Monday, February 16, 2015

How NOT to Restore a Vintage MX Bike!

The shop that built this bike told the customer he was buying a museum quality restoration. You be the judge!


      


The worst part of this mess is the hacker charged the customer thousands of dollars who being 2000 miles away was unable to drop by to see the progress, or lack of as it were!


      
More non-attention to original fit, form and finish detail. And the hack job continues!




      
It keeps getting worse and worse!  


Whoever built this Yamaha really needs to get out of the craft especially if they are charging for their work. This is unacceptable!

In Summary: Investigate the shop or individual you are about to hand over your prized bike. Take your time to get to know them. Do the homework by talking to others that do “original restorations” successfully. Seek out people who have had work done by them prior to committing. Beware of buzz words and phrases like – Turn and Burn, They came from the factory rough, Not every bike was the same off the assembly line (especially with the Japanese brands), and our favorite – “New bikes sitting for 30 years should look that way” This owner was preyed upon and lied too expecting an “original restoration” on his YZ. This builder demonstrates that they have no expertise with Yamaha's and probably other brands as well. If you really want a showroom correct bike, keep the hands of people like this off your bike and continue looking elsewhere for the right craftsman. Require a detailed written build sheet agreed upon by both parties. Any deviations should be discussed prior and approved by you the owner. 

To see how a YZ125 should be restored, click this LINK