Subject: How do I love thee, my loopframe, let me count the ways
Author: dj-@dotis.com
Date: Dec 14, 2001, 7:29 AM
Post ID: 1709155830
Whoever tagged loopframes as undependable was severely uninformed.
1. What other motorcycle has a compareable bottom end? A massive crankshaft
coupled to a massive flywheel, (that should stay as stock Charlie) rods as a
small block chevy has, that can withstand brutal mistreatment. Good for
hundreds of thousands of miles when given fair teatment. (change the oil)
2. A rock solid valve train (I prefere the gears as in V700 and Ambo, but the
chain ain't too bad) solid lifters and a simple valve train that is extremely
reliable.
3. A drive train next to none, massive universal, and a rear end that is very
reliable and compares to those in smaller cars. The clutch is excellent and
will do many many tens of thousands of miles.
4. Simple ignition, it's all about intake, compression, power, exhaust, set
the distributor to fire just before tdc and away you go. If my loopframe has
an ignition problem, I can fix it at any NAPA (or similar) store, I only need
a 12 Volt coil, wires are easy, plugs are easy, I always carry a spare set of
points and a condenser. Try fixing and modern type ignition this easily)
5. Charging/starting system, either a Marrelli or Bosch regulator can be
easily replaced using parts from a NAPA store (or most other auto parts
stores) any generator shop can rebuild a Bosch Starter or generator, Bosch
Solinoids are easy to get again at any NAPA dealer. (yes Marelli can be
harder)
6. Cooling, the design of the engine is perfect for air cooling, I have
worked on countless other brands that have had rear, or middle cylinder
overheating problems.
I just love em, I do change the wiring to much simpler, better and more
reliable connectors, as well as updated fuses, I carry a kit with plugs,
points, condenser, fuel screens, a few extra carb parts, fuel line and misc
nuts and bolts for emergency situations. There is no other more dependable
bike. IMHO