OzVMX Forum
Clubroom => Tech Talk => Topic started by: alexbrown64 on August 07, 2014, 04:52:11 pm
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Hi, Alex here. My first post on this forum.
I thought i would kick it off with my RM80 story. I used to race against the RM80B when i was a kid growing up in the sands of WA. The sound of the mighty "B" was like angels singing in my ears. They were to be feared and respected. Anyway, i had a YZ80B which was like coming to a gun fight with wet tissue. I always wanted one of those B's so now that i'm an old fart i thought i would find one. I searched a long time as they are rare and finally one popped up on good old EBay in Adelaide. It looked dirty but was all original and was exactly what i was after. I organized transport through Doug who can deliver bikes in his antique truck all around Australia for a good price, the caveat being that you have to wait ages. He advertizes on Gumtree. Anyway, today the bike arrived and the owner had even given it a good spruce up. I washed off 2 months of dust and took the photos this morning. All i have done is put the aftermarket front number plate on as that was the only part missing. Still looking for an original. The bike is still on its original tires, chain, sprockets, grips and even has all the warning stickers on the tank as well as a perfect original seat cover. It is a one owner bike. The owner says it was last started something like 12 years ago. Maybe someone can offer advice on how best to tackle getting her running. I was thinking of putting some 2T oil down the plug hole and slowly working it in, replacing the engine oil, replace plug, airfilter and then check spark, add fresh fuel and see what happens.
I'll post some pics now and follow up as i go but it is going to be a long slow process..... The first one is as advertized on Ebay, the second is today when i got it and gave it a wash.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/rm1_zps40e404bf.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/rm1_zps40e404bf.jpg.html)
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/rm80_Aug_14_1_zps1a119afb.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/rm80_Aug_14_1_zps1a119afb.jpg.html)
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Wow, that's a pretty good find! Just goes to show what you can chase down if you keep your eyes open...
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yes, very nice find and so very original 8)
I still remember the day and I still have my little beasty 37 years after the fact :)
(https://scontent-a-lax.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/t1.0-9/248676_10150273408390739_2079188_n.jpg)
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xaf1/t1.0-9/36972_443372990738_232006_n.jpg)
the PR shot from the era was much of the incentive I needed
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/t1.0-9/1526952_10152249130100739_46213186_n.jpg)
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Nice find looking forward to following your work . Iain
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Thanks guys.
Good pics there too Doc, the kid with the Heckles is probably in a wheelchair now. I had the plastic Vendramini's. Hopeless boots.
Below is a pic from Rockingam Kwinana MCC in 1978. Thats a 77 RM80B on the line. My kid brother is on my YZ80E as i had a broken leg at the time.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/rkmcc_1977_1_zps0ed2a6b7.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/rkmcc_1977_1_zps0ed2a6b7.jpg.html)
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Great stuff, gives me some incentive to get mine together. Mine was also a low hour find, but not as good as yours Alex, a mate picked it up for me from the sunshine coast in 2006 and brought it to Vic for me, i pulled it apart to resto, and it is (slowly, veeery slowly...) getting back together. Cant rush these things...
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A great find, anything unmolested is usually a good find.
One thing to watch with bikes that have been sitting for years is the fragile air filter.
Often if you try to get it running the filter will fall apart and get sucked into the motor causing more grief.
Also take the carby off and remove all the fossilized petrol.
If you have spark you should be good to go unless the rings have become stuck or the crank seals have perished
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That looks fantastic Alex, well done, she's a little gem mate :)
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Thanks for the comments and advice guys. I do have a new OEM filter to go on as i would think the original will be perished but i also have to make sure my OEM one isnt perished as it came in the pack pre-oiled.
Here's one for the RM80B nerds/gurus.... I have an original copy of the sales brochure for the RM80B below but it must be a pre-production model in the pic. Can anyone notice what is different about it.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/rm80salessheet_zps9ee15ea6.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/rm80salessheet_zps9ee15ea6.jpg.html)
Cheers,
Alex
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Alex, at a glance..
no chain tensioner
TM75 style forks
front hub
triples
sidecovers
shocks
cdi mounted in another position
steel front plate mounts
rear guard angle seems a little 'droopy'
The kid with the Heckles is infact Gaston (The Great) Rahier in Oz ;)
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i had a yz80c then i upgraded to the rm80b..i couldnt believe how much faster it was..sent me from b grade to a grade in my hunter mini bike club
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fantastic, brings back a lot of sweet memories, I raced YZ80b,c always wanted a RM80B still do, but in that time bought a new RM125B and went to C grade Motocross
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Hi Doc, you picked up more stuff than me. Notice the gear lever and clutch lever. That bike was never ridden. Gaston Rahier! I remember him coming to Australia. Good rider, poor choice of boots. Shelpi, the RM125B was said to be the "closest thing you will ever get to a works bike". A big step up from a YZ80 and i remember them being a good bike. Yamahaman, the B did a lot to help a rider get faster back in the day. My younger brother had a GT80 for a while until he got my YZ80B. You could go around the track faster on a bicycle than the GT. I remember a kid came down the track on a postie bike. You wouldn't see that these days. And most of us used to use Alcoa yellow plastic pants when it rained in winter. I even remember a kid had Alcoa mono-goggles. There was no expense spared back then.
