This article explores the story of a 1984 Honda Gold Wing that was transformed through extensive custom work. The owner searched for the perfect motorcycle for over a year, looking for a well-kept, factory-original bike before starting this major project. Once the bike was acquired, nearly every aspect was reworked, drawing inspiration from both racing history and personal touches, including the unique name given to the motorcycle.
Key parts and systems, such as the front forks, rear suspension, and fuel tank, were swapped or rebuilt, using components from other Honda models and modern upgrades. Careful attention was paid to custom details, like the tire script and integrated lighting. These changes not only affected the bike’s appearance but also created a one-of-a-kind riding experience and a distinct identity for this machine.
Key Takeaways
- The motorcycle was fully customized from its original factory state.
- Many components were upgraded with parts from other Honda models and personalized touches.
- The changes resulted in a unique look, improved features, and a different riding experience.
Past and Influence
How the Gold Wing Project Began
The 1984 Gold Wing started as a regular, factory-original motorcycle. After searching on Craigslist and eBay for over a year, the owner found this well-kept, low-mileage bike from a second owner. Everything on the bike was stock at first, including all major parts and the overall setup.
Over time, the bike was heavily changed, moving away from its original form. Notably, many custom changes were made, such as adding inverted forks from a 2014 CBR 600RR. The project kept many Honda parts for consistency, like the tank, chassis, and suspension, but also featured unique custom work throughout.
List of key changes:
- Inverted front forks from another Honda model
- Custom suspension and shock mounts
- New tank from a late-1970s CB550 with heavy modifications
- Aftermarket display for modern functions
Tribute in the Bike’s Name
This motorcycle was given the nickname “Ruffian,” inspired by a famous racehorse from the mid-1970s. Ruffian the horse won every race she entered before her tragic end. The bike’s builder admired her spirit and performance, choosing the name as a nod to her legacy.
A special touch includes custom tire lettering spelling out “RUFFIAN,” designed through an online service and glued on after prepping the sidewalls. This detail adds to the theme of honoring both the horse and the custom shape of the Gold Wing.
Key points in the homage:
- Name inspired by a legendary racehorse’s undefeated streak
- Custom tire script to match the theme
- The overall look and feel built to capture Ruffian’s spirit
Detail | Description |
---|---|
Bike’s Nickname | Ruffian |
Origin of Name | 1970s winning racehorse |
Custom Feature | Tire lettering, theme-based painting |
How the Motorcycle Was Found and Its Starting State
Searching for the Bike
The builder spent about a year and a half looking for the right Gold Wing. He checked websites like Craigslist and eBay before finding one that fit his needs. The chosen motorcycle was a low-mileage model that had been well-cared for by its previous owner. When purchased, the bike was still in its original, factory shape.
Original Setup and Features
At the time of purchase, the motorcycle had these factory specifications:
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Model Year | 1984 |
Make/Model | Honda Gold Wing |
Condition | Completely stock |
Frame | Extended with dual shocks |
“Fuel Tank” | Storage compartment (not actual gas tank) |
Rear Suspension | Traditional dual shock design |
Body Color | Black frame, silver engine |
The motorcycle included original Honda parts, and its layout reflected the technology and style of the 1980s. The real gas tank was under the seat, with a rear-mounted fuel filler, and an airbox took up space under the fake tank. Every system matched Gold Wing factory design before any custom work began.
Key Modifications
Changes to the Bike’s Front Section
The front end now uses inverted forks that originally came from a 2014 CBR600RR, replacing the stock Gold Wing forks. This gives a different look and improves handling. The builder also chose Pirelli tires, with custom lettering ordered from an online supplier and attached with strong adhesive for a clean appearance. The handlebars were replaced to provide a more upright and comfortable riding position.
Upgrades to Ride and Suspension
The rear suspension was redesigned using parts from the same 2014 sport bike as the forks. The original frame would have supported dual shocks in the back, but custom brackets and mounts were welded to support two modern monoshock-style shocks. The frame was reinforced with steel and special brackets to handle new load points. These updates help the ride feel smoother even though the geometry now differs from the factory setup.
