Archive for the ‘Repair/Maint.’ Category
March 31st, 2011 | 
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I ordered my tires a couple weeks ago from Chaparral Motorsports and they arrived a couple days ago. I chose the 23 partly because the 21s are no longer being made, but over other tires because of some reviews and cost comparisons. Sounds like a pretty good tire. One review mentioned that it’s harder to turn in, but more stable in the corners. Looking at them on the bike, I can’t see that. But then again, the 21s I just took off were plenty used so new tires look way better. Of course I’ll keep you apprised after I ride a bit.
To get the front off, I had to buy a front wheel stand. Went to Cycle Gear to buy the Trackside stand they had on sale (love their sales). Took the wheels off (more work than I expected) and brought them into Hinshaws motorcycle to get them mounted.
I always enjoy walking around considering my next bike. They still have an 09 VFR 800. That’s a bike that people always love when you read their reviews even though on pure performance their are other bikes (better value for money). There is just something about it. Read the rest of this entry »
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Ok, so while trying to extend my book’s maintenance schedule since I am beyond the owner’s manual due to the miles I’ve got (Just about 19,000) I discovered that I had a couple of things that needed to be done (every 2 years it says).
- Brake Fluid (brake lever fluid is how I think about it).
- Clutch Fluid (same deal, affects the levers ability to function)
- Engine Coolant
Ok, so off to Cycle Gear!
Talked with the guy had “high performance/racing” options and “the rest of us” options. Not as expensive as I thought.
Brake Fluid
Bought the Castrol GTLMA (dot 4 hydraulic fluid). Something like $5.00. They sold me 2 cans, but I didn’t even use one. Pretty straight forward process. I did a Youtube search and found two great videos that spelled it out very well. Totally easier than I feared. I mean, it’s only my brakes, right?
Part 1
Ok, so I decided to keep my bike a while longer. To give it that little “x” factor, I decided that it would be worth spending a little money and time tricking it out a little. just a little mind you. My plans are pipe, windscreen, mirrors and lights. I’d love to do a dual round headlight too (like a bi-moto) but inside behind the housing inside (similar looking how the headlights of a Sprint ST look). Ok, so more than a little, but to start, just a few (low hanging fruit).
Rear light, signals and fender.
I went with an LED integrated rear light and turn signal unit (60-ish off eBay). Of course this meant I could remove the existing turn signals and then had the fender to mod. I cut away a fair amount and remove a bit under the tail. I have some plastic that I cut a plate and both glue and screwed into place underneath.
Front Turn Signals
The second mod was removing the front turn signals. Originally, I was going to get a pair similar to what a street triple has, but then the back wouldn’t look quite right (would want to have the matching pair I think). So, I went with the flush mount lights from Cycle Gear. Not as spacy looking, but it’s night not having those stalks sticking out there.
So, anyway
That’s it so far. When I get the cash, a Two Bros Titanium slip on (loses 18 pounds and even ups the power a little bit). And, as mentioned, would love to do something to the headlight. I may also get a tank protector as you can see the wear on the tank from my pants. And if I get too much money than I know what to do with, maybe some new wheels even 