Hi,
I've got a few questions about the differences between the 1976 MC5 250 and the 1977 MC5 250.
Which is the proper tank for the 1976, the red tank with the C-stripe or the orange tank with the horizontal stripe? I've seen photos labeling both as 76's.
I think the red with C-stripe is correct for 76, but it doesn't seem logical since the 75 has horizontal and the 78 has C-shaped.
Also, some repro parts suppliers list seats (covers, foam, etc) and fenders as up to 76. From what I have read there was minimal differences between the 76 and 77 MC5. Which seat and fenders do I need to buy for my 1976 MC5 250?
Thanks in advance!
The Factory Novice
The only difference is the the 76 should have the orange tank. If you have a red tank with a "C" shape decal that is for a 77. The red take is for a KTM from the west coast.Seats are the same, fenders are the same.If you email me I will send you a photo of my 76 MC5 bike. Hope this will help. Later Gary
Early 76 MC5 did not have as good a gusset if I remember correctly. Several early frames broke. I think some other guys that raced the first ones like Mike Lenz can confirm this.
Larry P
Larry, were there any frame mods available for that bike, like Kent's mods for the Harescrambler?
'76, East U.S. - Penton - orange - horz. stripe.
'76, West U.S. - KTM - red - horz. stripe.
'77, East U.S. - Penton - orange - "C" shaped stripe.
'77, West U.S. - KTM - red - "C" shaped stripe.
'76 front fender, same as '74 & '75, reproductions available.
'77 front fender, no repro's available.
'76 & '77 MC5 seats are very close to a '75 (long/tall) GP seat.
The '75 pan is a tad wider than the MC5's, but it'll fit.
Does anyone know if Al still has "long/tall" pans and foam available ? I know at one time you could get all the parts needed to make a '75 GP seat from him. But I don't think he was calling any of it specifically MC5.
Also, I believe Pogger MRW said he was having DC Plastics make MC5 pans, and covers. The foam I don't know about.
Welcome Tahitian Red - it's a wonderful thing when the group expands, new blood is good.
Bob W
Bob W,
Yes, Don at DC Products may even have the MC5 and the 77 GS6 seat bases finished by now. He has a local guy that does the seat covers. There is also another source that has listings on eBay for Made in Italy MC5 and 79-81 seat covers.
I spoke with Don about improving the fit of 76-77 MC5 side panels and the 77 GS6 panels and he is sending me some samples to drill holes in to relocate the depressions for a correct fit and he mentioned that he will be sending me a seat foam manufacturers info with the samples. Don is now offering side panels in most colors.
I have the KTM front fender that has M. Roberts made in Italy cast on the underside and KTM logo on the top front from the 78 MC5 I bought from you that Don will soon be reproducing. It may be the same as the 77 MC5 front fender. It doesn't look like other M. Robert fenders that I have seen. Mike
Michael R. Winter
I enjoy rebuilding and appreciating Pentons!
1974 250 HS Pentons-1980 KTM 250'S