Finish on top triple and gas cap flange

tboooe

Hi guys, this isn't necessarily a technical question but I didn't know where else to post. I recently acquired a 1991 851. I noticed the top triple seems to have a clear, shiny film over it, kind of like a screen protector. Was this standard or did the previous owner perhaps add it to protect the top triple from scratches? Similarly, the gas cap flange on my bike looks to have a clear anodizing that is now chipping in various places. Was this standard as well in 1991? I picked up a flange from a 92 900ss and it does not have the clear anodizing. It also has more of a textured finish while the flange on my bike has a smooth, somewhat polished look to it. I know the flange I bought is early model because it has the Cagiva elephant logo and is missing the 4th bolt hole to secure the gas cap to it.

Any feedback would be appreciated.

Seadweller

I have the same issue with mine. Evidently you can drill out the additional hole from the 900ss version, but it's not the same finish. Mine looks like it's "corroded" in some way, even though the bike has been in climate controlled storage since it was bought new. I'm just starting the research to see if it can be refinished, because I've been looking for 2 years now, and haven't been able to locate a replacement that didn't have the same cosmetic issue.

tboooe

Seadweller wroteI have the same issue with mine. Evidently you can drill out the additional hole from the 900ss version, but it's not the same finish. Mine looks like it's "corroded" in some way, even though the bike has been in climate controlled storage since it was bought new. I'm just starting the research to see if it can be refinished, because I've been looking for 2 years now, and haven't been able to locate a replacement that didn't have the same cosmetic issue.

Thank you. For the flange, I think I am going to have it re-anodized clear. Is your top triple also shiny?

Bridgland

I had mine cerakoted as the surface was patchy. There is a great place in Sussex called Hi-Spec Coatings and Wesley and his father operate the business. The coating is really durable and adheres very well. He also did my engine cases.

https://www.hi-speccoatings.co.uk/

If you tag Wesley, say Chris Bridgland recommended him.

Seadweller

tboooe wroteThank you. For the flange, I think I am going to have it re-anodized clear. Is your top triple also shiny?

Yes, the triple-tree is also shiny.