Figuring on restoring an old motorcycle you found in a barn? Looking for the technical info you do to do the work? Here's a heads-up on a website I recently discovered that may be just what you need.
Cyclepedia.com is an online repository for workshop manuals for ATV, motorcycle, and scooter repair. If you're only going to need access to the information while you rebuild the bike, a one-year subscription may be the way to go. If you're planning on riding the bike for years, a lifetime subscription may be your best bet. Either one comes with tech support, so if you're stuck trying to figure something out, they actually have a motorcycle technician available to answer questions or help you interpret the manual.
These are not just static text documents, like a printed manual that you access online. They come with videos to guide you through processes, as well as interactive features that a printed manual can't offer. You do, however, have the option of printing the documents.
Want to see what the manuals are like? A sample manual for a Suzuki DR200SE is available. Open it and at left are topics such as:
- Periodic Maintenance
- Quick Reference
- Fuel System
- External Components
- Engine
- Final Drive
And more. Pretty much the stuff you expect in a shop manual. Also included are parts diagram, printable full-color wiring diagrams, and a troubleshooting guide.
I'll be honest with you, I'm no mechanic myself, so I can't judge the usefulness of this site; that's up to you to determine. But I figured if you hadn't heard about it, you might like to know the site is there. Happy wrenching!
Comments
Thank you for this article - I just subscribed to their Honda CRF450R online manual and it is pretty freaking awesome! Has everything I need to rebuild my engine. Thanks for the heads up man!
One can never have too many resources when doing project work.
I bought the cyclepedia.com Honda Rebel manual because of this article and couldn't be more thrilled. I normally don't post to forums but everyone should check out what these gentleman are doing. Amazing resource is right...
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