Rescuing an Abandoned Superbike

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  • čas přidán 22. 07. 2021
  • This Kawasaki GPZ1000RX (Ninja 1000R) is in pretty terrible shape. After being forgotten about for 17 years, I'm going to give it some much needed attention. It won't be a full restoration, but it'll get enough love to get this thing on the road safely and reliably.
    Instagram:
    / fingerprintsworkshop
    Patreon:
    / ronaldfinger
    Merch:
    ronald-finger.creator-spring....
    Music:
    www.epidemicsound.com
    GPZ900R Clips:
    • Kawasaki GPz900R Promo...
    • Kawasaki Ninja Commerc...
  • Auta a dopravní prostředky

Komentáře • 1,7K

  • @RonaldFinger
    @RonaldFinger  Před 2 lety +748

    Hey guys, long time no see! Hope you dig the video! I said it in the description, but this isn't going to be a full resto like the Fiero was. However, it will be very in depth on the process of getting it back on the road safely and reliably, so because of that, and because I've already filmed some of the next videos in the series... it won't be months in-between episodes like with the Fiero! See you all again in a couple weeks :)

    • @Nayte08
      @Nayte08 Před 2 lety +104

      “this isn’t going to be a full resto like the Fiero was.” We shall see about that. 7/23/2021

    • @idoldiaoh
      @idoldiaoh Před 2 lety +27

      I think I’ve heard that before?? 👍

    • @havrt2610
      @havrt2610 Před 2 lety +15

      One piece of advice, keep the thumbnail template that you had for the firero series, i almost missed it, thought it wasnt your channel.

    • @RonaldFinger
      @RonaldFinger  Před 2 lety +23

      @@havrt2610 The subsequent episodes will have the normal template! I've already made them for the next two :)

    • @Sulfuron41
      @Sulfuron41 Před 2 lety +8

      It's awesome to see you back!!!

  • @compufood
    @compufood Před 2 lety +1072

    I don't even care about motorbikes, I'm just here for the Finger

  • @quixototalis
    @quixototalis Před 2 lety +524

    "It was someone else's project" is basically the most terrifying way to start any story.

    • @RonaldFinger
      @RonaldFinger  Před 2 lety +141

      I promise it only gets worse

    • @tommyhijmensen6257
      @tommyhijmensen6257 Před 2 lety

      @@RonaldFinger dude you need to buy a 2stroke Yamaha RD from the 1980's they are a lot quiker than 4 strokes of that era..especially those with the Yamaha PowerValve System...

    • @juststeve5542
      @juststeve5542 Před 2 lety +2

      Sounds like my GS250T.
      I was told it ran a few weeks earlier... Which was odd given the amount of crud I cleaned out of the carbs before it would run for me...
      And then I got onto the electrics...

    • @rachidinchina
      @rachidinchina Před 2 lety

      Wouldn't have it any other way!

    • @hippycow1006
      @hippycow1006 Před 2 lety +1

      Yeah, everything i ever bought has been someone elses project

  • @borayurt66
    @borayurt66 Před 2 lety +108

    I have been a motorcycle mechanic for 15 years, I wouldn't touch that with a stick. But, judging by the amazing work you have done on the Fiero, I am sure you'll do just fine. Anxiously waiting for the rest of the series, and I wish you strength and patience. :-)

    • @gpzjeffrey7974
      @gpzjeffrey7974 Před 2 lety +3

      Seconded. I wouldn't waste my time on it. Finding replacement parts is going to cost WAY more than it's worth. I'd pull off and clean up all usable parts and sell them on FleaBay and at least break even. I've seen so many more good examples. This isn't the one.

    • @tortron
      @tortron Před 2 lety +16

      @@gpzjeffrey7974 geez you two are no fun. All you have to do is buy every other basket case one you find to get all the missing parts, and gradually become the GPZ guy. I certainly haven't done that before, no sir

    • @uhtred7860
      @uhtred7860 Před 2 lety +6

      @@tortron Yeah ive used the "I'm buying another one to SAVE money" excuse before. :-)

  • @adambrzycki8088
    @adambrzycki8088 Před 2 lety +81

    I legit choked on food laughing when he said “should be strong enough to support…. YOUR MOM.” 😂😂

    • @Metroplizer
      @Metroplizer Před 2 lety +1

      I laughed out loud too. It was savage and I love it.

  • @baoboumusic
    @baoboumusic Před 2 lety +603

    This is already my new favorite series to follow. I can't wait for it to complete in 2025.

    • @phoenix7816
      @phoenix7816 Před 2 lety +2

      SAAAAAME :D

    • @ronbertka7023
      @ronbertka7023 Před 2 lety +2

      Well I'm hopeful that parts will be easier to get during this project

    • @usethenoodle
      @usethenoodle Před 2 lety +9

      @Stupid Liberals I gave you a thumbs up just for your screen name. I hope you aren't one.

    • @JWFoster
      @JWFoster Před 2 lety +1

      OMG, the shade.

