If I had room in my garage, I would be interested for a run around town bike. Here's the specs in case others are wondering.
https://hondanews.com/en-US/powersports/releases/release-74895511bca6e7abc42504d7580d4dfb-2023-honda-xr150l-specifications
Everyone has to do it their way but once chrome is pitted it never looks the same which is OK if that is what the goal is. The thing with cars now is the patina look which is sure a cheaper way to go.
Strange. I didn't have much trouble at all when I did my CL-350 tires, though it was way easier than my real bikes.
I don't know about your R5 but new replacement parts like your brake lever were available for my CL and wasn't priced too high.
I tried the zip tie thing using the heavy duty H.F. ones on a very stiff Gold Wing tire and I couldn't get it to work. Now that my son has a full size air power machine, I don't think I'll try it again. 😉
Doesn't Joe have a new fancy garage to do all things motorcycle related? No heat in there yet? Or maybe wanted the rubber warmer for ease of installation? Likes to cook while swapping rubber?
Just the first place I pulled up.
https://www.hondaparts-direct.com/oempartfinder?aribrand=HOM&arian=motorcycle#/Honda_Powersports/CBR1100XXA_(97)_MOTORCYCLE%2c_JPN%2c_VIN%23_JH2SC350-VM000001_TO_JH2SC350-VM002696/FUEL_TANK_97-98/a8a32a84-8362-4005-954d-63558f8eb2d1/6bb4be06-0493-43de-9236-6a0ee959d5e7/y
It takes motivation to spend hours rubbing on metal. I start out motivated then it seems to go away. It's looking good.
After studying the pic with the tire in it, looks fine, nothing to worry about. 🤥🤥🤥
I know beauty is in the eye and all that stuff but I'm not seeing that at all. I think Birds are way too good looking to screw up like that but each to his own.