'77 KZ650 - Street Tracker Build

Hi all,

This will be a photo build, converting a '77 KZ650 into a street tracker, based on the designs of a couple of my favourite bikes by professional builders.

It's slow work in progress, as my occupation takes me overseas, meaning I don't get a great deal of time to actually get in the garage at home.

I was brought up around bikes, mainly my uncles cafe racer conversions, but didn't actually own my own road legal bike until about five years ago. Was always just an off roader...

As much as I like modern bikes, I can't help being drawn to the designs and simplicity of bikes from the late 70's - especially the Zed's. As a result, I plan on keeping this bike as simply as possible, but placing some practical modern upgrades, to help it firstly stop better, and secondly, run smoothly (hopefully).

My ultimate plans for the bike will be completed in a second stage rebuild. I plan to first rebuild the bike utilising more of the original parts to get it back on the road, then replace/upgrade parts as I go along.

I don't cut corners. I don't do 'that'll do'... I plan on getting this bike the way I want it, and to keep it for the rest of my biking life. Hence the reason I am willing to put some time and money into it.

Anyhow, you'll see the progress as I slowly move along, and hopefully you guy's will point me in the right direction. this is the first bike I have ever stripped to rebuild, never mind customise.

A few photo's of what's happened so far:

Chopped back end




New fabricated and fitted back end

really good work

ramtough_63 wrote: really good work

Thanks.

Got to finish the hoop up with some nice welds where it meets the shock mounts. Seat pan mounts, fender mounts, and battery box mounts to get on there too.

Some original parts before and after vapour blasting.









After the blasting and some parts, mainly engine casing powder coated satin black.

looks great so far. I love the looks of street trackers. If i ever get a decent shop and some spare time i would love to build one... Ill be keeping an eye on this one

murr50 wrote: looks great so far. I love the looks of street trackers. If i ever get a decent shop and some spare time i would love to build one... Ill be keeping an eye on this one

Cool, Thanks...

Spare time is exactly what I struggle for. If it takes me a couple of years to get right, it'll be worth it.

Nice work so far.

I would love to see some finished product on this build!!!!

That's funny - so would the owner! :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: He hasn't visited this site for more than 2 years - probably gave up like so many guys do after starting mods on a bike rather than simply riding the thing. Ed

The Truth!! I've been wanting to disassemble and refinish my 78, but Riding season came too soon

I'm still here!!! Moved house, had to renovate it from top to bottom. The bike was/is on serious hold, but I haven't let go of the project!