    • @TheIowaXperience
      @TheIowaXperience Před 2 lety

      Hahahahahaha, I love it.

  • @TheVirginMeri
    @TheVirginMeri Před 2 lety +215

    This must be how Marvel fans feel when a new series drops on Disney+

    • @drewwilliams1337
      @drewwilliams1337 Před 2 lety +4

      100% accurate. The notification this morning made my day.

    • @haydencottrill625
      @haydencottrill625 Před 2 lety

      @@drewwilliams1337 Same here! One the best content creators IMO.

    • @ronwhite8503
      @ronwhite8503 Před 2 lety

      I take it you mean the GPZ1000 cause Disney have screwed Marvel.

  • @merlin2067
    @merlin2067 Před 2 lety +11

    I just finished your Fiero series and man I nearly cried with you. I sat for a little while to just reflect on your accomplishments and sheer tenacity. You're such an inspiration. And not just with cars! You've given me new perspective on my own burnout and fear of failure. So thank you for that. I really needed it.
    Now its time to dive into this series and get to work on my own projects! I can't wait to see everything you do!

  • @soupclassicmotoring
    @soupclassicmotoring Před 2 lety +81

    Not a full resto? But Maverick, you're not going to be happy unless you're going Mach 2 with your hair on fire.

  • @bradreynolds8499
    @bradreynolds8499 Před 2 lety +188

    "...so they should be strong enough to support your mom." omfg, i'm dying here. hahaha

  • @GeoffreyCroker
    @GeoffreyCroker Před 2 lety +99

    Full Resto! Full Resto! Full Resto! Full Resto! Full Resto! Full Resto!
    strong enough to support your mum 🤣🤣🤣🤣

    • @Valisk
      @Valisk Před 2 lety +6

      Hurry up and get back on the Landy!!

    • @JamesChurchill3
      @JamesChurchill3 Před 2 lety +2

      @@Valisk Don't rush the man, he's got plenty of other vices occupying his time.

    • @KieranTuohy
      @KieranTuohy Před 2 lety +1

      I think for most of us we start with the idea of more modest work and it turns into full resto. In fairness, when dealing with all the issues created by past owners it'll probably turn into a de facto full restoration. But yes, I too would like to see this bike fully restored / resto-modded. Take a splash of inspiration from some of the AC Sanctuary bikes maybe.

    • @MrDmitriRavenoff
      @MrDmitriRavenoff Před 2 lety

      My coworkers all stared at me funny when he made that joke.

    • @uhtred7860
      @uhtred7860 Před 2 lety

      A full resto would cost a fortune for this bike, not just because theres so much missing, (also that rusted bore really needs sorting out properly)but the parts are expensive and hard to find. I'm doing a resto on an 80s Japanese bike that only had a 2 year run and its getting crazy expensive.

  • @paulj1873
    @paulj1873 Před 2 lety +8

    I’ve had several crashed/project bikes. A good wash is definitely the first step as you tend to find a lot about what you’re working with. Love your attention to detail and can’t wait to watch this project unfold. 👍

  • @richardvinsen2385
    @richardvinsen2385 Před 2 lety +179

    “It won’t be a full restoration.” You say that now.

    • @RonaldFinger
      @RonaldFinger  Před 2 lety +44

      Haha! I'm going to actually limit myself this time :)

    • @GreenAppelPie
      @GreenAppelPie Před 2 lety +27

      I think it would be better to strip this to the frame at least for the mechanics. I thing that’s where other people failed.

    • @bradreynolds8499
      @bradreynolds8499 Před 2 lety +32

      @@RonaldFinger Honestly, I'd rather see a full resto like you did with the Fiero. It was great to see someone polish a turd. lol. Strip it don't and start from scratch. Buying a project bike from someone else who bought a project bike, you are now 3rd project owner with who knows what kind of issues. For your safety and sanity I would think you'd want to do it right and cover all of the bases.

    • @4R8YnTH3CH33F
      @4R8YnTH3CH33F Před 2 lety +8

      @@RonaldFinger At least respraying a motorcycle will be a lot less labour intensive!

    • @slozenger9000
      @slozenger9000 Před 2 lety +6

      @@RonaldFinger You've got to dream a little bigger darling!

  • @RRCRestoration
    @RRCRestoration Před 2 lety +186

    Glad to see you back with a new restoration! Im about to reveal my next 2 wheeled project also ;)

    • @RonaldFinger
      @RonaldFinger  Před 2 lety +15

      Aww yeah! I’m excited to see it :)

    • @RRCRestoration
      @RRCRestoration Před 2 lety +19

      @@RonaldFinger I hope you'll like it, Im defo going to enjoy yours, always been a fan of the GPZ, and who knows with us both doing 2 wheeled restos there might be an opportunity for a little collaboration at some point in the builds ;)

    • @Mar.co.G
      @Mar.co.G Před 2 lety

      Io ho visto tutti i tuoi video. in bocca al lupo per la ducati 916! (ma la tua è messa molto meglio di questa!)

