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BHPian Mr.Boss recently shared this with other enthusiasts.
Starting this thread based on a couple of request from members outside this forum and for the benefit of our fellow members and readers.
Disclaimer:
I enjoyed the way another thread on a similar subject was put.
Follow the simple 5W2H analysis
Starting with What?
The obvious answer is Restoration but the indirect question is whether to restore or not?
2 cases here:
I myself did a couple of Pulsar restorations for close friends who didn't want to part with the bike for some sentimental values. And both the bikes are immaculately maintained and used until now. Details here.
Next comes Why?
It depends on the need. Very few go for a mechanical restoration to keep the machine on duty and most of the restorations I come across (including my own bikes) are not daily driven machine, restored just for the passion, love and lust towards the machine and kept as garage queens (my first RX covered 12,000 km post-restoration in 7 years).
Let's touch the How? portion before going for the other 2 W's
The most easiest as well the toughest part is here, making the right decision
This question is mostly answered as an outcome of previous question. Also depends on the condition of the machine and ability to spend (sometimes based on the part and labor availability).
My first bike (Blue RX135 ) was done in steps:
This being my 2nd RX (1st one stayed with me for a very short duration), I learnt from my mistakes and were taken care from the 2nd bike onwards.
2nd RX was not in a running condition when I purchased it, so I was left with no other option except to strip down immediately and do a full restoration. Details here.
My suggestion for how to proceed is:
Next comes the other portion of How?
It depends mostly on an individual's knowledge, ability to spend time and energy. I started with the 3rd option (FYI, my first RX restoration was the very first RX my mechanic worked on and stripped down. Our gentlemen agreement was, he has to do whatever I say and I take full responsibility if anything goes wrong) and once I got enough trust in the mechanic's outcome, I moved to 2nd option (after 7+ years, one of my RX is getting restored without my presence).
How much?
How much can we spend? This is the most influential and deciding factor for any repair / restoration work. It doesn't mean the quality can be compromised for a lower budget. For any budget constraints, split the restoration in steps and prioritize the mechanical job over the cosmetic upgrade.
Where?
Find the right resource (then the expert one) who could put all his effort and is passionate on the job rather than someone trying to mint money. Restoration is not like regular repair (especially when it comes to classic and vintage bikes). It needs a lot of attention & dedication otherwise we may end up with V2.0 or V infinity.
In case of DIY, find a dedicated place where you can work peacefully and without disturbing others at home. Otherwise, be prepared to get poisoned on the next meal
This was the condition of guest bedroom, hope you can understand the reaction from my better half:
When?
Right time for restoration is always "Now" or "ASAP" or "Immediately". After all, we are petrol heads and can't resist ourselves when it comes to cars and bikes. But depends mostly on the other preparation items:
My mechanic was kind enough to spend most of the Sundays at my home (opening the garage will have too many distractions):
Read more on the restoration guide and BHPian comments for more insights and information.