Me Gusta! '04 Racer's Edge AZ TRX Flat Drag Build

[ghott]

I posted this thread on a different forum - but figure'd I would post over here in case there might be some interest. I'll be tracking the progress of the flat dragger build I'm attempting to complete over the off-season. My goal is to create the lightest and quickest drag bike I can on a pretty tight budget.

The theme for this build is: ME GUSTA!

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/megusta1.png

First thing's first...these will be the decals that will go on the hood of this bike :):

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/megusta2.jpg


This whole build started off with me purchasing an engine from my buddy Jeff in Maine. He sent the engine directly to Mr. John Dyer at Racers Edge AZ for me. While the engine was en route - I also shipped a 48 Lectron, cut FCI, and a Programmable Dynatek to Racers Edge AZ.

John and Bret at RE AZ really took care of me in a BIG way. I can't say enough about their customer service and attention to detail. They set the engine up the way it should be and dyno tuned it. They went above and beyond in every way possible! A few pictures:

Parts boxed up and ready to go out to RE AZ:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/reaz1.jpg

My engine, intake, and carb in RE AZ's chassis ready to hit their dyno at the RE AZ shop.

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/reaz2.jpg


I received the engine back in October from RE AZ:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/engine1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/engine2.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/engine3.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/engine4.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/engine5.jpg


I purchased a few more supporting parts - CP Billet throttle, Manual tensioner, DASA Shorty, DASA header pipe w/ bung, and a 48 HSR setup by KFXGuy to try:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/parts1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/parts2.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/parts3.jpg


I also purchased some rear tires - 22x14-10 STU Mini Desert Traks on 10x10 blue labels:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/reartires1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/reartires2.jpg


After all that, I installed the new engine in my current chassis. For those who aren't familiar with what my "current chassis" is - it's a full weight, mostly stock '05 chassis with a +4" swing arm, stock rear shock, and no wheelie bar. I quickly figured out that this was a little too much engine for that setup.

BUT, that chassis worked perfectly for the little SB/SS engine - and I didn't want to start hacking up the chassis since I've had it since 2006.

Thus, I decided to jump on craigslist and find a stock bike to turn into a dedicated drag bike and to keep the other chassis as a fun/fair racing bike.

I found this - mostly stock '04 - on craigslist for a decent price and bought it:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/bike1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/bike2.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/bike3.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/bike4.jpg

I then started tearing it down and selling as many stock parts as I could off of it to off-set the cost of go-fast parts.

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/bike5.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/bike6.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/bike7.jpg


Drag parts started rolling in the mail - set of Shaws and an oil cooler delete:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/parts4.jpg


The biggest step for the engine this winter is a cut transmission. After talking with several people and John at RE AZ...they've talked me into trying one. Just gotta save up the $$$ for that piece.

Hopefully by the time this thing is complete, tuned, and going down the track...my expression will be something like:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/megusta2.png

[ghott]

Here are couple of pictures of when I pulled my SB/SS engine out of the stock chassis to try out the big engine earlier in November 2013.

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/stockchassis1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/stockchassis2.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/stockchassis3.jpg

[ghott]

Some progress. Got some parts in thanks to a few forum members - black plastics, stock throttle and cable, parking brake block-off, temp gauge, and a DASA mid-pipe:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/novparts.jpg



And got some stickers in to represent:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/novstickers.jpg



Few more parts in - new carrier with bearings, heat shield, big stickers:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/dec-1.jpg


And even more parts in:

I really wanted to do all brand new parts from Stellar Performance and Machining...but I gotta try and do things on a budget.

- Got my dad's old Stellar +4" swing arm as a hand-me-down. Will just have to get some wheelie bar mounts welded onto it.
- Got my dad's old DID X-Ring chain - it'll clean up very nice.
- Got a nice used radiator off evil bay
- Pulled the Dasa shorty and mid-pipe off my little bike and she's reserved for the new one
- Last but not least - my new buddy from Kentucky hooked me up with a great deal on some Fireball +2/-2 A-arms powdercoated flat black

Pics:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/a-arms1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/a-arms2.jpg


And last but not least, got the chassis torn down quite a ways:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/progress-nov1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/progress-nov2.jpg

[ghott]

Few new parts - JJ&A Play axle (factory blemish), number plate, clutch lever, handle bar cover, OEM handle bars/grips, LFS (Lectron Fuel Systems) needle and Lectron needle adjusting tool.

