CB750 Creation ” The BRATSTER”

Posted on November 6, 2017January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

06 Nov

Over the years I have built a number of inline Four machines as you may well know, I have always liked these Motorcycles because I used them as a Courier Bike back in the UK, they were Affordable and reliable and lastly they were an awesome Platform to be able to adapt to how you wanted the machine to look.

Beauty is indeed in the eyes of the beholder, but with this bike when I first picked it up, it was in a bad way and needed help, but, trying to change something on a shoe string budget is some times almost impossible, so when I pushed this bike onto the Concrete and saw the potential, well I had to at least give a go eh.?

This old Girl was a 1974 CB750 and many many Moons ago it was Created to be a Land Speed Racer, I have a little or know information on if it ran, where it ran or what speeds, it was very poorly made and to be honest, too Bloody dangerous for me to sling my leg over and have a go up on the dry lakes for any record.

It had no title and was leaking oil and looking very sorry for itself when I parked this 500 pounder up, but once I had made a Brew, sat back and thought for a bit, I knew I could at least resurrect this CB750K Model in to some sort of head turner.

So, with pen and paper in hand I jotted down a few ideas and came up with the idea of building a fun little Brat style Bike that would have a Chunky look and feel but real fun to ride.

After a day of Mulling around , I decided that I would get the Motor running first and if that runs I will then go from there as this may take some time as it was not a commission for a build but a cry of help as I bought a few bikes off a buddy who needed space in his Garage, so this would be an on going bike and Not at all a show bike, just a tough Motorcycle that would probably suprise a few motorcycles at the lights as it buggered off into the sun set whilst you are watching it disappear into the distance..

The bike had a terrible set of gas tanks made from old alloy Cylinders that were Bolted to some old Nuts that were welded to the frame, there were parts hanging off that shouldn’t even be on there, so I decided that this would be a Brat style and I am going to change oil and plugs, add some coils and Battery and rebuild a set Carbs to see what we have hear, as there are no carburetors on this bike at all. So off I went in search of some carbs, and took an old blocked up set I had as spares apart, cleaned, re-jeted and fitted to the old Dry lakes Bike.

Below I have fitted Carbs and a exhaust to see how she runs and it is now tuned and am happy about the sound and crisp response that my 4 into 1 systems make.

My ears were ringing and actually Blew the Sub-woofer out in the workshop because the bass not was so strong, but a minor price to pay to now know this motor runs hard and true.

So, as the rear end of the bike was missing, I thought I would massage one of my rear Hoops I make onto this frame and create a Brat style bike that will be so much fun to ride around on.

An easy job and looks great, so I can later make a Flat seat with New Foam and Diamond stitching to give it that Brat look that is so popular right now over here.

The old 16 inch rim had a massive sprocket, I think 170 or 200 teeth, erm, not for the street for sure , else it would wheelie everywhere ha ha, so removed the rims and rebuilt a new set but Polished the Hubs from this bike and laced with stainless spokes.

Now that looks a lot better and now ready for the Rubber to go onto the outside, this time I thought I would spare no expense on the tires as they are an important part to make sure these keep you on the tarmac, so opted for a Set Of Cokers Tires and I am going to make a Diamond stitched seat later so wanted tires to match in a way.

I also removed the forks, rebuilt and fitted New upper tubes, as well as Rebuild brake caliper and refurbishing the old rusty brake rotor too.

A lot cleaner that it was when it first limped into my hands and am real happy at the way this is coming along, as I said, no show bike so not removing the motor and painting a frame, this will be a fun bike with a few new parts or refurbished ones at the very least.

Above, I repainted the Motor and detailed it with Stainless steel Allen bolts and I wanted wrinkle paint this time to help dissipate the heat when riding.

Getting there, Rebuilt Carbs, new boots and a cool Aluminum Airbox made this Motor breath and respond so well, its the devil in the detail or carboration that wins the race.

Now the job of fitting Headers and so many choices from the styles that I have created for these 500 pounder machines, but the bike is taking shape now and I really like the way it is going.

The Motor looks great, I also added a cool Oil tank with a Battery Box already inside it, so this will really look trick and can hide some of the electrical in it too and clean the frame up some more.

I wanted to use my Newest design exhaust system, the Side Winder, this breathes like a New Nose and wanted to also Hot Rod it out by wrapping the headers in Titanium Heat wrap, it sure came out well and this will look great perched in front of that inline four engine.

Now, that is a lot better and glad that I went this route, I have sold lots of this heat wrap and this is the first time that I have used it and as its Titanium it doesn’t fall apart like that cheap fiberglass stuff thats out there does.

On the Arse end of the header I wanted to fit my New Sidewinder tail pipe with the Yoshi style Baffle, and boy does it look great and super stoked that I did go in this direction.

Next up I need to make a seat pan to cover the Battery tray and oil tank up and will go simple with some 18 Gage steel and then will add foam and upholster in a Light Tan Naugahyde material with Diamond stitching.

Simplicity is the name of the game for this machine and I am now cutting the foam to fit the seat pan that I just made, this is almost there, maybe another half an inch of foam then upholster.

I am now happy with the thickness of the Foam and am looking forward to seeing this with a Light Tan seat ontop of the frame, I feel it will be a good contrast. so lets go and see.

Way better now, I also added a Blue frame to go with the old 1970’s painted gas tank i found and think its a good combination for this creation, it is a tough machine for sure.

The Brat sits well and with the Custom Oil tank that I now offer on the website, it runs well and uncluttered like man I see.

