Steve ,great job. Doug ,these pipes are not original, but they are correct for an early sandcast restoration. As we gain more knowledge of what is correct factory and the #s they come out as we more authentically restore our bikes. I've seen supposed Vic World early #restorations with stamped pipes. That is what was available at the time. 5 years ago I didn't even know what lotus root was. My Indian restorations are a good example. As we learn more ,more "correct" parts become available. What was a 95 point indian 4 in 1990 would be lucky 2 be an 80m point bike today. Most people would not know the difference between unmarked and lotus root. It's that kind of minutae that makes us passionet about our bikes. Its about gaining knowledge. There is nothing wrong with using any kind of pipes on our bikes , it just depends on the kind of restoration you are going for. I strive for factory correct in every detail I can. I love the research as I'm not a mechanic. Many people like a close rider or a custom. I enjoy the AMCA points judging and the knowledge gained. Other people don't. Who cares
. Bottom line... a very few people did a ton of research to figure out when the earliest pipes stopped. If you want a factory correct restoration before those #s you need the lotus roots. Thats it. Now try finding early 28 carbs to go with them. Eli