Author Topic: LM 1,2,3 Side Covers (Read 4517 times)

wirespokes · « **on:** October 19, 2019, 03:22:51 PM »

I'm looking for a set of LeMans 1,2,3, CX side covers. Being new to Guzzis, relatively (three years) and putting together a 1000S copy, I'm looking at side covers. Originally I wanted to go with the triangular V7S style, but with the upswept pipes think they did the right thing installing LM side covers.

Thirty years ago I got my first airhead and it was missing the side covers. So I made some, since I was working at a shop making fiberglass gun stocks. That taught me a lesson that copying the shape freehand (without a model) was more difficult than it appeared. So even though the LM covers look pretty simple I know how much time can be spent trying to recreate a reasonable copy. The only two ways to go are taking a mold off a good one or just buying them.

I think it'd be fun making some molds - it's been at least 25 years since I've done that. Still have the airhead molds I made - front fender, s fairing, side covers, seat cowl, and other odds and ends but haven't made any new parts in forever.

I see fiberglass covers for sale at MG cycle for $120/pair, but none any place else. Any idea where I can find used ones? Also, I'd be interested in borrowing some rough ones to make copies of.

Were they originally metal, or always fiberglass?

speedyg · « **Reply #1 on:** October 19, 2019, 04:19:21 PM »

Original side covers were plastic on all of the first 3 Le Mans models

Guzzistajohn · « **Reply #2 on:** October 19, 2019, 04:41:28 PM »

like these??

Tusayan · « **Reply #3 on:** October 19, 2019, 05:11:54 PM »

Le Mans I and II side covers are the same shape, Le Mans III side covers are different and unique to the model. None are metal. The replicas for the I and II are fiberglass but not the same material as the originals. I can’t imagine that would be an issue for a non-original bike, so I’d just buy them if that’s what you need.

blackcat · « **Reply #4 on:** October 19, 2019, 05:25:44 PM »

Gutsibits has them in ABS if you want to take that route:
https://www.gutsibits.co.uk/pr/TheShop/index.php?q=side+cover&f=d&Model=7&search=SEARCH

guzzista · « **Reply #5 on:** October 19, 2019, 05:55:52 PM »

Angle edges and corners are sharper and truer to original on plastic repro side covers imo. The fibreglass ones are chunkier, with larger radii on edges and corners yet have the same weak spot ( lower mounting tab) . I purchased repro fibreglass ones on the last LM1 project I did but ended up repairing the original ones . A buddy of mine got some NLA clearish plastic ones and they matched my originals better.

wirespokes · « **Reply #6 on:** October 19, 2019, 06:30:54 PM »

Quote from: Guzzistajohn on October 19, 2019, 04:41:28 PM

like these??

Yeah! Like those! Why did Corbin have to make the front of the LM seat so large? The bulbous edges cut off circulation in my legs.

Beautiful bike, by the way!

Ok - so the side covers were plastic. That explains why I don't see any used ones for sale.

Since the fiberglass covers need some fixing anyway, maybe I'll watch for some used ones. Then I could 'refine' them a bit and reinforce the mounting points. And yes, they don't have to be original, but a good fiberglass copy seems like an upgrade.

Guzzistajohn · « **Reply #7 on:** October 19, 2019, 08:53:48 PM »

Quote from: wirespokes on October 19, 2019, 06:30:54 PM

Yeah! Like those! Why did Corbin have to make the front of the LM seat so large? The bulbous edges cut off circulation in my legs.

Beautiful bike, by the way!

Ok - so the side covers were plastic. That explains why I don't see any used ones for sale.

Since the fiberglass covers need some fixing anyway, maybe I'll watch for some used ones. Then I could 'refine' them a bit and reinforce the mounting points. And yes, they don't have to be original, but a good fiberglass copy seems like an upgrade.

. Yea, I’m not sold on the Corbin either, but I got a good deal on it. I have a Gammon seat too. I just rebuilt the forks, replaced shocks and had the BUB exhaus aluma coated. She’s about to get back on the road again 👍

80CX100 · « **Reply #8 on:** October 19, 2019, 09:40:51 PM »

I'm pretty sure I've seen side covers on Mike Skaggs' Moto Guzzi & parts for sale page on FB.

I know that I've seen some SP side covers on there recently, but I don't think they are an identical match?