Added some NEW Handle Bar switches to make sure that all works well and stays like that, no faded grey crap like you see on so many on the internet these days.

My Custom made license plate frame with Hot Rod stop tail light assembly looks great and another thing I produce and sell on the website.

Tail light tells you when you need to stop too, neat eh?

This bike runs hard and strong and was so good to see it back up and running again, after years and years of neglect, if she had a face she would be smiling, that I am certain of.

The Bike also has my Own Handlebars that I designed and had mandrel bent and chromed, and gives that bike that Period look of the day, it sits well and rides so comfortably too.

A strong machine and this has already been sold to a customer and is now residing in Canada, my fruits of labor paid off and the new owner is super stoked to get this bike from me.

My Bulldog Bailey standing guard as I get some snaps, before it heads of to Maple Country.

Hope you liked this little resurrection? I sure had fun creating this Motorcycle and Glad somebody is enjoying it right now.

Added a Fog light for that European look and something the New owner is going to need up there in Canada, so just another cool touch to show this motorcycle Bratster off a little more.

A tough little Machine with plenty of swag, and I am sure that it will get many looks in the warmer months.

Big transformation and I did more work than I thought I would do and sold it way too cheaply but hey, its all fun at the end of the day and I enjoyed creating this bike.

If you want a Motorcycle created, or just parts etc, drop me a line carpy@carpyscaferacers.com I am always glad to help or just advise, and you can also call or text me with questions on 714-598-8392 and I will do my very best at helping you with your own creation.

Thanks for reading my Blog on building this machine , and many others I have created and still continue to.

I fitted 2.5 Analog gauges and also made a Neutral light that is fitted into the steering stem nut, plus New master cylinder, New levers cables and Grips.

Another thing I did was add my headlight ears that I sell on here as well as the cool headlight with the internal LED Turn Signals, as that cleans the front end up, I fitted my Fork Brace too to stiffen the frnt end as I removed the fender, many dont do this and have floppy forks.

The heat Wrap I now sell on the website too, in Black or Tan, both look great and clean up your old headers to revamp them, 50 feet is enough for your headers and I used two inch wrap.

Thanks again and another Build leaves my place and I am now looking at another creation, appreciate all the cool comments whilst i was building this, have a great week.

Remember Remember The 5th of November.

Posted on November 5, 2017January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

05 Nov

Guy Fawkes Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Day, Bonfire Night and Firework Night, is an annual commemoration observed on 5 November, primarily in Great Britain.

In My Great Britain, Bonfire Night is associated with the tradition of celebrating the failure of Guy Fawkes’ actions on 5 November 1605. The British festival is, therefore, on 5 November, although some commercially driven events are held at a weekend near to the correct date, to maximise attendance. Bonfire night’s Sectarian significance has generally been lost: it is now usually just a night of revelry with a bonfire and fireworks, although an effigy of Guy Fawkes is burned on the fire. Celebrations are held throughout Great Britain; in some non-Catholic communities in Northern Ireland^] and in some other parts of the Commonwealth. In the Canadian province of Newfoundland and labrador 5 November is commemorated with bonfires and firework displays,^] and it is officially celebrated in South Africa.

In Northern Ireland, the term “Bonfire Night” can refer to the Eleventh Night celebrations of 11 July. Like 5 November, this Bonfire Night also has its roots in the sectarian struggle between Protestants and Catholics. Unlike 5 November the sectarian significance of 11 July is still strong. It celebrates the Battle of Boyne of 1690, in which the Protestant William of Orange defeated the Catholic James II.

In rural parts of the Republic of Ireland “Bonfire Night” refers to 23 June,St Johns Eve night. It has its origins in a religious celebration and originally featured prayers for bountiful crops. The night is linked to the Summer Solstice or Midsummer Eve Originally fires were lit to honor the goddess Aine as part of a Celtic celebration; the Catholic Church took over the pagan festival and linked it to the birth of Saint John.

So- even though I am thousands of miles from my Motherland, there is always a way to celebrate some of the traditional things where ever you are located.

So, we shall light a bonfire at the back in our garden and have some real Traditional food to celebrate this time of year, although the only thing missing is the fireworks but we have the 4th of July for that.

Lots of traditional things still exist and I like to celebrate them and what better than a nice Bonfire and Food to eat, that is always a sweet deal.

Here is some pics of the traditional grub that us Brits scoff on this day in History.

Jacket potatoes is a Must for Bonfire night, many cool them right in the Bonfire, I have Heinz Beans on mine.

We have Toffee apples too of which I have seen many here.

So, if you want to know how the fireworks like like back home, here is a snippet.

The Rice Boiler – 1974 Honda CB750K

Posted on November 5, 2017January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

05 Nov

OK, for a long time I had been planning this build and now it is here and I am so stoked the way that the machine turned out.

I used a snotty old bike to create this head spinning machine and had already built it in my mind hundreds of time, so thus was really a piece of cake for me.

I had an old set of Henry Abe 7 Star rims back in the UK, these are at least 3 decades old and had them sent over the water from back home and wanted to take them apart and fit new front and rear bearings, as well as paint the stars and polish the outers.

Once I chose New rubber for it ( Bridgestones ) I then made sure I had the rear brake set up drilled and polished, as I want the bike to stand out in many places.

I had a S.S. tank and cut all the top flap out and welded that in with a flat plate, then fitted a Stainless Steel polished Monza style racing Gas cap in it.

I then used one of opur own designed “Razorback” seat bases, As I really do love the lines of thaat seat base and knew this would really flow and give that yesteryear look.