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/parts_dec_1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/parts_dec_2.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/parts_dec_3.jpg


A few more parts - brake lining, SS brake lines, kill switch, and front rotors:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/late_dec_parts.jpg


Got this chassis broken down a little further - a-arms, tie rods, hubs, spindles, steering stem, and bars removed. Still a LONG ways to go.

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/chassis_dec_1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/chassis_dec_2.jpg

[ghott]

Little update...little more progress...

My Dad and I did over 3 hours of sanding on the frame:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_05-1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_05-2.jpg

Worked on the spindles and hubs; as you can see below, they were in pretty ugly shape:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_05-3.jpg

We sanded everything and my Dad hit the spindles and hubs with the wire brush on his bench grinder. The spindles shined up nicely - the hubs were still kinda ugly:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_05-4.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_05-5.jpg

Decided to paint the hubs flat black to match the a-arms and the frame (will be painting the frame flat black as well) - I was only able to get 1 coat of primer on them before having to take the wife out to dinner:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_05-6.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_05-7.jpg

And lastly, couple more parts came in - toggle switch for the fan, motion pro tygon fuel line (hoping this doesn't kink), and a used rear brake rotor:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_05-8.jpg

[ghott]

More progress:

Got it torn down to the bare frame:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_12-01.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_12-02.jpg

And bare subframe:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_12-03.jpg

After a lot of sanding and cleaning - got it hanging for paint (yeah I know, I should powder it, but I'm too cheap):
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_12-04.jpg

Looks like some Dexter stuff about to go down:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_12-05.jpg

Frame and subframe primered:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_12-06.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_12-07.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_12-08.jpg

Spindles polished, front hubs primed and painted, and assembled with rotors - brake stay polished, and some new lug nuts:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_12-09.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_12-10.jpg

Steering stem before polishing, primer, and paint:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_12-11.jpg

Steering stem and pegs after polishing, primer, and paint:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_12-12.jpg

[ghott]

More progress...

Was able to get the frame and subframe painted and back together:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_19-1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_19-2.jpg

Stem installed:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_19-3.jpg

Got a new-used 0-400lb. scale:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_19-4.jpg

Weight of the frame, subframe, and stem:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_19-5.jpg

Finally got a wheelie bar and mount thanks to my buddy ketch. The top bar mount is for an 06+ running a rear strut. I'm having Tim @ Stellar Performance make me a top-bar mount that attaches to my swingarm since I'm running a rear shaw:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_19-6.jpg

A drag cut harness came in the mail:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_19-7.jpg

[ghott]

Little more progress...got most of the wiring, controls, and front end installed.

Was going to do spindle mount fronts...but they are a little too rich for my blood for now.

Installed so far:
- Drag cut wiring harness (El Duner/Boogie's old harness) and stock coil
- Fireball -2/+2 a-arms and tie-rods
- 14.75" Marvin Shaw Comps
- Stock 04/05 spindles, hubs, rotors, calipers
- Stock 04/05 steering stem, handle bars, grips, front brake lever, handle bar cover
- Stainless front brake lines
- Chariot Performance billet throttle w/ Lectron cable
- Outlaw AOF clutch lever and perch
- Pro Armor kill switch

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_25-1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_25-2.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_25-3.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_25-4.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_25-5.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_25-6.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_25-7.jpg

Couple more parts came in:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_01_25-8.jpg

[ghott]

Last of the progress for now (2/2/2014):

Few new parts in: Front struts, SS pivot bolt, TM Designs chain guide, Moose poly case saver, 18.5" SLS smoothies on 10x4 drag cut fronts (thanks John @ SandToyz), and a whole lot of OEM parts from Service Honda:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_02_02-1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_02_02-2.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_02_02-3.jpg

Cut the front off the frame...have some frame straps coming from beastieboy...and installed the front struts in place of the shaws to save a little more weight:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_02_02-5.jpg

New clutch cable installed:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_02_02-6.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_02_02-7.jpg

Rear caliper cleaned up and e-brake block off installed:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_02_02-8.jpg

Master cylinder, reservoir and line, chain roller, and SS pivot bolt installed:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_02_02-9.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_02_02-10.jpg

[Scro]

Awesome build thread. Have you thought about removing the front brakes for weight? If it's a drag only bike, I don't see where you would need them.

