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General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: bigbikerrick on July 19, 2022, 05:05:35 PM

Title: Check out my new convert !
Post by: bigbikerrick on July 19, 2022, 05:05:35 PM

(https://i.ibb.co/k3dxL3H/IMG-3786.png) (https://ibb.co/k3dxL3H)


Hello Folks, I have found and purchased what I think is the "Convert of my dreams". I owned a Cal 2 automatic in the past, and miss it like crazy, some days. I have been searching for a nice, sorted Convert with spoked Borrani wheels, and that long seat thats like a waterbed. I found this bike from a long time Guzzisti on the Convert group, a super nice guy that has spent the last 3 years going through and sorting the bike. The cool thing about the bike, is it had been sitting in a motorcycle museum for over 20 years, and has about 9K original miles. Now , I am biting my nails waiting for the shipper to pick up the bike, and bring it to Arizona!

 BTW, Does anyone know what brand that fairing is?
Rick
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Cam3512 on July 19, 2022, 05:13:10 PM
Wow Rick, that’s a beauty.  Can’t help you with the fairing, but I’ve seen them on loops. Charlie will be along in a minute…
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: inditx on July 19, 2022, 05:20:41 PM
Saweeet!  :thumb:
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: 80CX100 on July 19, 2022, 05:53:32 PM
That's a gorgeous bike. :thumb:

Congrats, that may be the ultimate Convert score, curious to hear your thoughts compared to your old Cali.

I don't recall ever seeing one done up in red like that, the panniers really pop visually with the subtle black slash cut pipes.

Hope it gets to you safely.
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Antietam Classic Cycle on July 19, 2022, 05:56:21 PM
Wow Rick, that’s a beauty.  Can’t help you with the fairing, but I’ve seen them on loops. Charlie will be along in a minute…

Looks similar to a Calafia Loop fairing but is significantly different. I've never seen one quite like it.
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Turin on July 19, 2022, 06:12:05 PM
She's a beaut ! That red really pops.
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: TOMB on July 19, 2022, 06:12:49 PM
I'm going to guess at the fairing is either a Shoi, or Wixom ,on the outside it might be a
Bates.

Picture of my Vert
TOMB

(https://i.ibb.co/QKhK5yw/TOMS-CONVERT.jpg) (https://ibb.co/QKhK5yw)
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Antietam Classic Cycle on July 19, 2022, 06:25:54 PM
It's funny - Mark Etheridge just made the trip to Kingman, AZ to buy this one (plus a Breva 750 and CX100).

(https://i.ibb.co/vvNnXkB/Mark-s-Convert.jpg) (https://ibb.co/vvNnXkB)
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: moto on July 19, 2022, 06:36:49 PM
Wow!  :thumb:
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: bmc5733946 on July 19, 2022, 07:04:23 PM
I think Mark got those from the estate of Randy Dawes long time WG guy?

Brian
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: bigbikerrick on July 19, 2022, 07:04:53 PM
The P/O has all the documented history of the bike. It has been parked inside a motorcycle museum in Princeton, Indiana that was owned by Jim, and sandy Minnis for over 20 years. The current owner bought it in 2018, and since it had been sitting, he did a nice job sorting it, even replacing the stamped steel flywheel, and going through it getting it roadworthy.
The bike was originally silver, but it faded, where the sun hit it when parked by the window, and Jim Minnis had it repainted red, years ago.

Thanks folks for the kind words,
Rick Duarte
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: bigbikerrick on July 19, 2022, 07:08:33 PM
It's funny - Mark Etheridge just made the trip to Kingman, AZ to buy this one (plus a Breva 750 and CX100).

(https://i.ibb.co/vvNnXkB/Mark-s-Convert.jpg) (https://ibb.co/vvNnXkB)


That white vert looks nice! Mine does not have that chrome rail that goes around the seat. I guess they are all had that originally... I am going to have to find one.
Rick
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: AJ Huff on July 19, 2022, 07:41:42 PM
Wow that's nice. Congrats!

-AJ
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Gusable on July 19, 2022, 08:13:52 PM
All I know is I’m jealous
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Antietam Classic Cycle on July 19, 2022, 08:20:59 PM
I think Mark got those from the estate of Randy Dawes long time WG guy?

Brian

Yes.
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Scout63 on July 19, 2022, 10:15:21 PM
Beautiful red Convert. That bike just oozes charm. Best of luck with it.
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: steveford on July 20, 2022, 12:26:48 AM
Yes.

