Starting Tourmaster - Second Zombie Bike [Archive] - Atomic Zombie™ Extreme Machines Builder's Forum

GregLWB

03-23-2009, 03:21 PM

Hi guys,

When I first signed up on this site I said I was going to build a TourMaster and I meant it! I got side tracked with the HighRoller but it was a fun build. Now that the HR is almost done (have completed three-five mile rides) it is time to start.:)

I will be cutting up my old DF Mountain Bike frame (with suspension forks) for the front and it has a down tube that is 1.5x1.25 rectangular tube and I have enough 1.5 square tube left from my HR build to use for the bottom tube, so it should look like it belongs. I will use round tube for the rest. Once the frame is done I will strip all the parts off of my commuter LWB bike and use them on the TM. I think I will be able to put this together with fairly high end parts with only the purchase of one 26" Schwalbe Marathon Plus tire and maybe some foam and vinyl to make a taller seat like Brad's design.

I will post pictures soon. I think I have the sickness!:rolleyes4: And, yes Jim I will be adapting it specifically so that I can swap my motor onto this one and it will become my new commuter.

Greg

jimFPU

03-23-2009, 03:33 PM

I await your masterpiece...

GregLWB

04-10-2009, 10:43 PM

Today I started the TourMaster. I cut up my old Mountain Bike that had served me well for several years (including a weeklong trip with Boy Scouts to bike three off the San Juan Islands of the coast of Washington).:sunny:

The MB became the front of the TM and I decided to use the front suspension forks and will connect the steering the way it shows in the Delta Runner plans.

The 1.5" square tube is left over from my HR build and I decided to use it for the additional strength. I will be putting my assist motor on this bike and it will become my commuter (53 mile round trip).:scooter:

So here is the first pic. This is how much I got done today after putting several miles on my HR this morning.:1eye:

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/TourMasterBike/Picture062.jpg

Greg

Richie Rich

04-11-2009, 11:36 PM

It looks like you're off to a good start, Greg.
We anxiously await your pictorial progress.....!! :cheesy:

....Richie....
.

GregLWB

04-13-2009, 06:39 PM

I now have a rolling frame. Over the weekend this is what I got accomplished. Attached the rear forks, cut them down, and fully welded the whole frame. The frame seems really strong. Couldn't detect any frame flex. Just front suspension and tire flex.

I put it up beside my commuter LWB to see the difference in length. This bike will be just under 8.5 feet from front of front tire to rear of back tire. That will make it just under 6 inches longer than my current bike that it will be replacing.:jester:

Oh, and here is a pic.
http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/TourMasterBike/Picture064.jpg

Greg

KoolKat

04-13-2009, 07:28 PM

Lookin' good Greg! :sunny:

Butterbean

04-13-2009, 09:10 PM

That is so cool. How tricky was it lining up the rear end while you welded?

GregLWB

04-13-2009, 10:08 PM

That is so cool. How tricky was it lining up the rear end while you welded?

Thanks Kat and Bean,

It was alot easier than the HighRoller rear forks were.:jester: Lining up the rear was really easy. I did that part right on the floor. One thing I realized after I had the top and bottom welded was that I hadn't put a block under the dropouts like Brad shows in the plans.:dunce2: I decided to leave it that way. After welding it all up and putting on the tires I found that the head tube angle is exactly 70 degrees.

I built the seat tonight and will try to make the slider mechanism in the next couple days and weld it on.

I can tell that I am really going to like this bike!:sunny:

Greg

TheKid

04-14-2009, 01:55 AM

Looks good Greg. One problem you may encounter with the rear forks being in line with the lower frame is the chain hitting the front part of the stay when using the small cog. I had that problem the first time I hooked the triangle to the tadpole. Of course, that was an easier fix, I just used a shorter shock.