[ghott]

Awesome build thread. Have you thought about removing the front brakes for weight? If it's a drag only bike, I don't see where you would need them.

Thanks! And yes, I really want to remove the front brake setup and hubs for some spindle mount front wheels...but they are pretty expensive. When funds allow it - they'll be added.

[cheater13]

Love threads like this. Awesome build man! Can't wait to see the finished product.

[LxMxL97]

You can just not put them on you don't need any special parts to do it

[ghott]

Ya'll have talked me into ditching the front brakes - will be taking them off this weekend (hoping I will be able to ditch the hubs eventually if I find a decent deal on some spindle mounts!).

[cheater13]

Ya'll have talked me into ditching the front brakes - will be taking them off this weekend (hoping I will be able to ditch the hubs eventually if I find a decent deal on some spindle mounts!).
Cheapest I found for our Hondas are around $140 apiece. Not sure on shipping though.

[ghott]

Cheapest I found for our Hondas are around $140 apiece. Not sure on shipping though.

And that's probably without tires. Those are so expensive.

[cheater13]

And that's probably without tires. Those are so expensive.
Yep, without tires. That's why I just went with the .125s.

[ghott]

Some progress today. It was cut short thanks to one of the bolt threads on the right tie rod ball joint getting screwed up. Not sure how/why it happened - wasn't cross threaded...maybe we just wore it out taking the nut on/off trying to get the toe and caster/camber set properly.

Few more parts came in this weekend:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_02_08-01.jpg

Picked up some spiked and screwed Ohtsu 501's on OEM wheels from my buddy Jim K today...if I don't get some traction with these - then well, I don't know:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_02_08-02.jpg

Sold my B2B 10 extremes to pick up these SLS 12 Paddle staggereds. They aren't as wide as I wanted and they don't have the rollout that I wanted - but they were a decent deal - if all else fails I'll use these on my little bike:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_02_08-03.jpg

Front brakes removed, front frame straps installed:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_02_08-04.jpg

Front brakes removed:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_02_08-05.jpg

No more front brake lever/master cylinder:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_02_08-06.jpg

Radiator installed:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_02_08-07.jpg

[Blodg]

I am not a drag racer but I do enjoy the useful information on your website and I enjoy the level of detail in this build thread, thanks for sharing!

[cheater13]

Is them frame straps just to protect the frame from being exposed? Wander if I can get some for my ole 400ex...

[ghott]

I am not a drag racer but I do enjoy the useful information on your website and I enjoy the level of detail in this build thread, thanks for sharing!

Thanks man!


Is them frame straps just to protect the frame from being exposed? Wander if I can get some for my ole 400ex...

The frame straps are just to clean up the looks of the front of the frame after we cut it. Not sure if the 450R straps will fit the 400ex - but I can put you into contact with the gentleman I purchased them from if you're interested. I'm sure you could easily make a set if you're decent with fabrication (which I'm definitely not, heh).

[ghott]

Little more progress this weekend.

Few parts - number plate (thanks to my pops), heim joint, staging disks, lockout brake lever:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_16_parts.jpg

Cut up the stock airbox:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_16_airbox.jpg

Finished the front end (less the plastics) and ran the radiator overflow line (hoping this works ok):
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_16_front_1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_16_front_2.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_16_front_3.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_16_front_4.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_16_front_5.jpg

RE AZ pegs installed and a little bit of the rear suspension setup; waiting for the swing arm and wheelie bar mount now:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_16_rear_1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_16_rear_2.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_16_rear_3.jpg

I found a nice shipping container for the engine at Home Depot. It'll hopefully be going out to John at RE AZ some time this week to have the trans cut:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_16_shipping.jpg

[cheater13]

I definitely should of used something like that to ship my motor or it wouldn't be getting fixed again.

But looks good man. Your progressing faster than I am, lol. How lighter are them buff tires compared to the little scooter tires most of us run? How well do they turn?

[ghott]

Thanks man, slow and steady.

