Introducing Harry

[wysper]

Hi All.

I have taken the plunge and traded my SV650 on a 07 DR650.
So I am a complete noob to adventure riding and looking forward to some new experiences.
I plan to do a lot of trawling round here for advice and the like.

I have broken with all tradition and actually named my bike. Further more I have broken with even more traditions by calling it Harry, with the thought that in the near future it will be Dirty Harry.

I thought this was very funny...my better half however thinks it is not very funny at all. Too bad. I am sure she will get over it. :Punk:

I imagine I look funny riding the DR with a two piece quasi suit on and road boots on the feet. But it will be doing commuting duty as well so that is all good.

Just thought I would drop by and say hi to the dirt side.

[Padmei]

Hi wysper.
Hello Harry. My bike is called Gonzo.
He is called that cos he looks like Gonzo.
My wife thinks that's silly but my girls think it's cool.
Sometimes I sit giggling alotat the computer & my wife thinks I'm sad.

Anyway thought I'd welcome you to adv riding.
We are of course mortal enemies because you have a DR & I have a KLR.
My wife thinks that also is sad.
Sometimes she doesn't understand

I haven't got aspergersI just felt like typing in sentences.

[bart]

Welcome. I'm Bart and I like beer.

DR's are betterer than KLthingys. Good choice. :shifty:

[Eddieb]

Hi wysper.
Hello Harry. My bike is called Gonzo.
He is called that cos he looks like Gonzo.
My wife thinks that's silly but my girls think it's cool.
Sometimes I sit giggling alotat the computer & my wife thinks I'm sad.

Anyway thought I'd welcome you to adv riding.
We are of course mortal enemies because you have a DR & I have a KLR.
My wife thinks that also is sad.
Sometimes she doesn't understand

I haven't got aspergersI just felt like typing in sentences.

You could have at least made it into a Haiku.

Welcome Wysper.

[wysper]

Hi wysper.
Hello Harry. My bike is called Gonzo.
He is called that cos he looks like Gonzo.
My wife thinks that's silly but my girls think it's cool.
Sometimes I sit giggling alotat the computer & my wife thinks I'm sad.

Anyway thought I'd welcome you to adv riding.
We are of course mortal enemies because you have a DR & I have a KLR.
My wife thinks that also is sad.
Sometimes she doesn't understand

I haven't got aspergersI just felt like typing in sentences.

Hi Gonzo, nice to meet you.

I guess you have to have the odd mortal enemy or two.. just to keep things interesting.


Welcome. I'm Bart and I like beer.

DR's are betterer than KLthingys. Good choice. :shifty:

Hey Bart, I like Bourbon.

I probably should have got what ever bike was best for fall off of!

[wysper]

You could have at least made it into a Haiku.

Welcome Wysper.

True of some people
No effort put in their posts
how sad nevermind

(how was that?)

[That looks like fun]

You could have at least made it into a Haiku.

Welcome Wysper.

Haiku from the in-concise oxfam dikctionary : noise made when clearing ones throat (verb) or word uttered into helmet when falling off because of cameras pointed toward you (noun)

Welcome to the dirt side Wysper :yes: bring biscuits to all rides as Koha (its a rule :shifty:)

[marks]

Welcome Wysper

you have lousy taste in motorcycles

I ride a much betterer klr

dr riders have to buy beer for klr riders - its a long term tradition that can't be broken

have a look at the mmmm thread - you might enjoy that - I did it in 2007 as my second adv ride and loved it

[marks]

Haiku from the in-concise oxfam dikctionary : word uttered into helmet when falling off because of cameras pointed toward you (noun)

and sometimes said in modified form (HaiFucku) to the camera operator

[johannvr]

Welcome wysper. There are other DR riders on here (the ones that have seen the light), so don't worry about being swamped by the KLR brigade - they just green.

[Woodman]

hello Wysper, welcome to the cool side. Please do not take anything personally said her because taking the piss is something we excel at. We have to really cos we all make asses of ourselves at some stage or other.

Pity about the DR.

P.S. my bikes name is Sweetie.

[dino3310]

HHHaaa ha ha ya bunch of tossers...
Welcome to the ADV side of life WYSPER your in for a shit load of fun with these fellas, you picked a good reliable starter and soon you'l be given the gonzo brigade a bit of :Pokey::spanking: its all good fun.
theres plenty of good advice on here and we all help each other out when we can.

my bikes called PIG

im a piecies and i like alcohol:msn-wink:

[Night Falcon]

Gidday mate...welcome aboard.
I had a DR a weeeee while ago...they are good for slidding sideways round gravel roads. They are also good for getting stuck in rivers, deep sand, mud and they don't stop very well! I have a new bike now which is even better for getting stuck in rivers, deep sand etc....but it dose stop better than the DR. Good luck and try not to fall off too often!

[Monstaman]

...with the thought that in the near future it will be Dirty Harry.

Heya wysper, welcome to the loop(ies)

Ignore those dodgy KLR riders ... they are all the same :shifty: :bleh:

Actually, I haf ta be careful wot I say cos my wife rides a KL250 Sherpa (called Lou Tou, means camel in Chinese) and I luv that wee bike!!

I have a DR 650, designa yello, called Suzy .. she is a chick cos I don't ride boys.

Lots of great guys and girls here and masses of info as well.

[pete376403]

Hello from a Yank (Yet A Nother KLR).

KLR vs DR threads make the Hatfields vs McCoys feud seem like a schoolyard scrap -but we both unite against Eurotrash

Have you started farkeling yet?

Start with a loud pipe, that way you won't be able to hear third gear breaking up :-)

[bart]

My DR was called the Stealth Bomber. It aint stealthy, but it is a bomb.

[wysper]

Have you started farkeling yet?

Start with a loud pipe, that way you won't be able to hear third gear breaking up :-)

eerrr what is farkeling - and yes I will definitely have to look into another pipe.. hopping of the v-twin this bike sound virtually silent.




I have a DR 650, designa yello, called Suzy .. she is a chick cos I don't ride boys.

.

I did consider that line of thought in naming the bike harry - cheesy yet slightly dodgy line alert...
but the only lady I ride is my wife.

(notice how that line is both sweet but insulting at the same time... there is a certain skill in that)



my bikes called PIG

im a piecies and i like alcohol:msn-wink:

LOve it - and a plate to match.
I am a pisk-ees too.

Thanks all for the welcome.. hope to see some of you on the gravel soon... preferably with the wheels still under me most of the time!!

[crazyhorse]

Hi All.

I have taken the plunge and traded my SV650 on a 07 DR650.