GregLWB

04-14-2009, 09:43 AM

TheKid

04-14-2009, 12:08 PM

If it does, an easy fix is to install a pulley so it raises the chain. Maybe a little higher than the return pulley, and the return pulley could be a little lower than in the plan. If that works, it's better than having to reset the triangle. I noticed that Brad didn't raise the triangle much above horizontal, so it might be okay. If you do have to reset the triangle, it's such a small amount that it shouldn't affect the head angle much. That would save a lot of work.

comreich

04-15-2009, 03:05 PM

Nice work Greg. You're make quick progress on this. 'Course, I said that about my high roller where the basic work was done in a week, and it took three weeks more to finish the silly thing :)

GregLWB

04-15-2009, 03:24 PM

Nice work Greg. You're make quick progress on this. 'Course, I said that about my high roller where the basic work was done in a week, and it took three weeks more to finish the silly thing :)

Thanks comreich, it will probably take me that long. But you never know?!:jester:

Greg

TheKid

04-15-2009, 03:30 PM

Four weeks for a project. You guys are speed demons. The easiest project I made was the Meridian, which is easier than the High Roller and the Tourmaster. It took over 2 months.

GregLWB

04-15-2009, 03:44 PM

Four weeks for a project. You guys are speed demons. The easiest project I made was the Meridian, which is easier than the High Roller and the Tourmaster. It took over 2 months.

LOL! Kid - ADHD has it's good and bad points! One that's good and bad is hyperfocus. Sometimes you get so focused on something that you let some other things slide for a while. My lawn is getting really long, the weeds are growing fast and I haven't even started my garden yet for this year!:jester:

I need to get this bike done by the end of the month or I think that SWMBO is going to go on strike until I get some things caught up.:rolleyes4:

I've gotten so caught up in this bike stuff that I haven't even tuned up the motor and taken the new to me fishing boat out since I got it almost for nothing a year ago.:jester:

Greg

Edit: Oh, and by the way. I love fishing!:sunny:

comreich

04-15-2009, 04:20 PM

See, that's the benefit of living in the snow belt :) I can't do anything outside -- or at least I couldn't. My lawn won't start growing for a couple of weeks yet (still have snow on it) and the garden can't be planted before our May long weekend. Granted, there are other things I could be doing, but I like the smell of flux-core on a Saturday morning :)

Butterbean

04-15-2009, 07:37 PM

Snow!!! Holy cow...I've been wearing shorts and sandals for weeks now.

On another note, I can't wait to see how this project comes along. I want to build the same model myself. It seems to me that there haven't been too many built. Why aren't more people building tourmasters???

GregLWB

04-15-2009, 09:43 PM

It seems to me that there haven't been too many built. Why aren't more people building tourmasters???

I think it's like cars. Sporty models get all the attention even though the luxury cars are more comfortable and still get you there (usually just as fast).:jester:

I think Pete from Cape Cod might be the only one but I haven't seen any pictures of his with paint on it. Joey built something for his sister that is similar, but I think that's it.

Greg

trikeman

04-15-2009, 10:07 PM

[QUOTE=GregLWB;22674]I think it's like cars. Sporty models get all the attention even though the luxury cars are more comfortable and still get you there (usually just as fast).:jester:

I think Pete from Cape Cod might be the only one but I haven't seen any pictures of his with paint on it. Joey built something for his sister that is similar, but I think that's it.

Greg[/QUOTE

I think you are right. That is, not everyone likes the same style. I hope to one day build a LWB, but when I do it will look more like this V3 Clone (tiller and all). I just like the way it looks:

http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee286/marksfile2000/v3c1.jpg

TheKid

04-15-2009, 10:21 PM

Oh, and by the way. I love fishing!

What kind of fish do you prefer fishing for? I'm figuring salmon is one of the big attractions in the northwest, but what kind of fish are common in that part of the country? (Both fresh and salt water)

For us on Long Island, flatfish are the most popular for food, along with porgy, (scup), blackfish, black sea bass, cod and ling. For me, it's striped bass and weakfish on light and ultra-light tackle. 20-40lb. striped bass on 6lb. test line is a lot of fun. (For us. I'm guessing the fish aren't too thrilled about it.)
Fresh water is mostly sport only because of pollution, but black bass, all kinds of panfish and trout are abundant. I'd have to go way upstate near Maine for salmon, and one day I'll take that ride.

pcorbett

04-15-2009, 11:00 PM

I think it's like cars. Sporty models get all the attention even though the luxury cars are more comfortable and still get you there (usually just as fast).:jester:

I think Pete from Cape Cod might be the only one but I haven't seen any pictures of his with paint on it. Joey built something for his sister that is similar, but I think that's it.