Last known on here as Arizona Wayne. RIP Randy
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Muzz on July 20, 2022, 12:30:11 AM
Now that is REALLY nice! :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: chuck peterson on July 20, 2022, 03:14:46 AM
Good looking beast i say! I’d be interested to hear your riding impressions between the cal2 and the convert…pretty big difference in the frame geometry…I’ve always thought the vert was a better dancing bear in the handling department
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Texas Turnip on July 20, 2022, 06:39:11 AM
That faring has me puzzled as I thought I knew all the farings from that era.  The bike is prettier than a speckled pup.

Tex
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Gliderjohn on July 20, 2022, 07:43:07 AM
Here is the Concert owned by the late KS rep David Kasitz. Appears to have the same fairing. Don't know the brand either but I rode that bike a bit and the fairing seemed to work well.
GliderJohn
(https://i.ibb.co/8Yq0xpr/DSCN0775.jpg) (https://ibb.co/8Yq0xpr)
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: larrys on July 20, 2022, 07:55:16 AM
She's a purty thang! My first Guzzi was a '76 Convert.
Larry
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: vintagehoarder on July 20, 2022, 08:06:08 AM
Sweet
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Mike Craven on July 20, 2022, 07:42:16 PM
I'd be afraid to ride it.  Toooo nice.
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: bigbikerrick on July 20, 2022, 10:37:31 PM
That faring has me puzzled as I thought I knew all the farings from that era.  The bike is prettier than a speckled pup.

Tex

Thank you, Tex. Your personal  knowledge of the owner, made a big difference in my decision to buy it, and i am so glad I did! Mr. King really treated me right! That fairing has me confused as well.
Thank you
Rick.
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: bigbikerrick on July 20, 2022, 10:41:13 PM
John, The Guzzi from the kansas rep seems to have a Wixom on it. Note the round turn signals. The fairing on my Convert has square turn signals. The overall "shape" though, has Wixom written all over it. Maybe its a different wixom model, not the "Ranger".
Rick D.
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Canuck750 on July 20, 2022, 11:08:38 PM
Wow, that is one very, very nice looking Convert! Congratulations.
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Klinkhammer on July 21, 2022, 04:43:58 AM
Very nice!!!
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Moparnut72 on July 21, 2022, 07:23:02 AM
Very similar to the Wixom I put on my R50/2. It didn't have turn signals other looks the same. I also put the lower on the bike. I lived in Colo and rode year around, I didn't have a car.
kk
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: bigbikerrick on July 21, 2022, 03:24:15 PM
Thanks for the kind words, Folks! I think I really lucked out, finding this nice, sorted, Convert, not too far from me.  The bike is scheduled to be delivered by the shipper on July 27 th. I know it sounds cliche' , but this is "Christmas in July" for me!   :thumb:
Rick Duarte
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: radguzzi on July 21, 2022, 08:25:32 PM

Congratulations Rick, real pretty Convert.  Welcome to the club.  Enjoy.

The North East Convert contingency rep riding along the Maine coast...

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/640x480q90/924/mk6fMG.jpg)

Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: bigbikerrick on July 22, 2022, 04:19:52 PM
Congratulations Rick, real pretty Convert.  Welcome to the club.  Enjoy.

The North East Convert contingency rep riding along the Maine coast...

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/640x480q90/924/mk6fMG.jpg)

Thats a gorgeous Convert you have there, Rob! Even though some folks talk trash about them, I have always liked how the" Jammer" looks on a convert. To my eye, it just fits it right, and I have always been a big admirer of Craig Vetter, and his innovative products. The red bike I bought was originally silver ,like yours.
Rick Duarte
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: TOMB on July 22, 2022, 04:27:20 PM

(https://i.ibb.co/5Y1Gmbv/TOMS-CONVERT.jpg) (https://ibb.co/5Y1Gmbv)

image share (https://imgbb.com/)


Here's mine in Black.
Windjammer works great for my 5' 8" size

TOMB
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Huzo on July 22, 2022, 05:18:41 PM
It’s not my style of thing, but I can see why you would jump at it.
Absolutely striking…!
For heaven’s sake don’t sell it, really a one off.
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: bigbikerrick on July 22, 2022, 06:30:24 PM
I have admired your bike for years, Tomb! It is very nicely set up, and looks very roadworthy. The seat looks incredibly comfortable. I bet she just "glides" down the highway!   :thumb: :thumb:
Rick Duarte
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: TOMB on July 22, 2022, 09:35:29 PM
@Bigbikerrick

Thank you

It floats down the road, not suspension float just glides. This bike just loves to rack up the miles ===effortlessly.