Nooooooooooooooooooooo! not the SV! :crybaby: Its such a great machine :love: Seriously though, you still took on a Suzuki, so guess that's ok :whistle: Nah, good on you. Certainly different style of riding - You will have fun for sure :yes: Good one :niceone:

[igor]

now its sunday so take Harry and firk off and find Pomarangai Road and comeback and tell us what ya think of the scenery.

Little hint go in from the Maro:yes:kopa end

[wysper]

Have you started farkeling yet?




Just googled farkeling - honestly wish I hadn't.
Def not going to be doing that to Harry :sick:

[Cary]

GET OUT WHILE YOU STILL CAN!!

Most of us started on DR's, KLR's etc but then soon realised we needed a real bike.........

My XR650R's name is XR
I like ride
Me your friend

[Owl]

Shit, I just saw "Introducing Harry", last post by Cary and thought isn't Harry Cary suicide by sword?:shit:

[wysper]

Thats brilliant. 10 points for you sir.

[junkmanjoe]

Welcome to you Sir wysper and your steed Harry..

i too started on a basic version of Harry,
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_r4RTcX8Awjo/SbT3SZ430sI/AAAAAAAAATs/_vlSBExfrDU/IMG_0614.JPG
but soon turned it in to a safari slut...
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_r4RTcX8Awjo/SsbMqtkS1-I/AAAAAAAAEjk/eScCgIaBrB4/s800/P1030293.JPG
we had a lot of great trips, madness, bog holes, slippy clay tracks, lengthy hiway trips to murder ya arse checks....

but i left the clan of the Dog rooter, and have been shamed for my sins....:spanking:.

but on many of a gathering of riders,:scooter: ive dribbled and drooled :drool: over the mighty sight of the KTM 950 Adventure...
.ive been pushing my boundary of insanity, in some of the places ive taken the beating heart of the V twin...
i have new respect for my Austrian beast, she has thrown me off twice now:blink:, as i have up set her in places i have pointed her in...

Im still learning Her ways and gaining her trust..

My KATEY M
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_r4RTcX8Awjo/S9PzSXGs-LI/AAAAAAAAHg4/PmuWWUs7qfo/s912/IMG_0061.JPG

:scooter:hope to cross gravel with you some day:scooter:

Junkmanjoe & 9fIDY

[.chris]

Welcome Harry & rider.

I don't know about this KLR vs DR argument, but I know they are both wrong. :innocent:

[nothingflash]

I just googled it too to see why you wished you hadn't.

Thanks for that :puke:

[Woodman]

just googled farklling as well. Fcuk that

[Padmei]

you mean the obscure contact sport with KLR riders with cut off hockey sticks & DR rider with gym shorts & eggplant?

[wysper]

I am beginning to understand that the KLR riders need any advantage they can get over the DR Side.

[wysper]

:scooter:hope to cross gravel with you some day:scooter:

Junkmanjoe & 9fIDY

So is that was a DR becomes when it grows up?

[NordieBoy]

Gidday mate...welcome aboard.
I had a DR a weeeee while ago...they are good for slidding sideways round gravel roads. They are also good for getting stuck in rivers, deep sand, mud and they don't stop very well! I have a new bike now which is even better for getting stuck in rivers, deep sand etc....but it dose stop better than the DR. Good luck and try not to fall off too often!

Don't stop very well?

Should'a got new pads. Cheaper than a new bike.

[junkmanjoe]

So is that was a DR becomes when it grows up?

kinda... some inmates here will more than likely tell ya that i carried more stuff on that bike than my truck....
tools, tubes, first aid kit, water bottle, and a 30 liter safari tank.... i also added xtra padding to the seat and used to have a thick sheep skin on for longer trips...
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_r4RTcX8Awjo/SkWkk4qGslI/AAAAAAAACzI/Xiw5Axbq6es/s800/IMG_0102.JPG
welcome to the silly side....

JMJ

[dino3310]

So is that was a DR becomes when it grows up?

na thats just a teenage DR
i started here
206517
went to here
206516
which grew to here
206515
:lol: :lol: :lol:

[Box'a'bits]

:Offtopic::whocares::yes: BUT, now you are more mature (& realised the error of your ways)... you've got a Honda...:stupid:
Sorry Dino, just couldn't help myself. To good an opportunity not to comment...

[pete376403]

Hmmm, not sure what definition you were looking at but I understood it to mean:-

"The word is generally accepted to mean a combination of "function" and "sparkle", hence, farkle.

Motorcycle enthusiasts may install accessories, called farkles (also spelled farkel), to customize their machine.

The term is well known in the sport touring community.

An enthusiast may be in the process of "farkling". The completed motorcycle would be all "farkled up". Radar detectors, Global Positioning System receivers, heated grips, and satellite radios are some of those farkles. Other accessories could be aftermarket seats, side and/or top cases or bar risers, which make the motorcycle more suitable for long miles."

Now most of those accesories wouldn't apply to adventure bikes, we tend to run more to big tanks, bash plates, exhausts, barkbusters, racks, etc, etc.

F.A.R.K.L.E. -- Fancy Accessory Really Kool Likely Expensive

[wysper]

Hmmm, not sure what definition you were looking at but I understood it to mean:-

"The word is generally accepted to mean a combination of "function" and "sparkle", hence, farkle.

Motorcycle enthusiasts may install accessories, called farkles (also spelled farkel), to customize their machine.

The term is well known in the sport touring community.

An enthusiast may be in the process of "farkling". The completed motorcycle would be all "farkled up". Radar detectors, Global Positioning System receivers, heated grips, and satellite radios are some of those farkles. Other accessories could be aftermarket seats, side and/or top cases or bar risers, which make the motorcycle more suitable for long miles."

Now most of those accesories wouldn't apply to adventure bikes, we tend to run more to big tanks, bash plates, exhausts, barkbusters, racks, etc, etc.

F.A.R.K.L.E. -- Fancy Accessory Really Kool Likely Expensive

I assumed that was the definition from context of the post.
It was one of those times I should have just left well enough alone and not gone googling LOL

[That looks like fun]

I farkled my bike when it fell in the river :angry:
But then some nice men fixed it :Punk:
Wheres me biscuit :shifty:

[Bass]

Do not, repeat not, get into farkling.
Once you start, there is no stopping.
This is what approx $4500 worth of farkling makes a DR look like.
Over half of that was the suspension mod's and they're not even obvious enough to brag about.

[wysper]

Yeah at this stage I am thinking luggage rack, bash plate, exhaust, horn for starters. However funds are pretty restricted because of actually buying the bike...
then there is the adventure riding gear.. at the moment it looks hard case with me in the two piece quasi suit and road boots.