Greg

http://home.comcast.net/~ppcorbett/pwpimages/Untitled%2000m%2005s.jpg
Still no paint:( but still gets used a lot. I have sized mine with 2.125 white walls and measures 8'-3". It will take my daughters 6'-5" boyfriend but I have to add an extra set of holes in the seat adjustment.

Yours looks like it's coming along nice.

Pete

GregLWB

04-16-2009, 01:02 AM

What kind of fish do you prefer fishing for? I'm figuring salmon is one of the big attractions in the northwest, but what kind of fish are common in that part of the country? (Both fresh and salt water)

For us on Long Island, flatfish are the most popular for food, along with porgy, (scup), blackfish, black sea bass, cod and ling. For me, it's striped bass and weakfish on light and ultra-light tackle. 20-40lb. striped bass on 6lb. test line is a lot of fun. (For us. I'm guessing the fish aren't too thrilled about it.)
Fresh water is mostly sport only because of pollution, but black bass, all kinds of panfish and trout are abundant. I'd have to go way upstate near Maine for salmon, and one day I'll take that ride.

You know Kid, I haven't ever developed a taste for most Salmon. My mom is from Sandwich, MA and I grew up on East Coast fish. I really like Finnan Haddie.:)

I freshwater fish for Trout, Steelhead and Kokanee. Sometimes Bass and Sun Fish. I also like to Ocean fish for Albacore and Halibut.

Greg

GregLWB

04-16-2009, 01:05 AM

[QUOTE=trikeman;22677 I think you are right. That is, not everyone likes the same style. I hope to one day build a LWB, but when I do it will look more like this V3 Clone (tiller and all). I just like the way it looks:[/QUOTE]

I like the style of the V3 also.

Greg

GregLWB

04-16-2009, 01:07 AM

[QUOTE=pcorbett;22682 I have sized mine with 2.125 white walls and measures 8'-3". It will take my daughters 6'-5" boyfriend but I have to add an extra set of holes in the seat adjustment.

Yours looks like it's coming along nice.

Pete[/QUOTE]

Thanks Pete. I'm 6'8" so mine is long too.:jester:

Greg

pcorbett

04-16-2009, 07:39 PM

Took this pic today. Hope this helps with your rear triangle.

http://home.comcast.net/~ppcorbett/pwpimages/TM-DriveTrain.jpg

Pete

GregLWB

04-16-2009, 07:44 PM

Took this pic today. Hope this helps with your rear triangle. Pete

Thanks Pete. That picture helps alot.:) I'm going to cut mine and reweld it. Now that I see your chain line I can see that mine won't work without extra pulleys.:dunce2:

Greg

GregLWB

04-17-2009, 11:26 PM

Well today I got a little done on the TM. I decided to leave the rear triangle the way it is. I put a chain on it and I think it will be fine. I run a tube on the top side anyway to keep the gook off of my leg.:scooter:

I got the seat mounted and installed in its furthest back position as I can't conceive of anyone taller than me ever riding it.:rolleyes4: It took me quite a while to get it installed so that it looked right to me.:1eye: I also got the seat back supports made and installed and have the pilot's headtube almost ready to weld on the bike (just have to make the tabs for the ball joints).

The crankset on it is off of an old Bike E (60/48/3?). I don't know if I will use it or just use the one off of my other LWB bike.

I think the steering linkage will have to be the last thing I do on this as I haven't found ball joints for a good price yet. Also, with sending the feds all my money for taxes this week I'm out of build money till the end of the month.:mad:

So here is a pic of today's progress.

Greg
http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/TourMasterBike/Picture069.jpg

TheKid

04-17-2009, 11:51 PM

I run a tube on the top side anyway to keep the gook off of my leg.

Great tip. A chain tube is an easy fix in case that problem is met. Thanks

GregLWB

04-18-2009, 09:13 PM

I got alot done today I think. Please read through to the end because I do have some questions and need some Zombie help.:confused:

Today I got the pilot headtube done and welded on, built the goose neck, installed it and the handlebars, welded on the steering tabs, and built the linkage rod.:sweatdrop: I will probably put different handlebars on it or try to find wider ones of the same style (I'm too fat and I thought I put the steering far enough forward).

