In my own time: Moto Morini 350 Strada

A new project, tatty but it runs and stops.

I've recently acquired a 1980 350 Strada and am doing that chin stroking exercise that accompanies a 'new' bike where I'm trying to assess what I actually have in front of me.

Most of it is obvious cosmetic stuff, while tatty it seems mechanically sound and in due course I'll get round to all of it hopefully.
Registered in Feb 1980 I suspect its a bit earlier with its 'A' marked engine and wheels marked '1978' and while I can see where the frame numbers are the paint makes them illegible so I'm just going on the V5 for the moment, it also assigns an engine number but I cant see that so maybe am looking in the wrong place.

Paintwork, the frame is decidedly orange compared to the tank and side panels, it may well be the original colour as there's a grubby made in Italy sticker under the headstock. I'm debating whether or not to repaint the whole thing (tank and side panels need it really)or leave the frame as is, wheels will need recoated too

The headlight switch has gone, it still work if I push it with a screwdriver but I'll need to find another switch assembly.

I suspect the tape around the headlight bezel is for more than waterproofing, haven't had a look yet so don't know whats in there, if it's anything like my Ducatis light there may be a mess of springs in there(or not).

Indicators probably disappeared years ago, I'll consider them in due course.
I do have a replacement belt, marked 'MEGADYNE ISORAN 124L 811' ,I don't know if this is suitable, the previous owner seemed to think so but I may just get another on from a known supplier.
I suspect the front cylinder has been replaced at sometime as its black and the rest of the engine is silver(well under the muck it is), the engine has a charming film of oil across the bottom of the case, its source will be more obvious when its cleaned but if there's a 'usual suspect' I'd like to know.

I'll look around for tyre recommendations, the ones fitted seem fine but as far as I can tell from '1902' they were made in the nineteenth week of 2002 so may be past their best.

The lauded electric fuel tap seems to have been replaced by a standard fuel tap, I wonder if you still get the oe ones?
It has two fuel taps and two chokes???

While that braided brake line is OK it's too long, and I can tell from the inside of the disc that the inner pad isn't making much contact so those'll need cleaned properly.