Room for an SL in this section?

[Bill Badger]

I'm getting back into restoring my cute little SL70 now, and would like to find anyone else out there that either has one or has had one in the past with a view to exchanging contacts and sources of information.

Any comments welcome.


The above is only a sample picture of what it could look like if I get all the pieces back together in the right order.......

It looks like a full size bike, but is actually very small, having only 16" and 14" wheels. Engine is more or less a 72cc version of what was fitted to the old 4 speed SS50

[catteeclan]

Some pics would be good Bill. Don't think I've ever seen one of those.

[AIRWOLF]

I've never seen one either, . . . look forward to seeing the rebuild.

[Bill Badger]

Here's a couple of pictures of what mine will hopefully look like when back together. However, since I'm also restoring a Suzuki RV90, the Honda might end up with huge balloon tyres by mistake......!

At the moment, the frame and other metalwork has been powder coated, and the engine is being partially stripped to allow for a decoke and thorough cleaning. The plated parts are, where possible, being zinc plated (although I'm having a few teething problems with the kit that I bought off Ebay!).

As said, the pictures are not of my bike, but those of a similar bike in the USA, where virtually all SL70 bikes went to.

Off to Stafford Bike Show tomorrow to see what bits I can pick up. If you're going yourself, why not come and say hello - I'll be on the VJMC South Staffs stand with my XLR200, up on the balcony in the main hall.

[MCsanandreas]

I'm getting back into restoring my cute little SL70 now, and would like to find anyone else out there that either has one or has had one in the past with a view to exchanging contacts and sources of information.

Any comments welcome.

that looks like a good little bike,something out of the ordinary thats for sure. keep us up to date on how it goes. i always like to see bikes brought back to life.

[Bill Badger]

I have finally got around to restoring this little bike and took it to the Uttoxeter Classic bike show 3rd/4th July.

It hadn't run for about six years but started on the third kick after partially stripping the engine to check it out.

Now to get it MOT'd and registered......

[catteeclan]

No I haven't seen one.

Bloody good work there.
I often wonder how people have the patience to do things like this.
Be nice to see more photos from along the way if you don't mind posting.

[Bill Badger]

Thanks for your words of encouragement. A few more pictures follow below.

As purchased, with a few parts missing (side panels, air box etc). Lots of rust, cracked tyres, worn bearings and more.


Frame stripped and powder coated silver.


Components stripped with brick acid, buffed and replated (zinc). Gave up with kit and took a box of parts to a local plater. Parts are for RV90 and XT500 as well.


Wheels stripped. New rims and spokes. Hubs polished. First attempt at wheel rebuilding, which was easier than anticipated.




Engine partially stripped. Top end overhauled - valves ground in, new +.25mm piston etc. Bottom end cleaned out but otherwise left alone.


Dents knocked out with body hammer set. Side panels obtained from Ebay USA and repaired. Tank prepared, painted, then masked for white contrast - one side bad enough, but two....?


Almost finished. New shocks to be fitted - these fitted here are too long and make stand too short and also necessitate spacer for exhaust to miss.


Must add that restorations of rare, non UK models like this would not be possible were it not for the likes of Ebay and excellent parts suppliers such as David Silver.

[uncle nick]

Fantastic job you've done there! I wish I had your level of knowledge and skill.

[mid life crisis]

Great little bike, looks like loads of fun.
Very nice restoring job If you have any good tips that may help us wanna be restorers please share.
Is it your first restoration??