    • @samcoote9653
      @samcoote9653 Před 2 lety

      @@RRCRestoration oh man you guys both have to make this happen somehow!

  • @philkensebben157
    @philkensebben157 Před 2 lety +35

    Ronald: "The whole thing probably belongs in the bin."
    Mighty Car Mods has entered the chat.

    • @EthanSeville
      @EthanSeville Před 2 lety

      I thought of the same thing lol

    • @SwampusMcGarniglus
      @SwampusMcGarniglus Před 2 lety +1

      @@EthanSeville I came immediately to the comments for the first "In the Bin" comment i could find.

    • @hebn.
      @hebn. Před 2 lety

      @@SwampusMcGarniglus I have absolutely no clue why I do it, but I did it too.

  • @shaunlaverty8898
    @shaunlaverty8898 Před 2 lety +4

    Being a long time motorcyclist and Kawasaki owner, and knowing how methodical/meticulous you are, I’m really looking forward to watching this bike get saved over the next few years.

  • @AndieBlack13
    @AndieBlack13 Před 2 lety +66

    I myself did such a "rescue" of a forgotten, abandoned machine...Being a career mechanic...I came across a 1984 Suzuki GS1150 ES, ( the one with the full fairing, that went halfway down the engine) It was cheap & literally in the middle of an Oregon field...I got it home & started in on it...my take was it had served drag-race duty...by the evidence of 'damage' from a broken drive chain, and pistons that were 1.0 mm oversize. Tires, chain & sprockets, a little electrical issues, replacing a rear master cylinder for the likes of it rusted up solid...but the biggie was the running on three cylinders. My boss let me work on it at the shop..pop the head off, lap-in the valves with new seals...presto, my new 119 HP ride. I just couldn't see the thing disappearing in the weeds in that field, so neglected.

    • @Mad-Duk_Machine_Werkes
      @Mad-Duk_Machine_Werkes Před 2 lety +3

      I always wanted an 1150ES, finally got one last year, 100% complete and unmolested, but sitting 20+ yrs - decided not to go with the awful 16/18" wheel combo that sucked in the 80's and REALLY sucks now, so I bought a donor complete/running/driving 1200 Bandit - initially for the wheels, but now the 1150 is getting the bandit Engine, wire harness, front forks, rear swingarm and both wheels and brakes, so it will LOOK like an 1150, but not have the terrible un-reliable 1980's Suzuki shit charging system and ignition, modern 17" rims and better brakes, and better forks and shock.......
      The project bikes both sit next to each other waiting for me to start them, but theyre in a long line of Ducati projects and other mini bikes - Oh well, someday!

    • @SvenTviking
      @SvenTviking Před 2 lety

      So which one was the EFE? I had the unfaired one, monstrous engine, loads of torque.

    • @AndieBlack13
      @AndieBlack13 Před 2 lety +1

      @@SvenTviking I think the confusion is so-called USA versions and European designations....they came in the fully unfaired version called the "E" , the fairing that came down halfway, (My version), "ES"? and the one that had the extra "belly-pan" addition onto my version that wrapped underneath the engine, the EF perhaps? Don't even ask about the color combinations, they seemed to be all over the map! I really don't know....they came in 84 & 85 only in the states...but I've read of an 86 version?. The unfaired E was a one year only in 85, the bars were different, more upright & reached towards you a bit...the 85 E is the collector one to have, of course the windblast is going to keep you away from getting in trouble...my faired version had 100+ MPH come up really really fast...

    • @Mad-Duk_Machine_Werkes
      @Mad-Duk_Machine_Werkes Před 2 lety +1

      @@AndieBlack13 I think ONLY in the USA was it called 1150 - everywhere else it was GS1100E or ES, also USA had no option to get the belly pan from dealer- it was an aftermarket "Lockhart" brand fairing, getting hard to find now a days - I got a good one for mine, but it'll need the holes in the sides charged as I'm using the Bandit 1200 motor now and I'm sure they wont line up

  • @andyman5105
    @andyman5105 Před 2 lety +63

    Oh yeah, Ronald back at it again

  • @tripives1858
    @tripives1858 Před 2 lety +6

    Oh man, I'm so psyched you are going to do a series on this. in '84 I had as GPZ 550 and in '86 my dream bike became the the GPZ1100RX. Even by today's design standards, it's still a beautiful bike.

  • @jrea424
    @jrea424 Před 2 lety +2

    That mom joke caught me off guard!! I nearly fell off my chair 🤣🤣

  • @deormanrobey892
    @deormanrobey892 Před 2 lety +35

    That doo-dad on the helmet lock is an extension that goes through the D-rings on your helmet.

    • @angelicupstart23
      @angelicupstart23 Před 2 lety +1

      So you can lock up a second helmet, right?

