the motorcycle of theseus

about

The motorcycle of Theseus is my solo touring rig. This motorcycle came to me after years of neglect along with no maintenance history. It appeared to be a low-mileage machine but as I got to know more about it I discovered the odometer broken. My assumption was that it is behind on all important maintenance items and so far that has turned out to be the case. In spite of the neglect this machine suffered it is proving to be a comfortable, easy to ride machine. I'm investing more time and money than I had hoped but this is the downside of keeping 50 year old motorcycles.

the motorcycle of theseus
the motorcycle of theseus

For those of you not familar with the paradox, here's an explanation of why I have named this machine "The Motorcycle of Theseus".

posts about the motorcycle of theseus

transmission replacement

clutch replacement

led conversion work

katdash

more miles

specifications

Engine & Performance

  • Type: Four-stroke, air-cooled, pushrod-operated Boxer twin (horizontally opposed)
  • Displacement: 798 cc (797.5 cc)
  • Bore x Stroke: 84.8 × 70.6 mm
  • Horsepower: 50 - 55 hp @ 6,000 to 7,250 RPM
  • Torque: 43 lb-ft (58 Nm) @ 4,000 RPM
  • Carburetion: Dual Bing constant-velocity carburetors
  • Top Speed: Approximately 110 mph (180 km/h)
  • Acceleration: 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds

Powertrain & Chassis

  • Transmission: 5-speed manual.
  • Final Drive: Shaft drive enclosed in the swingarm
  • Frame: Tubular steel double-loop frame
  • Front Suspension: Telescopic forks
  • Rear Suspension: Swingarm with dual shock absorbers, featuring external preload adjustment

Brakes & Wheels

  • Front Brakes: Standard perforated single disc brake
  • Rear Brakes: Expanding drum brake
  • Wheels: 19-inch front and 18-inch rear, featuring alloy rims with wire spokes

Dimensions & Capacities

  • Wheelbase: 57.7 inches (1,465 mm)
  • Dry Weight: Approximately 430 - 473 lbs (195 - 215 kg) fully fueled
  • Fuel Capacity: 6.34 US gallons (24 liters)
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