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I haven't been everywhere...
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Camping in the Mexican desert



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  #1  
Old 15 May 2020
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Hypothetical (for now) build: XL600V
Here's a little game where you get to spend someone else's time and money.

I have a perfectly functioning TA 600. It's a bit tatty around the edges, but only if you look closely. Otherwise it's a fine bike.

However, if you were to "overlanderise" it what would you do?

Now, I realise one perfectly viable answer is "nothing", but then this wouldn't be any fun.

So assuming you do at least something to it, what would it be?

Complete strip with a new aluminium frame and oversized tank?

Upside downie forks?

Whatever. You decide and, who knows, some of them may make my drawing board!

The only thing we're leaving alone is the engine, carbs etc...

This topic is inspired by a local bike shop here that makes utterly divine custom bikes, usually around BMW boxers; some scramblers, some cafe racers, some low-riders etc, and a HUBB member's K75 build where only the engine is recognisable!!

Enjoy!
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Old 15 May 2020
*Touring Ted*'s Avatar
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Now you're playing my game

The Transalp is already a fine foundation for an Overland bike.

If you're building a travel bike then spend your money on suspension, lighting and a beautifully hand made touring seat. Maybe some nice pannier rails and rear rack.

Ditch the stock exhaust if you still have it and maybe get a jet kit.

A front end conversion would be cool. Plenty of KTM forks and wheels on ebay. It's quite a bit of work though.
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Old 15 May 2020
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All those have crossed my mind... I think the biggest challenge, and benefit, would be lightening it. It's no featherweight. What 200kg, wet?

Where to shed that without a bespoke ally frame wheels and swing arm etc. €£€£€£.

But hey: dreams are free!!

As are eBay searches!!

At least it has an Arrow exhaust to make the most of that V-twin bark!
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  #4  
Old 15 May 2020
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Ditch the centre stand, the rear tail section, pillion pegs, lighter wheels.

Swap steel for aluminium where possible. Saves weight but obviously not as strong. Handlebars, footpegs, etc.

Your wallet is the only limitation.
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  #5  
Old 15 May 2020
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Quote:
Originally Posted by *Touring Ted* View Post

Your wallet is the only limitation.
It is a HUUUUUGE limitation!!
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  #6  
Old 31 May 2021
MEZ MEZ is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Warthog View Post
and a HUBB member's K75 build where only the engine is recognisable!!



Enjoy!
Ok Warthog, you have my attention now, any pics of this K75 please...???
Not sure why this thread didn't take off and maintain momentum...??!!!



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  #7  
Old 27 Sep 2023
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Location: South Manchester, looking out the window at the Peaks, UK
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there was a TA on here that someone had modded to take part in Big bike rallies; new wheels, forks and he made a fairing out of thick plastic with i think aprillia twin headlights.

i almost bid on it when it was for sale but it wouldn't have provided much shelter when my wife kicked me out of the house!

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