EVERYTHING WRONG WITH MY NEGLECTED YAMAHA YZF1000R THUNDERACE

Discover the hidden flaws and challenges of my free Yamaha Thunderace in this revealing video. Join me as I meticulously uncover and discuss every issue plaguing this project bike. From mechanical hiccups to cosmetic imperfections, I leave no stone unturned in showcasing the extensive list of problems with this old school motorcycle. Whether you're a motorcycle enthusiast, or simply curious about the trials and tribulations of restoring a freebie bike, this video is a must-watch. Gain valuable insights into the obstacles of restoration, expert tips, and a closer look at the issues that come with owning and reviving a Yamaha Thunderace.
If you enjoyed this video, be sure to give it a like and subscribe to our channel for more great content! We would love to have you as a part of our community.
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Camera equipment
gopro hero8 w/ media mod
Sony ZV-E10 w/ Sigma 16mm lens

[@joshc8907]

I also have a free thunderace in my possession, my dad passed away last year and I own his thunderace now, luckily he rode it fairly regularly and took care of it so its about 90-95% of the way to being immaculate, bikes currently in storage though due to not having enough room myself to keep it, but that should change in the near future fingers crossed

[@smokerjim]

Hi mate, I found your channel through Matt at Dirty Garage Guy. About the dent in the frame - just replace it, don't waste time thinking about or researching repairs, just source a replacement, the one you have is done. Any damage to an aluminium extruded frame knackers the structural integrity. Any repairs to damage do not repair that structural integrity and you don't want to find that out at 70ish mph on an apex. By all means, don't take my word for it, please check with your insurer (even if the ace isn't insured, you have other vehicles) or ask an independent insurance assessor or a motorcycle engineer. Finally, ignore the comments that say their bike frame is shagged to death but is perfectly sound - first of all, if they want to take risks that's up to them, but they need to get their facts right before advising anyone else. Secondly, their frame is probably made of steel (like the fella with the LC I saw elsewhere), completely different material, completely different design with completely different material properties - it's like comparing a Manx Norton to a Kawasaki H2R and saying that they're exactly alike... Anyway, ride safe fella

[@djbennyc3382]

Black is definitely the colour I’d like to see

[@paulwkempster]

For the tank the best/only way is a simple electrolysis set up using a battery charger. Easy to do and very effective depending on how rusty the tank is. For the frame it’s an engine out and then find someone to cut the inner beam to gain access to the dent, it won’t ‘pull out’. Best option, get some frame covers or another frame. Good luck with it!!

[@firestorm755]

The frame is the biggest issue right now. The dent is very deep and the metal has stretched down into it. I'm not sure it could be pressed back out even if you enabled access by cutting the inner face of the beam. That stretched metal won't simply push back to a flush finish. I don't know if it's possible to cut a section out and re form a repair section to be welded in. I doubt it somehow. I think I'd start looking for a replacement frame. Engine out would enable you to clean and re paint the cases more easily. I think you'd be saving time and money in the long run.

[@alexanderclarke2774]

I agree that the tank would best be tackled with electrolysis, brick house builds channel does a good how too video on the process. As long as the wheel alignment is ok I would go the route of frame protector covers, reason being that when you start welding largish areas of aluminium the parent metal can warp and weaken. Good luck with it

[@maximillianvermontsuperbik2624]

I had a TA, new in 96, migrated from a 91 FZR-1000, with head work. The TA would lift the front wheel, in 4th, at close to 90mph. Smooth, powerfull, but I missed the 6 speed transmission, blitzing the contoured rural back roads, in Vermont. I migrated to the 98 R1, now on a 05, which surprisingly reminds me a lot of the TA, in some respects.