[dino3310]

Gotta agree with Bass, my XR's as basic as a basic bush pig can be and i have as much fun as the next bloke

[warewolf]

http://googlefight.com/ (http://googlefight.com/index.php?lang=en_GB&word1=dr650&word2=klr650)

[JATZ]

Yeah at this stage I am thinking luggage rack, bash plate, exhaust, horn for starters. However funds are pretty restricted because of actually buying the bike...
then there is the adventure riding gear.. at the moment it looks hard case with me in the two piece quasi suit and road boots.

That should read.... bash plate then some other stuff :D
just ask paladin what hapens without one and 1 other north island rider who did the D.B. name escapes me ATM

[junkmanjoe]

yea i second bash plate first on list,,,,
DR sump + rock = oil on the ground

[wysper]

That should read.... bash plate then some other stuff :D
just ask paladin what hapens without one and 1 other north island rider who did the D.B. name escapes me ATM


yea i second bash plate first on list,,,,
DR sump + rock = oil on the ground

Fair call - bash plate moves to top of the list
Decent horn is holding second
rest can fight it out amongst themselves.

[alane]

Yeah at this stage I am thinking luggage rack, bash plate, exhaust, horn for starters. However funds are pretty restricted because of actually buying the bike...
then there is the adventure riding gear.. at the moment it looks hard case with me in the two piece quasi suit and road boots.

Try this for riding gear.

WWW.1TONNE.CO.NZ
I bought a camo jacket off,ve this guy,not top shelf ,but value for money,for the financially impaired,I think.:yes:
Made by the Taliban in Pakistan.:blink::laugh: :laugh:
Cheers--- ALANE

[Woodman]

Some farkles are forced upon you when some flimsy standard part breaks for whatever reason.

The list can get quite long........................

[junkmanjoe]

catch up with this chap, he was making bash plates for the DR..
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/119487-dr6501-bash-plates-only-2-left?highlight=bash+plate
send him a PM
my be able to help you out..

JMJ

[stormtrooper]

206515
Just spotted the 750 BIG yeha thats cool man, is that the one you were talking about on the recent trip Dino? ITS MINT
Hey i bet your sorry to see it go but that XR sure sounds nice.

Welcome Wysper looks like your into some good times on that machine.

STORMTROOPER

[clint640]

Fair call - bash plate moves to top of the list
Decent horn is holding second
rest can fight it out amongst themselves.

Better handlebars & some handguards should be up there too. The stock bars will bend even in a minor tipover & handguards will save your hands & levers. Enjoy the new bike!

Cheers
Clint

[PeteJ]

Hmmmm...farkling disease.

FWIW, my DR has no farkles, does farm tracks and gravel roads, takes me fishing, has no 3rd gear problem, and its seat is so uncomfortable that a range of 200km before stopping to fill with fuel is dead right.

I have an OSSA Explorer for bush trails, river beds, vertical cliffs, and all that stuff. Its range is 250km offroad (3 times the tank capacity of its sister in the shed, the Mick Andrews Replica). And, of course, I have no need to go fast offroad.

The Explorer in its entirety, and in several years' running, has cost less than half of Bass' farkles (hiya, Bass).

Speaking, as we weren't before but are now, of terminology: on the ADVRider website, you will see the US inmates often speak of "offroad". Mostly, that means just off sealed roads. Here, we tend to use "offroad" for off formed roads of any sort, down to and including clay roads.

[avgas]

Keep of my lawn ya hooligans!

[wysper]

catch up with this chap, he was making bash plates for the DR..
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/119487-dr6501-bash-plates-only-2-left?highlight=bash+plate
send him a PM
my be able to help you out..

JMJ

Yep he sure can. In contact now.

Thanks JMJ

[Bass]

Hmmmm...farkling disease.


The Explorer in its entirety, and in several years' running, has cost less than half of Bass' farkles (hiya, Bass).



There you go - a case in point!
I suppose I should put it in perspective though. My DR was set up for 20,000+ km in outback Oz with about 50 kg of luggage on the back. Did it and never missed a beat.
Tis a bit of overkill for NZ though and similar results are available a lot cheaper.

[wysper]

So I am going to do some things that seem to be considered essential if I want to take Harry off the tarsealed roads

1 Bash Plate
2 Decent Bark Busters
3 and poss stronger handle bars...

All else at this stage would be bling.

However I am keen to put some form of luggage rack/mounting system on there. Particularly something that can handle a top box.
And a decent horn...and of course modify the plank so it is a little more comfortable to sit on.

Then the fun stuff
Mods
Exhaust
etc

If I do this - it will be the first bike I have done stuff to. I am generally a 'just jump on and ride it' kind of guy.

[Squiggles]

So I am going to do some things that seem to be considered essential if I want to take Harry off the tarsealed roads

1 Bash Plate
2 Decent Bark Busters
3 and poss stronger handle bars...

All else at this stage would be bling.

However I am keen to put some form of luggage rack/mounting system on there. Particularly something that can handle a top box.
And a decent horn...and of course modify the plank so it is a little more comfortable to sit on.

Then the fun stuff
Mods
Exhaust
etc

If I do this - it will be the first bike I have done stuff to. I am generally a 'just jump on and ride it' kind of guy.

I started with a B&B bash plate then picked up an IMS tank... havent seen any barkbusters i like the look of and my bars are still straight...
I dont find anything wrong with the plank, its grown on me, perhaps a sheepskin would be nice but i reckon i'd get more added comfort out of a small screen and heated grips :yes:

[NordieBoy]

However I am keen to put some form of luggage rack/mounting system on there. Particularly something that can handle a top box.

Suzuki do a rack for the back that works well with top boxes.

I'd still pop out the airbox snorkle and raise the needle 1 mm whilst you've got the screwdrivers out.

[wysper]

Suzuki do a rack for the back that works well with top boxes.

I'd still pop out the airbox snorkle and raise the needle 1 mm whilst you've got the screwdrivers out.

being mechanically retarded, the thought is slightly nerve wracking. Still, wouldn't hurt to learn would it now!

[Padmei]

If you're looking for luggage carriers a lot of people like the ventura back rack. I'm not a great fan as mine has been pretty shitty but prob would go soft panniers now. Do many people have hard top boxes for real off road stuff?

[Box'a'bits]

Ask Marks about why his hit his back mid way through the 42nd Traverse. Top boxes probably don't work well in that environment, but are okay for seal & good gravel. Good to lock away knick knacks, helmets etc

[wysper]

If you're looking for luggage carriers a lot of people like the ventura back rack. I'm not a great fan as mine has been pretty shitty but prob would go soft panniers now. Do many people have hard top boxes for real off road stuff?


