custom side covers

[willis]

I have been playing with some ideas for customizing a set of factory side panels. My bike is a '78 Special, but I just like the looks of the standard side covers better. In my opinion though, the side covers stick out a little too far. So I took out my trusty 4" grinder and did a little nip and tuck on the top front mount to tuck it in line with frame. Also had to adjust the stock mounts on the frame a little. While I was at it, I needed to trim up the front to clear my XS Perf. pod filters. Cut out a large section on the panels and custom fit some perforated steel to help with breathing and cooling a little. Still need to do some fine trimming and shaping as well as tack weld the perforated steel in place, but I am definitely liking the direction this is heading.

 

[TwoManyXS1Bs]

Yeah, that looks cool. Could do a matching alternator cover....

 

[willis]

Yes, actually that was the first thing I made with the perforated steel. Kind of hard to see in the picture though

 

[LiveSlowDieWhenever]

Yes, actually that was the first thing I made with the perforated steel. Kind of hard to see in the picture though

Very cool idea. Who makes that seat?

 

[willis]

Seat was made by Wes at Counter Balance Cycles. Nice quality. Requires modifying mounts and fender though

 

[LiveSlowDieWhenever]

Seat was made by Wes at Counter Balance Cycles. Nice quality. Requires modifying mounts and fender though

Looks great, totally worth the bit of extra modification involved. I made a quick and dirty one for my current project but would like something nicer in the future. Thanks!

 

[gggGary]

Like what you have done!
Found that a bit of hammer work on the side covers reshaping to clear the filters on madness was much easier than I thought it would be. Ended up being a much wider flange in front, that I trimmed off. I bought some beat up standard covers to fit but even with a (lowered) standard seat on this 79 special I wasn't loving the look.
Will have to revist std side covers cuz if it goes to the Ozarks I want to fit a standard tank for better range.

 

[willis]

I trimmed up the standard cover a bit. I cut out to clear for pod filters and also trimmed the front mount so the cover is tapered in narrower in front. They were crudely done with an angle grinder and cordless drill. They are far from perfect. You can see a little better in this pic if you zoom in.

 

[willis]

I ultimately abandoned the plan and went with stock standard covers.

 

[Superjet]

Looks good willis! I like it