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yep heckles are a poor choice, still got my pair and the scar's to prove it, loved my RM125B and still have one to this day also the 250 and 370 now just need the 80 and 100 for the royal flush ;)
p.s still have my heckle chest gaurd and Gaston Raheir is and was my Hero :)
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All i have done so far is put an after market front number plate on temporarily. I know its next to impossible to find an original. Anyone have any experience with bringing up the plastics on yellow rm's? My only options are sand and apply that plastic restore stuff or get the whole lot painted when i take the tank in to get done.
On another note, there was a bit of cardboard sticky taped to the inside of the upper fork legs. I took it off and opened it up and inside was one of those black and silver VIN stickers. Bike was manufactured 11/76 and has a vin that matches the frame. Its in fragile condition but i bet there are not many of those around.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/rm80_Aug_14_3_zps7d6af4af.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/rm80_Aug_14_3_zps7d6af4af.jpg.html)
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I am a little bit (read a lot) jealous of this buy - aside from a YZ80C I would of killed for one of these compared to my XR75 in the day.
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OK, i wanted to get her started. Took the advice on here and got to work. Tank off. Clean as a whistle inside...like new, shiny. Just cleaned the tap filter and that part was done. Took the seat off. Amazed at the condition. Paint is like new. Checked the air filter. What airfilter? It had turned to dust. Cleaned it all out, airbox, boot etc.. I have a new OEM pre oiled filter but have decided to leave it off for now. Next is the carby. Stripped it down, cleaned it up and good to go. I had a kit for it but only used the float bowl gasket. Checked the float height. All Ok. Drain the engine oil....looks clean and red but thick. I replace it with 650cc of the good stuff. There is even a tiny silver sticker still on there that says 650cc. I took the plug out and put a bit of 2T oil down there and worked it in. No noises and felt smooth. Time to check the spark. New plug in the cap and give her a kick. Nice blue spark. Lets put her back together and see what she'll do. Some fresh premix, set the air screw, pull on the choke and give her a kick. I believe the bike hasnt been started for around 12-16 years... just stuck in the back of the barn.
Anyway... a couple of kicks and she cracks into life. Crisp as a lettuce... runs like a dream... that stinger buzzing like a chain saw. I gave it a rev for a minute and set the idle... idles well. Gave the clutch a few pulls in and out and then snicked it into gear. No worries... smooth as butter... went for a buzz around the back garden a few times to annoy the neighbors and shut her down. Big grin on my face...couldn't ask for more. I'll start her up a few more times then it will be time for the cosmetic restoration. Its already in great condition and just needs some paint and zinc plating.
Cheers,
Alex
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/rm80_before_resto_zpsf81aeac6.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/rm80_before_resto_zpsf81aeac6.jpg.html)
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Great news, Im as jealous as hell, but good onya sounds like it couldnt have gone to a better home ;)
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Awesome Alex Im chasing one as well I had the RM 80B,Jeff Leisks RM 80C and an RM80N which I won the final State round in juniors at Wanneroo in 1979 I was number 65 you were 268 ? from memory ;-)
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Thanks guys, yes it has gone to a good home. Wont even let my 9 year old ride it. Its going in the man cave. Richo, of course i remember. That was a hard series. Not sure if you have the program but i will put up the results for you below. You did well that day.... first overall. Yes, your RM80N's were fast but the YZ80F was just as good that year.
I remember Jeff riding that C at Byford. Crossed up and wheeling around the corner and onto the main straight. Couldnt believe it.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/results_zps525eadfe.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/results_zps525eadfe.jpg.html)
Cheers,
Alex
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Update: I'm going to make a small youtube video of the bike running before i tear it down. Should post that up soon for those that remember what a little buzz bomb these things were.
I removed the black number plate decals and revealed a glowing yellow colour. I got some 220 wet and dry and rubbed up some of the very faded yellow area's and an oxidized gummy stuff started to come off and the new yellow colour appeared from underneath. I wont paint these plastics. I just need to get stuck in and sand them and polish them to new condition.
Bike starts first kick now and idles even when cold. Runs like a dream.
Reconditioning to start soon.
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Update: I'm going to make a small youtube video of the bike running before i tear it down. Should post that up soon for those that remember what a little buzz bomb these things were.