I bead blasted the old frame and then powder coated a high gloss full flow Black on it and love the look, almost an enamel look to it and very inert to many fuels and substances.

If you look, you can see our New battery boxes we now make and offer on our website, this is the ww2 style battery box made from 6061 Aluminum and has cool rivets in.

I removed the old Oil tank and we washed that about 7 times and then cleaned out with some simple green, then stripped the paint, had it copper-ed, then chromed and buffed. you can see i was also setting up the rear sets and polished the brackets to give a Chrome finish.

I designed this color scheme by drawing this out on graph paper and used water colors and came out with this design, the reason that I came out to this conclusion is simple. My old man always ran down anything to do with Japanese machines, and as I was a teenager in the 1970’s, Japanese bikes were predominant in all parts of the globe and the old man just looked down on them and called them “Rice Boilers”

So That’s why I named this bike “Rice Boiler”

She was fun to build and I am so stoked at the reaction it gets from people when they first see the bike.

I had a few people just stand there and just keep looking at it, as this bike did not start off like this.

I really enjoy the putting everything together part as you see such a transformation.

The Racing number 74 is really just the year of the bike but I wanted this to remind me of days gone passed when I used to hitch hike to Clubman Racing at Snetterton track and getting a lift on one of these bikes.

There are so many things that I have done to this bike, I should of named it the Magician as it is loaded with tricks. the lower forks are polished to a Chrome finish and all rebuilt, etc., and we hand-drill these rotors at the shop, then surface grind and polish them, looks cool eh?

I hand-hammered the gas tank as I do on all my bikes and wanted to use the Rising Sun as the filler, and boy does it pop!

The finned covers are early 70’s ones I have kept for this particular bike build, I must of had them 12 yeas in my tool box and so glad i got to get them on the Motor .

The red is very bold and I chose an Aztec style gold for the pin line, the whole paint scheme was completed using House of Kolor and I chose a Candy Rootbeer Brown as that was a cool Candy Color that Honda had back in 1971 and wanted to try and get that old School feel to it.

I actually incorporated the neutral light into the head stock nut and think that it will be a cool addition to this ride and make use of the new lights we sell.

New Old Stock handlebar controls were a must, we used one of our polished throttle embellishers and some very cool flake handlebar grips, as well as new alloy levers, etc.

You can see how many brand new or rechromed parts I have fitted to this machine, by just glancing at the photos on this page.

The Ggold flake on the grips really do make the colors blend with the gold of the bike and the shocks.

I wanted to have the race number on there, as well as incorporate the year of manufacture, and it came out really well.

I fitted new old stock fork ears and made our front fork badges t0 fit the sides where the original ugly reflectors sat and it cheered the machine up.

Yes- that is our very own Boxed Swingarm that we drilled and powder coated and really does suit this machine well, as well as helps the cornering as it stops all the rear end stepping out, this is a copy of my Original Dresda swingarm.

Our Stainless Steel Yoshimura-style 4-into-1 exhaust is a very cool sounding and looking set up and is a must with the style of machine that I create, by does it hang well.

You can see the work it took to make the tank look great, also the GPS speedometer is a cool look, but the bracket and the bucket we had to make and polish, it all worked out fine in the end and even though this was not a cheap option, I think its the cherry on the cake.

The headlight is from an old Desoto truck and then changed a little, it looks great with the Candy Rootbeer brown on it and the bezel was re-chromed.

Pretty Much everything is new on the build and am so happy to have gotten this machine done to the way I originally imagined, it screams out to you that this is an old cafe racer from back in the 70’s and I hope you like looking at her!

I tend to use Bridgestones as my personal choice of rubber on the rims I use, as I have always had them and stuck with what I know.

I spent a lot of time getting this bike right and many, many hours taking things off that didn’t work that you will never see, but thats how it goes with bike building and at the end of the day I have a really cool looking classic that is bound to turn a head or two.

I took the old broken and cracked fins off the original oil filter housing and machined and polished it and this is how she comes out. I do this to a lot of my creations, it adds a unique look.

Fitted our Finned Aluminum Ton Up Stabilizer Bar and the whole rear end is new, Brake Spring, Rod and Adjuster, no expense spared on this build.

A fun machine that is something that was made from old snot, rust and cold steel, also so nice to be able to recycle this and get it changed into another form.

I have already had a lot of interest in this machine and will let it go for the right price – this is a unique motorcycle with many, many new parts and one off pieces.

Within two days of finishing this motorcycle, I got it featured in Japan’s Lightning magazine, what a honor that was.

This bike did take a long while to complete, but I changed quite a few things on this until I was happy with the end result. Sometimes that is what happens with custom bike builds- I like this, and some of you may not. But to me, this is a cool machine that just screams out the bikes of the 70’s when I was a teenager in the United Kingdom.

I drilled the brake hub, the rotor and (of course) the front sprocket cover, as that’s my signature style I like to do, but I also had a very cool license plate frame that I have had for donkey’s years and was so stoked to have the opportunity to use it on this bike.

If this does not say cafe racer, then I don’t know what does – it’s an original piece that I am happy I didn’t discard over the years.

The tank took me some time to hammer and weld, but I wanted to incorporate the Rising Sun in the knee inserts and I am glad I did as it really does add a great concept to the bike.

Quite a few coats of Candy Root Beer brown were applied over the Aztec Gold and the end result is exactly the color that I envisioned.

No stickers, this is all real paint you see and I think you will agree, this really does stand out from many that just have decals.

A good stance for this tarmac eating machine.

I used rear sets which gives the bike a well-balanced feel, as the stock pegs are too far forward.