Ask Marks about why his hit his back mid way through the 42nd Traverse. Top boxes probably don't work well in that environment, but are okay for seal & good gravel. Good to lock away knick knacks, helmets etc

Two reasons for the top box...

The bike is a commuter as well and boxes look like a cool way to carry stuff.
And also my daughter is getting keen on being on the back and it gives a sense of security if there is something behind them.
I can take it off as I get more adventurous off road anyway! Might do the pelican case idea though.

[cooneyr]

If your handy with a hacksaw and welder make your own tail rack. Never had any problems with this one in 10k km. Pannier bars (soft bags) worked really well too.

206836

Cheers R

[wysper]

sweet... i am bound to know someone with a welder. better start asking around. might check out the readymades too.

[dino3310]

i slapped one together on the XR for the KC ride, it looks friggin ugly thanks to been a rush jobby but the practibility of the thing is sooo awesome im keeping the bugga on. i just went and bought some 10mm round $8.00 and found a couple of bits of flat steel for the bolt bits, snuck in to work half hour later whoop whoop

[Woodman]

I saw a topbox fly off a BMW (can't recall the riders name) and go abot 20 feet up in the air and almost overtook the bike. Fcuken hilarious and the rider didn't even know till we told him at the next stop.
So soft is better for offroad, but in saying that i have a givi topbox which I have used a couple of times on road(ish) trips and it was brilliant and fits heaps in it. Top heavy but.

[clint640]

Have a look at the wreckers for a rack too - often they'll have something cheap that just needs a coat of paint & some minor mods to work. Personally I like my soft panniers rather than loading up the back too much, but it's handy having a carrier also.

Clint

[pete376403]

Couple of pelican look-alikes on the side racks for away trips. The bags unclip (2 R clips and lift the bags off) for overnighters or remove the racks completely (three bolts each) to leave them at where-ever we're staying when going out for the day rides. Oxford $99 soft bag on the carrier for survival stuff during the day.

[wysper]

Looks like there are plenty of options. Might just hang fire for a bit, chat to a few people and see what works as I meet them! Working on a bash plate now.

[junkmanjoe]

Looks like there are plenty of options. Working on a bash plate now.

10 points...there mate,
the dr sump, the metal is very thin,

we had to patch daves one with instant metal on the beach...

JMJ

[Eddieb]

Yep, DR650 + no bash plate + gravel trails = this.

[dino3310]

workin on a bash plate myself, i rode the 42nd without one:shit: was shitting bricks in a couple of places, wont do that again without one

[junkmanjoe]

workin on a bash plate myself, i rode the 42nd without one:shit: was shitting bricks in a couple of places, wont do that again without one

:spanking:...naughty boy..

i was shitting just trying to get up fishers in on piece..........:blink:
twazz hard work man....

JMJ

[dino3310]

:spanking:...naughty boy..

i was shitting just trying to get up fishers in on piece..........:blink:
twazz hard work man....

JMJ

shit mate you were up a few kilos more than the XR and the katoom would be another 100kgs :lol:

[wysper]

workin on a bash plate myself, i rode the 42nd without one:shit: was shitting bricks in a couple of places, wont do that again without one

pm gpcustom, i am emailing him now regarding one... he makes them, we could maybe look to get one at the same time.

[dino3310]

ive got an old one im making fit, its a bit rude but it will do for know. budgets gone for this month.

[wysper]

I hear ya, closest thing to a bash plate I have round here at the moment is tinfoil.... not convinced it would do a good job.. easy to work with though :rofl:

[Ocean1]

I hear ya, closest thing to a bash plate I have round here at the moment is tinfoil.... not convinced it would do a good job.. easy to work with though :rofl:

Once upon a time I made a bash plate from a clad alloy used to make cooking ware. Was around 3mm of reasonably high temper alloy with 1.5mm stainless steel bonded to one side.

Used potable eurethane between the cases and the plate, the plate was an utter bitch to work but man did it take a hammering. Having the S/S on the outside made it noticably less inclined to hang up on rocks too.

You figure the Mrs would miss the electric frying pan?

[pete376403]

Way back in the day a coal shovel (without the handle, of course) was material of choice to fabricate a bash plate from.

Also, to improve luggage carrying capacity on the OPs DR, here is a possibility...

[NordieBoy]

I hear ya, closest thing to a bash plate I have round here at the moment is tinfoil.... not convinced it would do a good job.. easy to work with though :rofl:

Use a road sign. 2.5mm alloy with a plastic skin. Stops rocks and can be bashed back into shape with a rubber mallett. Hold it on with cable ties.

[Crisis management]

Use a road sign. 2.5mm alloy with a plastic skin. Stops rocks and can be bashed back into shape with a rubber mallett. Hold it on with cable ties.

Hey, you can't do that, some hippy in the South Island has a trademark on the design.

[NordieBoy]

Hey, you can't do that, some hippy in the South Island has a trademark on the design.

Manufacturing licences can be bought with coffee so I've heard.

[wysper]

Do they have road signs in the south island?

[jafar]

Also, to improve luggage carrying capacity on the OPs DR, here is a possibility...

DR = Deliver's rubbishbins ?:shutup:

[NordieBoy]

Do they have road signs in the south island?

Not as many as they used to :shifty:

[wysper]

Harry has his first extra added today. Hopefully it will be tested tomorrow.


207812 207813

Thanks gpcustom!

[NordieBoy]

Harry has his first extra added today. Hopefully it will be tested tomorrow.
Thanks gpcustom!

Nice :)

I'd put some tube rubber along the frame rails and between the front mount and the bash plate - deadens the noise a bit and stops the metal on metal contact.

[junkmanjoe]

Harry has his first extra added today. Hopefully it will be tested tomorrow.


207812 207813

Thanks gpcustom!

good on ya mate..piece of mind right there...

JMJ

[bart]

Nice :)

I'd put some tube rubber along the frame rails and between the front mount and the bash plate - deadens the noise a bit and stops the metal on metal contact.

Yeah, I was gonna say......soundshell. All the engine noise gets sent upwards.

but better than a hole in the engine case.

have you got a sump plug hole in that thing?

[wysper]

Nice :)

I'd put some tube rubber along the frame rails and between the front mount and the bash plate - deadens the noise a bit and stops the metal on metal contact.

dammit! didnt think of that. And I have put locktite on the bolts too. Oh well... if it bugs me I will take it off and do that.



Yeah, I was gonna say......soundshell. All the engine noise gets sent upwards.

but better than a hole in the engine case.

have you got a sump plug hole in that thing?