Good luck

Kelly

wirespokes · « **Reply #9 on:** October 19, 2019, 10:17:18 PM »

I pretty much like the Corbin that came on my LM4, except for the way it fits in front, and the 'sharp' edge that cuts into my thigh. You've got a gorgeous bike there, John!

So the SP covers are similar? Do you have a link to the FB page? I'm not on FB but have been told I can access things like the Guzzi site there.
'

80CX100 · « **Reply #10 on:** October 19, 2019, 10:47:30 PM »

Quote from: wirespokes on October 19, 2019, 10:17:18 PM

I pretty much like the Corbin that came on my LM4, except for the way it fits in front, and the 'sharp' edge that cuts into my thigh. You've got a gorgeous bike there, John!

So the SP covers are similar? Do you have a link to the FB page? I'm not on FB but have been told I can access things like the Guzzi site there.
'

Moto Guzzi Bikes & Parts FS

https://www.facebook.com/groups/898627433562137/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/898627433562137/?ref=group_header

I'm not much of a techno-weanie, I copied the page link a couple of ways, I think one of them should get you in, or just search the title that I copied over; it's a closed group, but it didn't take me long to request to join the group, get approved and in the door.

Good luck

Kelly

Guzzistajohn · « **Reply #11 on:** October 20, 2019, 08:50:19 AM »

Quote from: wirespokes on October 19, 2019, 10:17:18 PM

I pretty much like the Corbin that came on my LM4, except for the way it fits in front, and the 'sharp' edge that cuts into my thigh. You've got a gorgeous bike there, John!

THANKS! I've only been taking care of her 31 years <shrug>

So the SP covers are similar? Do you have a link to the FB page? I'm not on FB but have been told I can access things like the Guzzi site there.
'

wirespokes · « **Reply #12 on:** October 20, 2019, 11:34:27 AM »

It looks like the SP covers are different. The LM1&2 are unique unto themselves.

Tusayan · « **Reply #13 on:** October 20, 2019, 12:27:00 PM »

Quote from: wirespokes on October 20, 2019, 11:34:27 AM

It looks like the SP covers are different. The LM1&2 are unique unto themselves.

Early SP covers are different from any Le Mans, and are steel.

guzzista · « **Reply #14 on:** October 20, 2019, 01:20:28 PM »

In fact SP1000 first gen, Convert, T3, G5 side covers are all the same , ( and all metal) save the script and graphics differences They would also fit fine on the LM 1, and 1000S. Looks and preference up to owner/ builder. One small but important additional bit . Using carbs other than stock VHB or 30mm PHF's as in SP1000NT will require mods to the aforementioned metal side covers, whereas the LM1/2/1000s don't

jas67 · « **Reply #15 on:** October 20, 2019, 03:50:13 PM »

Quote from: blackcat on October 19, 2019, 05:25:44 PM

Gutsibits has them in ABS if you want to take that route:
https://www.gutsibits.co.uk/pr/TheShop/index.php?q=side+cover&f=d&Model=7&search=SEARCH

They actually list the ABS ones as being for LM1, LM2, and 1000S.
So, those are the ones you want.
£48.08 each (about $62 at the current exchange rate), plus shipping.

Antietam Classic Cycle · « **Reply #16 on:** October 20, 2019, 04:24:29 PM »

I just gave away a right-side 850 Le Mans ("Mk 1") side cover last week. Needed quite a bit of repair work though...

wirespokes · « **Reply #17 on:** October 20, 2019, 04:33:48 PM »

Charlie - Now you tell me! Trying to make me feel bad? With a damaged copy it's still easier than creating one from scratch.

I think the LM style covers are what I want. But spending $124 plus shipping plus money changer fees for two plastic covers seems a bit over the top. Rather than plastic, I'd be more tempted to get the fiberglass copies from MG cycle for $59 each - http://www.mgcycle.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=288&products_id=542.

I'd think fiberglass is stronger and more durable. Anyone gotten the ABS copies? Comments?

I'm also considering making something similar to the originals, but my own design. I enjoy making stuff so that's a possibility.

Groover · « **Reply #18 on:** October 21, 2019, 07:37:25 AM »

What your process on recreating then?

wirespokes · « **Reply #19 on:** October 21, 2019, 01:03:16 PM »

I'm considering buying some of the ABS covers since they're supposed to be closest to the originals. Pull some molds off of them, then sell them. Make some fiberglass copies for myself. I've got this feeling I'll need another set or two, so being set up for the long run makes sense.

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Author Topic: LM 1,2,3 Side Covers (Read 4517 times)