It's one thing to take a new bike off a showroom floor, bolt on a load of mods and call it custom. Sure, taking off one part and replacing it with another takes some mechanical skill, but what happens when there aren't any aftermarket parts available? What if everything had to be fabricated or retrofitted? Would it still be able to compete by today's standards or would it be left in the dust?
Starting with the heart and soul from the first sportbike, the original Suzuki GSX-R750, Super Streetbike set out to infuse modern parts and accessories in preparation for war with a modern motorcycle. The catch was that it had to retain its classic looks.
While searching the classified ads for cheap bikes, we ran across one that read, "Old GSX-R for sale. Doesn't run. Cheap."
Upon arrival we discovered something that only mildly resembled a bike. It hadn't been started in over a decade, but most of the original parts were intact-making it perfect for a project build.
The bike was stripped down and every last nut and bolt was separated into "useable" and "throw away" piles. Meanwhile, the frame was sent out for powdercoat while an inventory of aftermarket parts was compiled.
Blood, Sweat And Gears
The most important element in an endeavor as massive as this is to have a plan already in place. We knew, regardless of the bike's condition, that it would need new suspension, wheels and a motor build. These are major items, no doubt, but if you've budgeted ahead of time there won't be any surprises.
To bring handling up to date the stock front end was scrapped for a complete 2007 GSX-R750 setup. A bit of steering head work was required for proper fitment, and MotoGP Werks got that squared away. And just like that, the major portion of the front end was sorted.
There was a void to be filled in the braking department, but with the modern front end the options were numerous. Beringer calipers and rotors bolted right on, making this mod a walk in the park.
The original GSX-R came with a tiny 140mm rear tire, and obviously that wouldn't do. Updated wheels and tires were part of the plan, but putting a wider rim and tire on the narrow stock swingarm required a bit of muscle and a lot of fabrication. First, the stock swingarm was cut and widened to accept the larger 180 rubber. With a wider, stronger rear support system everything from caliper mounts to chain adjusters had to be fabricated to accept the new wheel.