I hooked up a front brake and pieced together a temporary chain so that I could take it for a test. It pedals really easy and was really smooth even without foam on the seat. Here's a couple pics.
http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/TourMasterBike/Picture070.jpg
http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/TourMasterBike/Picture073.jpg

The one problem I had was that I couldn't turn the front wheel as far as I would like. It's even side to side, just not far enough. I did drill another hole in the fork tab and got a few more degrees of movement but still not enough. Any ideas? Should I weld the fork tab to the back of the fork instead? Here are a couple pics to show what I'm talking about.
http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/TourMasterBike/Picture075.jpg
http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/TourMasterBike/Picture074.jpg

Greg

Radical Brad

04-18-2009, 10:28 PM

This will solve your problem...

http://www.lucidscience.com/temp/shockfork.jpg

Brad

GregLWB

04-18-2009, 11:09 PM

This will solve your problem...

http://www.lucidscience.com/temp/shockfork.jpg

Brad

Thanks Brad. I thought so. I came in and was looking at the DeltaRunner plans that I got for my daughter's trike and saw that pic.

What's frustrating is that I originally welded it on in that position and then thought I was wrong, cut it off and rewelded it as in my picture.:dunce2:

Greg

TheKid

04-18-2009, 11:30 PM

I built the DR before the plans were out, but my tab was in basically the same poition as Brad's. I just did it the hard way. With this fork, the wheel turned almost 90° in both directions. I switched to a non suspension fork with a with a little bit of rake because there was too much trail. It was easier to replace the fork than to change the front tube and head tube angles to get less trail.

http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z66/edpol_photos/Delta%20Runner/100_0257Small.jpg

Greenhorn

04-20-2009, 11:27 AM

Man....you are a building machine!

I got alot done today I think. Please read through to the end because I do have some questions and need some Zombie help.:confused:

Today I got the pilot headtube done and welded on, built the goose neck, installed it and the handlebars, welded on the steering tabs, and built the linkage rod.:sweatdrop: I will probably put different handlebars on it or try to find wider ones of the same style (I'm too fat and I thought I put the steering far enough forward).

I hooked up a front brake and pieced together a temporary chain so that I could take it for a test. It pedals really easy and was really smooth even without foam on the seat. Here's a couple pics.
http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/TourMasterBike/Picture070.jpg
http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/TourMasterBike/Picture073.jpg

The one problem I had was that I couldn't turn the front wheel as far as I would like. It's even side to side, just not far enough. I did drill another hole in the fork tab and got a few more degrees of movement but still not enough. Any ideas? Should I weld the fork tab to the back of the fork instead? Here are a couple pics to show what I'm talking about.
http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/TourMasterBike/Picture075.jpg
http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/TourMasterBike/Picture074.jpg

Greg

GregLWB

04-20-2009, 06:28 PM

Man....you are a building machine!

Thanks Greenhorn.

Today I took the day off from work (over 80 degrees and sunny:sunny:) so that I could get more done on the TM and go for some bike rides. Drew a lot of attention on my HR and on the TM. It was really cool when my bikes drew alot more comments and questions than a couple of my friends trikes (EZ-3 Tadpole, and a USX Delta). It made it really clear how good Brad's designs really are.

I fixed the steering tab cut it off and rewelded on the back of the suspension fork. I made the tab shorter and the steering is really good now (almost 45 degrees in each direction).

I also made a cage to hold my 12 volt battery under the seat and welded it in. I'll also be adding a second pulley next to the one you see to take up the slack on the return side of the chain.

I also took the TM on 3 rides of about 12 to 15 blocks and although I have the gearing set up for only one gear for testing (48f - 24r) it pedals really easy and I even went up a short hill without too much strain.

Now I need to take it all apart and do the paint prep. Ugh!

Here's a pic.
http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/TourMasterBike/Picture077.jpg

Greg

TheKid

04-20-2009, 08:21 PM

Those first test rides really make you feel like you did something. Lookin good.

trikeman

04-20-2009, 09:14 PM

Looking good Greg. A coat of paint will make it look even better.

GregLWB

04-20-2009, 09:23 PM

Thanks for the positive words Kid and trikeman.

The building's fun. The riding is fun. Even the painting is sort of fun. But the paint prep.....:jester:

Greg

Butterbean

04-20-2009, 09:27 PM

I really like what you've done.