But don't be fooled, when it comes to cornering this is a beast. Those Avon Roadrunners stick like glue and i have to be careful as I almost run out of front tire.

Now if I could get better than 33-35 mpg. wishful thinking i guess

TOMB
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Bulldog9 on July 22, 2022, 09:41:45 PM
 :boozing: Looks great!

I just got my tank, side covers and bags painted, and will be re-assembling over the next few weeks.  Have the tank on so far. Been a bit busy moving the last few weeks, now settled in KY....... Hope to have her complete by end of SEP.


(https://i.ibb.co/Ct7Fg7b/IMG-20220706-102250113-HDR.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Ct7Fg7b)
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: bigbikerrick on July 23, 2022, 01:05:57 AM
Your Convert has a  very "sporty" look to it , Bulldog9.   I like it!
Rick
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: bigbikerrick on July 24, 2022, 12:11:18 PM
Hey, Folks, i believe i have identified the brand of fairing on my new convert, its a Pacifico Pathfinder. You dont see them very often.
Rick
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Antietam Classic Cycle on July 24, 2022, 12:20:51 PM
Hey, Folks, i believe i have identified the brand of gairing on my new convert, its a Pacifico Pathfinder. You dont see them very often.
Rick

 :thumb: Sure looks like it.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/133090182006
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: bigbikerrick on July 24, 2022, 03:37:36 PM
Thats the only one I could find as well, Charlie.  Not very common. I kinda like it. Reminds me a little of the shape of an SP fairing, except for the windshield.

https://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/model/moto%20guzzi/moto_guzzi_1000sp_78.html
Rick
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Ncdan on July 24, 2022, 07:13:34 PM
If anyone wants on needs a Windjammer gif one of these old bikes I have one in great condition that I’d part with.
As well as the 3 piece matching luggage set.
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: bigbikerrick on July 24, 2022, 09:17:20 PM
If anyone wants on needs a Windjammer gif one of these old bikes I have one in great condition that I’d part with.
As well as the 3 piece matching luggage set.

Did you "undress" the Honda Custom, Dan?  I remember you had a Jammer on it.  There was a member here, from the New York state area, I think, by the name of Cave Luther, that had a real nice stone with a windjammer mounted on it. It took him a while to get the airflow right, but once dialed in, it was great. I realize they are not for everyone.

If you were closer, i would be tempted, but shipping on a  big, heavy,windjammer would be insane.
Rick.
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: K-Man on July 25, 2022, 04:24:27 PM
@ TOMB

"...when it comes to cornering this is a beast. Those Avon Roadrunners stick like glue and i have to be careful as I almost run out of front tire."

Run out of front tire?  I just bought a '76 Convert for my first ever Moto Guzzi.  What do you mean by run out of front tire?  I've never heard that expression used before regarding handling in all my years of riding. 

K-man
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: TOMB on July 25, 2022, 08:57:06 PM
@Kman

Tire size f+ r 110/90/18 V Avon Road Rider

I can lean the bike over at speed and the tire scrub mark will be 1/4" from the edge on the front tire

TOMB
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: K-Man on July 25, 2022, 10:28:36 PM
@ TOMB

Ahhh! Got it now. Thanks.  Do the Converts lean in fairly well on their own or do you really have to muscle it into turns?
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: balvenie on July 26, 2022, 12:26:47 AM
That's an elegant motorcycle, Rick :grin: :thumb:
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: bigbikerrick on July 26, 2022, 02:55:47 AM
That's an elegant motorcycle, Rick :grin: :thumb:

Thank you, Sir. for the kind words.
Rick.
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: TOMB on July 26, 2022, 03:51:24 PM
@K-man

The early Toni frames corner better than the Loops (let the bitching begin)

The Toni frames are much more rigid than the loops, steering is quicker (let the Bitching begin)

The Toni frames for the Cali 11 etc. have a longer wheelbase (62"?) etc.

If you came from a Cali11 and rode a T-3 - Convert etc. you would say the steering is quicker etc.  Tires, shocks rider weight is a factor for the results achieved.

In reality it's a personal choice but in my case, I came from Loops to the Convert and the steering is more predicable on the Toni frame I have the police type Bars but in reality my bike takes very little effort to corner the bike the, 72  Eldo would take more effort but not much more

See signature below

TOMB

Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: K-Man on July 26, 2022, 06:49:11 PM
@ TOMB

Thanks!  My Convert riding so far has consisted of pushing it from the PO's garage where it had sat neglected for more than a few years before I bought it.  I was surprised at how light and well balanced it felt just in the short move from garage to trailer to my garage.  Didn't feel like it's 550 + lbs at all.

Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: bigbikerrick on July 27, 2022, 02:26:14 AM
Thats good to hear, regarding the "standard" Convert. My California 2 automatic, always had a slight  heavy feel, in the steering. I dont know if it had anything to do with the longer wheelbase/swingarm, or the buckhorn handlebars it came with, but the feeling was there.
Rick Duarte
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: guzzisteve on July 28, 2022, 11:08:10 PM
I got a call today about a Convert, been sitting in a garage for 20yrs. The owners father passed who was going to ride it but never did. He bought it from his neighbor. Has no idea what it's worth. I'll know more later but it's in Geneva, IL
I have no idea what year or condition. In case you need one.
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Dave Swanson on July 29, 2022, 08:33:05 AM
My 1976 is edging it's way closer to the front of the restoration line.  I carted all the tins, and bags to the painter yesterday.  When they return they will be black with white trim.

(https://i.postimg.cc/T18ZgsPK/IMG-1588.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/r0JnLQxT)

(https://i.postimg.cc/1zdx5Xhc/IMG-1587.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/LqjQxHsn)
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Dave Swanson on July 29, 2022, 08:34:16 AM
I got a call today about a Convert, been sitting in a garage for 20yrs. The owners father passed who was going to ride it but never did. He bought it from his neighbor. Has no idea what it's worth. I'll know more later but it's in Geneva, IL
I have no idea what year or condition. In case you need one.

I look forward to your report.  I don't need another, but it is always interesting hearing about these finds. 
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: guzzisteve on July 29, 2022, 10:55:39 AM
Dave,  Ellis from Geneva Cycle is the one who told me bout it. He might have sold it new back then. Owner thought he had something desirable. Nope it's a turd, not many want one. BUT it may be like new also. I have always liked them, NO other motorcycle anywhere feels like a Convert.
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Bulldog9 on July 30, 2022, 02:54:03 PM
Well, she is not NEW, but has new clothes. Just waiting for the side cover grills and to make a decision on pinstriping and if I want to swap the black crash bars for chrome.

Many thanks to Charlie for the stainless rear fender. The bike is looking great, NOT a concours restore by any means, still has some patina, and the new paint isn't perfect, but  if it did, I'd be afraid to ride it and mess it up ;-)


(https://i.ibb.co/FzqCRGn/IMG-20220730-153512387-HDR.jpg) (https://ibb.co/FzqCRGn)

(https://i.ibb.co/D5YLrNQ/IMG-20220730-153027118-HDR.jpg) (https://ibb.co/D5YLrNQ)

(https://i.ibb.co/BB7QTG4/IMG-20220730-153015034-HDR.jpg) (https://ibb.co/BB7QTG4)

(https://i.ibb.co/WG9C16z/IMG-20220730-153006946-HDR.jpg) (https://ibb.co/WG9C16z)

(https://i.ibb.co/GRBmx1f/IMG-20220730-152817056.jpg) (https://ibb.co/GRBmx1f)
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: bigbikerrick on July 30, 2022, 03:51:27 PM
Your Convert looks very nice, Bulldog9! I love the DB bags, and the capacity,is second to none. I hope mine comes out as nice as yours after I finish sorting it.
Rick.
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Anomaly on July 30, 2022, 04:45:51 PM
Well, she is not NEW, but has new clothes. .....

Looks great. What screen is that? Headlight?
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Bulldog9 on July 31, 2022, 08:19:18 AM
Looks great. What screen is that? Headlight?

Screen is a MRA speed screen ($80), and headlight is an E-bay special Jeep LED. Bought two for $40.

'SNAPPING RED SUSPENDERS' :evil:
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: brider on July 31, 2022, 09:43:36 AM
THAT is a Convert that looks more than worthy of replacing your Cal 2....I was thinking "He's going to have a hard time finding something as nice as that Cal 2...", but you beat the odds and SCORED! Congrats!
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Anomaly on July 31, 2022, 11:06:03 AM
Screen is a MRA speed screen ($80), and headlight is an E-bay special Jeep LED. Bought two for $40.

'SNAPPING RED SUSPENDERS' :evil:

Thanks! Wow, I'd snap my suspenders too if I had that setup. Is the headlight "plug and play" or is there more involved?
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Bulldog9 on July 31, 2022, 11:16:45 AM
Thanks! Wow, I'd snap my suspenders too if I had that setup. Is the headlight "plug and play" or is there more involved?