    • @johnkennedy2505
      @johnkennedy2505 Před 2 lety +1

      @@angelicupstart23 The D ring side is so short on some helmets you cannot get it in the lock so you need the extension

    • @angelicupstart23
      @angelicupstart23 Před 2 lety

      @@johnkennedy2505 gotcha. I always thought it was a way to lock a second helmet on. But never tried it when I had a bike

  • @PaulBarwick
    @PaulBarwick Před 2 lety +9

    It's great to see you back, Ronnie. I had forgotten just how pleasurable your videos are to watch. I hope that you have been having fun driving that Fiero this summer.

  • @JustWatchingJoshua
    @JustWatchingJoshua Před 2 lety +4

    Man I love some Ronald Finger and his humor and his sheer intensity. It always brings me back.

  • @richardoneill9179
    @richardoneill9179 Před 2 lety +1

    Wow...just watched all of this.. nice job!!! A story......I had a 84 ninja 900...that my lovely wife of that year...bought for me!!! I was out one day for a cruise..with my nutso..fast guy buddy..and he had his new gpz1000....rx. just like yours....we were out riding eastbound..off rt128..in Massachusetts...and I was leading...I knew he would want to crush me on acceleration onto rt. 2. So....I dropped down to 2nd gear...on a clearly 3rd gear + exit...and I had him...up to a clean 140 ..when he finally came by...as I expected..but anyh..GREAT video...thank you for bringing up great memories....by the way ..my same wife of 37 years...just bought me a mint ..late model...mx5 Miata...and I'm still riding...a DL1000 Suzuki V Strom....life is good...

  • @billygrow3d
    @billygrow3d Před 2 lety +18

    6:20 Love the nod to MCM, didn't go unnoticed. Nice

  • @bryanthorne3474
    @bryanthorne3474 Před 2 lety +7

    This has become my favorite channel on youtube. A relentless refusal to do something "good enough" even when no one else will see it, combined with the incredible support network of family, friends, and gf he has around him, all topped off with a well timed sense of dry humor. I cant wait to watch more.

    • @sebpearce
      @sebpearce Před 2 lety

      check out bad obsession motorsports

  • @johnphillip1711
    @johnphillip1711 Před 2 lety +1

    Resurrecting a GPZ900R at the moment, laid up in 2012 by my dad and passed onto me last year (he lost interest)
    They are definetely very similar bikes, you can see the DNA runs all the way up to the ZZR-1200.
    One thing to swap is the oil pressure relief valve, the stock item is a 2 hole ball and spring type, what happens is the spring gets weak, loses tension and then it bypasses at a much lower oil pressure, causing cylinder 3 to spin the main bearing and wreck the crankshaft. (Edited mistake)
    Solution is ordering and using the piston type oil pressure relief valve from a later ZZR-1100, which is a 4 hole piston type and doesn't suffer the same fault. Mine cost about $30 from the dealership and bolts straight in (its attached to the oil filter housing within the crankcase (accessed via removing the oil pan) I had to use an impact wrench to undo mine as it was so tight. Think it's from 97 or 98 onwards they changed the design....
    Just a heads up.

  • @greatwhitenorthlife2327
    @greatwhitenorthlife2327 Před 2 lety +2

    I hope you never stop doing these projects. Without a doubt the best vehicle restoration videos I've ever seen. Very honest, humorous and meticulous in every aspect of both the work on the projects and the videos themselves. Please, please... keep on keeping on!

  • @KoyomiHiroyuki
    @KoyomiHiroyuki Před 2 lety +24

    Wow, a new restoration vid on my birthday? Sweet.

  • @J.n.A.1993
    @J.n.A.1993 Před 2 lety +21

    And just like that, Ronald has me hooked on yet another rebuild series. Well played, sir.

  • @fastasfox
    @fastasfox Před 2 lety +1

    Ronald's back....and he has a Kawasaki GPZ to restore....my life is whole again....really missed the Ferrero restoration....you Sir are youtube legend.

  • @jamesrichardson1455
    @jamesrichardson1455 Před 2 lety +1

    Awesome, I took an 86 FJ1200 that was a basket case, and after a shit ton of money, time and parts, its back on the road. No engine work was necessary, suspension, paint, carb rebuild, and some hard parts replaced, its a great bike and not to bad a looker either. Great job!!

  • @milesmacmahon6001
    @milesmacmahon6001 Před 2 lety +14

    This is going to be an amazing series, I can feel it in my bones.

    • @baoboumusic
      @baoboumusic Před 2 lety

      I see what you did there :) "I feel it in my Finger..."

  • @Alfonzo227
    @Alfonzo227 Před 2 lety +30

    Saw abandoned 80's superbike: "oh cool, I'll probably like that"
    Saw the channel: "oh shiiiiiiiiiiiiii[fade out]"

  • @benjahnz
    @benjahnz Před 2 lety +1

    Ive done a few bike restos and the best thing to do with a bike in this condition is get the engine out of the frame (with lots of photos) right at the start of the project. It makes it faster and easier to inspect/clean/fix everything. Motorcycles just aren't that complicated and having seen you take apart a cart I think you'd find it fairly straight forward.

  • @MultiMozman
    @MultiMozman Před 2 lety +3

    That big piece of metal secured in the helmet lock is probably the key.