What colors are you going with???

GregLWB

04-20-2009, 09:40 PM

I really like what you've done.

What colors are you going with???

Thanks, did you see my build thread on the HR I built? This will be the same.:jester:
http://forum.atomiczombie.com/showthread.php?t=2038
http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/HighRollerBike/Picture065.jpg

Greg

GregLWB

04-23-2009, 10:16 PM

Well the main part of the build didn't take long but adding the little things like mounts, tabs, and what ever else I can think of before I paint the TM is taking a while.

Tonight I decided to make a mount for the headlights and I think the chopper guys are starting to rub off on me.:jester: Instead of mounting the lights side by side like I did on my previous LWB, I decided to mount them vertically more like a chopper.
Previous LWB
http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/Picture044.jpg
Now mounted like this.
http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/TourMasterBike/Picture078.jpg
Here's a side view. I made holes for the wires to go through the mount once I put wire loom around them. I need some ideas for how to close this off so that it looks nicer.
http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/TourMasterBike/Picture079.jpg
I also mounted an accessory rail on the back of the seat (for lights and stuff). Geez, an accessory rail, who do I think I am Batman! Next, I'll be needing an accessory belt!:batman:
http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/TourMasterBike/Picture080.jpg
Well that's all for now. See you tommorrow. Same Bat Time. Same Bat Channel!

Greg

greenevegiebeast

04-23-2009, 10:54 PM

"you light up my life"

TheKid

04-24-2009, 08:24 AM

How about something like this? (Please excuse the lack of drawing skills) The bottom is the front view.

http://forum.atomiczombie.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=399&stc=1&d=1240576034

GregLWB

04-24-2009, 11:30 AM

How about something like this? (Please excuse the lack of drawing skills) The bottom is the front view.

http://forum.atomiczombie.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=399&stc=1&d=1240576034

That's along the lines of what I had originally envisioned.:)

Greg

Butterbean

04-25-2009, 11:20 AM

What kind of lights are those?

GregLWB

04-25-2009, 11:53 AM

What kind of lights are those?

$15 driving lights from Walmart. They use 12 volt MR-11 bulbs (track lighting). I went to a specialty lighting place and had them order some 20 watt narrow spot beam (7 degree spread) replacement bulbs and wired them up to a 12 volt, 9.5 AH, AGM battery.

Running one headlight I get more than 3.5 hours of light and running both I get at least 2.5 hours. I only run both when it is really dark and rainy. Also with two it builds in a safety margin (both bulbs won't usually die at the same time). I have run this setup since last fall in all kinds of weather and even on my motor assist bike at ~30 mph I am not overdriving the lights.:scooter:

Greg

GregLWB

04-25-2009, 12:52 PM

Yesterday was a good day. I stripped the TM down and started grinding. Found a few pinholes and fixed them. I will be riding this bike a lot as it will be getting my motor assist and become my new commuter so I want to make sure it lasts and most important LOOKS GOOD.:jester:

Still have a lot of sanding, prep, and painting to do. I am really starting to get anxious to get this build done! Once I was able to ride it around my 'hood' a few times I have no desire to ride my current LWB any more.:jester:

Here is a pic.
http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/TourMasterBike/Picture081.jpg

Greg

Butterbean

04-25-2009, 01:11 PM

GregLWB

04-25-2009, 01:20 PM

Looks awesome. Reminds me of a lugged road bike I built for my bike...and instead of painting it, I just clear coated the bare metal (a la Rivendell Bikes) and it came out very cool. I think it's an appropriate way to go on a frame you built yourself.

LOL! Thanks, but my welding will have to get a lot prettier before I am confident enough to try that.:jester:

Greg

Radical Brad

04-25-2009, 06:30 PM

It's really turning out great.

Brad

greenevegiebeast

04-25-2009, 07:02 PM

greg motor assist, are you talking gass or electric.

if gas, what typy and where are you mounting it.

TheKid

04-25-2009, 09:50 PM

Wow you really scraped that paint. I guess we could call you a "male stripper".