Our Boxed Swingarm and one off Chromed Chain Guard is a good component that i wanted to use on this bike. the Boxed Swingarm was made at the shop using 2X1 steel and it looks and works really well.

All the cases are hand-polished, the starter is rebuilt and the carbs are like new now. This bike runs smooth as we synchronize them using a Mercury stick.

The carbs have to be right on this machines, if you do not sync them they will pop and backfire, something you don’t want to have happening.

The front brake caliper was stripped and polished and our machined stainless steel piston fitted. We also have new side stands to stop the bikes from laying over too much. The originals had a tendency to bend over time. The DeSoto headlight and cool Chromed Diamond Signals, tell people what is going on in front of them.

Stainless Steel Flip-top Monza-style Gas Cap we sell was used on my tank, as well as our own ‘Ton Up’ Fork Badges.

New cables throughout (throttle, tachometer, speedometer and clutch cables) and new adjuster and stainless bolts all over the machine make this a long lasting ride.

I used a Ford big block connecting rod to use as an exhaust hanger. Once it was the right size and fitting, we chromed it and added this nice custom touch to the build.

I didn’t like the stock oil tank dipstick, so we machined a col finned cap for it and boy does it look trick, we shall be making more now to offer to you lot.

See how that cap makes everything flow that has fins on it, I really am happy how this came out, we used 6061 T6 Aluminum and then polished it.

The bucket below we made from a solid piece of 7075 and it came out so nice, tig welded the base and polished it, the bucket attaches by 3 small Allen head screws that sit at the front of the plate.

I wanted to combine new and old components to clean the top of the steering area up and it does look really tidy and clean now.

This was a fun build and I hope that you liked looking at the good Old ” Rice Boiler ” I can hear my Grumpy old man moaning about it right now!

I have already been featured in Japans’ leading Lifestyle magazine and have just had an Italian magazine come over to shoot it and hopefully a brit mag the month after, so I must be doing something right! Interested parties, please contact us for details.

Tesla Model M Electric Motorcycle

Posted on November 4, 2017January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

04 Nov

Ok, so this is just a concept, created by Jans Schlapin, but electric motorcycles are really starting to take off (literally, as all of the torque is immediately available and linear across the power band). At the same time, wouldn’t be amazing if Tesla started to make motorcycles with the same attention to style, detail and function they devote to the Model S. Imagine going cross country, plugging into Tesla’s Supercharger network.

Who would of imagined that such a 2 wheeled machine could exist? And it is slowly becoming a reality right now and Tesla are the figure head for Electronic vehicles these days.

Rendering of ‘Tesla Model M’ electric motorcycle, created by Jans Slapins, Silodrome website

Tesla-Model-M-Concept-Electric-Motorcycle

Over the last few days, images of a “Tesla Model M” have made the rounds online, sparking excited discussions among electric-bike enthusiasts and others.

Those who only read headlines may well think that electric-car maker Tesla Motors is actually considering making an electric motorcycle.

These fever dreams wouldn’t normally be worth covering, except for the red-hot excitement that now greets every shred of Tesla news or rumor. So it’s worth setting the record straight.

The Tesla Model M is a new motorcycle concept being shown here on Silodrome exclusively thanks to well-known designer Jans Slapins, the man who created the very popular Lamborghini Rat Rod and BMW Urban Racer concepts. Jans specialises in creating vehicles that are right on the edge of what is possible, and while it’s unlikely they’ll ever see the light of day, they do provide food for thought for designers, engineers and enthusiasts.

At its heart, the Tesla Model M is the electric motorcycle that Tesla might build, if they ever turned their attention to two-wheeled transportation. The staggering success of the Tesla Model S and the excitement around the upcoming Tesla Model X have taken many in the automotive industry by surprise, and as if running Tesla wasn’t quite challenging enough – Elon Musk also runs Space X.

This concept utilises a 150kW electric motor with four computer controlled modes: Race, Cruise, Standard, and Eco. Lithium-ion batteries are mounted as low as possible within the aluminium frame to keep centre of gravity as close to the asphalt as feasible, and the fuel tank location is used as a water-tight storage compartment for a backpack, laptop and anything else the rider needs to carry – including a full face helmet. The wheels are carbon fibre to reduce unsprung weight and suspension is provided by a mono shock at the rear and upside down forks up front – interestingly there’s no transmission, as electric motors produce 100% of their torque from 0 rpm.

This looks like another way of getting rid of the internal Combustion Engine, but with no real mechanical sound, I am not sold, although the BMW/Porshe Concept bike does look like something I would at least sling my leg over and have a go.

m take porsche motorcycle concept a look at this fantastic tesla model m bmw unleashes err electric cleantechnica bmw porsche motorcycle concept

Ace Cafe and some explanation of Triumph Bonneville.

Posted on November 3, 2017January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

03 Nov

Well Friday Already,

I am stuck for a bit of time but thought I would add a post of my mate Mark Wilsmore on here at the ACE Cafe, talking about the Rockers and of course the Bonneville.

Have a safe weekend out there.

Santa Margarita Ranch Hot Rods at RPM NATIONALS Part 3

Posted on November 2, 2017January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

02 Nov

Here we are with the last lot of photos that I took whilst at the RPM Nationals on the weekend, with my Girlfriend Jennifer.

Fantastic ambiance and just the commeraderie of the people that attended this event was something I wont forget in a hurry, what I liked about it was that there was no attitude, no Look at me, just fun people having a fun time.

Sure hope that this becomes an annual event as I really did like this and wanted to take my own Model A, but its a little ways off of running correctly, but at least we got to ride our Motorcycles here and check out what was going on.