Yep sure is. Better a bit of noise that oil all over the show I figure. (plus general advice seems to suggest a bash plate is a bloody good idea)

[dino3310]

Nice mate,
er how much

[junkmanjoe]

you can buy the foam tape, one side is sticky other is a soft foam, i used this on my DR, i marked where the frame touches the plate and stuck the foam to the plate so it was in between the frame and plate, i also made up some rubber washers, and used them where it bolts on to the bike..

that took a lot of the vibration out the the plate and made it heaps quieter.

JMJ

[wysper]

Nice mate,
er how much

$180 incl freight (i think the guy is in Dunedin) plus I am rural so it costs a bit extra for freight.
The genuine suzuki one is over 3 hundy.

[wysper]

you can buy the foam tape, one side is sticky other is a soft foam, i used this on my DR, i marked where the frame touches the plate and stuck the foam to the plate so it was in between the frame and plate, i also made up some rubber washers, and used them where it bolts on to the bike..

that took a lot of the vibration out the the plate and made it heaps quieter.

JMJ

Should have multi quoted.... good idea. I will see how noisy it is. Doesn't look like it touches the frame in too many places. But the rubber washers are a good thought almost regardless.

[NordieBoy]

you can buy the foam tape, one side is sticky other is a soft foam, i used this on my DR, i marked where the frame touches the plate and stuck the foam to the plate so it was in between the frame and plate, i also made up some rubber washers, and used them where it bolts on to the bike..

that took a lot of the vibration out the the plate and made it heaps quieter.

JMJ

Buy?!

He's a DR owner!

[NordieBoy]

I used 3x15mm strip rubber from Para Rubber down the rails and inner-tube on the front mount.

Little bro managed to bend it up a bit on some Rainbow river crossings and I havn't had a chance to unbend it yet so I'm using the Suzi one for the moment.

Did you get a laser-cut fox head with your GP?

[gpcustom]

Hi Guys . Yep im in dunedin and will make these to order . Sorry not everyone will get the fox head just depends if i have any at the time as there is a new guy running the laser now:shifty:
i allso make them the drz400. Ive allso just built one for a 09 yzf450 but its being tried out for a while befor i start making anymore

Chris

[NordieBoy]

Hi Guys . Yep im in dunedin and will make these to order . Sorry not everyone will get the fox head just depends if i have any at the time as there is a new guy running the laser now:shifty:

To make them 'bro proof you need to increase the thickness to about 7-10mm.

But then the little bro would probably take that as a challenge...

[wysper]

whats a fox head?

[gpcustom]

Fox racing as in fox boots and other bike gear
i engraved it into this bash plate a little hard to see but it looks cool

[wysper]

Ahhh I thought it might have been some extra shape that goes higher or something. I like you gpcustom badge on the side.

[dino3310]

Fox racing as in fox boots and other bike gear
i engraved it into this bash plate a little hard to see but it looks cool

got any XR templates...

[gpcustom]

as in honda xr

[dino3310]

yep xr600 1993

[gpcustom]

so do you want just the xr bit or xr600. i will take a pic of the plate i had cut. I used it whe i made a mufflers and then sand blasted the gsx logo to the muffler

[dino3310]

sorry mate i was meaning the whole skidplate.

[junkmanjoe]

sorry mate i was meaning the whole skidplate.

what ya want one of them for....you forgotten how to ride..bumping in to things are ya....old man.........
by the way, that branding looks neat...

JMJ

[dino3310]

what ya want one of them for....
JMJ

i saw wyspers one now i want one

[gpcustom]

yea makes the muffler look factory built and all done with a $100 sand blaster.

[gpcustom]

sorry mate i was meaning the whole skidplate.

yea i can make one but would need to find someone in dunedin with a xr 600 as you need the bike when making from scratch

[dino3310]

dont go looking for one yet, ive got no pingers at the moment

[gpcustom]

No worries ive got a bit of a back log of perc jobs to get thru anyway:sweatdrop

[Monstaman]

Nice :)

I'd put some tube rubber along the frame rails and between the front mount and the bash plate - deadens the noise a bit and stops the metal on metal contact.

I put a bead of RTV between the plate and the mounting brackets and that took out most of the vibrationy tiny kinda echo sounds.

Bigger problem is/was I bent my plate so badly that the wings on each side spread out, the GP Custom badge got stuffed and the front was bent out far enough to be rubbing the header :shit:

So off with the header pipe, all those years of pubs scraps and beatings paid off as I straightened it with a FBH and pulled the wings back in, unfortunately the GP Custom badge did not survive...R.I.P :laugh:.

On the plus side, that would have been a sure fire hole in engine FAIL so there is always a positive side.

[gpcustom]

send me your address and i will post you a new badge. What the hell you been doing on that DR:gob:

If you do damage the plate bad enough i can rebuild it for no charge aslong as its not totaly fucked and you pay shipping. I dont mind and this would be a KB members only

Hows that for service there ant no bike shop that would do that for you:innocent:

[wysper]

So I am thinking of putting some ammo tin panniers on Harry.
I would need to make up some kind of rack because I was thinking of using my Pelican Case as a top box and put these on as side panniers. Any comments from the more experienced around?

http://willsfishingandfirearms.co.nz/shop3/images/ammotin.gif

[igor]

its a Suzuki mate. Ya buy the bike, they supply the shittest rear shock known to man and you wanna kill it by loadin it up more.

i got some of those ali Touratech jobbies which are ok but if I was to do it again i would go this was. Me little cherman mate in Dorkland has some and likes im. Well they are forhis wifes bike but the dork never tied them on very well and dragged im down the road. so much for happy families. http://www.andystrapz.com/productdetails.php?pid=34&BACK=51

I think they was just over $300 bucks landed. just make a simple frame keeping away from bikes rear wheel

[wysper]

its a Suzuki mate. Ya buy the bike, they supply the shittest rear shock known to man and you wanna kill it by loadin it up more.

i got some of those ali Touratech jobbies which are ok but if I was to do it again i would go this was. Me little cherman mate in Dorkland has some and likes im. Well they are forhis wifes bike but the dork never tied them on very well and dragged im down the road. so much for happy families. http://www.andystrapz.com/productdetails.php?pid=34&BACK=51

I think they was just over $300 bucks landed. just make a simple frame keeping away from bikes rear wheel

See - I didn't know they had the shittiest rear shock in the world, so until you told me I was fine with it. Now of course, it is a different story LOL

I will look in to the soft pannier option too. Just thought the ammo boxes looked pretty cool. Coz that is the most important thing isn't it?

[igor]

maybe my mistake about the rear shock. it will die with-in a short time or are they fitting suzukis with ohlins now.