I removed the black number plate decals and revealed a glowing yellow colour. I got some 220 wet and dry and rubbed up some of the very faded yellow area's and an oxidized gummy stuff started to come off and the new yellow colour appeared from underneath. I wont paint these plastics. I just need to get stuck in and sand them and polish them to new condition.
Bike starts first kick now and idles even when cold. Runs like a dream.
Reconditioning to start soon.
:) ;)
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Hi Alex. I am a pretty keen collector of bikes and cars and I have to firstly congratulate you on this awesome find, well done.
My comments to you are similar to discussions I've had with car restorers and that is, they are only original once. I know its your bike and acknowledge you can do whatever you like with it but to me a survivor bike like your RM80 is far more valuable in original, unrestored condition. I hope that you keep the bike original :)
Cheers
Simo
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Hi Alex. I am a pretty keen collector of bikes and cars and I have to firstly congratulate you on this awesome find, well done.
My comments to you are similar to discussions I've had with car restorers and that is, they are only original once. I know its your bike and acknowledge you can do whatever you like with it but to me a survivor bike like your RM80 is far more valuable in original, unrestored condition. I hope that you keep the bike original :)
Cheers
Simo
Here here, if ya want a garage queen ya can always get some other dog parts and go hard and leave the originals safe some where ;) best of 2 worlds
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+ 3 - original survivor bike's like that are GOLD ;)
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Thanks for the comments. I am not replacing anything on the bike. The grips are from 1977 and have some small tears. I have some black rubber shoe repair goo from America to restore them. The original tires are staying on and even the chain is staying. Everything is original and staying..... but i would like to bring her back a little and get her looking smart. Hence i want to replate the spokes and all the zinc plated stuff. I want to give the plastics a buff up and protect them. I guess the only thing i will be mucking with is the paint as this will keep it pristine and protected for another 35 years. I have only replaced the float bowl gasket and airfilter as they were perished.
Cheers
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+ 3 - original survivor bike's like that are GOLD ;)
especially a mini. normally passed on and ridden into the ground over many years.
low hour bike are generally big bores
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Gotta agree, I wouldn't touch it too much. That's a really neat time capsule, nice find! 8)
Adam
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Alex, I have a similar but not as pristine bike but seriously think about not fixing those things and just put a new airfilter in it. the potential for realising some investment dollars later will be worth it. you have found a gem, once you renovate it to suit you its no longer everyone else's gem. id leave it "as is" and park it up. face it, it could be a nice boost in 10 years time to a more important project...kids uni or whatever etc
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Hi, well, i got the old girl running for a youtube vid.
http://youtu.be/vfNTFSHN4Is (http://youtu.be/vfNTFSHN4Is)
Cheers,
Alex
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Hi, well, i got the old girl running for a youtube vid.
http://youtu.be/vfNTFSHN4Is (http://youtu.be/vfNTFSHN4Is)
Cheers,
Alex
dont strip and paint! shes more inpresive in its found state, we all know how hard this is to find HEY :o
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I have always looked after my bikes and love to have them running well and looking pristine. I wont be molesting the rm but i do want her looking great. I have just spent 12 hours on the plastics. Still original but cleaned up, protected and with the original decal back on the rear mudguard.
They are not painted or anything, just buffed and some plastic renew applied. The number backgrounds are not painted on, just decals like the originals.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/rm80b_plastics_zps28022251.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/rm80b_plastics_zps28022251.jpg.html)
Cheers,
Alex
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I have always looked after my bikes and love to have them running well and looking pristine. I wont be molesting the rm but i do want her looking great. I have just spent 12 hours on the plastics. Still original but cleaned up, protected and with the original decal back on the rear mudguard.
They are not painted or anything, just buffed and some plastic renew applied. The number backgrounds are not painted on, just decals like the originals.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/rm80b_plastics_zps28022251.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/rm80b_plastics_zps28022251.jpg.html)
Cheers,
Alex
Nice .. we need a "LIKE" button because I'm liking that a lot Alex :)
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Looks and sounds GREAT Alex!! I would love to get hold of an RM80T or X, which were my first 2 80's.
Will have to catch up some day and get the old bikes together :D
Rod Gilchrist
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Lovely bike Alex ,thanks for posting results from back in the day ........Was a quick day that one.....I was a desparate man haha Great memories :-0
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Hey Rod, myself and a few of the boys will hopefully be looking at some Pre85 stuff next year so might see you then. I have a project building up a YZ125K to Yamaha Race Report specs. My website.... www.yz125k.weebly.com (http://www.yz125k.weebly.com)
Richo, just purchased a new project that will need its own thread soon. Its over east but will be heading to Perth soon...
Have already ordered new spoke kits, decals, seat cover, front number plate, and chain tensioner parts.....
