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Modelers Lounge => The World of Scale Models => Topic started by: bobs_buckles on May 19, 2026, 09:57:27 AM

Title: Biker Bob
Post by: bobs_buckles on May 19, 2026, 09:57:27 AM
Four years ago, when I was still holding down a day job, a work colleague handed me this kit, Tamiya's 41-year-old Kawasaki GPZ400R.
He said he kept looking at it, but knew full well he'd never build it. I replied that the chances of me building it were remote at best, but I took it home as loft insulation all the same.

Well, here she is, all built up and shiny.

Earlier this year, the same gentleman asked if I would attend his upcoming wedding in July, Of course, came the reply. Then I remembered the kit!
With a goal in sight, I buckled down (pardon the pun) and got to work. Over the course of a few months, I had her beaten.

What can I say? Tamiya kits never disappoint. The fit was spot on, and the painting stage was a pure joy. The only downside was the decals. Decades of sitting in a box without climate control destroyed any hope of doing a box-stock build, so I chose to go without and I'm happy I did.

I cut and sprayed the lettering for the base myself.

Sean will walk down the aisle on July 4th and marry Tina. The number plate tells the story ;-)

The bike has now gone full circle and is back with Sean. He and Tina have an early wedding present. Sean was impressed? Tina, not so much! lol.

There endeth the story.

Cheers,
Biker Bob  :D

(https://i.ibb.co/n8q4cKcR/gp6.jpg)

(https://i.ibb.co/Gf0kmzjK/gp4.jpg)

(https://i.ibb.co/DDC6n3KG/gp1.jpg)

(https://i.ibb.co/d41CN8PN/gp3.jpg)

(https://i.ibb.co/KcTtk5T7/Gp2.jpg)

(https://i.ibb.co/W4jw7fnL/gp5.jpg)




Title: Re: Biker Bob
Post by: gedmundson on May 19, 2026, 10:47:32 AM
That is absolutely brilliant - the model looks fantastic. Thanks for sharing your story, and your enthusiasm for the great result. Just - wow!
Cheers,
Gary
Title: Re: Biker Bob
Post by: NigelR on May 19, 2026, 04:46:08 PM
That's really nice work Bob, it looks like you got a great finish on the paintwork which is so important on bike and car models. I'm glad he liked it (and her less so.... ;D).
Title: Re: Biker Bob
Post by: DaddyO on May 19, 2026, 05:36:44 PM
Great story to go with a lovely build.  :)

Paul
Title: Re: Biker Bob
Post by: bobs_buckles on May 19, 2026, 06:53:32 PM
Thank you, chaps!

I'm currently working on Tamiya's 1/48th new tool SpitfireMk.I.
Another precision kit and more joy to be had.

TaTa for now.
Back to the Buckle Bench.

Cheers
BB  ;)
Title: Re: Biker Bob
Post by: RAGIII on May 19, 2026, 11:35:32 PM
Great story and Beautiful Build! The paintwork is superb and the License plate a nice finishing touch!
RAGIII
Title: Re: Biker Bob
Post by: bobs_buckles on May 20, 2026, 02:00:55 AM
Quote from: RAGIII on May 19, 2026, 11:35:32 PM
Great story and Beautiful Build! The paintwork is superb and the License plate a nice finishing touch!
RAGIII

Thank you, Rick!
 :)
Title: Re: Biker Bob
Post by: Alexis on May 24, 2026, 01:00:59 PM
Awesome bike , biker Bob !


Alexis
Title: Re: Biker Bob
Post by: bobs_buckles on May 25, 2026, 07:44:41 AM
Quote from: Alexis on May 24, 2026, 01:00:59 PM
Awesome bike , biker Bob !


Alexis

Thank you Alexis  ;)