THE VLX RESTORATION PROJECT
Aeromotive Customs has been privileged to work on various exciting projects over the year in this automotive industry. This article is going to expound on the VLX Project, which was the total restoration of the Honda Steed VLX. This piece of ingenuity is no ordinary motor cycle you see on the street, the Honda Steed VLX is an American custom bike which boasts a powerful 400 cc 4-stroke, liquid-cooled 4-cycle OHC V2 2-cylinder engine. Reassuringly powerful at low and medium revs, this new engine employs a wider range of gear ratios than the previous models.
The VLX model combines the best of the styling used in the two previous models – the luxury VLX and the classic VCL. Thanks to changes in the suspension, the ground clearance is now 10mm less, enhancing its long, low-slung, sleek lines. The Steed series has been designed to appeal a wide range of bike lovers.
Below is step-by-step break down of the procedures taken to restore the VLX to a brand new finish.
Disassembly
First step of the process is to totally disassemble all the panels and electrical components of the motor cycle right down to the shell to be able to access all part of the bike for both inspection and repair purposes.
Inspection
After all the panels have been isolated from the main frame, the bike is subjected to thorough scrutiny. The main frame is inspected for structural integrity by checking for any kind of crack, wear and tear subjected to it over the years of cruising.
Trouble shooting, repair and Testing
The main frame was only repainted since it did not have any crack. Next was the electrical components, continuity test was done to all circuits to ensure every components gets its fair share of electricity and all light bulbs were replaced with new generation LED lights that are more efficient and brighter. The wiring harness was re-insulated and fastened for better security and all electrical terminals were serviced to avoid dry joints in the future. Lastly, the mechanical parts were greased and protected from weather elements that lead to oxidation.
Surface Preparation
In this process all the metal and plastic panels are sanded to the bare surface so as to reveal the extent of damage. After paint scrapping all scratches, dings and dent are filled and sanded with 1200 grit sand paper to archive a perfect smooth surface.
Refurbishment
In this stage, the small and intricate components of the bike were given up-close attention for oxidation and fading. All chrome-plated parts of the bike were washed and thoroughly polished for a brilliant shine. Special chemicals were used to guard the polished items from future tarnish. The tail and head light lenses were restored to a crystal finish. The leather upholstery and bags were dyed to give a deep black finish.
Paintjob
At this point, all the surfaces are primed and smoothly sanded ready to be painted. All the electrical and mechanical parts are masked so that the frame is sprayed. Afterwards the tank and the other plastic panels are sprayed as well and set to dry overnight in a dust-free area to ensure a perfect flat finish.
Detailing
Like the saying goes, “The devil is in the detail.” Proves that until the details are put in the lime light, then the true beauty of the project can be seen. The color scheme of the bike was black and chrome, but to add a little spice to it I added blue to the small and intricate details to give it a tri-tone color scheme.
The helmet was chrome plated to match it with the mechanical parts,
the gas tank caps were chrome plated and a blue strip sprayed.
blue LED lights were installed under the wheel well and the engine bay so as to compliment the other blue details.
Riders mask was painted glossy black, the nose and the teeth sprayed chromium to give it a gothic look.
Honda logos were sprayed blue to make them stand out.
Anti-oxidants were sprayed to the radiator to remove road grim and oxidation.
After all the detailing is done, all the panels and electrical equipment are re-assembled and the surfaces buffed and polished.
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