1992 fc501 Resto/mod build

Hello,

After finding virtually no info or pictures (even from Malcolm Smith Motorsports) of what I was told is a Malcolm Smith Edition 501 and deciding against building a Joel Smets replica out of it, I decided to just build the bike the way I would like it.

The engines top end is completely rebuilt with new piston set, valves, timing chain, tensioner, and stator. I also installed a modern FCR41carb. Shock and forks rebuilt as well.

I rode the bike a couple times and thought it was cool. Totally different then my other big bore bikes. After having many years experience on big bore 2Ts (CR500s, CR480, YZ490, KTM380) and my fe650 I would say the bike is like a XR650 power wise with a much lighter and better suspended chassis.

I want to keep it looking similar to the original 92 fc501 look (Blue and Yellow), but with some updates, custom pieces, and my own modern styling cues.

This build will be an on going process. As time permits (back in college full time).

To start I fully disassembled and cleaned frame. I think I may have it media blasted and I will paint myself in original blue. The wheels were fully disassembled and the hubs castings smoothed and will get the same color blue as frame. I love black wheels, so I had the original rims powder coated. Spent a ton of time cleaning the SS spokes and nipples as well. I have decided to remove the ugly casting marks on the fork clamps and paint them black which will match (so far) the 1-1/8" handle bars, restored radiator, and new sprocket. I also restored the original muffler and header pipes. I want this bike to be as quiet as possible, but still sound good. I have also purchased a bunch of new parts so far for the bike. Next purchase will be new tires for the wheels sets that hopefully will be painted and assembled by next weekend-ish.

I have some pics to post now. All comments welcome.

This is the bike before resto/mod-

Here a pic of the FCR-MX41 carb with modded inlet.

Steve, you have a new (older) set of 91-93 plastics?

Restored the WP forks-

Making this bulky front engine bracket more aesthetically pleasing the caveman way.



Looking for some INEXPENSIVE soft/mid tires to put on the resto/mod wheel sets that I am building. I am looking at the Artrax SE3 combo. I like big back tires

Anyone have any suggestions?

80/100/21
140/80/18

Smoothed, prepped and ready for primer-



Primered and waiting for Husaberg Blue-

Mike, Have you found any other good deals on tires?

Yes, I would love to resto/mod it for you. I will hopefully have a few pics every day or so as school permits.

I have a bunch of cool ideas for a modern CRF.

Thanks for the tire info guys.

I run the big M5B on both the 650 and the CR500. I too run the Pirelli Scorpion. I really like the 80-100-21 XCMH which is also on the 650 and CR500.

But, like you said they are spendy.

Thanks for the offer FE. I am going to go for new tires.

ave to re-look at the Mitas tires.

However, I am leaning towards the Artrax.

This mechanical engineering school math is hurting my brain!

I was lucky to get out for a ride today on one of my none Berg rides and had a great time. Missed ya Oregon Trail!

My garage was a cluster F and it needed a serious over haul so I could have the room to really work on and store the finished pieces as I go along. I was able to get the last 25% finished after the ride and yard work...yes it is early spring here in southern Oregon.

Snapped a shot of the finished top fork clamp and 1-1/8" handle bar mounts. The paint is Stone Guard black it is textured and has a chip resistant finish.