    • @jimmyjackass1805
      @jimmyjackass1805 Před 2 lety +1

      It looks to me to be a strap to lock your helmet to. That piece of metal goes thru the D-ring in your helmet then hangs from the lock mech.

  • @stephenbrown571
    @stephenbrown571 Před 2 lety +26

    It being water cooled. I’d be checking the head gasket and head. With that much rust in one cylinder.

  • @tattooedredheadx
    @tattooedredheadx Před 2 lety +12

    Super excited for this series Ronald. I've been a motorcyclist for nearly 20 years and have done a lot of wrenching. I currently ride a 2015 Triumph Tiger 800 XCx.

    • @MeMelon4u
      @MeMelon4u Před 2 lety +1

      That's a nice bike,I'm 17 and really want that bike, lucky 👍🏼

  • @mattman237
    @mattman237 Před 2 lety +1

    Dude, aftermarket exhausts were all the rage back in the day. I had a GPz 750 with a Kerker pipe and it was the sweetest sound ever! Looking forward to the rest of the series.

  • @eamonnmckeown6770
    @eamonnmckeown6770 Před 2 lety

    I just picked up an orphan 2 stroke 49cc scooter from 2004 with 9.9 miles ( well over 200 a week or so later. )
    Needed a new fuel petcock ( gummed up ) and a carb clean.
    The fuel cap key hole had a plastic cover that was meant to be broken off and it never was.
    I genuinely think the original owner ran it dry on the factory gas and couldn't figure out how to fill it with gas.
    It sat in a nice dry modern shed for 17 years. The branded backpack with it still smells minty fresh.
    Vento R4 Triton. Need to get the lights working regularly ( summer right now ) but I have hope it will continue to go strong in it's initial break in period. 17 years later than intended. I also just watched episode 2. Great stuff.

  • @overclockeverything2310
    @overclockeverything2310 Před 2 lety +28

    "It won't be a full restoration, but it'll get enough love to get this thing on the road safely and reliably"
    That was said about the Fiero 🤣

    • @benzlover55
      @benzlover55 Před 2 lety

      I was like "isn't that literally what he said about the Fiero???" lol

    • @vladpiranha
      @vladpiranha Před 2 lety

      Consider another can of worms opened.

  • @fatedcircle87
    @fatedcircle87 Před 2 lety +5

    I was so, so happy to see my notification pop up saying you had a new video. I am beyond excited to see what you do with this bike.

  • @module79l28
    @module79l28 Před 2 lety +1

    I had its successor, a 1988 ZX-10 (Tomcat in the US). Bought it used in 1992 with not a lot of kms and only one previous owner, had it for 2 years and only sold it because it became increasingly harder to get hold of good tires for its 16" rear wheel. It was comfortable, fast, had a huge tank and was relatively economical for its weight. It was the only non-Yamaha out of the eight bikes I had: XT 350 (1987), FZR 1000 (1993), YZF 1000R Thunderace (1996), R1 (1999), R1 (2001), R1 (2003) and R1 (2006).
    Many people know the GPZ 900R and the ZZR 1100 but not many know their "sisters" that came out in between. I've told some folks that I had a 1988 ZX-10 and they called me a liar, saying that it didn't come out until 2004. : )

  • @MrNightpwner
    @MrNightpwner Před 2 lety +1

    I can't wait. You're gonna do this one too I already envision the end. Please do a full resto! You're so much more skilled because of the Fiero you got this!

  • @WrenchAtHome
    @WrenchAtHome Před 2 lety +9

    I’m a car guy, but boy am I ready for this series! Good luck Ronald!

  • @NotMyRealName541
    @NotMyRealName541 Před 2 lety +105

    Poor Cameron. Not his fault he had no personality. It was only because his dad ignored him while he built his 9 Taco Bell dynasty.

    • @dragonbrownies517
      @dragonbrownies517 Před 2 lety +2

      @Stupid Liberals Amd then he sold the entire farm for a tenth of what it was really worth because he didn't take after his dad. He hated farming and everything with it, so he got fucked in the end deal. Now he resides in Redwood Falls Minnesota as a used car dealer, unhappily married with 4 kids. Three of which aren't his.

    • @acoffeewithsatan
      @acoffeewithsatan Před 2 lety +1

      @@dragonbrownies517 wow, sounds like a wonderful life!

  • @katsastus
    @katsastus Před 2 lety +1

    I like that you pretend you're not going to take everything into a part and clean it at the end :D Good to have you back Ronald

  • @frazerbond3413
    @frazerbond3413 Před 2 lety +1

    I feel your pain, I bought an 1986 fj1200 that had stood for 20 years. It took nearly 6 months to get roadworthy and still chucks a new problem at me every other time I take it out for a ride.

  • @ModestFrog
    @ModestFrog Před 2 lety +12

    I loved the Fiero series, your way of storytelling and editing is relaxing and egaging, and I do love motorbikes as well so I'm looking forward to this journey!

  • @kamrana7157
    @kamrana7157 Před 2 lety +7

    This thing's a hooptie and a half. Can't wait to see you restore it man!