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/RM80N_1_zpsf53e1fcf.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/RM80N_1_zpsf53e1fcf.jpg.html)
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/1979RM80N0_zpsc76def60.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/1979RM80N0_zpsc76def60.jpg.html)
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Hi Alex and members, I have my RM80B and was able to get all new original plastics NOS from Suzuki. All I need to finish the bike is the original back tyre - not a critical issue but if anyone knows where I can get one would be very appreciated - if someone has a pic of the tyre would be great also
Thanks!
P.S. I also have a 100% non molested CR125RZ from 1979 (original tyres, sprockets, everything) and also a showroom RM125B
Cheers and thanks
Mal
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Hey Mal,
Well done on the B plastics. Did you manage to get the front number plate? Those suckers are rare. I will take a close up pic of the rear tire on my B and also give you all the details on it, as it is still the original one on there from the showroom in 1977. My B also has the original chain and when i went to take it off to buff it up i couldn't as it is peened on with a rivet link.
Sounds like you have a nice bike collection going there too!! Didnt the Honda have a 23 inch wheel that year?
Cheers,
Alex
P.S, You should post up a pic of the B
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NICE RM 80N Alex ......you could do a Richo replica on that haha Lay the shocks down and a set of Gold DG rims with thick spokes...cool as :-)
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I have a DG muffler coming for it Richo as it has one from a ford falcon at the moment. Also, there are new silver Renthal bars coming, new chain and sprockets, a swag of original bolts, complete chain tensioner setup, fork seals, front plate, grips, brakes, levers, cables etc. Its another bike that hasnt been run in a while but this one has been thrashed a bit. Not all original but will be nice to do up and get the boy on for a bit of riding. If the shocks are knackered then Rod at http://www.radmotorcycleshockyrepairs.com.au/ can rebuild any old sealed shocks. He has already given me a quote.
Below is a few pics of the original tyres on my RM80B. Not sure if you can still get them Mal but that's what they came with in 1977 in Australia.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/rm80b_tyres_zpsd182de08.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/rm80b_tyres_zpsd182de08.jpg.html)
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those tyres are gold.... ;)
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Thanks Husky, the tyres are in great shape.
After i tucked the kids in, i ducked down to the shed and stripped the bike down to the frame. I'll take some pics but things are a bit rough up close. Swingarm, shocks, pegs, bars, and exhaust, head and cylinder definitely need a blast and paint. Frame is ok and i may just give it a good clean and touch up a few areas. Spokes, nuts and bolts to get cleaned and re-plated. Chain is still in one piece as it is riveted together but is in a bucket of degreaser and will get the wire wheel buffing treatment. I only have to replace about 4 small bolts on the whole bike due to previously rounded heads etc..
Pics to come...
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Thanks Alex - I'll gather some pics soon, I have bike in storage but will take it out for a blast soon. That back tyre brings back memories, we were riding BMX bikes when a kid in our town turned up with a spanking new RM80B - our jaws literally hit the ground - he took each of us for a ride on the back and I clearly remember that back tyre spinning the gravel while one of my mates started yelling and crying as he was so scared of the acceleration! lol
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Re the front numberplate - unfortunately I couldn't get hold of one - possibly by now they have an excellent as new quality NOS? Cheers
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Yeah Mal, those front plates.... ive got one coming from DC which is a mini front plate with brackets in rm colour. Once i add the black number background it should be a nice replacement. I wont get to anal over it. Bike has everything else so i am happy.
Anyway, popped into the shed and took a few snaps.
As you can see below, from a distance the bike looks great but up close reveals some worn and rusty bits. They are not eaten away but just 35 years of general wear and surface rust. Anyway, these parts are the worst and the rest just need a touch up. The muffler probably copped the worst corrosion on the bike. Its is still in excellent condition but has a few small bits that have really corroded through. No worries.... after a good blast and clean, i will Devcon the affected area. This stuff is used in the mines to patch worn metal parts so im sure my rm80 wont mind. Anyway, i dont want to get weld or get any heat on it as it may warp. Stand by for the results....
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/rm_rusty_bits_zps799b95f9.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/rm_rusty_bits_zps799b95f9.jpg.html)
I will be using my new blaster below... and the products that are sitting on it. I have tested the spray products for colour and durability etc and they seem great. I may powder coat some bits but these products will work fine with some as well.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/restoration_materials_zps31fd3d34.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/restoration_materials_zps31fd3d34.jpg.html)
The chain looked really bad and it is the original one from 77 so to me it was invaluable. It is riveted together so i kept it in one piece and soaked it... then i test buffed a small section. D.I.D 428 and it will come up nicely. I will finish it off then give it a light grease with that white stuff that the new bikes come with and it should look showroom.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/rm_did_428_zps9f3728bd.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/rm_did_428_zps9f3728bd.jpg.html)
OK, the tank. This was the one bit that i have been mulling over as it is the original paint job with original decals etc... But have a look at the pic and you can see the corrosion and this would be best to fix. I am going to remove the 3 original warning decals and save them on a clear contact sheet together with the vin decal. I have some OEM Suzuki decals and the 3 repro warning decals and i would like to get the tank repainted and clear coated withe all the new decals. Its a compromise but the tank should outlast me then...