[@jusstuff439]

I'm sure any insurer would have written the bike off with frame damage like that. I wouldn't repair it as it will be weakened so replacement is your only realistic option and I'd source another tank too carbs will probably be in a mess so strip them down. Your going to be busy but you'll learn loads

[@ianatherton2325]

All depends if you want the frame to keep its original finish Ie restoration back to its OG ?? if so then you will sadly have to strip the bike down and purchase a new frame ! I happen to have an undamaged low mileage OG frame for the Thunderace 1000 same year and colour UK registered ! Im in the business specialising in old school Yamahas for many years ! Ian @ Legend Biking ! Keep up the great work and and great channel ! Buying a frame will also be cheaper option but time to strip it increases !

[@stevenhoward8792]

Hi ,just watched your thunder ace video and I'm reasonably sure you could get the frame sorted with pulling pins without removing the engine, I had a ace back in the day but didn't really get on with it so i got rid of it and purchased my lovely new blackbird, really looking forward to seeing the finished job on the blackbird and the thunder ace, really enjoying your content.

[@originalshadowfax]

One issue that I'm fairly sure you will come across is a seized or sticky Exup valve, but please keep it, don't take the easy option of just junking it, it creates more problems getting the bike to run right than without it. I speak from personal experience. Tank, try the electrolysis, personally I wouldn't bother, just look for a 2nd hand one, especially as you are going to repaint it anyway. Frame, I would keep and fill and then with frame protectors as already suggested.

[@SouthWest-jj8yu]

I remember when this bike was launched, back then the old old days of Top Gear they tested it on the track. I think it was ridden by Jamie Whitham with the presenter Steve Berry on the pillion. After the warm up laps Steve Berry could not believe they were touching the mirrors down, scared him a bit, as you might expect.

[@petethemod1]

Black and yellow speed block, Bring back the Kenny Roberts look. As for the Frame, is it cracked on the inside? If you can get hold of a replacement for the right price. It will give you a more peace of mind when wringing it`s neck at a later date...

[@bikemaddan9311]

I’ve just purchased a cbr 954rr with only 9k on the clock which has been sitting in a garage since 2011, fuel pump needed sorting as old fuel sitting in it……. Good luck and looking forward to the restoration videos on this and seeing the bird on the road 👍🏼

[@blackline66]

Nice project. That’s a serious dent, any other damage? Clipons are bent? Headstock damage too? Turn stops on the head sometimes break off. I would get the frame alignment checked first before wasting money. Tank ….. buy a cheap used one, that’s a nightmare to fix … there must be a specialist breaker around. Good luck!

[@MyRandomLife247]

Yellow and Black with speed blocks. Kenny Robert’s special mate!

[@dave07drummer]

my '98 ace is all refurbed and raised at the back, rides and corners very nicely

[@andydawson2070]

Looking forward to your new project, i would seek some professional advice about the frame, alloy frames are stronger than steel as long as they are not compromised by dents. Better to be safe than sorry. What about a nice yellow and black homage to the Yamaha racing colours. Andy.

[@BikesofRye]

Frame is being replaced 😎

[@michaelmclarney1994]

I would take the tank and fairing panels off and have a good look at the frame to see if there is any other damage to the frame and welds. If it looks okay i would take more expert advice on whether to try pulling the dent or just trying to fill it and paint. Thats what i would do, in case there is a chance of other hidden problems lurking.

[@RsiX_productions]

Right , gloss grey paint , black or flourescant yellow wheels 👌 double bubble screen . Pull the dent out much as possible , fill it and yzf sticker over it . Black yamaha decals around the bike . Will look nice

[@noostNL]

Very good mate. I'll keep waiting for your videos to drop!

[@WoBlink1961]

...apart from the fact that the rubber will now be so hard it will be like riding on plastic tyres! I bought an FZ6 with 3000 miles on the clock at 14 years old - the tyres were HORRIBLE to ride on!!

[@andrewpitt621]

Colour wise if you want to go for something with abit of pop, maybe do the yellow Yamaha racing scheme, always had a soft spot for those colours and decals, would defo be eye catching

[@markdavies5508]

You beat me to it. The Yamaha racing yellow with black and white graphics is classic.

