How to turn a GL into G or E?

[Roland5color]

I just purchased a 82 GS1100GL with 16000 miles on the clock. It's in great condition. However I prefer the look of the G model over the GL. Reason I purchase the GL was because all the G model I found were in terrible condition and priced almost the same as the GL. So my question is how hard is it to convert the GL? From the outside it looks like to me a new seat, tails section, possibly a tank and handle bars would really be all that is needed to get the G look. Is there any differences in the frame mounting points for these items? If I'm wrong on this please let me know. The two things I really want to change are the seat and the bars. If i can do that and leave the tank that would be great. Thanks

 

[Nessism]

Bars are easy, just get new G cables (or a 1000S clutch cable). Daytona bars are quite comfortable and only cost about $20 from Bikemaster.

Seat and tank don't interchange. Your best bet is to find an upholstery shop to redo the seat for you, adding foam as needed to shape it as you prefer.

 

[Tamara]

According to the parts fiche, the frame numbers are different for the E, G and L models which means parts may or may not fit without modification. Handlebars are an easy change but the gas tank might be iffy.

 

[Roland5color]

Ok thanks for help. I was hoping that I would get a different answer but I figured this was the case. Well my biggest complaint is the bars anyway. I prefer a more lend forward over the front end riding style with a wider grip than the stock GL bars provide. So I will start my search for a new set. After that I will see if I can find someone to do the seat for me. Is their anyone that you guys can recommend?

 

[Roland5color]

Bars are easy, just get new G cables (or a 1000S clutch cable). Daytona bars are quite comfortable and only cost about $20 from Bikemaster.

Seat and tank don't interchange. Your best bet is to find an upholstery shop to redo the seat for you, adding foam as needed to shape it as you prefer.

Nessism have you ever tried super bars. If so which did you like better? The Daytona or the super bar. These are the two that I'm considering.

 

[Nessism]

Nessism have you ever tried super bars. If so which did you like better? The Daytona or the super bar. These are the two that I'm considering.

Both are good but I think the Daytona's are a little more comfortable unless you are 6' or taller.

 

[tkent02]

Best bet is to wear blindrs as you ride the L, and earplugs so you don't hear the laughter in your head, while you look high and low for a nice tight G or E model.
Then part out the L, use it for target practice or a planter box or whatever trips your trigger.

Actually there are quite a few DeLed L models on this forum, several threads about it, swapping tanks and such, some of them are quite nice motorcycles.

 

[Tamara]

Best bet is to wear blindrs as you ride the L, and earplugs so you don't hear the laughter in your head, while you look high and low for a nice tight G or E model.
Then part out the L, use it for target practice or a planter box or whatever trips your trigger.

Actually there are quite a few DeLed L models on this forum, several threads about it, swapping tanks and such, some of them are quite nice motorcycles.

I like my L just the way it is .

 

[Good Times]

So let's see a picture of the bike.

Good to have another Kentucky L on the board.

 

[tkent02]

I like my L just the way it is .

Keep it just the way it is then. They don't call it the Ladies' model for nothing.

 

[850 Combat]

I used to like the Superbike bar, but as I've gotten older I like more angle back for my wrists. Its all about personal preference.

 

[Roland5color]

Both are good but I think the Daytona's are a little more comfortable unless you are 6' or taller.

Funny you mention the height issue. This is one of the reasons I want new bars. I'm 6' 5" 260lbs and wide at the shoulders those dang L bars make me feel like I'm riding a 250 or a tricycle lol. Plus I don't care for the looks of them. So maybe I will go with the super bars. I will have to take measurements when I get a chance. This isn't the first time that I've had to change bars on a bike lol.

 

[Roland5color]

So let's see a picture of the bike.

Good to have another Kentucky L on the board.

Yeah KY has some amazing roads. I moved away 17 years ago to IL and boy did that suck. Just moved back to KY last Oct. Sure is nice to be able to hop on the bike ride a 1/4 mile and be on some of the nicest curvy roads you've ever seen. I see you found a pic of the bike in my other post but I will post one here to. Oh by the way I got the bike for $1500. Plus I got manuals and spare parts with it. Thought I got a decent deal it only has 16000 miles and several new parts.

 

[Roland5color]

Actually there are quite a few DeLed L models on this forum, several threads about it, swapping tanks and such, some of them are quite nice motorcycles.

Thanks for the info is will have to do some searching.

 

[Dogma]

Thanks for the info is will have to do some searching.

I think Dan the Man did the most thorough conversion.

For bars, look at euro bend or GP touring also. They're a little straighter than daytonas.

 

[Roland5color]

I think Dan the Man did the most thorough conversion.

For bars, look at euro bend or GP touring also. They're a little straighter than daytonas.

These bars look nice to now I have some real good choices to pick from thanks everyone. I think I'm just going to change the bars and work on the seat a little And leave the rest the way it is. After seeing some pics with some of the bars that have been suggested the bike looks a lot better and I don't feel the need to convert my L to a full G or E any more.