custom frame and boxes for my JH600, from Tourfella

[euphonius]

There's not much new to this thread, given that Pfaelzer has document virtually the same modifications in his epic thread My New JH600. But it was a fun trip, and I thought MCM members might want to meet Tourfella mastermind Du Rui and learn a bit more about his operations.

This is as much a ride report as a modifications report, and I hope it's enjoyable either way.

My solo ride south from Shanghai was, as ever, a learning experience, and largely uneventful even when passing through Hangzhou. Amid intermittent rain, I ended up choosing the wrong route south of Hangzhou, but was brought back on course through a couple of text messages from Du Rui, who was busily making my racks and boxes in anticipation of my arrival. I was on slab quite a bit, but there were two really beautiful sections of twisties to get me into Yongkang. Regrettably, the final 90 minutes were in the dark, in the rain. I hate that.

But Du Rui met me in Yongkang, and shepherded me to a nice hotel. We then went off for a late supper with some fellow riders.

I'd like to say that this building was Du's workshop, as that would be romantic...







...but it is actually behind this more prosaic facade that Du Rui does his wizardry.



And here is his workshop. Du told me he's not how sure how many centuries this building has been here, but it probably dates back to the Ming dynasty.





And here's the master at work, putting the final touches on the frame members for my luggage carrier and engine shrouds.





He's built precision 3D jigs for several different models of motorcycle, including the JH600 as well as several bimmers. It's not an easy business, building custom luggage racks for bikes in China. But the volumes are so low there's really no alternative.



These aluminum boxes are based roughly on Touratech's boxes, but with quite a few improvements. They are very tough, and the frames are even tougher, as you'll recall from Pfaelzer's thread.



This is the latest version of the topbox platform, which Du has been refining and beefing up.



Looking out from the ancient workshop through a rolldown steel door, you can see that installation is done in the foyer of Du's parents' home. It also serves as an office.



to be continued...