  • @rudydedogg6505
    @rudydedogg6505 Před 2 lety

    I once owned a 1985 GPZ 900 R back in the early nineties. I got pulled over by an Arizona Highway Patrol officer one day and as he was walking up to me he said I hadn't been doing anything wrong but he also owned a GPZ 900 R and just wanted to compare notes. You bet! Like most AZ Highway Patrol officers he was really cool but being a fellow GPZ rider was icing on the cake!
    By the way that "chunk of metal" hanging from the helmet lock was for doing just that. Open the bike's lock, remove the metal "T" and slip it through both of the hemet's "D" rings then slip the "T" back onto the bike's helmet lock and close it. It kept the helmet secure but was easier to attach to the bike by providing additional space to work with.
    Looking forward to the rebuild!

  • @robertl.3074
    @robertl.3074 Před 2 lety +3

    I watched every one of your videos when you restored the Fiero. So glad you’re back with another restoration. Great camera work and great narration, keep up the great work!

  • @ThePS1Addict
    @ThePS1Addict Před 2 lety +32

    I loved the homage refrences to Mighty Car Mods "In the Bin" and the "Someone else's project"

    • @kbar150
      @kbar150 Před 2 lety +4

      I think there was a hint of VGG too.

  • @Djoodibooti
    @Djoodibooti Před 2 lety +13

    *"Just how I like em!"*
    *IMMEDIATELY STARTS STRIPPING*

  • @demetrimicroutscos5904
    @demetrimicroutscos5904 Před 2 lety +1

    I'm so excited for this series ! I have an 85 ZX6 that's been sitting for 24 years . The day my daughter was born. I Always wanted to bring it back to life. This series is giving me the itch lol. Thank you and keep up the good work.

  • @signdeals4972
    @signdeals4972 Před 2 lety

    One of the very few channels I watch at normal speed instead of x1.75. I’m stoked!!

  • @MajorMokoto
    @MajorMokoto Před 2 lety +8

    That subtle "in the bin" comment. MCM!

    • @EquiliMario
      @EquiliMario Před 2 lety +1

      I hoped to see a comment like this (y)

  • @lomeas
    @lomeas Před 2 lety +3

    I just love the way you tell stories make me smile all the time

  • @verdeboyo
    @verdeboyo Před 2 lety +1

    Wow! Didn't know any of these were still kicking around. An absolute road train with so much torque. This is one of the many bikes I've owned and enjoyed. Good luck with the work to get it back out there

  • @koontokentay
    @koontokentay Před 2 lety +10

    Awesome! I can’t wait to see where this project goes. You do such good and meticulous work. That paper gasket for the timing cover should just be for keeping those components safe from the elements and shouldn’t have oil behind them. I think your leak may be originating somewhere else unfortunately. That pan gasket is a common one. I dug a 78 KZ400 out of a crawl space with rust in the cylinder boars, diesel is another good way to free things up. It un-seized the engine on that project by letting it soak in the cylinders for a couple of days. That starter clutch is very common but isn’t as bad as it sounds. My friend just finished doing one in a 80 kz750 and was surprisingly easier than it sounded like on paper. Best of luck!

    • @RonaldFinger
      @RonaldFinger  Před 2 lety +2

      Thanks! As my bike has the timing chain on the outside instead of the middle, the timing cover definitely does see oil behind it as that boy needs lubrication. The leak stemmed from from elsewhere too as you’ll see in the next video :)

    • @johnphillip1711
      @johnphillip1711 Před 2 lety +1

      @@RonaldFinger Yep one positive of the design vs the previous models., timing chain on the left side and a doddle to change out. Beware if it has the stock non ratcheting timing chain tensioner, it can skip teeth if you suddenly shut the throttle at high rpm. Though the ZZR1100 ratcheting tensioner is a bolt on item and doesn't suffer the same issues.

  • @stephenmorrissey1254
    @stephenmorrissey1254 Před 2 lety +4

    I come for the story telling. Thanks for keeping this channel going!

  • @jp2246
    @jp2246 Před 2 lety +3

    I cant decide if I'm happy for you or want to cry for you, that thing is rough
    I'd be tempted to try to source an intact and complete wiring harness for that bike

  • @ShadowKeeper12
    @ShadowKeeper12 Před 2 lety

    I had one of these bikes. Great bike. Comfortable and fast. I rode it all over the country (Australia). It was my first Kawasaki. From that I had a couple of ZZR1100s and now a 2006 ZX-14. The RX is so easy to work on. Very easy to drop the motor if you need to. The 900R wasn’t so easy to work on. Good luck with the project. Word of warning, if you need to replace the clutch basket, the clutch hub nut is done up to 198ftlbs (If I recall correctly). It’s fricken tight. You’re going to love it. They also do an impressive wheel stand. 😁

  • @soggycracker5934
    @soggycracker5934 Před 2 lety +1

    I had the '85 Zx900. Straight pipes, bigger carbs, and better cams. I could catch a Hyabusa with that fire-breathing beast. I played around with the final drive until I had traded enough torque for nearly the double-ton.