The front buffed smoothies are around 4 - 4.5 lbs each. One of the front smoothies mounted on my 10x4 drag cut Douglas .125 wheels weighs in at 6lbs 8oz. I'm not sure how that compares to the weight of the scooter tires though? I know the scooter tires are light, but I don't run them because I race in a lot of sand. In the sand, the scooter tires tend to dig in and push the sand. The buffed smoothies give a bit more flotation and don't sink in and push the sand nearly as much as the skinny scooter tires.

[2001400exrida]

I like how you cut the airbox like that and then still left the mounts in order to support it. I'm going to use your pictures and try to do something very close, have been debating on fully removing it, but if i don't it'll hit my swingarm on the jumps.

also, where did you get that little billet plug that fills the hole in the intake tube where the big plastic thing normally is?

[ghott]

I like how you cut the airbox like that and then still left the mounts in order to support it. I'm going to use your pictures and try to do something very close, have been debating on fully removing it, but if i don't it'll hit my swingarm on the jumps.

also, where did you get that little billet plug that fills the hole in the intake tube where the big plastic thing normally is?

That's a billet resonator plug from Demon Industries (back when they were still in business). It was pretty spendy when I bought it new...something to the tune of ~$40 w/ shipping. It was the only one that I found that wasn't hollow on the inside and looked good tho. You could probably make your own out of a 2-liter bottle cap for free...but this one looks trick hah.

Here's the plug I was using previously (if atvriders will allow ebay links)...it's hollow on the inside tho: http://www.ebay.com/itm/2004-2009-TRX-450R-RESONATOR-BLOCK-OFF-PLUG-/220380423173?pt=Motors_ATV_Parts_Accessories&hash=item334fb26405&vxp=mtr

Pic comparison...

eBay plug:
http://garyhott.com/pics/gallery/01-trx450r_specific/02-mods/air_filters_and_intakes/370.jpg

http://garyhott.com/pics/gallery/01-trx450r_specific/02-mods/air_filters_and_intakes/380.jpg

http://garyhott.com/pics/gallery/01-trx450r_specific/02-mods/air_filters_and_intakes/21.jpg

And the Demon plug:
http://garyhott.com/pics/tech/breathers/06_b.jpg

http://garyhott.com/pics/tech/breathers/06_c.jpg

http://garyhott.com/pics/tech/breathers/06_f.jpg

[ghott]

111 lbs. of engine, carburetors, seals, gaskets, and electronics bundled up and heading to AZ tomorrow.

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_ship.jpg


Also got a nice shipment of Maxima fluids in for the 2014 season:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_fluids.jpg

[cheater13]

Wish I found something like that before I shipped my motor and it got busted. Definitely worth the extra money in my eyes now. I learned my lesson, lol. UPS totally screwed me out of my $1,500.

Good thing I found someone local now that does killer work. I'm having my motor done for the 2nd time in two months now since I want bigger.

[2001400exrida]

thanks for the link to the ebay one. I'm gonna buy that one i think, i just can't stand the freaking big chunky clear resevoir deal.

[ghott]

Wish I found something like that before I shipped my motor and it got busted. Definitely worth the extra money in my eyes now. I learned my lesson, lol. UPS totally screwed me out of my $1,500.

Good thing I found someone local now that does killer work. I'm having my motor done for the 2nd time in two months now since I want bigger.

Man, that sucks. I absolutely loathe UPS - probably one of the top 3 worst businesses I've ever had the displeasure of working with.

I'm hoping for much better results with FedEx. We'll see next Wednesday when the engine arrives in AZ - hoping its in one piece.

How big are you going with your EX? You should just get a 450R :devil:


thanks for the link to the ebay one. I'm gonna buy that one i think, i just can't stand the freaking big chunky clear resevoir deal.

NP, and I agree on the reservoir. The plug makes for a much cleaner looking intake.

[cheater13]

I'm keeping it a 426 for right now. I ran stock bore last year. Randy's going to go ahead and set me up a +1 valve setup and redoing the porting. Later in race season, I'm going with the biggest Web Cam I can. The one I just got put it will only be a few months old. :p

If I have shifting problems like I did last year, I'm doing it early so I can go ahead and get the forks replaced, lol.