Frame and Fuel Tank Modifications
A new gas tank was installed from a late-70s CB550, replacing the Gold Wing’s usual storage compartment in that area. Because the new tank doesn’t leave room for the original air box, it was removed, and pod air filters were added for better airflow and filtration. Custom metalwork was done to hold throttle linkages and connect the new setup to the carburetors. The turn signals are integrated into the license plate area and a hoop with built-in lights at the rear. The bike also now features a digital display showing speed, rpm, temperature, and other key data.
Key Parts and Build Process
Upside-Down Front Fork Swap
The front forks now use an inverted setup, which is not what came with the original motorcycle. These forks were taken from a 2014 Honda CBR600RR, keeping the brand consistent across the main chassis and suspension. Adding these required custom fitting and provided a different look and improved handling.
A table below compares some basic details:
Fork Type | Source Model | Year |
---|---|---|
Upside-Down Fork | Honda CBR600RR | 2014 |
The turning radius became a bit more limited due to the wider fork design, but the appearance and stability were both enhanced.
Modified Fuel Reservoir Setup
A fuel tank from a late 1970s Honda CB550 was customized to fit in place of the original storage compartment. Since the Gold Wing’s stock “tank” was really just a cover for storage, making a working fuel reservoir up top required heavy modification.
Custom work included:
- Cutting and welding metal pieces to fit the space
- Ensuring proper fuel flow down to the carburetors
These changes made the bike look more traditional, with the fuel tank in a visible location and improved riding experience.
Throttle Connection and Air Intake Changes
Removing the air box meant the original throttle control setup would not work. The air box held the pieces connecting the throttle to the carburetors, so all those parts had to be rebuilt from scratch.
Key changes:
- Welding new brackets and metal pieces to support the new linkage
- Customizing how the throttle cables route to reach the carburetors
This helped keep throttle function smooth after completely changing the intake layout.
Pod-Style Air Filters Added
With the air box removed, cone-shaped pod filters from K&N were chosen to make sure the engine still stayed protected from dust and debris.
- Each carburetor got its own filter
- This setup allows for easier maintenance and better airflow
These pod filters also made sure the bike could be ridden daily without worrying about damage to the engine from particles in the air.
Rear Suspension and Structural Changes
Single Shock Layout
The original 1984 Gold Wing used two shocks in the back. For this build, the builder created a custom setup using shock absorbers from a 2014 CBR600RR. Even though there are two shocks, the new system follows a design closer to single-shock arrangements on modern bikes. This approach used newer Honda parts to keep things consistent. All brackets and mounts were welded and shaped to fit the frame’s new style.
Key details:
- Shocks sourced from a 2014 Honda CBR600RR
- Custom mounting structure for fit and support
- Two shocks work together for smooth handling
Changes to the Frame
To make the new suspension work, the builder had to shape and add steel parts to the old frame. The original frame reached up and back beyond its current end. That section was cut off and reinforced. Metal channels and brackets were welded to carry the new suspension loads. The fuel tank and air box arrangements shifted as well, changing the look and function of the rear area.
Original Frame | Modified Frame |
---|---|
Extended rear section | Shortened with custom steel |
Dual shock mounts | Custom welded brackets |
Factory loop | Integrated new tail hoop |
Solutions for Spreading Weight
The rear drive shaft on this bike was not made to hold more force from the custom setup. To help with this, thick steel channels were added to both sides. These new parts help spread out the pressure from bumps and load. The custom mounts and extra steel make sure the frame and suspension work safely together.
Load handling upgrades:
- Reinforced steel channels on both sides
- Welded custom mounts for extra strength
- Suspends weight across more of the frame for safety and comfort
Wheels, Tire Details, and Style Elements
Tire Options and Personalization
The tires chosen for this bike are Pirelli brand, which did not come with any special wording or graphics from the start. To give the bike its own character, custom lettering was added to the tire sidewalls. These letters were ordered from a supplier that allows for unique designs and wording. The tires had to be prepared to make sure the letters would stay in place.
Selected Features:
- Brand: Pirelli
- Custom wording: Yes
- Letter source: Made to order
Adding Custom Tire Lettering
The custom letters were attached to the tires by first roughing up the sidewalls for better sticking power. The letters were glued on with care to make sure they would hold up while riding. This process gave the tires a factory-finished look while matching the bike’s unique style.