GregLWB

04-25-2009, 10:19 PM

Funny Kid.:jester:

GVB - I am going to completely disassemble my other LWB and put almost all the parts on the TM. The motor will be the Robin/Subaru 35cc 4 stroke that I have been using on the other bike.:scooter:

Thanks Brad.:)

I got the main frame primed and painted today. Still need to paint the other parts. Sorry no pics today. Too tired to go back out to the garage.:sleep1:

Greg

GregLWB

04-28-2009, 10:01 AM

Due to a change in work schedule for this week (have to work Saturday) I was able to come home early on Monday to flex out my time. I spent the afternoon taking apart my commuter LWB and transferring parts to the TM.

I swapped the wheels, motor, shifters, rear der, brakes, and electrical (for lights). I painted the bracket for the headlights, installed the handlebars, front forks, steering linkage and seat. I finished upholstering the seat too.

The cables to the things in the rear are too long and I will have to shorten them (previous bike was tiller steer so cables had to travel down bars and then from front of bike to rear). The cable for the front der. will still work, but I will have to replace the front brake cable with a longer one.

I still need to swap the crankset and bearings, install and hook up the lights, attach and adjust all the cables, and retighten everything (just in case).

Also I may need to completely rebuild the seat. I built the seat using dimensions from my other seat but forgot that there is a gap between the back and the bottom on my other bike.:dunce2: This seat feels like it may end up being just a little bit too small, but we'll see after I ride it on Friday.

Sorry no pics today. I will try to add some tonight. I think that I will have this bike on the road by Friday afternoon.:)

Greg

Locutus

04-28-2009, 10:30 AM

Looks like you'll beat me to the finish line, Greg. I'm stalled trying to figure out the steering on my Street Fox. Congrats. Can't wait to see your finished TM.

GregLWB

04-28-2009, 10:54 AM

Looks like you'll beat me to the finish line, Greg. I'm stalled trying to figure out the steering on my Street Fox. Congrats. Can't wait to see your finished TM.

Thanks Loc - We'll see. I'm not done yet. I still have to figure out a way to create some underseat panniers and the mounting for them and a few other little things. I think this has been fun and gave us both a little added incentive to get them done quicker so that we can start commuting.:)

Don't overthink your steering. I think simple is better. Less to go wrong on the road.:jester:

Greg

Locutus

04-28-2009, 12:20 PM

Thanks Loc - We'll see. I'm not done yet. I still have to figure out a way to create some underseat panniers and the mounting for them and a few other little things. I think this has been fun and gave us both a little added incentive to get them done quicker so that we can start commuting.:)

Don't overthink your steering. I think simple is better. Less to go wrong on the road.:jester:

Greg

I'm leaning toward OSS with a flip stem. But because of the higher speed electric assist that I'm designing in, I want a stronger hinge than what I've seen displayed on this forum. Maybe a bushed pivot. I also want to be able to clip it in place once it's in position for riding. Still thinking on how to accomplish this.

TheKid

04-28-2009, 12:59 PM

How about this?

http://www.bikepartsusa.com/bikeparts/item/01-134206/stem-mountain_bike_stems/Pyramid--MTB-Adjustable-Alloy-Stem-22.2mm-110x180mm-Silver&category=stem-mountain_bike_stems

Or the type for a threadless headset:

http://www.bikepartsusa.com/bikeparts/item/01-134232/stem-mountain_bike_stems/Pyramid--ADJUSTABLE-MTB-STEM-AHEAD-28.6x105&category=stem-mountain_bike_stems

Locutus

04-28-2009, 02:33 PM

TheKid

04-28-2009, 07:30 PM

Simple. Just replace the screw with a wing screw, or weld a piece of steel to the end of the screw to make your own. The screws have Allen heads, so you could also weld a key right into the socket. I don't know what the thread size is, but it may be the same as a QR seat post screw.

Butterbean

04-28-2009, 10:33 PM

Those appear to be adjustable with tools, but I need a hinge that I can use to quickly flip down the stem, without tools, to mount and dismount.

Hey Locutus, check these out...

http://www.thorusa.com/images/dahon/accessories/quillextender.jpg

http://www.thorusa.com/dahon/accessories/handlebar.htm

Scroll down about 2/3 of the way. There are some folding bike stem that have a quick release hinge. Might be what you're looking for. They are long but I'm sure any good garage hacker could cut them down to size.