Plug and play and dropped straight into the bucket without issue. Is shallower than a standard old school bulb. If you want the 'halo' you have to wire that separately.
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Anomaly on July 31, 2022, 11:22:55 AM
Plug and play and dropped straight into the bucket without issue. Is shallower than a standard old school bulb. If you want the 'halo' you have to wire that separately.

Thanks (again)!
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: John Ulrich on August 01, 2022, 01:43:42 AM
Nice find Rick!

Not sure of the name…. Here’s one on eBay…

https://www.ebay.com/itm/203835379795?chn=ps&norover=1&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-117182-37290-0&mkcid=2&itemid=203835379795&targetid=1645685073528&device=t&mktype=&googleloc=9061145&poi=&campaignid=16730423415&mkgroupid=135815925780&rlsatarget=pla-1645685073528&abcId=9300841&merchantid=101709378&gbraid=0AAAAAD_QDh_HRTXr7jTfWrrUFx_srBpPn&gclid=Cj0KCQjw0JiXBhCFARIsAOSAKqAenMOvYcSnG4VRh8TiF_1gQUOUuTxK5kp8QOF69zWMRGS9YiFKmx0aAoGjEALw_wcB

Here it is…. Pacifico Pathfinder

https://www.ebay.com/itm/133090182006?chn=ps&_trkparms=ispr%3D1&amdata=enc%3A1TGj21GXYTiSFVMbdqqNS-w63&norover=1&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-117182-37290-0&mkcid=2&itemid=133090182006&targetid=1644837434603&device=t&mktype=&googleloc=9061145&poi=&campaignid=16743749222&mkgroupid=138744546207&rlsatarget=pla-1644837434603&abcId=9300842&merchantid=131363382&gbraid=0AAAAAD_QDh_jUC47ThK4TOwlYDGv9tD_s&gclid=Cj0KCQjw0JiXBhCFARIsAOSAKqCCbYQkeQtvtX9qxIZOpvBFq2irvlbxMQBQTHZu2FhEZAfg5ImC3D0aAgMCEALw_wcB
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: Antietam Classic Cycle on August 01, 2022, 10:34:36 AM
Nice find Rick!

Not sure of the name…. Here’s one on eBay…

https://www.ebay.com/itm/203835379795?chn=ps&norover=1&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-117182-37290-0&mkcid=2&itemid=203835379795&targetid=1645685073528&device=t&mktype=&googleloc=9061145&poi=&campaignid=16730423415&mkgroupid=135815925780&rlsatarget=pla-1645685073528&abcId=9300841&merchantid=101709378&gbraid=0AAAAAD_QDh_HRTXr7jTfWrrUFx_srBpPn&gclid=Cj0KCQjw0JiXBhCFARIsAOSAKqAenMOvYcSnG4VRh8TiF_1gQUOUuTxK5kp8QOF69zWMRGS9YiFKmx0aAoGjEALw_wcB

Here it is…. Pacifico Pathfinder

https://www.ebay.com/itm/133090182006?chn=ps&_trkparms=ispr%3D1&amdata=enc%3A1TGj21GXYTiSFVMbdqqNS-w63&norover=1&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-117182-37290-0&mkcid=2&itemid=133090182006&targetid=1644837434603&device=t&mktype=&googleloc=9061145&poi=&campaignid=16743749222&mkgroupid=138744546207&rlsatarget=pla-1644837434603&abcId=9300842&merchantid=131363382&gbraid=0AAAAAD_QDh_jUC47ThK4TOwlYDGv9tD_s&gclid=Cj0KCQjw0JiXBhCFARIsAOSAKqCCbYQkeQtvtX9qxIZOpvBFq2irvlbxMQBQTHZu2FhEZAfg5ImC3D0aAgMCEALw_wcB

https://wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=115828.msg1827224#msg1827224

Tip: When posting a link to an ebay item, all you really need is this much:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/203835379795
https://www.ebay.com/itm/133090182006
Title: Re: Check out my new convert !
Post by: bigbikerrick on August 01, 2022, 12:06:21 PM
Thanks John, and Charlie. Thats exactly it! I currently removed it for the warm weather, but plan to cut a new shorter windshield for it, and re install it when the weather cools. What I like about it, is its a simple mounting to the bike, and its fairly lightweight.  I like the fact that it looks a little like an sp fairing, except for the windshield.
Rick.