In last week’s Saturday Sessions episode David Browning and E3 Motorcycles got their hands dirty with breaking down and reconditioning the Honda CB550.
The first round of replacement parts is now on the way. So this week we’re moving on to frame and metal preparation, via sand blasting and powder coating—and starting work on the suspension.
The CB550 is owned by New York agency Woods Witt Dealy & Sons, and they chose their bike wisely. “The CB550’s stock geometry and handling is pretty spot on,” says E3’s David Browning. “So we’re sticking to updating the bearings and bushings with modern components.”
The crusty old steering bearings have been upgraded with a set of tapered bearings, and the forks get a full rebuild with new springs from Progressive Suspension. E3 have also rebuilt the front brake system using OEM parts, and upgraded the brake lines using one-piece stainless steel line. “We decided on Hagon shocks along with a rebuilt swing arm assembly to round out the rear suspension,” Browning notes. “Next on the list is rebuilding the wheels, and getting into the engine teardown and reconditioning.”
That’ll be next week. In the meantime, hit play and see how E3 have brought the frame back to showroom standard.
E3 Motorcycles | Woods Witt Dealy & Sons | Previously: Part 2: Reconditioning