Waiting on the UPS truck

GoldenMotor.com

jkent

New Member
Dec 23, 2009
3
0
0
New Jersey
This will be my first build. I've never even seen one of these bikes other than online. Ordered a Jet Stealth 80cc from Pirate Cycles yesterday. UPS status says it's almost here!

I have a Giant Simple 7 that I plan to use. Just went to Autozone for all the stuff based on instructions I found here.

I'll post pics when it's done. Wish me luck.
 

Finfan

New Member
Aug 29, 2008
871
2
0
Tucson, AZ USA
Good luck! Just remember that your first build will probably take longer than the 4 - 6 hours that they say it does in the instructions. Also if you look around to some of the vendors websites (Dax & SpookyTooth) you will find installation instructions that are easier to follow than the Chinglish instructions that come with the kit.

.bld.
 
Last edited:

captainrichhill

New Member
May 31, 2008
202
0
0
Read directions through BEFORE starting assembly, If you got real patients then replace the studs for exhaust,intake manifold and engine mounts with 6mm threaded rod (from hardware store). It will be easier before you mount the engine then after when they break off flush with the engine and you gotta disassemble the thing again to get them out.
my $.02
 

jkent

New Member
Dec 23, 2009
3
0
0
New Jersey
Thanks. It arrived!
Unpacked and took inventory then moved to my first question...I new it would be close but the front mount is about 1/8 inch too narrow for my bike tube. So, I'll have to buy or fabricate a mount. Picked up a muffler clamp earlier today.

I went ahead and moved to the sprocket. Tied the spokes with zip ties first. I found conflicting information about the direction of the sprocket. I wound up with the convex side out (teeth closer to the spokes). I don't think it's going to rub the tire but we'll see.
 

troyboy

Your East Coast Gasbike Connection
Apr 18, 2009
171
1
0
Wista ma
Thanks. It arrived!
Unpacked and took inventory then moved to my first question...I new it would be close but the front mount is about 1/8 inch too narrow for my bike tube. So, I'll have to buy or fabricate a mount. Picked up a muffler clamp earlier today.

I went ahead and moved to the sprocket. Tied the spokes with zip ties first. I found conflicting information about the direction of the sprocket. I wound up with the convex side out (teeth closer to the spokes). I don't think it's going to rub the tire but we'll see.
Jkent,
Were here if you need us for anything. We can fab up a mount for you as well.
IMG00138-20091005-1334.jpg
Also, Run the sprocket whatever way gives you the best clearance. There is no set direction of travel with the sprockets. It's a preference thing.
Let us Know!
Justin
 
Last edited:

wheelbender6

Well-Known Member
Sep 4, 2008
4,059
221
63
TX
Welcome to the forum. Giant Simples are great cruisers. Take your time and everything will turn out great.
Since the Simple is an aluminum frame, you may need to use muffler clamps on the motor mounts due to those fat frame tubes.
 

jkent

New Member
Dec 23, 2009
3
0
0
New Jersey
It's done and it works!

I think i have about 8hrs of work in it and another 3hrs of shopping for parts and ideas at Lowe's and Autozone. Got everthing in place late today. A few things....

With all the complaints on this site about the HT engines I really didn't expect it to run at all. My problems however were all related to the chain alignement. I'll omit details as I'm sure you've all experienced them. The engine runs perfectly.

With regards to the motor mount; I learned to just try stuff. My frame tube is too big for the standard mount. I spent a few hours looking for the silver bullet on this board. Some really good ideas and products. Based mine on the muffler bracket and some flat aluminum stock. Works great.

On your first time out do not just run until it fails. I ended up carrying my bike a half mile up hill back to the garage with the chain wedged between the spokes and sprocket. Stay close to home those first few minutes (hours?).

Althought the motor may not be the greatest quality the rag joint sprocket and stock chain tentioner is just not something I want to depend upon. My chain wants to travel toward the spokes. I think I have the tention and alignment good for now but I'm not confident it'll stay that way.

Justin at Pirate Cycles has been great! Returned my calls prompltly, shipped my kit quickly, and answered every question knowledgeably. Thanks Justin!!!!!

This board is critical. My laptop smells like WD-40.

Next steps...

I gotta go over everyting and replace nuts, washers, etc. with better ones and add lock-tite.

One minor problem is the exhaust clearance. My pedal hits it. It's very minor. I may just squeeze the pipe in a vice a bit. Any downside to that?

Need a more reliable tentioner and/or sprocket. I'll speak with Justin about some great products he's suggested.

Lastly...solving these little challenges is great fun. Riding is a blast but nothing like the build. I'm in.

John