Located in the foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains, it is one of the most rural communities in San Luis Obispo Counties, this makes for such a grand event as the RPM NATIONALS and with an 1/8th mile of drag strip at the ready as its actually a runway, well, just makes sense to have this event really eh?

I wanted to try and take some cool shots, I’m not one of those Professional chaps, I just hit the button on the camera and hope I get the shot I was after.

I loved the Belly Tanks as they are so Post World War 2 Hot Rodding, and I had a P-38 Drop tank myself with a V8-60 Motor, so I was stoked to see 2 of these racing here.

Amazing place and the weather was already warm and people were smiling as we could see all sorts of great Hot Rods enter onto the Tarmac to Battle it out between each other.

Just breath taking countryside for as far as the eye can see, little has changed since the late 1940’s, so it felt like back in the day for me.

Oh yeah, there was of course some Classic steeds there, sat right by the drag strip and loved seeing these, all part of that era, when the drags were on Bikes would turn up to, the need for speed is for all machines back then.

Old Crow Speed Shop had their Flat Head powered 5 window Coupe attend and boy did that sound great, it was quick off the line, this Coupe sits so well, a very Period piece indeed.

Lighting the Tires up as he leaves the line, Flathead V8 Motors sound unique as they Braaap on through the gears and I was so glad I was there to be able to share the moment, I took a few photos and this will be a long blog, but mostly all photos.

Our friend from the Pasadena area Diane Branch takes her 1929 Roadster out on the strip and does really well, I am all for Girl power and she put the steel to the floor and had a blast.

Old Crow’s 32 Coupe lines up with Steve Caballero’s 36 Three window, both very cool Period rides and both gave it all they had on the 1/8th mile, it was awesome to watch these go.

Miles of smiles is what could be seen all day, a great event at the RPM Nationals, Jennifer and I really loved the whole set up and you could not of asked for a better day to be honest.

Come in number 59, your times up, this 5 window Model A gets set as he approaches the starting line.

Grinning from ear to ear, that just shows how this event was received, a really fun event, even with no front brakes.

The T & the A line up and await the Flag start, the old school way of racing and one I prefer as I would be terrible on a Tree.

He we are with some more Classic Tin, this time a 1934 5 Window, against a Model T Roadster, Dont let Mr Bunny ears fool you, this was fast all day long.

I loved this Roadster, the Flatty just sounded so torquey, sits well and is really a time capsul of coolness from back in the day.

These 2 Roadsters were Bloody awesome, check out the windshield on 142 now thats unique and two great Vintage machines have a go down the Tarmac.

Above, Jay Dean of Nostalgia Ranch Calif- Gets all set in his Hop Up T Modified, Another mate of ours having fun and builds some serious machines too.

This 1934 Roadster sits high and dry with No windshield and ready to lay some rubber down as he sits and awaits the Flag man for the off.

Mr Chin in this Period T- Roadster, this was built back in the 1950’s and ran strong all day long without a pop or backfire, this was a dialed in Hot Rod and loved seeing this run.

Friendly rivalry is the best and what a day, just look at the scenery and it is just a timeless feeling sat out there in the countryside.

I took this to show the area, this is the return lane from the Drag strip, perfect scenery.

Great to see these two Model A’s. one stock and the Other Chopped, both very cool and rare to see these days.

I would love any of these rides, the 36 was great and ran with old Hollywood flippers too, a hard item to locate these days.

Diane Branch’s 29 Roadster is pulling out to enter the track against a 5 Window Coupe of the same year.

Getting ready to run the Gaunlet, Diane Branch in her trusty 1929 Model A Roadster, a great Hot Rod and so great to see Girls racing and there were a few too.

Old Crow up against the 36 Coupe and 2 very rare cars to locate anywhere in the world these days, so it made it even more fun to be able to watch these compete with each other.

Bunny Ears gets set, this was a fast machine and ran really consistently too.

All day long these Hot Rods ran and they turned many heads, these were quickly getting through the staging lanes, no hanging about like you get at other shows, so this was super cool for the spectators as there was always some action going on for them.

Another cool 28-29 Roadster, fully fendered of the El Vinos car Club, getting sorted out to run with a 34 Ford.

At the line and ready to hit the loud pedal as the 34 Sedan sits patiently too.

OLD CROW SPEED SHOP got a Ton of Runs in, never tire of looking at this period Piece, very cool and envious in a good way, have had a soft spot on that model, I had a Three window but the 5 Window Coupe was always more appealing to me but, we all have our favorites right?

I loved this 5 window 1930 Model A, complete with Cowl lights and ran well, he must of had a ball driving this Coupe on the Track.

The PF Flyers Roadster put down some quick times and this is another great ride, well they all are in their own way, I loved every Hot Rod out here and was so cool to see people wearing Old Coveralls and Helmets too, just to get the theme of the event bang on.

Diane Branch of the Immortal car club is from Pasadena and she loves to race, Fabian of Vintage Hammer Garage is a great friend of mine too and helped build this ride, super people.

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner, so stoked for Diane to grab the win against the very fast and consistent Roadster she ran against here on the 1/8th mile track.

Jenn and I taking it all in and hopefully Next year can run my Model A, Jennifer is Itching to drive it too, will be so stoked seeing her behind the wheel of our Roadster.

Mr Chin does it again, this originally built Hot Rod just Banged out run after Run and the 24 stud Motor sounded so sweet.

How freaking cool is it to see a So-Cal Speed Shop Roadster Hitting the Track and No spring Chicken at the wheel.

