Best first conversion in the US?

[bhtooefr]

So, I'm wondering what the best motorcycles for a first conversion (and I'd be a first-time rider, too) in the US are. Or, what should I look for in a bike?

I'd be using a Yanclone with a CVT. (Sounds easier than cutting the gearbox off of an engine and engineering a way to use it, and the CVT will stay at peak HP all the time, the gearbox won't.) I'm 6'1 with a 32" inseam.

[phoenix827]

I used a CM400 Honda that worked well because it is a backbone frame. We made our own cradle and bolted it in. We used a Comet variable belt drive. If you have hills do NOT use a variable belt drive. You can't keep speed up hills. I am putting a five speed together for mine now. We took the engine/trans out of a KZ400 Kawasaki we put a block off plate where the jugs had been and made a shaft to replace the crank that will hang out where the distributor was to use a pulley and belt from the diesel. This way we can use the original Kaw clutch and maybe kick-start. I'm not sure I want to kick 16 to 1 compression though.

[balboa_71]

I know this is an old posting, but I'll add my $.02 worth.....go with Suzuki GS series if you can find one. They are plentiful, parts are cheap and Suzuki has built reliable bikes for as long as I can remember.
I know there are other makes up for the job, but for me Suzuki is the ride. If you want to do the CVT route, plan on putting your chain drive on the right side of the bike to get the best handle on holding the jackshaft.....This means you'll have to remove and turn the swing arm upside down, that involves cutting and rewelding the shock mounts. Also, your rear brake will need reworking. None of this is easy, but when done, you'll have a good runner. BTW, you want a 6 to 1 reduction from engine to rear wheel for good performance.

Cris

[coachgeo]

...BTW, you want a 6 to 1 reduction from engine to rear wheel for good performance.

Cris

This statment promped a great discussion worthy of its own topic thusly such a topic was created placed at:


https://www.dieselbikeforum.com/view ... =30&t=1821