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/rm_tank_corrosion_zps5ba9687b.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/rm_tank_corrosion_zps5ba9687b.jpg.html)
Bike may have to take a back seat for a while as i have all my other stuff i have to do.. but its hard not to duck down to the shed.........
Cheers,
Alex
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Would this be any good to you?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/SUZUKI-RM80-RM-80-NEW-YELLOW-PLATE-WITH-BLACK-BACKGROUND-VINTAGE-MOTOCROSS-/251628601339?pt=Motorcycles_Parts_Accessories&hash=item3a963bbffb&vxp=mtr
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Hey Saint. I did buy that plate and it is on the bike in one of the pics near the beginning of the post. The bloke that makes them is a good guy and i talked him into making that yellow Suzuki mini bike one as he normally does larger ones or white Yamaha ones. Its pretty good but i have got a another one on order which is a bit closer i think. Its here: https://www.dcvmx.com/xcart/product.php?productid=186885&cat=263&page=2 (https://www.dcvmx.com/xcart/product.php?productid=186885&cat=263&page=2) and has a lip and mounting brackets that are a bit more like the original.
Cheers,
Alex
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Update. Well, the bike has been coming along slowly but steadily. The frame and bits went to get blasted, galv undercoated and gloss black powder coated. Pic of the bits before.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/framebefore_zps60b4b806.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/framebefore_zps60b4b806.jpg.html)
And below is the frame and most of the bits back from the powdercoaters. The swingarm is still there as i had to get the bushes pressed out.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/frameafter_zps6f77c17f.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/frameafter_zps6f77c17f.jpg.html)
I used the Bunnings blaster at home to test its use with soda from Supercheap. Seems to work OK. I took the paint off the triple clamp with some paint stripper and then blasted it with the soda to clean it up. I have now painted it with some satin black epoxy. Pics show before and after. I also did a test on the brake hub. It only took a few seconds with the soda to strip the paint off the small test section.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/tripleclampbefore_zpsa09ee968.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/tripleclampbefore_zpsa09ee968.jpg.html)
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/tripleclampafter_zpsa1506eae.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/tripleclampafter_zpsa1506eae.jpg.html)
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Just a quick update. The soda blasting was a failure. Just didnt do much. I tipped it out and put the grit that came with the cabinet in and used that. Works pretty good and because its only a home unit, its not to abrasive on the alloy stuff. I picked up all the zinc parts today. Put the forks and handlebars back on and put the shocks back together. The swingarm.... took it to the powdercoaters, couldnt do it because of the rubber bushes.... got those pressed out, back to the powdercoaters.... they did it in satin black.....back to the powder coaters...ok this time so back to the shop to get the bushes pressed back in... wait 2 days then told bushes are shot.... hopefully pick swingarm up tomorrow with new bushes and then i can mount it with the shocks.. wheeewww.
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Well, ive been plodding along with the resto, doing a bit here and there. Swingarm is still fighting me all the way. The new bushes were pressed in a few millimeters too far so i had to do a little grinding to get them too fit. I had trouble getting the swingarm bolt in due to powdercoat build up. I finally got it all bolted up then realized i had it upside down. Anyway... its all good now. Below is a pic of progress so far.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/DSCF0566_zpsa86655b7.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/DSCF0566_zpsa86655b7.jpg.html)
Cheers,
Alex
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Looking great Alex,shes going to be a beauty ! I have a mate with 2 or 3 RM80Bs and Cs of which he is going to let me have one of them.He restores them too better than new.I will be getting a roughie to do myself.Keep up the good work .Regards Richard.
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looks real good - keep the updates coming
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Upside down!! that's something only I could do ;D :D
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Lucky you Richo if you can score a nice RM80. My RM80N gets here on the 16th Oct. Have a nice lot of goodies for it. Hope to get the B done soon, get it running and then bring her into the mancave. I'll keep the updates coming guys and try not to get any more part bolted on upside down. Blasted, prepped and painted the hubs in satin epoxy. Looks nice and i will let them cure a few days before trying to lace the freshly zinc plated original spokes and nipples.
I also cleaned, sanded and painted the bottom half of the engine and cases today. I used VHT case paint. Says you can touch it in 3 hours but it fully cures in 7 days. Will probably put the engine in the frame tomorrow and then prep and paint the cylinder and head and bolt those on.