[NordieBoy]

Ammo boxes are usually quite heavy?

[Box'a'bits]

You need to think about how you are going to use the bike. Soft luggage is best if you want to use the bike in NZ's fine tracks & minor gravel roads. They are lighter, easier to get on & off the bike & less expensive. They also won't usually break your leg if you fall off. You can move them closer to the rider (better weight distribution) when you're not carrying a pillion.

Spam cans are great if you want to look like a world traveller, don't mind the excess weight, are more secure (great if you are going somewhere & want to ditch your gear), & are usually more waterproof. They can tend to hang out more in the breeze more than soft luggage (rolling resistance). They can be less flexible in terms of load capacity. You may need soft bags inside the spam cans to make them more useable.

I have both. Used the spam cans once.

[dino3310]

I will look in to the soft pannier option too. Just thought the ammo boxes looked pretty cool. Coz that is the most important thing isn't it?

:lol: na mate looking cool is for the latte lads i got over looking cool sold my bike and bought the XR:Punk:
soft panneirs are shit easy to use and dont hurt as much if you off, plus they dont bend then break.

[igor]

Ammo boxes are usually quite heavy?

no shit sherlock. ya not in the police are ya

[wysper]

I have both. Used the spam cans once.

All your other advice was valuable too. But this last bit speaks volumes. The only thing is, in the past I have had soft luggage, I managed to set fire to it when it slipped and rested on my exhaust. Didnt notice until a car managed to chase me down and flag me over. Road bike though.


:lol: na mate looking cool is for the latte lads i got over looking cool sold my bike and bought the XR:Punk:
soft panneirs are shit easy to use and dont hurt as much if you off, plus they dont bend then break.

Yeah, was a bit tongue in cheek about the looks thing, fair comment about the bend and break thing too, will probably be the pingers as much as anything else that sends me the way of soft panniers. Still seriously considering a top box though.

[dino3310]

yeh mate the ol givi top box is soooo friggen usefull, i had one on my BIG and it was so convenient, just chuck ya crap in and go.
it kinda looked out of place but the practical benefits far out wieghed the uglyness of the thing. i wouldn't put one on the XR cause i'd break it tryin to do wheelies

[Box'a'bits]

BUT my point was regarding the use that you have for the bike.

I use hard panniers on the (road) BMW all the time. I likely will never use soft bags on that bike, given the way that that bike is used.

Similarly, the KTM will likely mostly be used with soft luggage.

The fact I have used the spam cans once is more testiment to the short comings I experienced in that application. And don't get me wrong - I had a big financial outlay in them...

Properly made racks are really needed for both applications (hard or soft luggage). I tend to strap the bags on to stop any movement.

[wysper]

@BMW - yep I hear you. A horses for courses sort of thing. I doubt very much I will be doing long road tours on the DR. So it will be more off road stuff. Maybe the top box will be enough on its own.
I travel pretty light in any circumstance anyway.

@dino - hah wheelies... that is something that I really want to learn to do. I would say I am in way more danger of breaking myself! Better look into the cost of top boxes too then.

[igor]

All your other advice was valuable too. But this last bit speaks volumes. The only thing is, in the past I have had soft luggage, I managed to set fire to it when it slipped and rested on my exhaust. 1


Yeah, was a bit tongue in cheek about the looks thing,2 fair comment about the bend and break thing too, will probably be the pingers as much as anything else that sends me the way of soft panniers. Still seriously considering a top box though 3.

1 line the outside of ya panniers with leather if near exhayst. cant catch fire

2. bullshit, ya a nancy poser boy

3. topboxs are for faggots. get a rollbag thats what real men use. http://www.touratech.com/shops/008/index.php?cPath=15_121&osCsid=bc06ecdc8bae97c76f172e08394a419d

geez ya next post ya be tellin us ya need a GPS. We are only ever 160kms from the sea in this tiny counrty.

do you sit down to pee as well ssshssssh

and ya know what BMW means dont ya

[wysper]

1 line the outside of ya panniers with leather if near exhayst. cant catch fire

2. bullshit, ya a nancy poser boy

3. topboxs are for faggots. get a rollbag thats what real men use. http://www.touratech.com/shops/008/index.php?cPath=15_121&osCsid=bc06ecdc8bae97c76f172e08394a419d

geez ya next post ya be tellin us ya need a GPS. We are only ever 160kms from the sea in this tiny counrty.

do you sit down to pee as well ssshssssh

and ya know what BMW means dont ya

1. or possibly my foreskin
2. well when I get out of the hairdressers I will set you straight :girlfight:
3. shit! how much do you pack? are you a woman or something

GPS - I'm a man, men don't need directions - or instructions for that matter.

and as for peeing - only on electric fences buddy.


not sure I want a roll up bag thingy.... can be a real pain in the arse to get things out of. Like tramping packs, the thing you want always seems to be right at the bottom.

[Woodman]

Couple of day packs. Bungie one to the back of the bike and put the other on your back. if you do it right the one on your back will rest on the one strapped to the seat and take the weight off your shoulders. Job done.

my advice is to not over think it. I did the same when I got the klr, and after a few trips realised that you really don't need that much shit. And remember the more weight the worse the bike will handle off road.

[wysper]

Part of the reason for thinking about panniers and top boxes and the like, is that the bike does dual duty as my main commuter vehicle too. So something like a top box would be really useful for things like my lunch, change of clothes for work, wet weather gear etc.

[NordieBoy]

For years an E45 Givi was on the back of the Nordie. Could get 2 fullface helmets and gloves in it. The only reason it's not on the DR is I don't have a suitable rack to mount it to.

Offroad? No. Tooo big.

[wysper]

For years an E45 Givi was on the back of the Nordie. Could get 2 fullface helmets and gloves in it. The only reason it's not on the DR is I don't have a suitable rack to mount it to.

Offroad? No. Tooo big.

So would you not recommend a top box for off road? What do you do for taking your kit when you go off road?

[clint640]

So would you not recommend a top box for off road? What do you do for taking your kit when you go off road?

I try to avoid having hard things wot could whack me on my bike. Top boxes are really handy for commuting & road riding but my usual setup is Andystrapz Expedition soft panniers that clip onto a couple of simple rails that keep them in place & off the exhaust. Mount them low & forward. If I am camping I add an Ortleib drybag on the rear rack, it opens on the long side for easy access & is held on by Andystrapz. This arrangement has done 10's of thousands of kms of sometimes pretty hardcore touring & a few crashes with no problems.

