Rookie here. How do I achieve my goal.

[Guest]

Hi, I have always wanted to build a scale motocross bike. I was wondering if I could use the 3d app for iPhone to scan actual parts, input the info in a program like solidworks and get tool paths for a cnc? Could plastic parts be made with a makerbot? I've dreamed of making a realistic bike for years, but don't have the knowledge to do so. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

[mossiepilot]

Hi 125250, I think your plans depend on how much you want to spend. I found this -

Tamiya 1/6 Yamaha Motocrosser YZ250 Model Kit - 16036 - £80.99

It's a bit pricey, hope it helps.

Tony.

[Guest]

Tony thanks, I'm actually looking to build one with an aluminum frame, real forks, etc. What steps do I take to achieve this?

[mossiepilot]

Sorry, out of my league mate, I'm a plastic basher. I'll have to leave that question to someone else.

Tony.

[Guest]

No worries. Thanks for responding.

[Guest]

If you are going to work with metal tube and rod you are really going to need access to a lathe as trying to shape real metal components is not easy any other way. Forks are not that hard as metal rod can be used for the main forks and metal tube for the sliders all you need do is work out how to secure springs in the sliders to give you the suspension travel you need. Engines can be made from plastic card, wood with shaped metal piping. Rear suspension mono or duo can again be made from metal rod and tube with springs again used to replicate suspension travel. Hope this gives you a start and encourages you to have a go, just don't expect perfection for about 10 years!!!! lol.

[Guest]

Hello Mr 125250,

boy do you guys have some very strange names but no problem, as you are a rookie at scratchbuilding the only advice I can offer have been building things from scratch for manya years mostly in plastic, get as much information about your intended project as you can spend a lot of time trawling sites, get drawings with dimensions if possible but be careful the drawings can mislead as I have found out to my cost late in a project build when things do not line up. My only othe advice would be try to mock up your parts in plastic or wood before cutting metal, do many test fits look at other model makers who have constructed motorcycles and maybe even e mail them for advice and just keep on trying you will get there in the end it may take a while but keep at it good luck with your project.

regards Barrie ( the old guy )