Cheers,
Alex
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TANK:
OK, after much deliberation on whether to keep the tank original or recondition it, i decided to recondition it. Take a look at the pics below and you will see why. I don't think the original paint jobs from Suzuki were very good quality so over the years, the rust gets in and attacks the tank from under the paint. Anyway, as the tank had all the original decals in place, i took measurements and have posted them up for future reference. I also managed to save the decals onto a contact sheet and will store them away. I used paint stripper to strip the paint off, then blasted the surface rust off and sanded it back. It is still in really good nick and like new inside but the surface rust was terrible under the paint. Anyway, i left a small patch of good paint on top that was under a decal and use that to get a perfect match. It is going to get a new paint job with original Suzuki decals and aftermarket identical warning decals. Then hope to clear coat it. That should give it the protection it needs for the next 40 years.
Below is the tank decal measurements...
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/tank1_zpsf1e3966e.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/tank1_zpsf1e3966e.jpg.html)
More measurements for the warning decals
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/tank2_zps7b64cc8a.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/tank2_zps7b64cc8a.jpg.html)
Original warning decals saved to a contact sheet including the 650cc oil decal thats below the oil filler cap on the sidecover...
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/tank3_zps802e013d.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/tank3_zps802e013d.jpg.html)
Below is the surface rust that was under the paint...
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/tank4_zps76203e79.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/tank4_zps76203e79.jpg.html)
And finally, the tank stripped of paint using paint stripper, then blasted and sanded. A small good patch of paint has been left on top to get a perfect paint match.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/tank5_zpsb283522b.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/tank5_zpsb283522b.jpg.html)
Cheers,
Alex
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some serious work going on here ;)
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There is Husky. I thought if i could document all this stuff then it will help future restorers of rm80b's. Plus, its good fun. Wheels go back on the bike tomorrow. They are in the bike shop getting the tyres put back on. Respoking them was fun and a learning curve. Blasted and painted the hubs, replated the spokes and nipples and cleanded up the chrome rims. The hubs, spokes, nipples, bearings, tyres and tubes are all original from 1977 but the rim tapes were perished so i had to get new ones. Pics coming soon....
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I like that you've respoked a wheel but get the shop to put a tyre on.... ;D
I can change a tyre in 10 mins but I couldn't respoke a wheel to save myself :o
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Yes Husky, i have it back to front. On my XR500R, i had the wheels rebuilt then i tried to put a new back tyre on. Ended up wrecking the tyre and scratching the newly anodized rim. I steer clear of tyres now.
Anyhow, the little B is coming along. I installed the wheels and refitted the chain etc.. The chain i buffed then soaked in kero then used white chain lube to protect it. Also put the engine in and gear lever on.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/rolling1_zps9709b124.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/rolling1_zps9709b124.jpg.html)
Everything is fitting perfectly so far. Its like putting a new bike together. Up to this point the only new parts i have had to fit are the two swingarm bushes and two rim tapes as well as two or three nuts and bolts. Next is to give the head and cylinder a clean and paint and install them.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/rolling2_zps6273e925.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/rolling2_zps6273e925.jpg.html)
Cheers,
Alex
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Really 'top-notch' work Alex.
Great to see you going to the 'enth degree to bring this bike back to it's former self.
It's looking amazing.
Top work mate.
Cheers
Jock
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That is a stunning RM 80 B Alex!!!!!!
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Thanks for the comments guys. Its starting to come along now. I have most of it back together except tank, muffler, throttle and grips. I have been kicking it over to check spark but now it doesnt have one. Would this be from all the powder coat on the frame? Is the coil and/or cdi unit supposed to be grounded to the frame? There are two engine kill switch wires. One is hardwired into the switch and goes into a plug in the harness. The other is a loose wire and i think i have it correct. I have it on the kill switch handlebar strap and then running to the cdi unit fastening bolt on the steering stem. Does that sound right? I will have to work my way through it all but any ideas would be appreciated.
Cheers,
Alexs
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not sure about the electrics on the B but I did have that exact issue on my CR250M after powdercoating and had to grind a section of coat off to ensure proper earthing.
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yup..can cause electrical issues. Ideally an engine mount and a coil mount should have the powder coating removed. From memory the cdi has an earth wire so this contact should also be mounted to bare metal. If not a cdi mount may also need the same treatment ;)
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Ok, got a nice big fat blue spark back. It was powdercoat on the frame where the coil bolts on.
The project is nearly finished. The tank is ready to get painted. I have also removed a side cover as that is going with the tank so the colour can get matched up better.