John Lewis

04-28-2009, 10:50 PM

Those appear to be adjustable with tools, but I need a hinge that I can use to quickly flip down the stem, without tools, to mount and dismount.

I just used a quick release seat bolt on mine. You probably need a serrated face to make it really secure. I just tighten it up with the cam and go but in the wet it gets lubed with water and moves a bit.

Locutus

04-28-2009, 11:09 PM

Hey Locutus, check these out...

http://www.thorusa.com/images/dahon/accessories/quillextender.jpg

http://www.thorusa.com/dahon/accessories/handlebar.htm

Scroll down about 2/3 of the way. There are some folding bike stem that have a quick releas hinge. Might be what you're looking for. They are long but I'm sure any good garage hacker could cut them down to size.

Cool! Thanks ol' Bean. They look like they'd fit the bill nicely. Pricey and on backorder, but still....
Might be a good upgrade later when they're available again.

GregLWB

05-01-2009, 02:15 AM

Yesterday after work I got home in just enough time to take my old commuter LWB frame over to the LBS and had them take out my Truvativ crankset (it is the style with external bearings and I haven't dealt with them before and I figured better safe than sorry).

Today after work I loaded up my TM on the rack on the Suburban and took it over to the LBS and had them install my Truvativ crankset in it.

I resized the chain, installed the rear der., ran the rear der. cable and adjusted it. I installed a tube on the upper chain and mounted it, installed a pulley for the return side of the chain and removed the rear wheel and put spacers on each side of the axle to give proper clearance for the 11 tooth sprocket on the rear cassette (this required unbolting the mounts for the motor and then reinstalling and readjusting the mounts.:sweatdrop:

I will take pictures in the morning.:jester: I just have to install/and adjust the front der., attach and install brake cables front and rear, route and attach the throttle cable for my motor and reinstall and attach the wiring for the headlights.:builder2:

I should be able to get that done in the morning and then I am going to take a ride to the next town over (10 miles each way) on a shake down cruise so that I can start commuting with the TM next week.:scooter:

Greg

GregLWB

05-01-2009, 08:40 PM

Okay! Ta-Da! I finished the TourMaster and rode it today about 6 miles.:sunny:

I had a problem with the throttle cable on the motor and had to Zombie the cable end adjuster at the carburetor. The brass adjuster nut broke in half. It looked alot like the fine adjuster on old style 10 speed brakes. I thought hmmm.... I just happen to have some taken apart old 10 speeds. With some light surgery with a drill bit to open the center hole to allow the cable stop to go through it worked perfect and was free!:jester:

Like any commuter bike I still need to add some form of pannier rack and do a little more fine tuning but it is a really nice ride. I had it up to around 25 mph around town and it rolls forever. At speed you don't feel like you are going faster than is safe and it is really stable. I even pedalled it around for a couple miles without the motor going.

So here is the pic of my finished TM
http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/TourMasterBike/Picture082.jpg

Greg

TheKid

05-01-2009, 09:08 PM

The bike looks great. Nice inventiveness (?) on the throttle repair.

GregLWB

05-01-2009, 09:12 PM

The bike looks great. Nice inventiveness (?) on the throttle repair.

What can I say - I'm a Zombie!:jester: LOL!

Greg

John Lewis

05-01-2009, 09:27 PM

TheKid

05-01-2009, 09:28 PM

Yes. You certainly are. There's more satisfaction from making your own bikes than store bought as we all know. But it takes a real Zombie to have a part like that on hand from a donor.

GregLWB

05-01-2009, 10:54 PM

Looks great Greg.

How are the brakes for usee at speed with the motor. That has always been my worry when I see some of the ones round here the kids make. The motors are above our legal power, they go flat out and I dont think the bike calliper brakes are adequate. Interested tho know how you find them as I may be wrong.

John Lewis

Thanks John - My brakes work really well Edit - (same set for all almost 16K miles with the motor and they were still good enough to put on the TM) and I also try to pace lights so that I don't have to use them unnecessarily. On my previous commuter I had upgraded the arms and I use high end wet weather pads from Eagle. My motor is also well within the legal limits for cc's.

I'm also old enough that I don't have a death wish anymore.:jester: Oh, and when commuting at the higher speeds I wear a full face motorcycle helmet.

