomiselle clip-ons showed up today in the mail! Wicked psyched for phase II. Then I'm riding it all summer phase III can wait till winter.

Phat and sexy!

Nice ! Do you happen to have any of the stock body parts?

I have pretty much ebay'd alot. I have the stock windsheild the the original owner sprayed black. I have a couple of turn signals, the battery box, one side cover, airbox with boots, and helmet lock. Make an offer and it's all yours. Don't be shy any offer is a good place to start.

What's your rear fender off? It looks appropriate for mine as well, shortened up a bit.

The fender is a front off a '77 Honda CX 500. I cut it at about the half way mark and mounted as seen. I want a chrome fender up front to match someday.

Sweet, thanks. How wide is it, about the same as your front? I love the shape of my KZ tail but I hate the bubbled section full of holes where the tail light used to be mounted.

Very cool! I don't know how I missed this thread!

I notice you have those forks pretty high up in the yokes. What did you do to prevent the fender from bottoming out on the triple-tree?

And what is the reservoir on the rear master?