The beast will still look in stock form cause I want it to be thought of as a sleeper. I want a 450 pretty bad but waiting on a good deal on a blown up one or one that needs minor work. I'm in a financial hole with mine right now. It still isn't together yet but will be 70% together next weekend.

[ghott]

Got a few more parts in - Stellar Machine top wheelie bar mount, 37t Aluminum rear sprocket, 13-15t front sprockets, breather filter, and some reflective heat tape for the bottom of the gas tank:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_23_parts.jpg

Got my swing arm back from having the wheelie bar mounts welded on, also replaced the heim joints in the wheelie bar:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_23_swinger.jpg

Got the rear end finished up today:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_23_1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_23_2.jpg

And now she's officially a roller:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_23_3.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_23_4.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_23_5.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_23_6.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_23_7.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_23_9.jpg

And I decided to weigh it like it sat today (no engine, wheelie bar, chain, fluid, plastics, etc.):
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_23_weight1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/feb_23_weight2.jpg

[cheater13]

Looks good man. Nice progress. If everything goes well and I get my frame back Saturday, I'll have a roller as well.

[ghott]

Looks good man. Nice progress. If everything goes well and I get my frame back Saturday, I'll have a roller as well.

Thanks man. It will definitely feel good to get yours off the jack and into a rolling state...at least it did for me. Post up some pictures when you're able.

[ghott]

Not a ton of progress this week...mostly info.
- Engine made it to Racers Edge AZ and is already split
- Going with a bigger crank thanks to John at RE AZ...+6 w/ a Carillo rod...so she'll be a 545cc now
- Had to order new main bearings and new 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gear (trans wasn't in the greatest shape)
- Got the bottom portion of the wheelie bar cleaned, sanded, primered, and painted (no pictures yet...waiting on the top bar to come back)

Biggest thing this weekend was getting the chassis and all the parts moved from my pop's garage down to my garage:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_03_02-1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_03_02-2.jpg

I also picked up some hardware and some Plasti Dip and some prep stuff to use the Plasti Dip (front wheels)
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_03_02-3.jpg

Had to take another shot of the spikes in these Ohtsu's...things are long:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_03_02-4.jpg

[ghott]

Before:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/gas_tank_1.jpg

After:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/gas_tank_2.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/gas_tank_3.jpg

[cheater13]

How's she goin Gary? Any updates on anything?

Looks like you're makin some good progress.

[ghott]

Not much progress on the bike this weekend because I became a new dad! Little girl was born on Saturday at 9:37pm weighing in at 7 lbs. 7 oz.

[Blodg]

Congratulations!

[cheater13]

Not much progress on the bike this weekend because I became a new dad! Little girl was born on Saturday at 9:37pm weighing in at 7 lbs. 7 oz.

Congratulations man! When she grows up, make sure the first thing you're teachin her is how to race. ;)

[2001400exrida]

Congrats on the new addition. What's the curt hitch going on? I put a curt on my vehicle they're sturdy !

[chad502ex]

Awesome build Gary! I'm really impressed! When you are finished, I'd bet you'll be bringing home podiums each event. Let me know when and where you are racing and I'll try and cheer you on... Thanks for sharing man.. ;)

[OTMTRX]

Please paint the radiator Gary...?

Looks awesome anyways..

[ghott]

Thanks guys, appreciate the congrats! Very happy!

The hitch is going on my wife's Toyota Camry for a little trailer we bought to haul one quad with hah.

Chad, I will most definitely let ya know when and where I'll be racing at this year - would be great to see ya out there...maybe we could even get ya to bring a bike and have some fun too!!??

Stew - my pop's keeps begging me to paint the radiator too...but I keep telling him that the plastic will be covering it up :)



Ok, time for some progress on the build.

New parts in last week and early this week...JJ&A 3-spoke hubs/wheels, DLR roller bearings, and an adjustable rear strut:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/03_12_newparts1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/03_12_newparts2.jpg

Took off the rear Shaw/Lowering Link/Stock Linkage and installed the rear strut (have to get some different heims tho):

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/03_12_rear1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/03_12_rear2.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/03_12_rear3.jpg

Had the top bar of the wheelie bar cut down to fit properly, sanded, primed, and painted everything, and replaced the heims:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/03_12_rear4.jpg

And lastly, my PlastiDip experiment (also big thanks to my Dad for helping me get the roller bearings into the JJ&A hubs...what a pain)...