[@fat_joe]

There's a hole near the frame dent. If you can insert an endoscope and see if there's a massive crack inside, then you will have to replace the frame. But if it's just a dent, body filler maybe?

[@BRMCaptChaos]

Delighted you're restoring the bike. Could drill the frame for a pilot and insert a puller? But think best bet is to fill and cover with carbon film. How about a spray can flip (Kustom Kanz) over black, the choice is endless by black/gold flip looks amazing? Ive done it with my cycle road bike, and its a great finish. Easy to do, All black as primer and base coat, flip coat, and then gloss lacquer to make it pop. Could do it all for less than £60 on your drive?

[@johnpage1922]

I would get it on a moto line jig and check the headstock welds, if its straight just fill the frame dent and make an invisible repair, the frame is not going to suddenly catastrophically explode because of a dent😂! White vinegar is surprisingly good for tank cleaning! Good luck. 👍

[@gdfggggg]

I reckon you could cut a section from the back of the frame and wack that dent back out, then re-weld patch. Or, you might get someone with an aluminium dent puller. Someone with a bit of skill in metal refinishing would make that look like it was never there without affecting the structural integrity of the frame.

[@H-M-78]

Just think what a Yamaha dealer would do with the frame. They would scrap it. It's a pain, but I think you will feel better in the end

[@Motovibes91]

Nice content keep it up!

[@marklapirow5473]

Use the Yamaha 60 year anniversary yellow and black scheme. It is iconic.

[@NWSTRX850]

Lots pf products out there to clean the rust out of the tank as long as it’s still relatively solid

[@MrH250]

Cider vinegar (organic) for the tank. Put washers in too and shake it around every several hours. Repeat till desired clean is achieved.

[@MrH250]

Or buy another tank.

[@Fieltrom]

Original restore, but a couple of upgrades like safety and a digital display maybe. Sentimental bike go the nut n bolt resto and get your family elders for the unveiling.

[@hernesillydad1]

Hi mate thanks for the vid. I think Yellow and black old school yam colours.

[@sinorman231]

be interested seeing where go with the frame,, have seen small dents TIG welded and ground back but that,s a great big dent,, if your not worried about the paint take it to a metal finishers/electro platers ask them to leave in mild acid bath till clean fair warning it could come back like a teabag if the rust has taken hold,, would be nice to keep original maybe Ebay bet there some out there,

[@timparker9235]

i've seen lots of good results on tanks like that with electrolysis - why not try that? I'm rubbish on colours, so can't help u there. looking forward to seeing what you do

[@thomasscott199]

Paint the bike in the style of the 1984 Yamaha RD350lc2 either the white, red and blue or the Kenny Roberts yellow speed block paint scheme. Maybe fit some round rd indicators aswell.

[@johnpaul3806]

There are videos of using molasses and water to remove rust from a tank, takes a while but cheap and effective apparently.

[@W1ll1AMZ-88-C]

Yamaha 60th Anniversary Colours!!! 🔥👌🏽👊🏽

[@danielhancock3499]

I cleaned my tank with 10 litres of white vinegar left in for a week then treated it to the por 15 tank decreaser/prep and sealant still good 18 month on

[@kz6fittycent]

Am I wrong for saying go with the "Storm Trooper" theme on the bike, with small dashes of red?

[@wiscomoto]

Yamaha Deep Red Metallic, and do the Thunderace graphics in a satin black.

[@davapod]

First thing I'd do is change the oil/oil filter/air filter and spark plugs and check the battery.👍

[@andrewhoward7523]

I always thought if the frame has any damage ie dent it would be a right off 🤔

[@motomoff]

Same,seen less damaged frames wrote off.

[@nomad_lad]

Check out Rostio Fuel Tank Rust Remover 👍

[@Sestorema]

The color? Matt black or vivid Red👍🙂

[@austinkidd-smith]

Should be a similar blue to the R1 and R6 of similar years

[@francesoregan394]

Yellow an black yamaha racing colouring would be cool.

