A newbie starting out on a rebuild/renovation...

[joshb]

Evening all

After what seems a lifetime of wanting to own an LC, I finally have a 350LC. A 4LO project bike that I'm about to strip down and rebuild. A couple of questions, if anyone can help?

1. Any recommendations for somewhere to get paint done, preferably in Kent? I'm looking to do a yellow and black speedblock, Kenny Roberts style and want a really good paint job.

2. Paint or powder cost for the frame? I'm in two minds and would appreciate any thoughts and advice.

3. Any specific pitfalls or things to look out for?

Thanks in advance for any answers. I look forward to getting the old girl looking sparkly and new!

[Delbert]

Hi and welcome
I preferred to paint my frame in 2k , was blasted , etched then painted glossblack 10 years ago , and still looks as new today , think you will get a mixed opinion on this one

[russpuss]

I had my x7 blasted and powdered, all black parts on bike £60 mates rates.

[dusty350]

Hi Josh
Welcome to the forum. I bet you cant wait to get started
Frame finish is down to personal taste. I always go with powdercoat, but it's not an original finish - parts were painted by the factory. A good firm will give great results with either process.
Not sure about painters in your area, but someone will come along with help
As for pitfalls - tanks rot and may have had liner applied which can degrade. Parts both new and second hand can cost now, and a decent rebuild is never cheap. Hopefully your bike is as complete as possible - it will save money in the long run. Lots of parts are still available new - check out Norbo's shop on this forum, plus firms like Fowlers in Bristol. And check out the resto section on here, most problems are covered in there

Good luck and enjoy the build.

Dusty

[sbscnor]

Welcome aboard, best tip I can give is before you buy spares check with your Yamaha dealer first the part may still be available.

[markhoopy]

Jan 5, 2016 23:48:51 GMT 1 Delbert said:

Hi and welcome
I preferred to paint my frame in 2k , was blasted , etched then painted glossblack 10 years ago , and still looks as new today , think you will get a mixed opinion on this one

Same here - prefer the original finish to powder-coating and my frame, swinging arm, stand etc are all painted.

[arrow]

Welcome in. Good luck with your build.

[4l04ever]

I would powder coat the frame if you are going to be riding the bike. If it is just going on show, then painting would be fine :-)

[joshb]

Thanks for the feedback and advice, all. I think I'll go powder coat. I have a couple of good options locally, so it's on with the strip down...