Wheels/hubs before:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/03_12_wheels1.jpg

During:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/03_12_wheels2.jpg

After:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/03_12_wheels3.jpg

After with hubs installed:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/03_12_wheels4.jpg

And the wheels/hubs installed:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/03_12_setup1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/03_12_setup2.jpg

[ds268]

Looking good!

That radiator is just so..... silver

[OTMTRX]

Stew - my pop's keeps begging me to paint the radiator too...but I keep telling him that the plastic will be covering it up :)

It's gonna stick out like a sore thumb mate, I thought the same.. I even ended up plasti-dipping the overflow bottle cos it stood out next to the black.

Listen to your father! Lol.

[LxMxL97]

I've always been curious about the plasti dip and how well it holds up? Are there any advantages from that and paint?

[ghott]

It's gonna stick out like a sore thumb mate, I thought the same.. I even ended up plasti-dipping the overflow bottle cos it stood out next to the black.

Listen to your father! Lol.

Lol!


I've always been curious about the plasti dip and how well it holds up? Are there any advantages from that and paint?

Plasti dip will peel off pretty easily (preserves the finish under it) - where paint...well...won't. :)

Little bit of progress this weekend. Pops and I got the wheelie bar mounted up and set to where we hope it will need to be...and we lowered the front end a bit. So far she weighs in at 164.5 lbs with no engine/carb, plastics, or fluids. Still hoping to be under 300 lbs. ready to run with the bar and fluids!

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/15_mar_2014_1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/15_mar_2014_2.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/15_mar_2014_3.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/15_mar_2014_4.jpg

[cheater13]

Looks good man! Wish mine weighed as little as yours, haha.

[ghott]

Lighter the parts...the more expensive they are :cuss:

[cheater13]

Lighter the parts...the more expensive they are :cuss:
Haha you're right on that one man!

[ghott]

Little bit of snow day progress...cleaned the plastics up a little bit and put the stickers on:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/st_patty_day_3.jpg


And thanks to my pops for the new tool chest and a few new tools!

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/st_patty_day_1.jpg

[ghott]

Little intake cutting action.

Before:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/intakecut1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/intakecut2.jpg

After:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/intakecut3.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/intakecut4.jpg

[ghott]

Since everyone was giving me crap, including my dad, about the silver radiator...I took advantage of some warm weather today and painted it:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/march_rad_1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/march_rad_2.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/march_rad_3.jpg

[cheater13]

Your quad looks badazz Gary. Definitely like the blacked out look.

Any updates on your engine getting back?

[OTMTRX]

Since everyone was giving me crap, including my dad, about the silver radiator...I took advantage of some warm weather today and painted it:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/march_rad_1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/march_rad_2.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/march_rad_3.jpg

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww274/stewart6111/Stuff/my-work-here-is-done_zps863af02b.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/stewart6111/media/Stuff/my-work-here-is-done_zps863af02b.jpg.html)

[ghott]

LMAO Stew!

Little bit of progress to report...

- John at RE AZ finished the tranny, trenched the cases for the new crank, and assembled the bottom end
- He also had to mill the bottom of the cylinder a bit to get things setup the way he wanted
- Hoping it'll hit the dyno some time this coming week!

I did a lot of measuring on the chassis this weekend with quite a few sets of different tires, different length adjustable struts, and wheelie bar adjustments. I may end up getting a new bar made...not sure yet.

Did a few other odds and ends too, cut the rear plastics (bike sits too low in the rear and would rub if I didn't cut them - saved over a pound though.

Couple of new struts:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_mar_29_1.jpg

ESR temp gauge and few more heims/bungs:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_mar_29_2.jpg

Temp gauge installed:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_mar_29_3.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_mar_29_4.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_mar_29_5.jpg

Few sets of rear tires to record measurements for:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_mar_29_6.jpg

Testing and more testing:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_mar_29_7.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_mar_29_8.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_mar_29_9.jpg

Rear plastics trimmed up:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/2014_mar_29_10.jpg

[ghott]

It's dyno day at RE AZ:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/dynoday.jpg

[LxMxL97]

What's the numbers?

[ghott]

What's the numbers?

