GL1000s are blessed with very well engineered braking systems…especially given their vintage and weight. Triple disk setups were certainly not the norm in 1975 when the GL1000 debuted.
Odd Front Brake Lever Problem
Widowmaker 4-into-4 Megaphone Exhaust System for Honda GL1000
This custom exhaust system is currently out of production. Contact – Hank Thibodeau for more details.
For my exclusive Master Carb Overhaul Kits and other items…click here
Shocking Revelations
Note: Since this Tech Tip was originally written, I’ve added this product line: Suspension Components
Not exactly a “pure” tech tip per se, but I’m asked about this frequently – so here are my recommendations regarding GL1000 shocks.
GL1000 Swing Arm Pivot Bearing Upgrade
This Tech Tip is provided courtesy of John Evans of Glasgow, Scotland. John is known as “Old Fogey” on the Naked GoldWing Forum
If you have to renew your swing arm bearings, here is a simple and effective upgrade for you.
Correct Rear End Tightening Sequence
This Tech Tip is provided courtesy of Ross Davis – noted early ‘Wing expert. Ross’s website is here.
Purpose:
Because the rear drive flange is mounted in a somewhat flexible fashion, this tightening sequence aligns this flange and keeps it from premature wear and unwanted friction. It also reduces unnecessary vibration and reduces rear brake squeal.
Special Tuning Tips for ’77 GL1000s + Carb Top Service
You might consider this item: Randakk’s GL1000 Carb Rebuild Video
Honda made a number of jetting tweaks in ’76 (K1 and LTD) and again in ’77 (K2) for US-bound GL1000s to cope with tightening emissions regulations. Other markets were affected as well. Honda necessarily made the bikes progressively leaner through these model years. Social responsibility is a good thing for large corporations, but these were not great moves from the rider’s point of view. Riding a bike with overly lean carburetion may be “green,” but it certainly can be frustrating.
Continue reading “Special Tuning Tips for ’77 GL1000s + Carb Top Service”
Air Cutoff Valve Overhaul
You might consider this item: Randakk’s GL1000 Carb Rebuild Video
The air cutoff valve is a simple but vital component of the carburetor system on GL1000s. Its function is to eliminate backfiring on hard deceleration (throttle fully closed). Hard deceleration creates a high vacuum signal in the intake tract which activates the valve. When activated, it restricts the flow of air to the external idle circuit air jets thereby richening the mixture. This slightly richer mixture is calibrated to eliminate backfiring in this operational mode.
Approved Carb Rebuilder Program – While You are Waiting Instructions
Here are some recommended maintenance items you can address while you are awaiting the return of your rebuilt carbs. Most of this is written from the GL1000 perspective, but generally applies to other models as well.
Imperative – all tune-up issues must be in order before you synchronize your freshly serviced carbs. Especially: plugs, plug wires, points and timing! Click here for my “Tech Tips” section for helpful information on setting points and ignition timing properly.
Continue reading “Approved Carb Rebuilder Program – While You are Waiting Instructions”
Removing / Installing Intake Runners
It is very important that the intake runners on your GL1000 provide a leak-free connection between the individual carbs and the cylinder head. During carb rebuilds, I remove the intakes for individual inspection and leak testing. This is also necessary to gain access for inspecting the throttle butterfly plates and retaining screws as well as the idle nozzles.
However, you probably shouldn’t disturb the bonded rubber connection to the carbs any more than necessary. Remember these parts are 25+ years old and the rubber is not as pliable as when new.
Honda GL1000 Carb Removal
Please consult a manual before you begin for additional information on carb removal. Do not attempt removing your carbs if you lack mechanical aptitude, proper tools or general intelligence. While I’m on the topic of manuals, I rely on three: the Official Honda GL1000 Workshop Manual, plus the ones from Clymer’s and Haynes. Generally, the Honda manual is sufficient, but sometimes the others provide helpful cross-reference.
I strongly recommend that you obtain at least one good manual before you delve into any repairs or maintenance. A good source for the Honda manual is: https://www.helminc.com/helm/homepage.asp
My lawyer asks me to remind you that you are advised to heed all recommended safety practices detailed in the manuals listed above and that you assume ALL risks.