SMALLKAT

[Uncle Bob]

Thanks Rob. How many links in the chain? 116?

Sorry missed that bit, checked and yes it was 116 links. I think I used the GSX400 Impulse of the same years (90-92) as the base and then got the biggest rear which was 49.

[Smallkat]

Cleaned the brakes up and ready for spraying.

Used VHT black paint, but it's come out a sort of matt grey.

Not terrible, but not the look I was going for. I couldn't seem to find any VHT satin black, so I've ordered some gloss.

[Smallkat]

The rear shocks were leaking, so I had a look for some replacements. These are the originals:

YSS have some lovely piggy back, damping adjustable shocks. Unfortunately, they are £470. The non-piggy backs are £310. The non-gas, non-adjustable, non-piggyback, non-glamour, totally basic 1980s tech budget ones are £118.

I knew what the right decision was, but I double-checked with Mrs Smallkat. So here are the new shocks:

[geekay]

Aren't they the same as the ones I fitted to Tinykat?

[Smallkat]

Yes, they look similar. Tinykat isn't with me at the moment so I can't check, but certainly the same style. I hope the spring and damper rates have been changed!

[Uncle Bob]

I did splash out on the YSS as I do like the look of the 400 (and 250) with the piggy backs on. But then the 400 only cost me £700 in 2014 so I felt like treating the old girl.

I was tempted to try these on the 250 (other colour schemes available):
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/264302543534

I did contact Gazi (in Oz who make top of the price range ones - https://gazisuspension.com/ ) about those, thinking they might be rip offs but they said that it was theirs but a range aimed just at the Asian market and not marketed anywhere else, so I think this guy in Italy has managed to find a source.

I am tempted by those Yoshi cams covers as well that Blix will sometimes taunt us with an image of, as he has some.

UB

[Smallkat]

It does look good with the piggy backs. I really need to get it running and MOT tested before I splash out, as much as I wanted too.

I think I prefer the YSS ones to the Gazi ones.

It also needs a new front tyre and a C & S set, so I have to be (a bit) sensible.

[Smallkat]

While I was round the back I sorted the terrible number plate and cheap plastic mini, mini indicators.

Smaller plate and back to some Suzuki Bandit indicators, which match the fronts.

[Smallkat]

I was tempted to try these on the 250 (other colour schemes available):
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/264302543534

UB

Don't forget that Import duty and VAT may be added to goods coming from the EU now.

[Smallkat]

As I am going for normal handlebars, I needed to replace the master cylinder. I got one from a 1200 Bandit for £23, which was quite manky.

I gave it a good clean and used a bit of Autosol on the bore and it came up well. I put it in the ultrasonic tank, then fitted a new piston and cup seal kit.

Sprayed with satin black (although it looks a bit glossy). I'm not doing so well with paint so far, but I expected this anyway.

Hopefully it works okay.