I have a 1968 Penton Six Day 125 and I am having a dilemma in my decision making process concerning how best to rebuild/restore the bike. I know that the model is an example of an early MXer, but everytime I look at the bike sitting in my garage, I see a flat tracker. I've even done some preliminary work in CAD refitting the bike as a flat tracker. The frame would work perfectly, but naturally the 125 Sachs engine will not provide enough power.
My question is whether or not some of the larger Sachs or KTM engines (400 or 450cc) will fit this early frame without much refabrication.
Kimbal Lane Cox
CBET
BAD IDEA !
IMO,
Dwight
If you are treating your rig as investment property ('68s are rare) it will only be original once and the decision to restore should be carefully evaluated. But if your thing is "flat track", and you receive satisfaction from building unique machines, go for it. Since you have CAD skills, do the layouts and explore the possibilities before you start cutting. The Penton's that bring me the most joy, are the ones seen on the race track --- out front and pulling away!
Ernie P.
Chattanooga, TN
Kimbal,
As Dwight said bad idea....I will add very bad idea. I am going to build a 70/71 Penton Flatracker for display only. First of all even with the stock Sachs engine if you don't keep everything tight (engine wise) it will crack the frame. The steel in these bikes aren't(weren't) the best and in 1972 Penton went to the Chrome Moly Frame (CMF). The other thing that I have seen crack these frames is people not mounting/tightening the engine in the frame cradle properly and littlerly vibrating the frame causing cracks. You have to remember that a motorcycle frame is like a tuning fork and if you pinch it when mounting a engine in it will vibrate. This is just my opinion so if anyone doesn't agree that is OK since I am just telling you what I have seen in my Racing experience.
As far as a larger engine reread the last paragraph. The engines you are talking about are very heavy and if you really look at the frame and swingarm they leave a lot to be desired as far as strength. I have a aluminum after market swingarm which is what I plan on using for my project along with a original Penton low pipe which has a mounting bracket already built on the frame(1970/71).
I agree with you on one thing when I look at a steeltanker without a front fender on it I also see a flattracker. One last comment. Have you considered finding and build a Kenny Roberts Penton?
Ron Carbaugh
Thanks for the good advice guys. You have helped me greatly in my decision. I was considering reinforcing the frame and getting a thicker swing arm, but now, I am thinking that it may be a better decision to just restore it back as close to original as I can get it.
I recently read an article about restoring old bikes and it brought up a consideration that I had never thought of; that it may be best to leave the bike in "as is" condition. That the wear and tear and degradation of the bike could be part of the historical significance of the bike. I don't feel like my 68 Six day has any sort of significance that would put it in this category, but your thoughts have given me pause.
Thank You,
Kimbal Lane Cox
CBET
Kimbal,
Not that I am the authority on this subject, but if you want to email me off this site and then want to send me some pictures I will forward you my thoughts and pictures of steeltankers I either own or owned at one time. I hope this helps.
Ron Carbaugh
Hey Kimbal, Honestly...once you get the hang of going around a circle you would get bored with a 125. Build a 250 with one of the flat track specific frame dimensions i.e. Track Master, Champion ect. There are quite a few for sale here and there. Taking an MX bike out to do what you want is a good way to high side. Trust me
Guess yall did not see the Speedway mini bike with the 125 Sachs engine in it from the factory. It was on Ebay the last week. I bid but last I saw it was over $2500. Neat mini thou,. easy,TTP
Paul,
I did see it and it is at $2550.00 and hasn't reached reserve. Here it for others that would enjoy seeing it.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=190223398466&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT&ih=009
Ron Carbaugh
Ron , thats a wicked cool looking mini bike. I hope parents wont be buying them for their 8 y/o olds to ride though [:p]
Ape hangers and all
Raymond
Down East Pentons