New to the group but old Hodaka rider

[Unomike]

Hello everyone! I am new to the group but have owned my 1974 Hodaka Dirt Squirt since it was new. It was my 14th birthday present from my dad and needless to say, no other birthday present ever topped this fantastic gift. This Bike has outlasted all my friend's trail bikes (Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki) and has been on many adventures. And as far as I know, it is the only Hodaka to ever land in the top of a tree. Currently, though it is in need of a top end rebuild, tune up, kick-start lever and trail lighting kit. It has been in dry storage since 1986 and getting ready to take it out for a cleaning and carb check tomorrow. I'm sure minor stuff like fuel line and misc rubber parts will need replaced, but hey... I'll enjoy every minute of bringing this treasured old friend back to life. So I may need help in certain areas to do it right when I start restoration. I'll post pics of it when I take it out of storage.

[bchappy]

Welcome to the group. We are here for you. Keep us up to date with pictures as you go.

[TrophyHunter]

Welcome aboard and congrats on keeping the bike around! Can't wait for the progress pics.

[Dale]

Welcome! It is awesome that you still have your original.

Add to your list an inline fuel filter to the new fuel lines to keep any crud from getting to your cleaned carb. Also recommend new seals with the rubber bits. Especially the left side crank seal. This seal is critical and faIrly easy to change out. Air leakdown test?

Enjoy!
Dale

[Unomike]

Dale, I will be going through the engine with a fine tooth comb. I know the top end needs attention because the last year I rode it, the spark plug kept fouling out and was losing power. Will be replacing all the rubber seals while I am at it. No use in neglecting that part of it since I will have the top end apart for a ring job and possibly have the jug sleeved and re bored to factory specs. I used to restore Motorcycles as a hobby business. Out of all the bikes I had in my shop, people always gravitated around my Hodaka. I got out of the business when the economy tanked and people were hanging onto their money. It took 3 years to sell the last of the 17 I had in my shop.

Below is two pics of the Hodaka I had taken about 3 years ago. as you can see, it needs some attention.

[Dale]

You have experience? Even better! I'll say welcome again. Please keep us posted.
Dale