Love this, this is Hot Rodding of all years and this fella was here when it all began and to watch him go down the Tarmac was really something else.

Such a sweet A-Bone too, Dago front end and Cleaner than a cats Arse too.

Just love all the Nostalgia that was at this show, sure hope that this will continue to be an annual event as I really think that it was received very well indeed.

Five window Model A is cruising in the countryside on the return road from the end of the Drag Strip, just looks so cool with this Rustic contrast.

More Rustic Scenery that i thought I would share that were parked out in the sticks, what a cool line up too.

This is another really cool Coupes that was parked up, loved the whole set up, those E&J headlights aint cheap no more.

The other end of the old Runway was the pits as well as the vendors and people parked to watch the races in their Nostalgic machines.

here is the other side of the Runway, with 4 Roadsters in a Row, awaiting their turn to race as others return from the track in the distance.

Such a well built Roadster and she sounded just right with straight through pipes.

Above is the Best shot I took, such great lines, and the background is so timeless, just blow the pic up and have a long hard stare, its a wicked Model A Roadster for sure.

This time a cool Old School 30/31 Roadster sits on the side of the track, just waiting its turn to stretch its 4 Banger legs out, these were remarkably fast, some quicker than the V8’s too!

The quincicential Hot Rod right there, Reminds me of my buddy Steve Dennish’s Roadster over our way, sits right and well Is right, wicked Hot Rod full stop!

28/29 Parked up, on Deuce Rails, Tri power and 32 grill shell looks epic, loved the shot gun exhaust position.

This 5 Window Coupe sits so well, 36 Torque tube headers, check out the Front brakes too.

Looks like an Old coupe with the roof cut off and I love it, no rules in Hot Rodding and look how the swage lines still line up, this is a tight body and check out the v-Grooved headlight bar with Commercial BLC’s, Wickedly cool.

There is something really appealing the way this 5 Window A-Bone is sat almost Majestically on the side of the race track, maybe it was enjoying the Vitamin D as the Sun shined on.

Jenn and I loved this as the kids playing in Mom or dads 4 Banger Roadster, thats what it is all about right there, the next generation of Hot Rodders who hopefully will keep this flame alight.

This 1940 Panel was an awesome speed shop Parts Getter, hard to find anywhere these days and loved the whole ride, nice one my friend.

Taking in the Pits as these 2 cruise around in this Roadster, a very Period looking ride that I am sure could tell a few stories. yeah the youngster is on his cell phone but most probably saying “Mom!- This is so cool, I love this style of event, sell my hatch back I want a HOT ROD”!

What is NOT to like on this fully fendered Roadster, even the stance is bang on the money.

How about this, Young and Old meet in the middle, Brilliant stuff.

Here is a nice Black 5 window, complete with Rumble seat, sat in the Pits, is that a Blower I see perched on that Flathead.?

Sweet lines on the T-Roadster from the Rear to the front- it is a really well thought out Hot Rod and with E&J headlights, 32 Grille shell, this really looks like a time capsule, nice job.

Edelbrock 24 stud aluminum heads, Dropped headlight bar, Deuce rails, Juice brakes on Vintage style Firestones, made this a real head turner, me included.

How sweet is this 4 Banger Model A Coupe, a timeless Hot Rod that looks great anywhere but so glad I got to see so many in one place.

I watched this 32 cruise past me, the rumble of the flathead, the 50’s stance, and as it approached Steve Cabellero’s 36 Coupe I just stood there gobsmacked, in total awe!

Raked windshield, cool flathead motor with Lakester Headers on Black steelies with Bias ply Firestones, 39 tear drop tail lights and 40 ford steering wheel was bang on the money for me, loved it.

H&H were showing their very sweet Turtle Deck Model T Roadster off in fine fashion and a very period looking machine it was too, loved the Kelseys on front and steelies out back.

Check out this 32, Milk Truck steelies, No windshield and flatty powered, this Hot Rod was built very well indeed.

This Model T looked superb in its mostly stock guise , loves the 40 Ford steelies and wide Blackwalls, the Spare wheel kit and stock bumpers make this a neat Resto Ride.

Talk about stepping back in time, even Doctor Who would have trouble locating something as cool as this, look at the patina, even has a Culver City Q/C in the rear end.

I took a photo of the H&H Special from the front, a real Jalopy and I bet its a real Blast to drive?

OOH, that Coupe again, standing with my gob open isn’t a good thing but you just could not help it, Loved everything about this fender-less Thirty Four Ford, how could you not?

I saw this sat in the corner of the Pit area and had to walk over and take a snap, as the Old Tree behind gave this a Back in the day feel to it, the scenery here is just so nice.

This guys Coupe was Killer, he didn’t mind me chirping in asking where he got this and that, nice to chat too and boy just look at this, complete with Schroeder steering too.

One of the best Hot Rods in the 4 Banger class there, I loved them all but this was artwork, look how clean this Model A is, it ran well and steamed up the track with no problems.

A lot of time and effort went into the build, this 1931 Model A Roadster is great from any angle, from the 32 grill up front, to the Quick change rear end, loved the Banjo steering wheel too.

How low can you go, this 5 window ran very well on the Saturday, very well built and sits nice and stout, nice job there matey!

This Geezer had a real blast All day, the Four Cylinder Powered Model T just ran and ran and a well put together Hot Rod too, it was fun watching you race my friend, well done.

I wanted to take this in Black & White as with the old 1940’s Westcraft travel trailer behind, it just looked like it was 1949 and knew it would make a great Nostalgic Photograph.