Cheers
Clint

[igor]

I try to avoid having hard things wot could whack me on my bike. Top boxes are really handy for commuting & road riding but my usual setup is Andystrapz Expedition soft panniers that clip onto a couple of simple rails that keep them in place & off the exhaust. Mount them low & forward. If I am camping I add an Ortleib drybag on the rear rack, it opens on the long side for easy access & is held on by Andystrapz. This arrangement has done 10's of thousands of kms of sometimes pretty hardcore touring & a few crashes with no problems.

Cheers
Clint

That bloody Clint is just a copy cat witheverything I have said. Next he will be telling ya to buy one of those bloody uncomfortable orange bikes. Bloody 6 x 2 be more comfy than one of those to sit on.

The only other thing I have that u don't see here much is tank panniers. i got some old 15 litre gearsack panniers and cut the throw over bit in half and then added a peice that goes over top with a hole for the fuel cap and some straps to secure. They move the weight forward and keep the wind off ya legs cause i am a big pussy. meow

[NordieBoy]

So would you not recommend a top box for off road? What do you do for taking your kit when you go off road?

Ventura packrack on the back for more stuff or usually just a dry-bag bungied to the back with tubes/tools or even just a Fox tools bumbag with nothing on the bike.

[clint640]

That bloody Clint is just a copy cat witheverything I have said. Next he will be telling ya to buy one of those bloody uncomfortable orange bikes. Bloody 6 x 2 be more comfy than one of those to sit on.

Great minds... The 640's KTM comfort seat is actually pretty good. :yes:



The only other thing I have that u don't see here much is tank panniers. i got some old 15 litre gearsack panniers and cut the throw over bit in half and then added a peice that goes over top with a hole for the fuel cap and some straps to secure. They move the weight forward and keep the wind off ya legs cause i am a big pussy. meow

Keeping the weight balanced is definitely an important consideration. I only put light stuff on the back, all the heavy stuff goes in the bottom of the panniers. I haven't needed more space yet so I haven't looked at tank panniers, I can see how they'd be good for BMW's though as the rider could keep his pipe & slippers in them & get them out easily to use while riding :Pokey:;)

Clint

[pete376403]

Oxford expanding soft bag on the rear rack, holds a lot more than would be expected, comes with an assortment of bungies to tie it on, rain cover and additional straps that convert it to either a backpack or a shoulder bag - $99!
I don't like the idea of a pack rack frame sticking up where it could possibly hit your back or neck in a crash

[igor]

Great minds... The 640's KTM comfort seat is actually pretty good. :yes:



Keeping the weight balanced is definitely an important consideration. I only put light stuff on the back, all the heavy stuff goes in the bottom of the panniers. I haven't needed more space yet so I haven't looked at tank panniers, I can see how they'd be good for BMW's though as the rider could keep his pipe & slippers in them & get them out easily to use while riding :Pokey:;)

Clint

no pipe and slippers. don't put any luggage on me helicopter landing pad or put ali boxs on, but if ned to load up wife can bring her dressing gown - hair dryer and firk knows what else. . I only got 229 litres of luggage space on me bike. usually enuf

[wysper]

Well, attacked Harrys electrics today.

Removed side stand switch
Disabled clutch safety thing.
Left the neutral light diodes alone, still nice to see when one is in neutral.

Test ride and all ok.

So now the side stand should not give me grief nor the clutch safety if I break a something etc.

Really was as easy as I was told. Would have been even quicker if I had something I could of used for a jumper when removing the side stand relay.

Bit odd being able to start the bike without pulling in the clutch though. Wonder how long it will take to get used to that.

Next on the list is snorkel and washer to lift the needle.
( I like reversible mods!)

[NordieBoy]

Next on the list is snorkel and washer to lift the needle.
( I like reversible mods!)

I once thought like you :yes::innocent:

[bart]

Haha, I finally ripped the side stand switch thingy today. Side cutters and insulation tape....magic. Should have done it months ago.

[wysper]

The instructions I got of ADV rider (at least I am pretty sure that was where they were), showed how to do it without cutting wires and in such a way it was easily reversible if I want to put it back to orig for sale maybe.

But as Nordie suggested, I am not sure how long that attitude will last :bye:

[dino3310]

its like a bug mate you cant stop at just one mod:yes:

[wysper]

Harry now has a givi top box attached to his pat walsh luggage rack.
I am pretty sure I will cop flack for it LOL, but so far it has been bloody convenient.

The main reason was so when I start taking my daughter to school on the bike, there will be a place to carry her school bag and then take her helmet away with me after drop off, she will be picked up by my wife for the ride home.

Next on my list is some Wolfman Side racks and panniers, I am waiting for a reply from them as they are running a special on some gear at the moment.

Check it out. http://www.wolfmanluggage.com/Expedition/expd_dry_saddle_bags.html

[dino3310]

cool mate, yeah they look a bit fag, but hey who gives a toss the convenience far out wieghts the looks. i never regreted putting one one the BIG. Plus they store frozen bait and beer quite well:niceone:

[Moki]

I am beginning to understand that the KLR riders need any advantage they can get over the DR Side.

We haven't even started rotting yer brain yet....

[wysper]

http://www.wolfmanluggage.com/Expedition/expd_dry_saddle_bags.html[/url]

Bit naff quoting yourself but.... that luggage special, while being quite cool. Pair of adventure panniers for 214 us, the racks are another 214 us and shipping is 150 us (two boxes).
Makes it a bit pricey for me at the mo!

Might have to look at bodging (sp?) options in true Scrapheap challenge style!

[wysper]

We haven't even started rotting yer brain yet....

ahhaha good luck with rotting my brain... pretty rotten already... :shit: but it will be fun to put friendly digs into all the other rides out there.

[Crim]

Pair of adventure panniers for 214 us, the racks are another 214 us and shipping is 150 us (two boxes).

These have been mentioned on a few discussions, although I don't know if anyone has taken the plunge and got one yet - but they do look good, no mounting stuff to "scrapheap challenge" on, on and off the bike in seconds and plenty of storage!

http://www.giantloopmoto.com/products/coyote-saddlebag

[Squiggles]

These have been mentioned on a few discussions, although I don't know if anyone has taken the plunge and got one yet - but they do look good, no mounting stuff to "scrapheap challenge" on, on and off the bike in seconds and plenty of storage!

http://www.giantloopmoto.com/products/coyote-saddlebag

Procycle sells em (http://www.procycle.us/images/dualsport/giantloopbag_inst.jpg)

[cooneyr]

Procycle sells em (http://www.procycle.us/images/dualsport/giantloopbag_inst.jpg)

Buy direct from the manufacture i.e. the Giant loop website. Wachs on Advrider is the dude who invented, developed and manufactures them.