[@hugohugo2832]

Had two of these when they were the latest thing. Everything perfect but severely under geared

[@kimschultz7105]

Actually a pretty decent looking bike, as for the dent in the frame, fill it with goo and put a sticker on it. I also really like the original color scheme,but hey ,that's just me. I really enjoyed your last build and am excited to see how this turns out,cheers .

[@Apollo949]

Filling it with goo is not the answer. The damage may have warped the frame and affected the handling to the point where the bike is a deathtrap. It has to be repaired properly and trued, not bodged up.

[@kimschultz7105]

Cool man great advice. I got a duke that has a dent in the frame ,i got it checked and it was deemed roadworthy. Definately worth getting it checked.cheers.

[@andypicken7848]

Kim Schultz "Fill it with goo" is the best option for sure, safe as houses

[@Apollo949]

@@andypicken7848 Absolute nonsense. At the very least you need to have the frame checked to make sure it's not warped which will affect the handling. I hope I never buy a bike from you, but I don't think you could con me anyway with a gooey frame.

[@dave8204]

@@Apollo949 Past experience shows that a lot of sensible advice on this channel just gets labelled as trolling or coming from "haters" by people who I'd guess don't have the mechanical experience some of us do. As you say that frame is scrap,might get away with it or even a dent that size could make the bike a death trap, hell of a gamble. The current motorcycle mot manual doesn't appear to cover dents but my mot guy wouldn't pass that........I know because I just asked him, he'd be the guy signing that a machine is roadworthy and with frame damage he's always going to err on the side of caution. "Fill it with goo" is dangerous and irresponsible "advice".

[@roybrown9267]

What a yellow Kenny Roberts paint job?

[@Apollo949]

It's probably not worth spending time and money on that particular bike to be honest, but since it was your father's it probably has a special place in your heart.

[@dave07drummer]

a fully working ace will still keep up with R1's on the road, i know their not worth alot but but they are getting rare.

[@Apollo949]

@@dave07drummer I don't that. They are heavy old dinosaurs that would be left for dust on the twisties. In a straight line you might have a point.

[@dave07drummer]

@@Apollo949 just needs shorter dogbones on the back and the rear shock to be good/replaced, and its a much more nimble beast

[@Apollo949]

@@dave07drummer My mate had one and couldn't keep up with my Honda firestorm on the twisties. It's alright as a sports tourer.

[@sparkycasegbr]

An easy way to get rid of rust from the tank, reasonably cheaply, is using apple cider vinegar. Fill the tank with it, slosh it around, leave it to settle for 24 hours. Drain it off, spray the inside with a water hose, then spray some WD40 in there. When it's running, put an in-line fuel filter between the tank and carb for a few months to catch any small rust bits. I did this on my ER5 and ran it for about 2 years with no issues.

[@TheBONZOID]

Re colours; how about red/white TZ style?

[@grim3228]

Yellow with black and white speed blocks. Racing Yamaha colours.

[@markhouston3404]

You wont be able to pull that dent, aluminium warps so youre never gonna get it perfectly flush again. But if it hasnt split then id personally just use some filler and repaint it, black frames on older thunderaces make it look much newer

[@nigelhazlewood4822]

How about Harlequins Rugby Club colours 🤔

[@patrickhostler5939]

I think dent pullers might work. Possibility call one of those ‘dent removal’ guys… ?

[@andrewonmyway8184]

When the frame is concerned I would try and get as much of the dent out first before filler. You can dent pullers just for this job, You might have to drill a small hole first depending on how thick the alloy is. The tank can easily be cleaned out with white vinegar. Perhaps some nuts shaken around inside if the rust is bad.

[@davapod]

With regard to the frame, it's terminal in my view.

[@carlsimpson6964]

Kenny Robert's replica 👍

[@mjjr1000]

Have a fab shop cut it out and weld new in, simple job for a tig magician-few dimes it’ll be good as new

[@Jules750..]