More than 40, less than 80 :)



Another pic from dyno day thanks to John @ Racers Edge AZ.

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/dynoday2.jpg

Testing was done with a cut 04/05 FCI, 48 Lectron carb, and MR12 fuel.

In-frame DASA shorty vs. OOF DASA...made the same power - OOF didn't have a nice A/Fr curve.

Here's the graph I was most curious about and wanted to post for anyone that was curious like me. The Lectron is definitely the ticket on this build for drag racing. The HSR is down about 2hp at peak and a couple places throughout the curve.

48 Lectron (red line) vs. a worked 48 HSR (black line):
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/dynoday4.jpg

[cheater13]

Wish my bike had that much power! :(

Looks good Gary! You have few weeks to get that engine back and in that frame until test and tune!

[ghott]

Yours just might!

I'm trying to get this thing done in time to do the Newtown, VA test and tune on April 19th....crunch time.

[LxMxL97]

I was looking at the pics and did you get some new front shocks?

[ghott]

I was looking at the pics and did you get some new front shocks?

The front suspension has changed a couple times. I started with Marvin Shaws, then went to the aluminum struts...then I cut the struts down to make them a bit shorter.

And a small update...couple new parts...

Think I was able to provide everyone in my neighborhood within a half mile radius with some permanent brain damage while transferring the MR12 from the VP container to a metal safety gas can. Stuff is potent.

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_3_2014_2.jpg

[Blodg]

think i was able to provide everyone in my neighborhood within a half mile radius with some permanent brain damage while transferring the mr12 from the vp container to
lmao

[ghott]

Good bit of progress this weekend. Got the engine back from RE AZ (big thanks again to John and Bret for all of the hard work, quick turnaround time, and awesome customer service) - got it installed into the chassis and fired up (big thanks to my Dad for coming down and helping me with it). Many pics to follow:

Picked it up from a Fedex warehouse on Saturday morning:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_6_2014_2.jpg

Like unwrapping a gift on Christmas morning:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_6_2014_3.jpg

Engine in the chassis and secured with motor mounts:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_6_2014_4.jpg

Electronics:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_6_2014_5.jpg

Most everything plumbed:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_6_2014_6.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_6_2014_7.jpg

Chain mocked up:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_6_2014_8.jpg

Exhaust installed:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_6_2014_9.jpg

Topshot of the filter, intake, and carb:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_6_2014_10.jpg

Front fenders and hood installed:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_6_2014_11.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_6_2014_12.jpg


And lastly, a less exciting development. Spent more $$$ on gas (C12 this time):
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_6_2014_1.jpg

[cheater13]

That filter is a monster compared to mine I have on my velocity intake!

Glad to see it's all coming along though!

[ghott]

Thanks man, and yeah - the RE AZ filter is huge...its the largest one I have.

[ghott]

Little bit of progress through the week...thanks to my pops for coming over after work to help me out with a lot of this. Two people make things go such much faster.

Rear brake lever cut and modified to clear the pegs - was also able to get the fluid in and bled...so I actually have brakes now :)
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_11_2014_1.jpg

Clearanced the Moose poly case saver so I could fit a 15t sprocket in there:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_11_2014_2.jpg

Cut the chain to length and installed it:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_11_2014_3.jpg

Brand new 3-bar wheelie bar - fully adjustable thanks to Jordan @ Turbo Chassis - awesome price, customer service, and quick turnaround. Looks and fits awesome:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_11_2014_4.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_11_2014_5.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_11_2014_6.jpg

Lastly...few more parts in, rear sprockets, fuel line, 90* fuel fitting so I don't kink the fuel line, and some neat little grenade valve stem covers:
http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_11_2014_7.jpg

[ghott]

Pretty much finished up the build today.

Got some more parts in...motor mount bolts, oil filters, and some tapered lug nuts for OEM Honda wheels on the JJ&A lugs.

Also buttoned up a lot of little stuff like the fuel line and the 90* turn it has to make for the Lectron...put a larger front sprocket on so the chain wouldn't rub the swinger, and drilled the top bar for the wheelie bar to get it set at the right height.

I was also able to weigh it today. I was shooting for 300 lbs or under and I met that goal. She came in at 285.5 lbs ready to go down the track...that is with the bar, all fluids, and a gallon of gas. With everything except the bar - she came in at 270 lbs.

