For a short length of wire for a low current application the gauge is not critical. I used 0.5mm2 for control lines, 1.0mm2 for horn and lights and 10mm2 for starter and main earth on my Zed special. I would recommend using solder sleeves to splice in a wire extension, pics here: http://www.z1owners...

I think that dummy engine may be based on my old crankcases. My original bike had cases with no engine numbers so I bought used Mk II ones from the US. Harris used the original cases when they modified my Z900 frame. I was so pleased with their work that I left them the cases for dummy/jig use and a...

I have fitted quite a few motogadget parts including a speedo and they have all been excellent. The speed sensor is tiny and therefore very unobtrusive. My only reservation is that the cable going to the sensor was very thin and didn't look butch enough to me given the likelihood of being hit by roa...

I will have to have a look at those new Ohlins. I have a 1986 Kawasaki turbo sitting in the garage as my next project. I have been told that the bike is too good to modify which makes me determined to modify it. The plan is a full sanctuary style rebuild but with modern turbo and fuel injection. Hav...

Thanks Kenty, glad you like it. The Ohlins forks come in black or gold and I thought black was the best option. Chrome tubes would also have been nice but getting hold of the forks was hard enough. Harris had to import them from Japan. they aren't usually sold in Europe. Assuming the bike passes its...

I hope to be there on my Z900. Haven't had time to get the MOT done yet, but this gives me an incentive to get it sorted.

They look fab, good choice. Black springs or yellow? I ordered black, Ohlins supplied yellow but they looked 'right' so I kept them.

CB1300 Ohlins are 310mm eye to eye uncompressed. There are lots of other ones in the 320-330mm range from memory so you should be able to find something off the shelf. Call Oliver Pearson at Harris and he will be able to find the best match for you. It's partly a cosmetic choice, I don't like bikes ...

I had a similar problem with my build and ended up using Ohlins designed for a CB1300. They were the shortest available off the shelf shocks. My concern was to get the chain run as straight as possible, i.e. front sprocket, swingarm pivot and rear axle all in a straight line when seen from the side....

Lithium Ion batteries are usually OK after a deep discharge (unlike nickel metal hydride) so fingers crossed. I bought a special Li Ion optimate which has rescued my Super B after I let it go flat. I leave it on permanent trickle charge now.

In case anyone is interested, my bike will be on the Practical Sportsbikes stand at the London bike show on 14-16 Feb. I'll be going to the show on the Saturday, would be great to meet any Z1 members who plan on being there.

Ralph, I always find your projects both educational and entertaining to follow. This looks like it will be another fantastic one. How you manage to remain committed and cheerful when faced with world-class bodging beats me. This project will be especially interesting for me as my next bike is a 750 ...

That is starting to look really good, keep it up. Great to see someone doing something different and I like the idea of starting with multiple donor bikes. Great to meet you at Stafford and looking forward to seeing the finished bike/s.

That looks like a great starting point. My bike started out as a KZ900 A4 and now has Z1 side panels and well as many other mods. As you may know, the Z1 side panels have very different mounting points to the A4/5. In the end I had to fit Z1 style rear engine mounting brackets and get Harris to fabr...

I haven't seen it yet so I hope it is a good write-up! It never would have happened without the inspiration and support from site members so thanks to all of you. The bike will be on the stand at Stafford as well.