Lowered ignition switch

I misplaced my keys and searched everywhere without any luck, so I removed the ignition switch.  That night while I was at work, my wife called and told me that she had found the keys!  This morning, I reinstalled the switch with longer bolts and stand-offs in order to make it more flush with the top clamp.  My buddy pointed out that the fork lock will not work with the switch lowered, but it wasn't working anyway.  When we installed the fork brace we had shortened the steering travel, so the steering locking point is never reached.  He told me too grind a slot for the lock but I never had.

(Before)

(After)

First Spring ride

I cleaned out my storage unit and took the KZ for a Spring ride today.  The bike started right up and ran well.

Swapped tank and tail

When I purchased the bike, the PO gave me a bunch of parts from another A-model 550.  I didn't get the red side covers, but I like the way it looks with the red tank/tail and black sides.

Installed Clip-on bars

I was looking forward to getting rid of the stock handlebars.  My friend Lou advised me exactly which clip-ons to purchase, which I did and I am very happy with the look and feel.

Taillight upgrade

In order to use Lou's integrated turn signal taillight design, I needed to upgrade to a taillight that had two bulbs.  I had acquired this particular assembly while in Oklahoma on business.  It fit the tail better upside-down, so we mounted it accordingly.  As an extra bonus, the clear part of the lens that is supposed to light up the license plate captures the sunlight and causes it to appear lighted.

Rewire

Lou and I rewired the bike today.  It was nice to be able to do the job indoors; I had our family room gutted and it is right behind the garage.

Balanced carbs and checked mixture

My friend was willing to help me balance the carbs, which we accomplished using his newly designed and built carb synching device.  His tool seemed to work perfectly, without any worry of spilling mercury!  He also hooked his O2 sensor tool up and checked our jetting.