As you can see from the pics below..the muffler was in a bit of disrepair. I baked it for a few hours to get all the moisture out and to help prevent future rust. Then i buffed it all back and applied some industrial Devcon. The hard part was smoothing it ready for painting. I used 280C case paint in several layers of paint and sanding to get an acceptable finish. Came up OK considering.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/muffler_zps5fd4b333.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/muffler_zps5fd4b333.jpg.html)
I have assembled the bike as far as i can go until the tank is done. I am quite happy with the results so far. It should start and run nicely when the tank is on and it has some fuel.
OK, details.... as i was putting it all together i measured and checked the piston. It is still the original and compression is very good. I have reconditioned the original chain, sprockets, hand grips, tyres, seat cover, tubes, levers, spokes, nipples, cables etc... as it came with off the show room floor in 1977. Even the original handlebars were restraightened and painted. What i have replaced is the paint and decals, swingarm bushes, 4 x exhaust springs, half a dozen nuts and bolts, front number plate, spark plug, airfilter and rim tapes. I still have the original 4 exhaust springs and may put those back on but i have to blast and paint them. The only part i was undecided about was the hand grips. They are the original ones but were a bit shabby. I used a black rubber repair kit to repair the cracks and have put them back on. It doesnt give the bike the "new" look but it adds to it originality. Below is the bike as of 9th October 2014, 37 years after it was made and still running strong.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/nearlyfinished_zps1e009299.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/nearlyfinished_zps1e009299.jpg.html)
Cheers,
Alex
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And here are some of the pics again a bit bigger... and i have just realized i used 2 of the original exhaust springs on the front. Its just that they are zinc coated instead of the original black, as they accidentally went to the zinc coaters with all the other parts...
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/DSCF0618_zpsa9c3fa8a.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/DSCF0618_zpsa9c3fa8a.jpg.html)
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/DSCF0616_zps590585ba.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/DSCF0616_zps590585ba.jpg.html)
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/DSCF0614_zpsf7d15523.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/DSCF0614_zpsf7d15523.jpg.html)
Cheers,
Alex
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Beautiful bike Alex,top job.......we should have a mini GP when they are all done haha Richo
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Ride It??? check out the post from popeye about adults and mini bikes.... ;D
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Awesome job!
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Well, finally the 1977 RM80B is completed. I just got the tank back from RedAlert Rod this boxing day and what a job he did. I gave him an OEM side cover that had been reconditioned and he took it in to a professional paint shop for matching. It came up with an exact match for Rolls Royce Colour Code: 9520131 Ext Code: # Year: 93 - 93 Colour Desc: SAFFRON YELLOW. Unbelievable that Rolls Royce would pick an 77 RM80 to base one of their expensive car colours on but there you go!! ;-) Anyway, Rod did the panel work, primer, base and 2 pak clear with matching decals and it is perfect. Anyone wanting to restore one of these can rest assured that the decal measurements provided in this thread and the colour matching is spot on to OEM originals. I fitted everything up except a fuel petcock for now and did a photo shoot. Even i am stunned at how good it all came out.
The bike is totally original except that elusive front number plate. The tyres, grips, chain, sprockets, seat cover etc are the same ones from 1977. The piston is still original standard size with good compression. Bike runs really well as per YouTube video.. see link in this thread.
I would like to thank Dave from Adelaide who sold me a good genuine bike.
Also like to thank RedAlert for really putting the finishing touch on the bike with such a good job on the tank.
Hope you enjoy the pics and the memories...
Cheers,
Alex
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/restore1_zps8c7ce85d.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/restore1_zps8c7ce85d.jpg.html)
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/restore2_zpsd0cb5161.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/restore2_zpsd0cb5161.jpg.html)
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/restore4_zps8a3a46fb.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/restore4_zps8a3a46fb.jpg.html)
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/restore3_zps3f2c5184.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/restore3_zps3f2c5184.jpg.html)
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/restore6_zps605a4b3f.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/restore6_zps605a4b3f.jpg.html)
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/restore5_zpsf473ecc0.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/restore5_zpsf473ecc0.jpg.html)
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/restore7_zps45e0a6d7.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/restore7_zps45e0a6d7.jpg.html)
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That is just bloody fantastic Alex. Well done.
regards Mark
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That is just bloody fantastic Alex. Well done.
regards Mark
Ditto that. Are you going to run the chain tensioner?
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Doc, from the pics i have seen, parts manual and info i have gathered, i am of the understanding that the chain tensioner on the B was an option. Its not even on the new one in the test in ADB mag from 1977. I built one up for the RM80N using all OEM parts and it will be great on that as it will be ridden. But for this old girl that wont be ridden, i probably wont put one on. I wouldnt ride it without one as i think chain derailments were a common thing back in the day.
Cheers,
Alex
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that visit must be getting closer - that is a joy to see ;D
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Absolutely magnificent Alex.......I love it !!!!! Well done .