Thanks Kid - Yep, it felt really good and I made sure to show SWMBO how I saved us money on parts today.:jester:

Greg

comreich

05-01-2009, 11:32 PM

GregLWB

05-02-2009, 01:05 AM

Greg, that looks fantastic. Is that motor from Golden Eagle because it looks like their drive system? Do you find the noise to be that bad behind your head? I remember reading about somebody who had to bodge a different mount for their tadpole trike because the noise was unbearable.

On a similar commuting thought, I'm planning on riding to my office tomorrow to get an idea for how the new bike works. I used to make a similar trip on my DF in about 45 minutes, but I think this will take a couple of minutes longer until I get really comfortable with it.

Thanks comreich - Yep, it's a GEBE motor kit. I purposely bought the 4-stroke (deeper tone) because of that and also cause I don't like to mix gas. The motor doesn't sit that much closer to my ears on my bike than on a DF type bike. Also, when I commute I wear a full face motorcycle helmet.

Cool on the commute! You'll have to give us a ride report. How is the HR coming?

Greg

Locutus

05-02-2009, 03:07 AM

Nice job, Greg. That'll be a cush commuter. You've definitely beat me, and by a lot. Hopefully I'll get some work done on the trike this weekend.

GregLWB

05-02-2009, 01:17 PM

Nice job, Greg. That'll be a cush commuter. You've definitely beat me, and by a lot. Hopefully I'll get some work done on the trike this weekend.

Thanks Loc - I can't wait to see yours finished. I will probably build a Tadpole in the future so I am definately watching your progress.:1eye:

Greg

Butterbean

05-02-2009, 05:30 PM

That is so cool. Post some more pics of the motor/rear wheel setup if you have them.

I sure wish you lived closer...I need to take that thing for a test drive.

savarin

05-02-2009, 08:29 PM

John Lewis

05-02-2009, 11:03 PM

Nice ride Greg. Cant use petrol motors here as theyve clamped right down on them.
Theres even a case going through court now with an 80 year old who purchased a new petrol assisted bike and then got banned with an instant law that was used.

That's Queensland for you. :jester: Actually if the nutters keep beating up the neighbourhood on illegal 50cc (ie over 200watt) souped up machines on the cyclepaths where powered bikes are not permitted with motor running we are going to end up with the same law here.

No difference to me but we have disabled people who use them. A one legged guy comes to mind. Uses the motor on hills and at gopher speeds. Be unfair if he's stopped. Saw that occurred to a disabled guy in your neck of the woods due to that law Charles. Hope it is defeated.

John Lewis

GregLWB

05-03-2009, 12:55 AM

That is so cool. Post some more pics of the motor/rear wheel setup if you have them.

I sure wish you lived closer...I need to take that thing for a test drive.

Thanks Bean - I took it for a ride after work today - between rain showers - went about 6 miles and got it up to 34 mph on a flat into a light wind.:scooter:

Here is a pic. of it on my previous LWB, but the best thing to do if you are interested in it is go to the www.bikeengines.com site and take a look. You can see a testimonial from me in the reviews section. You can also private mail me if you need more info. Brad has tried to keep the focus on this site steered towards electrics and so I try to honor that.:)

http://i694.photobucket.com/albums/vv301/gdfran0/LaBent3-1.jpg

Greg

GregLWB

05-03-2009, 12:58 AM

Nice ride Greg. Cant use petrol motors here as theyve clamped right down on them.
Theres even a case going through court now with an 80 year old who purchased a new petrol assisted bike and then got banned with an instant law that was used.

Thanks Savarin - we have the same morons (not the old guy, the ones from John's post) over here who will end up ruining it for everyone else if they don't cool it.

Oh and by the way I pulled into the gas station today and after all the riding yesterday and today it cost me exactly 25 cents to fill the tank.:jester:

Greg

savarin

05-03-2009, 01:16 AM

As an import I can see with different eyes.
It really does appear to me that most of our laws are passed by Knee-jerk reactionaries.
Something catches the attention of a lazy media person, this gets beat up in the press, someone else states that "There should be a law about it"
Another brain dead idiot then passes one to be the man of the moment and the rest of us suffer from then on with lawyers getting embarrassingly wealthy playing with this new laws inconsistencies
[/rant]
sorry, couldnt help it.