This is how I have my Splash Aprons on my Hot Rod, looks pretty cool, and this is unusual to see a chopped model A like this, nice job and glad to see this at the RPM Nationals.

Diane and Tom Branch are a Hot Rodding Family, I have known them for many years and they continue to have fun and build cool Hot Rods, love these people and this Roadster ran all day, of which she fought off tough opposition on the drag strip, great Job Diane, it was a pleasure to watch you and we rooted for you too!

One of the Oldest Hot Rod Clubs in existence, The Bean Bandits, had their Rail at the event, I didn’t see it run but there was so much going on it would be easy to miss.

Blown Flatty Looked great, wasn’t liking the fan and shroud but guess it was the only way to keep it cool, but a well built Hot Rod none the less and unchopped too.

Yes, that will make you stop and look, how sweet is this Roadster, a Gleaming example of pure love and attention to detail, I wonder how many hours were spent wrenching on this ride?

Love seeing when Girls have their Hot Rods, we need more for sure and it was so nice to see this as the Girl was just Blapping about in the Pits, thats one tough A-Bone, great job.

Where did this Gem of a Roadster come from? Looks like it was a barn find, other than a painted firewall and New Chopped Windshield, this Hot Rod was amazing to me.

As straight as the Proverbial Arrow, this 1930 A-Bone sat so right and rode around all day, in the Pits and on the track.

This 29 has had some Major work on its 4 banger mill and didnt hang about either, a lot of time and dedication went into this fantastic machine, Kudos my friend.

Coupes and Roadster a plenty, it was great to be able to take this all in and have a superb setting to watch these machines against each other on the Drag Strip.

How is this for a super shot? I loved all the countryside almost engulfing these Vintage Hot Rods, a taste of Yester Year and something that is warm to look at.

This is a Local Hot Rod to us and what a peach of a ride, this is set back in the Rustic Area of Santa margarita Ranch, the Roadster belongs to Joe Leroux of Hillco Fastener Company.

I am looking forward to taking a Photo of My Roadster in this setting next year, a fantastic part of California Gold and hopefully the weather will be as nice as this weekend was.

Need parts anyone? There was a lot of cool second hand parts and speed equipment for your Hot Rod here, I wanted to buy a couple of things but held off, kicking my self now.

This was a great Cruiser, couldnt fit it onto the back of my Triumph Motorcycle though.

Thats some nice sign writing right there.

Billy of the Shifters had a couple of his buddies over from his Home country, they too are Hot Rodders and they loved this unique event as much as I did.

This sweet 5 window had a few teething problems with the front end, that Hot Rod is so nice too, am sure he got it sorted out in the end, but did see it there all day though.

A tasty Coupe that screams back to the day of this type of event, pull the fenders off and go racing.

Chopped 50 Coupe was Sat so right, nice lines and Loved the fender skirts, lakes pipes and shaved appearance, nice job mate.

Plenty of things going on by the staging lanes, you can see the Bean Bandits getting a few things organised etc.

How nice is this to watch, cruising the strip in hos Roadster and taking it all in, you can see the Oak Tree’s line some of this great Countryside.

There is the finish line and what a feeling that must be as you cross that section.

Now that was a close finish and a superb Drag race, I am sure they had a few happy words after to egg each other on.

I took a few shots of this Model A, I really liked the windshield, reminded me of the Elvis Roadster and the little 4 banger was quite Happy gunning it at the line and held strong all the way.

The paint work was so clean, the Model A sat so right and enjoyed watching this Bloke race all day long.

Two Model A’s having a go, this was a close race and always fantastic to watch, unless you are here, it is hard to explain but I was rotting for them both.

Just look at the stance of this Model A, this was at Mid track so he is in 2nd gear and on his way.

Hope to race this chap next year at the RPM NATIONALS.

Coupe and Roadster go at it on the 1/8th, loved hearing the Flathead V8 Motors chirp along.

Chilling at the strip, people get their machines ready for the big off.

This was stunning, how cool would this be to drive home?

This Coupe ran all day long with out a hic cup and sure looks like a period ride, I am so surprised how fast some of these 4 Cylinder machines were.

At the start line and awaiting the flag to drop so they can go toe to toe up the 1/8 th mile.

Out of state Turtle Deck was sure consistent and fun as he gets ready to launch once more.

It was so much fun watching all these machines and when you see something pretty much stock, it raises your eyebrows for a second but, they ran them out and Hard too, great stuff.

As these 2 set off into the sunset, I wandered around the place just taking this all in, a real eye opener for me as this is something I have always wanted to see in California.

Check out the Headers on this 4 banger, thats Passion right there, a seriously cool Ride and lush Deep rolled seats too.

Wow is all I can say, I wasnt sure if this Bloke was going to race his Roadster as it was so nice, but he proved me wrong and I am so stoked that he did, look at this awesome ride.

Staging lanes was a buzz of activity and the commeraderie was unsurpassed.

Another Period machine takes to the drag strip and this is right out of one of Don Montgomery’s books, the essence of Hot Rodding right there on the tarmac.

I love belly Tanks, I had one like this and with a V8-60 like this Drop tank, so cool to see it race another one and against other rides, true Hot Rodding inspired after WW2.

Great photo of two Iconic Hot Rods and I am glad that we were able to watch these 2 race each other.

Checking to see if his competitor is still hard on the pedal as this 29 Roadster Pick Up cruises home.

Look at this Mobil oil Racer, loved it, complete with Dirt track Firestone’s and Tube Axle, as well as a Bell Auto parts Fuel pump.

