Note: This is the seventh of a series of owner comments about their vintage and classic motorcycles participating in the Cycle World Rolling Concours presented by BikeBandit.com during the Red Bull Indianapolis GP on Aug. 17-19 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Participants join the Cycle World staff on a ride from the track to a private lunch Saturday, Aug. 18 before riding back to the Speedway for judging. Bikes must complete the entire ride to be eligible for trophies in a variety of classes, as this unique event celebrates both form and function. The beautiful machines of the Rolling Concours also will be on display Friday, Aug. 17 and Sunday, Aug. 19 in the Pagoda Plaza at IMS.

For more information on the Cycle World Rolling Conours - Click Here!

MY BIKE: CYCLE WORLD ROLLING CONCOURS
Nick Watkins, 1973 Honda CB500

This is my Kona Blue and Sterling Gray 1973 CB500 cafe racer. Classic and simple.

I think my bike has a style taken from a cafe racer. It also has a little comfort, as I didn’t use clip-on bars, It has drag-style bars, with controls from a 2001 Honda CRF250F Dual Sport motorcycle.

The headlight has been changed to accommodate a more modern (brighter) lighting system. All LED indicator lights by Custom Dynamics LEDs.

Instead of the factory speedometer, I used an ACEWELL digital speedo with a hall effect speed sensor, which so far works great.

The bike has a dual-disc setup with CB750 front forks. The tail piece is a bubble-style rear with the frame modified to house the brake and rear turn signal indicators.  A custom battery box has been made under the seat to house battery, fuses and wiring.  Electric start has been removed, but the engine kicks over the first time.

The bike has a 4-into-1 exhaust, with UNI pod filters on each carb. The engine is stock.