Metalman's logo in old English script 1972 H-D (Aermacchi)
Sprint 350 SS Project

During this build (which was not supposed to be a full-on restoration, tho' it essentially turned into one) I scored a lot of OEM parts, including exhaust pipes (note mufflers are NOT original style), a one-year-only VDO speedo, indicator lamp crystals, rear peg mounts, rubber pieces from my connection in Italy, etc. (I have since had the original speedo rebuilt by one of Italy's master instrument rebuilders.  He has rebuilt 5 gauges for me as of late 2006, and he's GOOD!  No, I won't tell you who he is or how to get in touch with him.  Talk to me if you are interested in getting your gauges rebuilt.) Eventually, I might also replace the rear axle adjusters with some new aluminum units I found. Right now, there's no rush.

Final Chapter, Part 2: Registry Photos

I AM SO SCREWED!

view of 72 Sprint OEM speedo and idiot lights Left side, top view, of 72 Sprint engine right side view of 72 Sprint front wheel

72 Sprint rear view

I replaced the rear rim and spokes/nipples, and have new spokes/nipples for the front. That rim is in fine shape. Tires are modern Pirellis, and out back there's a 4.00x18 (original rubber is 3.50x18). I went with the larger size for looks, but the fit in the swingarm is awful tight. I had to make some modifications to the chain guard's front mount by reversing the screw and cutting a few small slots in the two mounts so as to allow the guard to be removed without removing the rear wheel. There is next to no room inside the swingarm so alignment is critical. Once I can get the bike outside and watch the rear wheel track I will be able to determine whether or not the 4.00x18 tire was a mistake. (My shop's small so I really can't get a good feel for what's going on.)

Now what wasn't a mistake was ditching the old spring-style rear hold-downs for the fuel tank. Those things are horrid if you have any thoughts on keeping your tank paint from getting nicked. My springs were stretched and really needed to be replaced anyway. I sourced a modern rubber strap-style hold-down from Italy that works perfectly. Both hold-downs are shown below.

Enjoy the pics and send me an e-mail at:

to let me know what you think.

Left rear view of 72 Sprint engine Right side view of 72 Sprint engine

Left rear view of 72 Sprint engine Image showing how rear of tank originally was secured Image showing modern methos to secure rear of gas tank using a special rubber strap

Left side, top view, of 72 Sprint wheel area

Final Chapter, Part 2: Registry Photos

Back, I say, BACK!

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