Successful Use of Flex-Hone® in Custom Bike Conversions!
Honda VT750 motorcycles feature a sturdy steel frame and a compact chassis, enabling smooth and easy handling on the road. Built from 1998 to 2003, the Shadow A.C.E. (American Custom Edition) allowed the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer to challenge Harley-Davidson’s market share in the USA. With its classic styling, large V-twin engine, and throaty engine sound, the Honda VT750 remains popular among motorcycle builders who appreciate bobbers.
Bobber Bikes
In the world of custom-built motorcycles, bobbers hold a special place. Without the large, heavy stock parts, bobber bikes are lighter and more agile. For Jim Giuffra of AFT Customs, converting a 750 A.C.E. for a Californian casino was more than just another opportunity to upgrade an engine. The ASUMATI motorcycle, built by AFT Customs, combined sleek lines and distinctive design with peak power and performance.
Engine Overhauls and Pineapple Honing Brushes
Among the modifications made by ATF Customs is the installation of a custom engine kit with pistons, cams, and seals. To increase a motorcycle’s power from 37 HP to up to 48 HP, the cylinder walls are honed to give them a cross-hatch pattern of evenly distributed, oil-retaining grooves or “scratches.” This plateau finish not only optimizes lubrication but also reduces wear and promotes piston ring seating and sealing.
Just as they only install high-quality motorcycle parts, the model-building mechanics at ATF Customs use only the best tools for engine reconditioning. For deburring and improving the surface finish of cylinders, the Flex-Hone® tool is the preferred choice. Flex-Hone®, sometimes referred to as a Ball Hone, has earned the new nickname “Pineapple Honing Brush” at ATF Customs.
Flexible Honing Tools for Automotive Applications
Flex-Hone®, with its rigid metal shaft and flexible nylon abrasive filaments, is versatile and easy to use. Both professional mechanics and hobbyists use our flexible honing tools with handheld electric drills – common equipment in most workshops. The automotive industry also uses our brushes for engine cylinders, camshafts, valves, clutches, brakes, crankshafts, connecting rods, and piston rings.
Self-centering and self-aligning to the bore, the flexible honing brushes operate with a low-temperature abrasive process that leaves the base metal unchanged. Flex-Hone® brushes are available in 10 different abrasive types and a wide range of grits, offered in standard diameters from 4 mm to 36 inches. Whether you are a manufacturer, mechanical engineer, metal processor, or hobbyist, there is a Flex-Hone® application for you!