I put my street tires on it and took it for a spin through my development for the first time today...made the neighbors angry and feels great - hoping it transfers well to the track. However, I will never ride this bike on pavement again...way too twitchy at speed.

Thanks again for all of those who have helped me out with parts, work, fabrication, help and guidance - my Dad, John & Bret at RE AZ, Brently at Dune Toyz, Matt at Dynomite, Jeff at OCP, Jordan at Turbo Chassis, Tim and Doc at Stellar, John at Sand Toyz Unlimited, Jeff & Sandy at JJ&A, Pooh at Service Honda, Paul at Woodward Specialties, Dennis at Packard Ent, Roger at Fireball, BB3 Fabrications, four-fitty, cannondalemaine, jlowe, beastieboy, ketch450r, drag530r, elduner, burke78, kfxguy, trx500r, and there are probably quite a few that I can't think off of the top of my head.

Here's the last major pic dump. Hope you guys enjoyed the build thread and pics. Wish me luck that I don't hurt myself with this thing....or blow it up...or ruin the override!

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_2.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_3.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_4.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_5.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_6.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_7.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_8.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_9.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_10.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_11.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_12.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_13.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_14.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_15.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_16.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_17.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_18.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_19.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_12_2014_20.jpg

[cheater13]

Wow, looks awesome man! I had mine dyno'd and I need a bigger carb on it because it makes a dip to where Randy can't fix it or it'll mess up something else even worse. Guess I'll look at a YFZ one.

Seeya in a few weeks! I hope mine doesn't blow up or anything also, haha. I won't have that carb for test and tune but I'll hopefully have it put on before the 2nd points race.

[ghott]

Wow, looks awesome man! I had mine dyno'd and I need a bigger carb on it because it makes a dip to where Randy can't fix it or it'll mess up something else even worse. Guess I'll look at a YFZ one.

Seeya in a few weeks! I hope mine doesn't blow up or anything also, haha. I won't have that carb for test and tune but I'll hopefully have it put on before the 2nd points race.

Thanks man. And yeah, the FCR's are pretty easy to find at a decent deal if you get onto YFZCentral, YFZTech, and ThumperTalk forums.

[ghott]

Stellar top wheelie bar mount didn't quite make the cut. Lasted 12 passes I think (only 5 were WOT launches)? Bar was only 3.5" off the ground too.

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/broke-top.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_25_2014_1.jpg

Out with the old, in with the new:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_25_2014_2.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_25_2014_3.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_25_2014_4.jpg

Put a 40t on the back to gear down a little bit...had to add a link to the chain:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_25_2014_5.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_25_2014_6.jpg

And to help me get through it all - Founders Porter:

http://www.garyhott.com/me_gusta/apr_25_2014_7.jpg

[cheater13]

How'd you do at test and tune last weekend down there? Sucks about the wheelie bar though. Didn't get too dirty I see. ;)

I'll be at test and tune tomorrow down in WV to finally test mine out. I think I'll have to bump the rear sprocket up a few since I'll be putting on my bigger tires though. Guess I'll find out!

[ghott]

How'd you do at test and tune last weekend down there? Sucks about the wheelie bar though. Didn't get too dirty I see. ;)

I'll be at test and tune tomorrow down in WV to finally test mine out. I think I'll have to bump the rear sprocket up a few since I'll be putting on my bigger tires though. Guess I'll find out!

Started pretty slow with some carb tuning issues...got those worked out and ended up in the 4.70's while blowing the tires off. When I sat my fat behind further back on the seat for some traction and launched on the limiter...it musta hooked a little too hard and broke the top bar mount. All in all was a good day...good weather and good people. Hoping to improve my times as I get more used to the bike. Really I'm just hoping not to break it and hoping it doesn't break me. Damn thing is squirrely as hell.

I should be there tomorrow as well. If ya need any help with anything - let me know!

[cheater13]

That's still pretty good! I hope mine doesn't act up or cause me problems either lol. And I hope the weather turns out to be nice down there too.

And ok thanks, appreciate it man!

[ghott]

Big brother and little brother:

http://www.garyhott.com/450r_x2_1.jpg

http://www.garyhott.com/450r_x2_2.jpg