Loved seeing this 1929 Model A Push Truck, just as they were back in the day,and running a 32 grill shell and Radiator, really makes it a sweet set up.

Look how clean this Roadster is, Kelseys, Drilled I Beam, Juice Brakes, 32 grill,Pete and Jake shocks, Firestone tires, king Bee headlights and Removed Windshield, Lakester style header,love it.

I can not get enough of this Roadster at all and will post a few more below that I took as this 4 Banger machine trotted by me, a super cool build that cries out Hot Rod at its finest.

I loved every part about the Roadster, I would like a Tonneau Cover for mine one of these days.

Culver City Quick Change rear end would not be cheap, but that is indeed one fine Model A Roadster.

Two Model A’s both with 4 bangers and both with Quick Change rear ends head off down the strip to the start line, these were 2 very Nostalgic looking rides that must of taken ages to piece together, I am sure glad I got to see these two run.

On his way to the Win, a High boy of awesome Proportion.

Shifters had their Lincoln Powered Roadster there and that Mill sounded bloody great, good job. Track Nose, nerf bar, Steelies, Hand made hood with scoop, timeless.

And off he goes, as you watch the 39 tail lights disappear down the track. Loved the rear Nerf bar too.

Mr Chin, awaiting another call, his Roadster ran very strong, right up to the semi Finals and only just lost out on that one.

I am sure by next year there will be many more Hot Rods as cool as this entering, hope it doesnt get too big as that can take a little away from this unique atmosphere.

Goggles on and set for Business, a reliable Hot Rod and a piece of Hot Rod History too.

One of our Mates Jay Dean of Nostalgia Ranch racing his Quick Change T Roadster and what a neat machine too.

Lighting the rears up as Jay makes for the off and heads on down the 1/8th mile, he had a real blast today and really enjoyed it.

It is so nice to see the Big Coupes come out and complete, I also love the friendliness that these people have even when racing, its fun and should be, no ego’s just smiles.

Staging lanes were busy getting their machines tweaked whilst one guy is expecting rain!

Hang onto your hat, this chap in his converted Coupe gets all set, I have to laugh at the guy behind dressed as a bunny.

The air was filled with fumes of Hot Rodding, nothing like it.

The Big guns are out and both have the Pedal to the floor, how cool is it to see a sight like this these days?

Seeing this 3 window was simply breathtaking, a rare car, this has old Hollywood Flippers on and skirted, bet the restorer’s are gasping right now. LOL.

Getting towards the end of the day as the last of the races are almost completed.

Too big a motor for this meet but down the 1/4 this Model A would almost fly I should think.

Joe from Hillco Fasteners in his Road Devil’s Roadster had a Blast here and is from Just down the road from where we live.

Getting ready for the last few races, it was fast and furious pace and thats what made this event so exciting.

Quick get us to the line.!!!!!

This Young lady whooped some Butt today, good on her, looking forward to watch my girl race ours next time.

Model A has his last effort at having a go on the Drag Strip, this looks like a Barn find for sure.

These 2 give it their all as they let the clutches go at the RPM NATIONALS.

Look at the concentration on Diane Branches face as she gives it her all in the race.

Didnt quite make it this time but she sure had fun trying and a gallant effort, Great Job Diane.

Here is a great race and a Blown Flatty edges out to the lead.

Well he gave it all and won but a close second was the other Roadster with no Blower, so cool to hear them engines wind up, great race guys.

So there you go, a fantastic weekend, Loved it all, the weather, the event, the people, the Vendors, the RPM team, Hop Up magazine, PF Flyers, loved everything, and sure hope this will continue to carry on next year. I will of course keep you informed as to ANY cool event anyway but I would love to take my Roadster there next year. Until then, I hope you enjoyed my Blog over the last few days. Plenty to look and hear on there eh?

RPM NATIONALS PART TWO

Posted on November 1, 2017January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

01 Nov

Hey Everyone

Well, this is part two of my RPM nationals and there will also be a Part three, as I took a bunch of photos whilst i was there with my phone and will post on here today as this was mostly what was on offer at the swap meet part of the event. Not loads of stuff but things I would of loved to purchase if I had a few quid in my Bin, but alas I did not.

But I thought I would share a few pics as many of you email or message me to say they enjoy my Blogs and that is something that I do like to do.

Many people from all over the Globe that simply cannot make the trip , but my Blogs and Rantings feels like they are there too, so here we are with the parts and things that I saw and maybe you will too.

So sit back and have a look at some of the second hand parts that were at this little event, I am certain there is at least ONE part that you would love to own amongst all this cool stuff.

I should of picked up the $36 dash and at $100 that was a real bargain and really straight too.

Again, I should of purchased these as spare boxes too but just to look at stuff was pretty good for me as I know I can still locate these parts if I really need to.

Odds and sods and always there is something that catches your eye and you have to try and restrain from spending your hard earned cash for, but awesome to see parts for sale here.

I am sure that next year will bring many more parts for sale and be sure to bring some Folding Bills in your pocket as I know there will be a part you cannot be without.

From Hubcaps to Dash Boards, there was plenty of Nostalgic parts to sift through for your Hot Rod machine.

Old Bell Auto Parts Canvass bag anyone?

The weather was pretty hot though and I didnt see too many people carrying parts about with them.

I was quite surprised at the amount that was there as this was a fairly small amount of media advertisement of the show but a great turn it it proved to be and glad I made it there.

How cool was this set up, Electric Bobber Cycle.

Pretty cool set up for a Flathead, I eventually want to fit a different dash and fit some cool Gauges but that all takes time and plenty of Moola too.