Tire Lettering Steps:
- Prepare sidewall with light scuffing
- Apply glue from the lettering kit
- Place letters carefully
- Press firmly to ensure strong bond
Step | Purpose |
---|---|
Scuff sidewall | Improves glue adhesion |
Glue application | Binds letters to surface |
Position letters | Aligns for neat appearance |
Final press | Secures and finishes process |
Coordinating Style and Design
All of the wheel, tire, and paintwork choices were made to create a set look. The bold tire lettering matches the overall design theme inspired by the racing horse, Ruffian. The use of all Honda parts for major systems like the frame and suspension also helps everything look right together. The color, shape, and details of the wheels and tires fit well alongside the custom paint and lighting, making the bike stand out while still looking complete.
Lighting and Controls
Built-In Rear Hoop Illumination
The Gold Wing features custom lights that are integrated directly into the rear hoop. These built-in lights serve as turn signals, which are clearly visible when the key is turned on. The turn signals are also fitted into the license plate area, offering extra visibility for other drivers.
The rear hoop lighting is designed to be more noticeable than typical aftermarket systems, especially when the brake is applied. This setup provides both enhanced safety and a cleaner look at the back of the motorcycle.
Lighting Features | Description |
---|---|
Turn Signals (Hoop) | Integrated into the rear hoop |
Turn Signals (License) | Built into license plate area |
Brake Light | Part of the hoop lights |
Visibility | Better than standard custom hoop systems |
Moto Gadget Digital Display Details
The motorcycle is equipped with a digital Moto Gadget display. This display shows a range of information including RPM across the top, current speed, and temperature. It uses a temperature sensor and allows the rider to select between metric and imperial units, such as Fahrenheit and miles per hour.
Other notable features include the ability to program additional readouts, such as radiator temperature, and even performance information like acceleration and braking data. The screen has a dot-matrix style readout, which can sometimes be hard to read at a glance but offers a lot of customization for the rider.
Main Moto Gadget Display Functions:
- RPM, Speed, and Temperature tracking
- Choice of measurement units (metric or imperial)
- Customizable to show specific ride data
- Performance statistics, like acceleration and braking
Riding Impressions and On-Road Feel
Initial Thoughts
Taking the customized 1984 Gold Wing out for a spin, the first thing that stands out is the deep rumble of the engine. Seeing and hearing the finished bike in person after knowing it as a stock model feels exciting and unique. The bike’s new, striking appearance matches its bold presence as soon as it starts moving.
Steering, Stability, and Comfort
- Handling:
The geometry changes from the new front forks and modified rear suspension make the handling different from a factory Gold Wing. Leaning into a corner, the forks want to turn with the bike’s direction, which feels unique compared to standard steering. Though tight turns are limited by the new fork and tank setup, this really only becomes a factor at low speeds. - Ride Comfort:
Despite the custom dual-shock setup on the back, the ride feels surprisingly smooth. The suspension, sourced from a much newer sportbike, absorbs bumps well. - Display and Instruments:
The Moto Gadget display is packed with features like RPM, speed, temperature, and even acceleration and braking stats. The readout can feel a bit like an old printer, but it offers the main details a rider needs.
Seating and Controls
The riding position is more upright than expected for a bike with such a low, custom look. The handlebars give a mild lift, keeping the rider from being forced to lean too far forward. Even with major changes, the seating position offers a good mix of comfort and control—unusual for many custom builds at this level.
Paintwork and Aesthetic Choices
The Gold Wing, known as Ruffian, shows many creative choices in its look and finish. The owner decided to change the classic style by painting the frame silver and the motor black, the opposite of the usual factory scheme. All the painting was done in a personal paint booth to ensure every detail met his standards.
Custom touches keep the theme strong. The tires feature Ruffian lettering, created with special designs from an online letter maker, then glued onto the sidewalls by hand after sanding the surface for better sticking. The seat and tank swap in a different model’s parts, giving the bike a cleaner look and helping it stand out from standard Gold Wings.
Lighting is built into the rear hoop and license plate, keeping signals neat and easy to see. The style mixes old and new, with classic Honda parts and modern tech features blending into the overall design. Every choice, from color to custom lettering, is meant to honor the heritage and theme behind the motorcycle.