Update 012 Let testing commence!
All preliminary building work is now complete. The “dummy” engine has been swapped for the original C90 engine, the inlet port extended and braced, exhaust primary stage completed, temporary (test) fuel tank fitted, and wiring loom extended to fit. The images below show most of these solutions, some temporary others are permanent.
The motor runs OK in its new location, despite severe vibration. The engine is exactly as I removed it from the C90 frame, where it was bolted firmly in place. During its original use I was never aware of a particular vibration problem, but then footpegs, bar grips and seat kept me isolated from the full effects, but mounted in my frame this seems a BIG problem. Everything rattles and shakes, and tools keep falling off the workbench with alarming regularity, so I’m quite surprised by the effect. I’m not sure why these vibration effects should be so different, perhaps it’s the “box” nature of the frame design.
The gearchange solution I’m using at the moment is a simple hand operated lever reaching down to a cut-down footchange lever. This rests alongside my left thigh and has a light simple operation. Eventually it will be replaced by a handlebar level system, but I can use it like this while I work on more urgent issues.
The first tests will be a short run around the industrial estate before going to a local disused airfield. At this stage all I’m checking is the driveline, brakes and steering are operative prior to going on the road. I will report on how it performs but I expect a further month of work making it road legal (fitting lights, indicators, etc).