  • @iliketurtles4869
    @iliketurtles4869 Před 2 lety +6

    My likeness for turtles has not faded.

  • @TheRetroBiker
    @TheRetroBiker Před 2 lety +4

    Genuinely excited to follow this over the next few years 😊

  • @orwellknew9112
    @orwellknew9112 Před rokem

    I owned one of those. Loved that bike. It was the fastest motorcycle of its time. True, it wasn’t as maneuverable as the gpz900, but it wasn’t built for that. It got a bad rap only because the motorcycle writers were expecting something more like the 900, but faster.
    The 1000 Ninja was a sports touring bike and it was a real gem in that role. Super stable at high speed because it was so aerodynamic, very comfortable with lots of room for soft luggage and a delight in the high speed sweepers. Sad to see one in this condition, mine still looked brand new when I sold it for a down payment on a condo. If one magically showed up brand new in a crate, I’d buy it. This one, definitely not. But I wish you luck in getting this one restored, even if I have no idea how that is going to be possible. Parts for these bikes must be nearly unobtanium by now.

  • @dasutr
    @dasutr Před 2 lety +3

    I cant believe you sneeked the "your mom" in there. Gave me a chuckle.

  • @thewilliammao
    @thewilliammao Před 2 lety +6

    Not a motorcycle fan, but def giving this a look purely because of my love of the Fiero build journey ...

  • @zerializing
    @zerializing Před 2 lety +17

    Cameron and his dad's taco shop are real quiet now.

  • @texx1017
    @texx1017 Před 2 lety

    I had an 86 1000 R back in 88, One of the last big bikes with 16" wheels. Engine made the best whirring noises when on the gas. Never put a 4 into 1 exhaust on it or slip ons because it sounded too good stock. Kept it untill 1991 and got a ZX-10, which i still have, Cant wait to see you restore this lost Superbike.

  • @blue-nosedherringchoker4875

    I've still got the 1985 GPZ 900 that I bought after university around 1994 (my first bike)! I've been saving it for a restoration project and I'll be following this series closely.

  • @joeybergeron
    @joeybergeron Před 2 lety +10

    Strong enough to support your mom. 🤣

  • @andersjjensen
    @andersjjensen Před 2 lety +3

    Dammit Ronald! You are hands down my favourite story teller on CZcams. You could be restoring an old wood fired stove and I would still be hooked!
    That being said, I pray to the skies that you'll one day do a tasteful Mazda RX-7 FD restomod. I can't think of anyone who'd do a better job of conveying what it is that makes this gorgeous unreliable piece of art/crap such a love/hate affair. And I know you wouldn't go all out on "the rice factor", but rather only modify the things the rotary community has found improves the reliability of this dream that never was.
    The story of the rotary engine is just so tantalizing. It was too early for its time, yet too late at the same time. And it just keep tickling the mind with "what if"s. What if it had seen bigger RnD budgets shared between multiple manufacturers? What if things like ceramic seals had been developed before it was discontinued? What if microwave ignition plugs had been invented earlier? What if?!? And even more thought provoking: How good can it be today where these things are available? That is, if you're not trying to build a 1500HP race car, but rather a reliable fast'ish daily driver?
    You're probably never going to read this... but a guy can dream :P

    • @andersjjensen
      @andersjjensen Před 2 lety

      ZOMG! Starstruck! Fangirling to the max! :P

  • @paulhall170
    @paulhall170 Před 2 lety

    I've got a world-class attention-span problem, but I watched that all the way through, thanks, Ronald. And, as a 72 years-old who can remember the GPZ900R when it was new, I hope you can get this poor old unloved girl back to life!

  • @jameshisself9324
    @jameshisself9324 Před 2 lety +2

    Another great vid, I'm looking forward to this series.
    Here's an accomplishment you can hang on the '1000 Ninja' as was the vernacular we used at the time:
    It won the title the very first year of the Formula USA Championship. Ridden by Earl Roloff, the bike was nicknamed 'The Terminator' and is on display to this day at Willow Springs Raceway in Rosamond, CA.

  • @RustyWilson1975
    @RustyWilson1975 Před 2 lety +3

    Yes!!!
    I’m thrilled that you’re starting to share another project! Perhaps this will provide the inspiration I need to jump back into my project bike, a 1979 Honda CX500 Custom!
    I thoroughly enjoyed your Fiero Revival, and I absolutely love my Fingerprints Workshop Thumbprint Long Sleeve Tee! 😉
    Keep ‘em coming, Ronnie, and best of luck on your Kawasaki GPZ1000RX Revival!

  • @gsudarshan7251
    @gsudarshan7251 Před 2 lety +5

    Getting flashes of my customfighter forum days. Looking forward to see where this goes
    13:12 Shout out for da man Sreten

  • @ashleylee5445
    @ashleylee5445 Před 2 lety

    I had a GPz900R in 1988 i was 20 years old and thought I'd made it after watching Top Gun lol... It was an amazing era for fast Kawasaki's. My first 150mph going to work on a Thursday morning... The RX was the bike I loved but never got to own one. The era where bikes were still made to go fast but in a straight line only.

