Tuning a Mototrans 250cc

[NewKidOnTheBlock]

Hi All,

It's been a while, but I've finally got the bike road worthy. Have taken her for a blast over the weekend and I'm generally pretty happy, I need to sort out my jetting which was always expected with a new carb on a new engine, she's running rich on the main jet.

A couple of little videos for those interested: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-1p-yxi58vc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3Bcp5QP1KM

While I was out test riding it now highlights what I always knew, I need to do something in the handling department, I'm currently on the stock monza jr. forks which are, excuse the pun; shocking! (Or lacking there abouts). It was always my intention to replace the forks and front brake with something a little better. I have the yokes for the stock 30mm forks as well as another set to suit 31.5mm forks.

Does anyone have any recommendations on what makes a good swap? I'd like something that looks period(ish) but I'm not too worried if it's original Ducati equipment, although working with the speedo drive would be desired.

I was always dreaming of replacing the rims with some 17" or 18" ally ones rather than my steel 16" ones - preferably a size that can accept something with a slightly more sporting profile.

What are people's thoughts on good swaps?

Cheers

[LarryNZ]

Re your enquiry about going to a different front brake and wheels, you might find this photo interesting of my bike. The rear wheel is a Borrani 17", the front is a Borrani 18" laced to a circa 1972 Honda 350 TLS brake/hub. I think it has a reasonably balanced look but am contemplating a conversion to a set of Ceriani forks if I could talk my friend out of them. Hope this is worthwhile to you. Good Luck.

[Ventodue]

Looks good, Larry. Very smart, them Borranis ...

Craig

[NewKidOnTheBlock]

Thanks Larry, yours looks nice.

Any idea how much difference the ride is with your friend's Ceriani forks?

Cheers!

[LarryNZ]

Sorry, that is just a hope for the future. They are on the wall of his shop in Seattle, I am in New Zealand. I am sure they would be much more stable in all situations. I am thinking it would require a rework/replacement of the steering head and how will this plus the large tyres change the overall geometry/handling-? A thing to consider also is the vast number of Japanese forks that resemble vintage Italian ones. Sometimes with a little lathe work they can look very "European" but you can only throw so many dollars at these bikes, for limited improvements other than cosmetic. I have just joined the site but would think many others have done lots of experimenting. Good Luck and I would be interested if you let me know what route you go on your bike. Cheers