So full Disclosure, I have a number of Katana frames/bikes but only one is titled in my name and registered. Unfortunately, that one is a bent frame that was supposed to be Mary Jane. So I ended up using a frame that I did not haver papers for, slapped my tag on it and crossed my fingers. This summer, it seemed like every time I rode Mary Jane something on it would break. Since she also has title issues I decided a new ground up build was in order. I had two possible paths The bent frame I had titled, registered and insured or one I have a salvage cert for.
I decided to go with the bent frame and save the salvage cert frame for a build to sell project.
Introducing "The Problem Child".
Im borrowing the concept from my stalled cheap track day bike for this build. It should look something like this.
So lets look at that frame.. How bad could it really be?
The tail was swayed about 3" .. that wont do
Lets cut the tail off of it and graft on a straight one from another frame. I used the "socket" for the factory weld and the motor sub-frame as a jig to keep everything straight. It worked out well. I also removed the center stand brackets while I was at it. It turned out pretty nice!
Ill put in a slug to fill that gap.
The original bent frame was an '89 Katana 750. I've always preferred the less boxy and shorter 600 tail section, so the tail grafted on is from a 600. That also will give me the slightly shorter 600 swing arm for a little better handling.
In our next installment, We will add some paint to the frame.