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Alex, quite possible the early release models didn't have the tensioner. Mine and all the others I saw in the era at the tracks and showrooms came with one fitted hence the question ;) They were little rocketships in the day 8)
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nice job on the baby RM.
As for the tensioners,Suzuki had a habit of releasing promotional material showing machines not quite the same as we scored in the showroom. Usually the brochures show the first release US versions and a month after release the bikes and advertising changed to what was actually available to us. I cant remember which but i think it was an RM80 model that had totally different side covers off perhaps a JR ? Doc may remember the incident.
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Excellent workmanship Alex. With attention to detail like that on the little Suz, you could get a job at Rolls Royce......
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nice job on the baby RM.
As for the tensioners,Suzuki had a habit of releasing promotional material showing machines not quite the same as we scored in the showroom. Usually the brochures show the first release US versions and a month after release the bikes and advertising changed to what was actually available to us. I cant remember which but i think it was an RM80 model that had totally different side covers off perhaps a JR ? Doc may remember the incident.
I have put a copy of the brochure on the first page of this thread Pokey. Lots of JR type parts on it for the promo shots. I have the ADB shoot out from 77 with the B, YZ80D and XR75.. pic below with the "boys" on the bikes... no tensioner on the B. However, i may just start piecing one together just to make the old girl more complete.
(http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e249/alexbrown64/adbshootout_zps8de9d64f.jpg) (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/alexbrown64/media/adbshootout_zps8de9d64f.jpg.html)
Cheers,
Alex
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What a fantastic resto on an original "little gem"! You also have done it in good time, well done Alex! I will be watching out for the progess on the 125K.
Cheers
Ando
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That's a fantastic job, congratulations on a top quality resto. Hopefully get mine together soon also.
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What a fantastic resto on an original "little gem"! You also have done it in good time, well done Alex! I will be watching out for the progess on the 125K.
Cheers
Ando
Thanks fellas for the positive input. Ando, the 125 is coming along. I have just purchased another cylinder, head and powervalve which is in the US and being sent freepost to Eric Gorr at Forward Motion. He is going to do a resleeve back to original spec, port job to Yamaha race report, match the head and powervalve, supply Wossner piston kit and bead blast all parts. I'm also a whisker away from getting another set of cases as the main bearings fall in and out of the set i have.
Also look out for the RM80N i have nearly finished which is in the Suzuki section. My boy cant wipe the smile from his face. He will be riding this one soon. I got him a vintage Suzuki jersey for Christmas to go with it.
Cheers,
Alex
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Cool 8) how did you get all of that free post Alex?
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A lot of stuff is listed as free shipping on Ebay within America. So i purchased the parts within the US and they post them for free to anywhere else in the US, which in my case is the Forward Motion workshop where Eric Gorr does all the work to the cylinders and parts. I then have two choices when the parts are ready. Get Forward Motion to ship them to my US address (i use Comgateway) at a nominal fee and wait until i have a pile of parts and get them all sent at a discount together, or pay a lot of money to get the guys to ship them directly :-(
Cheers,
Alex
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Ok with it now ;)
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Hi where would be the best place to sell my RM80B and new parts (have a box of new OEM Suzuki parts incl brand new unused cylinder, front and rear guards, sidecovers, footpegs etc - I assume eBay?
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I would of loved those bits six months ago but i am very happy with mine. I would say there are a few guys on here with B type projects, you could advertize them in the for sale section on here.. The OEM stuff gets a good price. Ebay, especially the US site and with the dollar, i suspect would get you a good price for parts.
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I had one back in 77, a free bike :) sponsored by McCulloch Suzuki in Perth. I believe it was the first one in Australia as Mortlocks were the state distributer and somehow got them before the rest of oz. Revs magazine did a test/feature on it with Kevin White riding it.
Wish I still had it, it sounded so good and was fast.
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Good story Micko. That stinger sounds great and a light switch powerband. You must of been quick in the day to get a freebie. Leisky would of been around then too, as i saw him on a C the next year and he was phenomenal.
Cheers,
Alex
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Haha, not that quick just consistent. Finished 3rd in the state Titles that year on it,I was 13.Kevin White was given the bike by McCulloch Suzuki when it arrived and did the magazine test etc,unfortunately he (Great for me) had a growth spurt and must of been of age to ride RLH so moved up. They recommended me to Dave McCulloch so I was lucky enough to get the ride. That was when our home club was at Kurnell Rd in Kewdale. Jeff was a year younger so only really raced with him on Open days, he had a super fast XR75 that year. The next year they introduced the 100cc class and the RM100C came out so I moved up to that class in 78. They were the days !
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(https://scontent-lax.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/215494_10150238647120739_4166688_n.jpg?oh=e90b16dc7d4b5fcd3ba87e74f189f924&oe=55801923)
Andy Caldecott 1978
Mick Doohan also had a stint on an RM80C ;)