  • @Hecturras
    @Hecturras Před 2 lety +1

    A new project, from my favourite restoration guy. Thank you Internet god... thank you.

  • @povilaskasparas7526
    @povilaskasparas7526 Před 2 lety +12

    6:20 MCM reference? Or im too hyped on basic story steeling 😀

  • @MeMelon4u
    @MeMelon4u Před 2 lety +7

    I'm sure this project must be easier in terms of accessibility.

  • @nikcodling
    @nikcodling Před 2 lety +1

    YESSSSS!!!! Ronald’s back (does happy dance).
    That thing looks rough...but you’ll figure it :)

  • @nbowling10trio
    @nbowling10trio Před 2 lety +1

    This was my dream bike back in the day. I owned a Gpz 750 and a ninja 600R. I went to the dealership to buy a 1996 zx9r but ended up buying a Suzuki RF900R that year due to the $2k price difference. I rode it for 4yrs then took a break from riding when I had kids and sold it. Only recently got back into riding this year and bought a Harley. Not as interested in going superfast as I was in my youth. Touch my heart tho seeing someone give an old bike I used to Drool over some love. Hope it turns out well for you. Much luck!

  • @dan725
    @dan725 Před 2 lety +5

    What an awesome start for this new project! Perfect encore!!!!

  • @AlexCornier
    @AlexCornier Před 2 lety +4

    Oh yeah, I'm already loving this. Can't wait to see the process!

  • @tysoncott7402
    @tysoncott7402 Před 2 lety +1

    These were great old bikes, back in 1994 i bought a 1986 1000R with my HS graduation $$$, i put alot of miles on that bike, i sold it in 1996 & luckily was able to buy it back in 2015 & it needed a ton of work but still looked great 👍

  • @strongocho
    @strongocho Před 2 lety

    I am glad that I missed this when it was being uploaded, because now I get to binge watch it in its entirety. Thanks for putting it into a playlist.

  • @mrjockey87
    @mrjockey87 Před 2 lety +3

    Man Im getting exited just by watching this! I can see the path down towards insanity, just beyond that ground down bolt.

  • @irandomlydontgiveaflyingfek

    Bro thanks for the tip on the wheels it was a lot easier to move my mom

  • @jaycoleman11
    @jaycoleman11 Před 2 lety

    I’ve never been interested in bikes, never watched any videos about them, but this series has my full attention.

  • @dalesharpy9197
    @dalesharpy9197 Před 2 lety +1

    The GPZ was a sweet bike back then! It stood out!

  • @duncanmann553
    @duncanmann553 Před 2 lety +3

    I'm not a bike fan, but I know I will be watching this to completion.

    • @andersjjensen
      @andersjjensen Před 2 lety

      Admit it: He could be restoring an old wood fired stove and you'd be hooked for the narrative alone! :P

  • @noobeenaut
    @noobeenaut Před 2 lety +15

    15:42 gottem

  • @majestyblade8570
    @majestyblade8570 Před 2 lety +1

    Friend of mine was watching the fiery series from day 1. During a meetup in late May he showed us the first video, and after that I started watching the series. I am a college student with low funds, but I still remember the old car of my dad where he drove us everyday for snacks or to the sea. I will try to get money to repair the car, seat Ibiza 1991. Thank you for making the fiery videos.

  • @greggwilson8055
    @greggwilson8055 Před 2 lety +1

    Wear your skid lid when you are ready to ride this beast Ronald!

  • @StockYardsTrustCo
    @StockYardsTrustCo Před 2 lety +6

    Dang, you've got me hooked again! Love the new project - looking forward to the next episode!

  • @akacurmurdar1
    @akacurmurdar1 Před 2 lety +5

    6:22 Marty " *In the bin* " flashbacks.

  • @DanTheMan454
    @DanTheMan454 Před 2 lety

    I love my 1980 gs1100e. It's bored and stroked to 1500cc It's red and black and does 90+ in first gear alone, the speedo only goes up to 85. I got my bike for free when I was 18. My dad's friend said the professional shop he had it in couldn't get it to run right in 3 years and asked if I wanted to try and I had him bring it up. It took me 3 days and I had it running and it was fast. I cleaned it all up, had it sparkling and when the guy showed up I started it for him and explained what I did and he looked at the bike and said it looks like you like this bike, you got it all clean and running good again and I said he'll yeah I do he said good I'm getting too old for this bike do you want it. I just looked at him and asked if he was serious and he said I'll be back next week with the title. He was back a week later to sign the bike over.

  • @marksmallman4572
    @marksmallman4572 Před 2 lety

    I bought a three year old 900r in 1987 when i was working in the middle east, imported it back to the uk and had ten years of almost trouble free use, remember it well, awesome bike for its time. Good luck with yours, just subscribed.