Tech 21 Colour's from suzuka 8hr race

[@robertprosser6856]

The Thundercat looks so much better.

[@chuckbowen4682]

Take the bike to a race shop with equipment to measure the frame straightness. If it is straight then carry on.

[@neilsmith6461]

Track bike project??

[@123christoff]

Colour first gen r1 blue

[@kweenie2086]

Frame damage doesnt seem to be critical. If you want to resolve it though you could fill it up with polyester putty sand it smooth and in line with the metal then coat it with primer and paint it with metal grey. If done right that would look like there wasnt a dent at all! And when the putty is fully hardened it’ll be very strong

[@cyphertheory]

leave the frame alone as long as the frame is square - really not an issue

[@MartinKennedy636]

there is chemicals you can get to clear rust out of a petrol tank but I can't remember offhand what they were called but if you check the Internet you might be able to find what you're looking for and the dent on the frame I will put a microscope down, it checked to see if you got any cracks halfway down. If you got a crack on it where the dent is scrap scrap the frame.

[@lowriderrjw]

If not wishing to keep it OEM colors, I personally like a blacked out bike! That Thunderace would look pretty sinister in triple black!

[@rlw85]

Id paint it yellow and blue

[@211292alex]

For the tank try some evaporust bath it in that for a couple days see how that gets on and you should paint it kawasaki green be different 😂

[@minisla]

Match it with the blackbird

[@SPC234]

Reckon that’ll be wright off with that dent in the frame

[@colmbyrne1739]

yellow black speed block

[@colinhall8998]

Never get anything powder coated, it’s totally rubbish. Use electrostatic wet paint for better adhesion and protection. Been there, done that and never again.

[@jakebutterworth1902]

kenny roberts race colours

[@twowheelsquirrel]

You'll need someone that can pull the dent, there's no crease so it should pull out. Troubles you've then stressed the Aly. The tank you can use electrolysis and a tank coating inside without splitting it!

[@Honkawsuzyamal]

Dump the frame in the nearest tip and damage the frame to make sure it's never used. And the same with the cycle parts. Safety first. You may be able to sell the engine / transmission as seen

[@danieljordannicol9937]

The dent doesn't look that bad. As long as its all structurally sound just get someone to fill and paint it

[@stephenwalsh8184]

🏍👍👍

[@depechemoto]

Sound like you're saying fun-to-race lol

[@markhouston3404]

That tank looks way too far gone if its on the filler neck. wrong colour anyway so best just look for a better condition one.

[@andypicken7848]

I think you would be better of braking the yamaha for parts

[@KentRoads]

That rear tyre looks OK to me from this far away lol

[@nitrousninja882]

Just keep perfecting the big Honda. Let that worthless Yamaha go to the salvage yard where it belongs. I think that Blackbird is really sharp and I've been thinking about picking one up as a project bike for myself.

[@juha2031]

Is it an accent or are you calling it Funderace? :D

[@dave8204]

I'd go for keeping it standard, your Dad's bike and something meaningful from your younger days. Please at least get a professional opinion on that frame, a lot of the "advice" on this channel is just plain scary. At the very least ask a bike mot tester if they'd pass a bike with a dented ally frame or you'll be wasting your time doing anything if it's deemed not roadworthy at the end.

[@HUSKY7-1]

Just put a sticker over the dent

[@gdfggggg]

Like a ‘baby’s on board’ or ‘ wish my wife was this dirty’?

[@steveprentice4513]

Just get a new tank, they are cheap enough. New brakes, new everything especially when it's a bike.

[@tomthompson7400]

engine out to do the frame ... sorry but thats it.

[@mikew1084]

Rubbish everyone was waiting 2 weeks for new upload and you didn’t give us much

[@allanhughes7859]

FREE IS FREE SO LETS JUST GET ON WITH IT !!!!!!!!!!!