sandman

Sad it's gone. I remember when they came out- they were suddenly the hot 125 to have, with the new Monoshock. That '76 pretty much made the 125 Honda CR125 Elsinores seem old and outdated. Neat bike!

Ooops, I just noticed that you're female, Sacha- gentlemen and ladies it is, then! Also noticed that you're a G7S owner- I almost was a new owner just last week. I found one on the local Craiglist, but somebody beat me to it by about one hour. What a cool little cafe styled Yamaha...after looking at some pictures I fell in love with it and really wanted it.

Thank you all for the welcome, gentleman. I have a question: is there a percentage breakdown of where members are located? Are they mainly UK and Scotland based, or is it an even mix of there and the USA? I'm just trying to get a feel of the scope of this forum, but I suppose that'll come with more exposure. In the meantime, here's a pic of my recently completed 1976 400C model posing in the autumnal flora!

Although I'm admittedly a noobie here, I do have experience with "outsourced" or non-original spoke kits for vintage bikes. My advice is to not do it- the temptation is there because they're cheap, but something always seems to be lost in translation. Bends can be just different enough as to not fit correctly, threading differences, lengths, thicknesses, metal strength, etc. are all variables. You'd think spokes would be simple, but in reality they're not and you're better off holding out for original Yamaha parts, or re-plating (clear zinc) your originals in the off season. You'll avoid much frustration this way!

Greetings all- I just found this forum! I'm looking forward to sharing some vintage Yamaha experience and advice, and seeking same from you all when I get stuck myself. As my sig shows, I'm an air cooled twin owner and restorer. Will try posting up a piccie or two of one of my favorites. I'm in the Chicago, IL area and am on two other two stroke forums, but want some fresh views and ideas. Cheers!