[Crisis management]

Take less crap with you.......really look at what you need and only take that with you, it is surprising how little you do need, a tank bag and one seat top bag is all I need for 4 to 5 days.
That includes a sleeping bag, wet weather gear, changes of important clothing and enough spare layers for snow, tools, first aid and emergency food & water.

Less weight is good so be selective about your gear.

[wysper]

Take less crap with you.......really look at what you need and only take that with you, it is surprising how little you do need, a tank bag and one seat top bag is all I need for 4 to 5 days.
That includes a sleeping bag, wet weather gear, changes of important clothing and enough spare layers for snow, tools, first aid and emergency food & water.

Less weight is good so be selective about your gear.

Good points. Tent, sleeping bag, thermarest are the bulky items. Take up a fair amount of space, it is the space more than the weight at this stage. I can travel pretty light usually so it is the above items I want to ensure I can carry and I will make the rest fit where it can LOL.

[dino3310]

weekend rides went from this 216934
to this 216936
then to this216937
seems like on every over nighter i learn to pack less:Punk:

[wysper]

Thats awesome dino.

I presume you don't take a tent with you and either stay in cabins or other venues?

Maybe I should try and skip step one and two :done:

[Bass]

A DR can be persuaded to carry a fair bit.
This load included: -
Extra fuel
Water
Food for 4 days
Camping gear
Cooking gear
Extensive spare parts
Tools
Clothing
Camera
Chargers
etc
etc

The handling was pretty crap, but.

[That looks like fun]

weekend rides went from this 216934
to this 216936
then to this216937
seems like on every over nighter i learn to pack less:Punk:

Packing only what you need as oppsed to what you want is the secret :yes:
But why did you not pack the fishing rod again :gob: I have often thought of how to pack mine :shifty::yes::yes:

[pete376403]

Packing only what you need as oppsed to what you want is the secret :yes:
But why did you not pack the fishing rod again :gob: I have often thought of how to pack mine :shifty::yes::yes:
One of these perhaps:


http://www.sella.co.nz/general/sports/fishing/salt-water/rods/6cd5tm/

[dino3310]

retire to shared cabins when i can, in summer i just use a blue plastic from warehouse tied to bike and pegs.
my rod holders are just pvc down pipe with cap on one end with a little rubber in there to stop vibes, bungy to rear foot peg and rack. can take 3 rods and 2 rod holders surf casting(one pvc holder on each peg)
dont bother much now with the XR, i miss the top box(great for bait and beer)

[wysper]

Right, after giving Harry a wee lie down in the sand on Murawai Beach lately, I have found the major bike damage is bent handle bars.

Now I understand that the stock bars on the DR are pretty soft, so my options here are either replace the bars with stronger ones or bend the original ones back straight.

On the plus side I think the softness of the bars mean that nothing else was damaged as the bars twisted instead of anything else.

What would you guys do? Straighten the bars or buy new stronger ones?
I am leaning towards straightening them. Would rather bent bars than bent steering bits!! (technical term used there to cover all sorts of lack of knowledge!)

[NordieBoy]

I find the original bars are too low anyway.

[Padmei]

I straight\ened mine however didn't like it so bent them back:shifty:

[dino3310]

I find the original bars are too low anyway.

fook i reckon, totally recommend 1 1/2 - 2" risers with pro taper or simular......
way better control.

even stronger bars bend

[Crisis management]

I vote for just straightening them at this stage as you may well find that once you have a bit more seat time you will have a better idea of what height / sweep bars you want, you may well buy the wrong bars for you at this stage.

Wedge the wheel against something solid and bend them back.

Get 2000kms on gravel under your belt and you will have a clear idea of what bars you want. Anyone for a west coast ride this weekend?









Promise not to damage anyone this time Brent.

[wysper]

I vote for just straightening them at this stage as you may well find that once you have a bit more seat time you will have a better idea of what height / sweep bars you want, you may well buy the wrong bars for you at this stage.

Wedge the wheel against something solid and bend them back.

Get 2000kms on gravel under your belt and you will have a clear idea of what bars you want. Anyone for a west coast ride this weekend?








Promise not to damage anyone this time Brent.

good thoughts.

not this weekend but next weekend I am off to a mates place in TGA and he is going to help me fabricate some pannier racks, we will look at straightening the bars then.
I will pop into Boyds this week just so they can cast their eyes over it and make sure there is nothing else bent!

[Woodman]

Leave them bent. Seriously you will get used to it so much tthat if you put straight ones on then they will feel bent.

[yafeetup]

depending on whether they are just out of line or truely bent, straighting them will weaking them more. They have been stressed do you really wanna go to lift the front wheel one day and have them break. Nothing worse than riding with bent bars, buy some good quality ones.

[wysper]

depending on whether they are just out of line or truely bent, straighting them will weaking them more. They have been stressed do you really wanna go to lift the front wheel one day and have them break. Nothing worse than riding with bent bars, buy some good quality ones.

man would I love to be able to lift the front wheel, that is just another of my inadequacies!
It is also something I would like to learn.

[yafeetup]

man would I love to be able to lift the front wheel, that is just another of my inadequacies!
It is also something I would like to learn.

easy to teach wheel stands, its like pulling up to a stop sign and not putting your feet down, play and practice

[clint640]

man would I love to be able to lift the front wheel, that is just another of my inadequacies!
It is also something I would like to learn.

I'm shit at proper multi-gear 100km/h impress the chix type wheelies too, but being able to lighten the front is a good thing to practice for when that hidden killer rut/tree branch/poodle jumps out in front of ye. Lay a wee stick on the ground, putt up to it standing up in 1st or 2nd, then put yer weight back, give her a handful & pull up on the bars to wheelie over your mark. Good fun.

Cheers
Clint

[wysper]

I'm shit at proper multi-gear 100km/h impress the chix type wheelies too, but being able to lighten the front is a good thing to practice for when that hidden killer rut/tree branch/poodle jumps out in front of ye. Lay a wee stick on the ground, putt up to it standing up in 1st or 2nd, then put yer weight back, give her a handful & pull up on the bars to wheelie over your mark. Good fun.

Cheers
Clint

Might try that before I straighten the bars :Punk: :rofl:

[cooneyr]

Since I've had the old XR250 I've been trying to improve my wheelie/log hopping skills and I reckon that compressing the suspension i.e. jumping and gassing on the rebound helps. I can get the front of the 950 of the ground (a few mm) doing this as well. You just have to learn how fast the suspension compresses and rebounds so you can get the timing right if you actually want to get over a log.

If you feel like abusing your clutch, just dip it as you are accelerating but be prepared with the rear brake. Did this once on a RMX250 and have never done it again.:shutup: