A step into The Darkness [Archive]

Paul in NZ

24th May 2013, 09:07

Since selling the beloved Moto Guzzi life has moved on apace. 6 months ago I honestly would have called you mad if you had suggested a future without the big red beast lurking in the shed. However – life never moves in straight predictable lines and sometimes things fall off during sudden and unexpected turns.

People will tell you never to get attached to vehicles – they are just machines but Moto Guzzi owners will never tell you that. You go through a lot with Guzzi’s, a total emersion project really but one thing about the old Guzzi was that it wasn’t going to change its basic nature and my life was changing. So despite people telling me ‘You can’t sell THAT” I did. It came down to did I own the bike or was it owning me? And I was starting to resent it. No longer was I standing gazing at its glory but rather dark mutterings about its failings. It was time for someone else to enjoy her charms. Frankly it was an easy sale within hours of going onto TradeMe to a gent who had met me at a rally and knew the bike – in fact I could have sold it 3 times over to people who knew the bike – flattering but I think it went to a good home and he seems happy.

The sudden liquidity allowed me to solve a few pressing issues. Enough so that all the little issues resolved themselves like magic and all the while the two youngest daughters have been moving through the late stages of pregnancy (1 born one to go) and Vicki has worked her way through a voluntary redundancy to a satisfactory end (not really but close enough).

Suddenly – after weeks of furious activity and big decisions we found ourselves out the other side, a space in the garage next to the TR6C and with a few dollars in our kick. Vicki just told me to buy whatever I liked and what I liked was something more modern that I wouldn’t have to fuss after but was capable of taking us about the landscape in style. We wanted something ‘sporty’ and silly as with the weight of ages starting to press a little harder on our shoulders we wondered just how many hard riding years we had left in us – time for one last tip at the windmill though!

I was going to build a café racer but one look at the jobs I need to complete around the homestead told me I wouldn’t have time for both so something modern and effortless. That left a pretty wide open field so a bit more thinking was needed to narrow it down. Basically we agreed that we had been spoilt and had become brand snobs – tragic but true and helpful in deciding. So it had to be another Guzzi or a Triumph.

We settled on a 2000 on 955i Daytona or Speed Triple but despite reaching agreement on price with several people and then having them sell it out from under us (meh – what are you going to do) or revealing flaws in themselves or the bikes we found nothing we liked enough to buy. Basically any Daytona needed to be cheap enough for us to justify purchase due to the mods to make it more comfortable. We widened the scope and shock horror we have purchased sight unseen and having never ever ridden one a 2005 Triumph Sprint ST 1050…. I’m not sold on the looks but everyone raves about how the go and what the hell can you tell about a bike like that in a 5 minute test ride? Sometimes you just have to say ‘its only money’ and step off into the darkness hoping for wings. Damn stupid thing to do but frankly so is riding a motorcycle in the first place. It will arrive at our place sometime soon and then I will find out if we made a sound choice or not….

So far – its been a great ride…

nudemetalz

24th May 2013, 09:12

Well done big congrats, Paul. Okay it's not a Guzzi, but it'll do ;)

oneofsix

24th May 2013, 09:30

Well done, hope you enjoy it. Look forward to seeing it around.

Edbear

24th May 2013, 10:37

Wot they sed! And goodonyer! :yes:

Big Dave

24th May 2013, 11:00

Paul in NZ

24th May 2013, 11:44

Nice all round bike. Does most road duties admirably. Smokin' fast compared to a Guzzi.
Service costs won't delight you. Replace the timing chain at recommended interval.
Kyaba shock is emulsion type and will probably need replacing if not already done.

Thanks Dave. Yes - we will have to wear the servicing costs for a while at least.... Fully expect to replace the shock sometime as well. Which is irksome but we will see....

As for smokin fast well the speed limits the limit but we expect it to be a lot less stressful... Thats the measure of success here.

scumdog

24th May 2013, 11:58

You sure you're up to the technology?:bleh:

Well done, enjoy the experience Paul.

Big Dave

24th May 2013, 12:04

After you live with if for a while be interesting to see if you agree with my assessment that it's the best mass produced Road Bike engine yet.

Swoop

24th May 2013, 12:11

A very good choice Paul. A workmate has the ST and loves it. Comfortable for longer rides and a nice "all-rounder".
:woohoo:

edit: he has taken it to Dr Taylor's however...

Paul in NZ

24th May 2013, 12:20

After you live with if for a while be interesting to see if you agree with my assessment that it's the best mass produced Road Bike engine yet.

Considering your wider experience in such things Dave I'd be have to be hard pressed to even enter into that discussion with you. Humbling as that might be to admit... I have low expectations in that regards so I think I will be a happy camper. I did explain about the heat coming through the seat to Vicki and she went all dreamy and said 'Oh Really????' hmmm

Paul in NZ

24th May 2013, 12:23

You sure you're up to the technology?:bleh:

Well done, enjoy the experience Paul.

Yes I think so - I have ordered the workshop manual and fully expect some things to be totally beyond me but the little stuff won't be too hard. I have written to Mr Bloor explaining he put the camshafts too high up and offering some suggestions and explained the virtues of flatheads but thus far there is no reply. I suspect the mailman is jealous and hiding the mail...

Hitcher

24th May 2013, 12:33

Apparently these are started by pushing a button on the handlebars. Seriously.

Enjoy, and we look forward to seeing you out and about at some stage.

Big Dave

24th May 2013, 12:34

The grunt of a twin and the legs of an IL4. Narrow, relatively light and compact, extremely responsive and doesn't save its best work till over 200kph.
Peach of a donk.

I just have that service cost downer on all shim adjustable valves. Cohen thing.

Paul in NZ

24th May 2013, 13:04

Apparently these are started by pushing a button on the handlebars. Seriously..

Look you cant wind me up that easily.... The man at the shop told me it was a push start as the kickstarts obviously fallen off.... The brakes have gone all flat and thin as well...

Crasherfromwayback

24th May 2013, 13:29

Big Dave

24th May 2013, 14:03

It's a gem for sure. But nothing comes close to a Busa engine far as I'm concerned.

I like Hyabusas. Best cockpit on a bike too.
1050 Triple is better at NZ legal speeds.
Also easier to chuck around - Speed Triple like.

Anybody seen engine weights data?

Crasherfromwayback

24th May 2013, 14:16

I like Hyabusas. Best cockpit on a bike too.
1050 Triple is better at NZ legal speeds.
Also easier to chuck around - Speed Triple like.

Anybody seen engine weights data?

Yeah I love Speed Triples. Fuggin cool as bikes. Funny think with Busa's though I reckon...as sick as they are when on full noise, they're actually a big pussy cat and as easy as fuck to pootle round on I reckon. I couldn't tell you what either engine weights mate...but the busa is a big unit for sure.

Big Dave

24th May 2013, 14:23

I meant like has anyone seen a page listing motorcycle engine weights. I seem to recall a quote from one somewhere, but time->mists.

Tigadee

24th May 2013, 14:24

It's a Triumph, that in itself is good enough! Hope you enjoy her for much longer than the Buzzi Guzzi...

nudemetalz

24th May 2013, 15:44

Does it rock side to side at the lights though?

merv

24th May 2013, 16:04

Mate I'm pleased to hear the TR6C is still in the garage as you were threatening to sell that at the time too. I'm sure you'll have fun on the new bike.

Crasherfromwayback

24th May 2013, 16:04

Does it rock side to side at the lights though?

With a full tank of fuel it may well!

blackdog

24th May 2013, 16:44

Does it rock side to side at the lights though?

Nope, but it still gets the birds wet.

Laava

24th May 2013, 20:20

Nope, but it still gets the birds wet.

What, it leaks oil like the Rena?

vifferman

24th May 2013, 20:34

I just have that service cost downer on all shim adjustable valves. Cohen thing.
Obviously, you meant: "..all shim adjustable valves (apart from 5th Gen VFRs)". :yes:
62,000 MILES on my engine, and no shims required in the last 9 years. :blink:

Oh - and congratulations on the new ride, Paul! May you have very many happy years and thousands of truly enjoyable kilometers on your new toy!

Road kill

24th May 2013, 21:24

From Guzzi to new Triumph,,,,there's going to be culture shock.

The most I've been able to do to my new bike is wipe it down an polish bits.

Stopped carrying tools.:pinch:

Paul in NZ

25th May 2013, 08:46

From Guzzi to new Triumph,,,,there's going to be culture shock.

The most I've been able to do to my new bike is wipe it down an polish bits.

Stopped carrying tools.:pinch:

Um - new ish Triumph.... Can't afford new stuff and when you think what this bike cost new in 2005 and what we purchased it for now - gulp!

Paul in NZ

31st May 2013, 20:56

Well after some 'difficulties' the great silver beast has appeared in the shed. Like the parsons egg its definately 'good in parts'. Its generally fabulous but I'm a little suspicious about its history. Not enough to actually care mind you - its everything I needed in a bike and I'm frankly thrilled to bits. Even Miss Vicki went phoaar.... Got to be good.

So - one ride around the block? Well lets talk about the bad stuff... Theres no handbook, well there might be one under the seat but I cant figure out to get it off... yet.... So what sort of oil? How do I alter the clock etc etc - usual stuff that will solve itself soon. It could do with a damn good clean but I'm unreasonable in that regard and trust me I will enjoy doing it.... The suspension? Um - yeah you could get yourself into bother with that - way to soft so we will adjust it for now and review replacements.

The good bits - I LIKE it.... It has ooooooodddddleees of what I need, comfort, power, and it feels like a rock at 100kph. It is exactly what we need right now - we will get it the way we want it and look out - we hope to square off a lot of tyres boringly trundling

Ocean1

31st May 2013, 21:21

Nice!

Extended summer tour more or less compulsory, there no?

Paul in NZ

31st May 2013, 22:45

Nice!

Extended summer tour more or less compulsory, there no?

Waiting for summer? um.... dont think I can wait that long

liljegren

1st June 2013, 00:13

I dont know about the 1050, but i downloaded all the manuals for my Tuono online, used the Aprilia website. Cast around mate, someone will have posted it, I reckon.

Paul in NZ

1st June 2013, 08:04

I dont know about the 1050, but i downloaded all the manuals for my Tuono online, used the Aprilia website. Cast around mate, someone will have posted it, I reckon.

Yup - on the list of jobs for today....

Owl

1st June 2013, 08:42

Paul in NZ

1st June 2013, 08:54

James Deuce

1st June 2013, 09:06

The battery may cause ANZAC Day issues.

Fantastic purchase Paul. Looking forward to you chroming the frame and swingarm and adding an extra wheel. If you route the exhaust through the new extended two wheel swingarm, you'll be able to put a decent sub-woofer in the hole the exhaust used to occupy. I know this guy who can airbrush a wicked python. I've PMed his details.

Owl

1st June 2013, 09:17

Thanks - downloaded boh ;-)

wHY AVOID THE (argh I hae caps lock) battery????

They don't like the cold and in my experience, start degrading from 15˚C down. Sometimes they require waking up (running lights, hiting start button) in order to start the bike. None of which is good for your sprag. While lead-acid will crank with less vigor during Summer, it will remain consistant thoughout the year.

Replacement sprag is larger than original and is more resistant to failure. Cost for replacement is in excess of $1k.:(

283507

Paul in NZ

1st June 2013, 09:49

Paul in NZ

1st June 2013, 09:52

They don't like the cold and in my experience, start degrading from 15˚C down. Sometimes they require waking up (running lights, hiting start button) in order to start the bike. None of which is good for your sprag. While lead-acid will crank with less vigor during Summer, it will remain consistant thoughout the year.

Replacement sprag is larger than original and is more resistant to failure. Cost for replacement is in excess of $1k.:(

Well lets hope thats not happening soon....

If you don't mind me asking - Whats with the headlight? Low beam is acceptable but high beam seems to um - 'lack penetration'... cough....

James Deuce

1st June 2013, 09:53

Shit - not ANZAC day issues.... How about if i reset the clock to a date before the landings, heck - why not to 1647 and avoid the whole thing....
Don't blame me, you're the one who suddenly fast-forwarded 25 years into the future. These are your timeline issues to sort out.

Owl

1st June 2013, 10:06

Whats with the headlight?

Sorry, can't help with that Paul as mine is a Speed Triple i.e. two useless headlights as opposed to one.:rolleyes:

pritch

1st June 2013, 10:22

Congratulations on the new purchase. BIKE liked the Sprint much better then the later Sprint GT. Not sure about the battery references, and not wishing to jinx myself, but the Speed Triple has not given any trouble and as someone said I was runniing every electrical accessory known to man.

You'll love that engine, it's a really great road engine.

Paul in NZ

1st June 2013, 13:23

You'll love that engine, it's a really great road engine.

Yes its great. Just back from a quick two up ride to the Hutt and back. Getting windy and wet here now so it was a good test. Saggy suspension aside its great to have a bike that sort of goes 'pillion? what pillion????' and you really only need to change down if you feel like it or the road speed drops ridiculously. Other wise its just twist and go and we got off feeling short changed - come on, lets go to Taupo sort of deal.... Well it was once I stopped gripping the bars and seat in a demented death grip. As Jim said this is a leap forwards several generations for us so adjustment will take some time.

End of the day this is EXACTLY what we wanted and needed. Very pleased.

BMWST?

1st June 2013, 13:38

Yes its great. Just back from a quick two up ride to the Hutt and back. Getting windy and wet here now so it was a good test. Saggy suspension aside its great to have a bike that sort of goes 'pillion? what pillion????' and you really only need to change down if you feel like it or the road speed drops ridiculously. Other wise its just twist and go and we got off feeling short changed - come on, lets go to Taupo sort of deal.... Well it was once I stopped gripping the bars and seat in a demented death grip. As Jim said this is a leap forwards several generations for us so adjustment will take some time.

End of the day this is EXACTLY what we wanted and needed. Very pleased.

sounds good..i was very impressed with the 1050 sport i took for a ride the other day..triples rock(in more ways than one)

sels1

10th June 2013, 15:30

End of the day this is EXACTLY what we wanted and needed. Very pleased.

Congrats Paul, and welcome to the world of Hinkley Triples. I would concur with Big Daves comment earlier.

Paul in NZ

10th June 2013, 18:39

Congrats Paul, and welcome to the world of Hinkley Triples. I would concur with Big Daves comment earlier.

Thanks mate - we are thus far stoked....

Gave the old suspension a wee tweak... Set to a bit stiffer than the owners manual specified once i freed the adjusters up and it transformed the bike. Smoother and sharper steering.... Not perfect but way better. The front was set softer than factory by a mile...

Didnt even get me fingers dirty..... sweet.....

BMWST?

10th June 2013, 19:26

Thanks mate - we are thus far stoked....

Gave the old suspension a wee tweak... Set to a bit stiffer than the owners manual specified once i freed the adjusters up and it transformed the bike. Smoother and sharper steering.... Not perfect but way better. The front was set softer than factory by a mile...

Didnt even get me fingers dirty..... sweet.....

oh by the way http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=602494574

Paul in NZ

11th June 2013, 07:35

Yeah thanks for that but I think we covered that in Bossladies thread about this exact bag..... Undoing the whole thing everytime I need gas might get timesome and I doubt it would fir the slightly odd ST tank

Edbear

11th June 2013, 07:50

Found a workshop manual while looking for the owner's manual. ABS though, but no doubt useful.

http://www.bikersoracle.com/triumphsprint/forum/showthread.php?t=5884

One word of advice. Keep the battery up to scratch and avoid trying to start if battery is drained/failing. Early 1050's have a weak sprag clutch and fail loudly. Also avoid LiFePO4 batteries...they will do your 1050 no favours.

Oh I nearly forgot...congratulations and enjoy your new ride!

Oi! I heard that! :girlfight:

Actually the issue with the 1050's came to light a couple of years ago and was resolved by simply upping the battery size. For some reason, and the Rocket 3's are especially sensitive to this, Triumphs seem to need the battery to be at max charge at first start. The Shorai charger when used as a tender, maintains the battery at 80% which for most engines is more than enough to start but Triumphs have some kind of system we have yet to sort, that won't work if the battery is 10 - 15% down. So your advice on that is spot on.

It was a Rocket owner in Invers that found this out via his auto electrician, an expert on Triumphs, so he's swapped to a 36A and is going to get back to me about his results. For the 1050, the original recommendation was a 14A but now an 18A is the recommended size.

Drew

11th June 2013, 08:37

After you live with if for a while be interesting to see if you agree with my assessment that it's the best mass produced Road Bike engine yet.

It's a gem for sure. But nothing comes close to a Busa engine far as I'm concerned.Is this the same motor as the speed nipple of the same year? Fuck it is a great motor for sure! Doesn't have quite the same flexibility as the early gixxer thou motor. I still don't think anything compares to that. But I doubt anything can given the way manufacturers 'focus' these days.

Oi! I heard that! :girlfight:

Actually the issue with the 1050's came to light a couple of years ago and was resolved by simply upping the battery size. For some reason, and the Rocket 3's are especially sensitive to this, Triumphs seem to need the battery to be at max charge at first start. The Shorai charger when used as a tender, maintains the battery at 80% which for most engines is more than enough to start but Triumphs have some kind of system we have yet to sort, that won't work if the battery is 10 - 15% down. So your advice on that is spot on.

It was a Rocket owner in Invers that found this out via his auto electrician, an expert on Triumphs, so he's swapped to a 36A and is going to get back to me about his results. For the 1050, the original recommendation was a 14A but now an 18A is the recommended size.

Hmmm, so your batteries rely on a certain draw before they build up a charge? That's why we don't run the lithium battery in the sidecar. ZX14 doesn't like it at all.

Edbear

11th June 2013, 08:49

Is this the same motor as the speed nipple of the same year? Fuck it is a great motor for sure! Doesn't have quite the same flexibility as the early gixxer thou motor. I still don't think anything compares to that. But I doubt anything can given the way manufacturers 'focus' these days.

Hmmm, so your batteries rely on a certain draw before they build up a charge? That's why we don't run the lithium battery in the sidecar. ZX14 doesn't like it at all.

Only on Triumphs for some reason to do with their starting system. The Kwaka should be fine as most others are. What have you tried in it? The recommendation is the 21A which, incidentally, is what I am using in our MX5. Weighs 1.3kg.

Drew

11th June 2013, 08:52

Only on Triumphs for some reason to do with their starting system. The Kwaka should be fine as most others are. What have you tried in it? The recommendation is the 21A which, incidentally, is what I am using in our MX5. Weighs 1.3kg.

One we have is undoubtedly too small then. Dunno how many amps it is, but there's not the slightest chance it'd start a car!

For the money, we don't see it as a priority to run a Lithium battery. I'm not too barred up at the however small chance, of the thing exploding whilst sitting right next to our fuel tank either.

Edbear

11th June 2013, 09:08

One we have is undoubtedly too small then. Dunno how many amps it is, but there's not the slightest chance it'd start a car!

For the money, we don't see it as a priority to run a Lithium battery. I'm not too barred up at the however small chance, of the thing exploding whilst sitting right next to our fuel tank either.

Yeah, the 21 would kick it over fast!

They don't explode and are the safest battery you can use in racing. They are Lithium Iron Phosphate, not Lithium Ion as are your cell phone batteries, etc. Your lead acid would be dangerous beside your fuel tank as they emit gasses. Especially in an accident if the battery is damaged, you can almost guarantee a fire. For cars they don't require the sealed battery box that all other batteries do and can be mounted anywhere convenient. So they are really taking off in racing for not only their size and weight but for their inherent safety. You'd save about 5kg over an equivalent lead acid.

Drew

11th June 2013, 09:19

Yeah, the 21 would kick it over fast!

They don't explode and are the safest battery you can use in racing. They are Lithium Iron Phosphate, not Lithium Ion as are your cell phone batteries, etc. Your lead acid would be dangerous beside your fuel tank as they emit gasses. Especially in an accident if the battery is damaged, you can almost guarantee a fire. For cars they don't require the sealed battery box that all other batteries do and can be mounted anywhere convenient. So they are really taking off in racing for not only their size and weight but for their inherent safety. You'd save about 5kg over an equivalent lead acid.Interesting.

We're going a long way off topic here. I simply cannot justify the price of one of your batteries, for so little gain. When we're running front-ish of the pack, and need every scrap of gain we can get to win it might get bumped up the priority list. But for now we'll carry on with what we have.

Edbear

11th June 2013, 09:41

Interesting.

We're going a long way off topic here. I simply cannot justify the price of one of your batteries, for so little gain. When we're running front-ish of the pack, and need every scrap of gain we can get to win it might get bumped up the priority list. But for now we'll carry on with what we have.

Cool mate! You know your budget and if you're winning with what you have I can't criticise.

I admit it is the safety aspect that is getting the attention of the car racers mainly, but the size and weight is what attracts the superbikes and really all the bike racers as kilos lost directly equate to hp gained.

But yes, we are off topic a bit... :whistle:

Drew

11th June 2013, 09:58

Cool mate! You know your budget and if you're winning with what you have I can't criticise.

No no, when we are running at the front. As in, some time in the future. Not, don't need it because we are running at the front of the pack.

Edbear

11th June 2013, 10:01

No no, when we are running at the front. As in, some time in the future. Not, don't need it because we are running at the front of the pack.

Ah okay, maybe I was being prophetic... :innocent:

Owl

11th June 2013, 17:52

Oi! I heard that! :girlfight:

No need to use me to hijack another thread and push your batteries Ed.:yawn:

Edbear

11th June 2013, 20:54

No need to use me to hijack another thread and push your batteries Ed.:yawn:

I know, but I felt your point needed clarifying regards the issues the 1050 had with LiFePO4 otherwise you might have put people off the tech when it is explainable. Also your comment re: not trying to start on a battery less than fully charged is correct for most Triumph models but I can explain why that is rather than it being a mystery.

The fact that Drew asked further questions meant it was courteous to answer them too. Unlike some other times when I have cheekily promoted the Shorai brand this was more to do with technical information that would be valuable to know.

I don't rely at all on KB to sell or promote as that would hardly make any difference to my business anyway. I have a sense of humour that everyone should pick up on and I enjoy banter. Didn't mean to hijack the thread.

Paul in NZ

13th June 2013, 10:11

Now that the side car battery question is settled lets press on...

The hot grips are fitted. This is a genuine first for me but thus far they seem like a bloodly good idea, especially considering that the first big test will be riding down to Christchurch weekend of 12th July for the TOMCC 20th anniversary get together.

http://tomcc.co.nz/20th-anniversary-celebrations-invitation/

We will head down mid week to catch up with family but ChCh in July? Sheesh!

I am still working on a tank bag solution. The factory set up is a full cover with bag on top. I can get the cover but not the bag but surely if I can actually get the cover I can adapt a bag to it… Anyway – it’s a work in progress.

We decided to travel down a little differently this time. Rather than the usual 8am sailing we are opting for a Bluebridge crossing at 2:30 am. We have booked a cabin and apparently we can rock up at 10pm the night before and load the bike and grab some shuteye in the cabin. Turn up in Picton 6:30 or so and ride off with the whole day ahead of us. 1st stop will be breakfast some place and then away.

BMWST?

13th June 2013, 13:27

Seems a very efficient and a little more civilised than 2 30 am routine
RE the heated grips they make a big difference theu more than just hand warmers

sent from the tag

oneofsix

13th June 2013, 13:33

Paul in NZ

13th June 2013, 14:32

Saw an article on those Bluebridge sailings and thought they sounded like a good idea, Mrs wasn't as keen, and I'm the one that is the bad sailor :lol: But when you have a 45 min ride in, have to be at the boat an hour early and want to get as far south as possible in a day, they sound like a good solution.

The cabins look nice and they have free wifi and ensuite...

http://www.bluebridge.co.nz/ferry-facilities/private-cabins/#facilities%20&%20amenities

If it converts literally hours of sitting around doing nothing into riding time its got to be a good thing...

oneofsix

13th June 2013, 14:39

The cabins look nice and they have free wifi and ensuite...

http://www.bluebridge.co.nz/ferry-facilities/private-cabins/#facilities%20&%20amenities

If it converts literally hours of sitting around doing nothing into riding time its got to be a good thing...

Yeah the wifi should keep you busy so you don't rock the boat too much ;) Don't want to make the crossing too rough or they might turn back. Wifi should be safe to post on KB, check the road conditions etc just don't give in to the temptation to check your bank balance or anything stupid like that. There probably wont be much on KB at those hours so you might have to wifi some youtube, wonder how much data they allow?

Paul in NZ

13th June 2013, 15:33

Yeah the wifi should keep you busy so you don't rock the boat too much ;) Don't want to make the crossing too rough or they might turn back. Wifi should be safe to post on KB, check the road conditions etc just don't give in to the temptation to check your bank balance or anything stupid like that. There probably wont be much on KB at those hours so you might have to wifi some youtube, wonder how much data they allow?

Dunno but I'm hoping I will get some sleep.... So I wont be wifi ing much ;-)

I will certainly ask if Ms Vicki wants to 'rock the boat' as its traditional but certainly not reporting it here... Actually - thinking about it I certainly won't use that term either... The response will be 'are you saying I'm fat?' and the possibility of any rocking will disappear into the ether... Ah - the romance of travel...

Big Dave

13th June 2013, 15:34

How TOMCC times have changed.

'A Hinckley - fuck off'.

oneofsix

13th June 2013, 15:39

Dunno but I'm hoping I will get some sleep.... So I wont be wifi ing much ;-)

I will certainly ask if Ms Vicki wants to 'rock the boat' as its traditional but certainly not reporting it here... Actually - thinking about it I certainly won't use that term either... The response will be 'are you saying I'm fat?' and the possibility of any rocking will disappear into the ether... Ah - the romance of travel...

:rofl: :2thumbsup
Have a nice trip and certainly don't upset the Mrs because it will just make you miserable. :eek5:
I will be interested in how those heated grips go.

Paul in NZ

13th June 2013, 15:55

How TOMCC times have changed.

'A Hinckley - fuck off'.

Yes indeed Large Dave.... Interesting how 'some' things change over the years but to provide a balanced view... The TOMCC lot were not first in the 'fuck off' stakes... Now of course there are 3 Triumph clubs with little love lost between them...

As someone on this erstwhile forum once said... "triumph riders have always been tools' I must be a double tool now...

A few years back I would not have been seen dead on a bike like the ST... But times change and sometimes people change too...

Big Dave

13th June 2013, 16:08

Yeah - it's been open to all for quite a while now hey.

I always enjoyed the RAT events. Some of those early Raids shaped my time in NZ. Enduring friendships.

merv

13th June 2013, 16:29

t
We decided to travel down a little differently this time. Rather than the usual 8am sailing we are opting for a Bluebridge crossing at 2:30 am. We have booked a cabin and apparently we can rock up at 10pm the night before and load the bike and grab some shuteye in the cabin. Turn up in Picton 6:30 or so and ride off with the whole day ahead of us. 1st stop will be breakfast some place and then away.

What a bloody good idea :woohoo:. Dunno about the "rocking" they look like rather narrow single beds lol.

Paul in NZ

30th June 2013, 17:53

Bah! We have been limited to short jaunts on this bike since we purchased it... Two new grand babies arriving, two new jobs, a new car for Vickster, a voluntary redundancy (yeah right) and a bunch of other stuff have taken time... Plus the weather on occasion has been VERY unreaonable requiring a few garden jobs...

However sunday was the monthly classic club ride so we thought it would be a good idea to test out Vickis new jacket and pants on the new bike....

Now the one thing on this bike thats 'worried' me is the battery. The dealer we purchased from did fess up and say the battery was flat when he tried to start it but that was likely just because the bike had sat unused.... hmmmmmm..... (he did say to contact him if this proved not to be the case and we will but not because we expect him to pay for a new one) I had the local shop fit the hot grips because I didnt have time (see above) and they said - the battery went flat but probably cos we were fucking about with the hot grips.... hmmmmmm... "Replace it says I"... Nah mate - waste of money as it charged up like a good un..... hmmmmmmm.....

Sunday of the ride - Up early - hit the gym for sunday funday and home for an early lunch - suit up and hit the road... whirrr..... clunk......

Now despite having the battery doc connected and telling me it was green for go - it was flatter than my wallet...

Feck.....

So... times ticking and rather than jump on the Trophy I decided supercheap was just up the road and.... nope.....Needed a YTX 12-BS - they only have a YTX 14-BS which is too big....

Repco has nothing... But Porirua has one... OK - lets forget the classic club and go for a drive and good to their word Repco Porirua has the right sized battery... A katana??? (eh???) "oh its made by yuasa-century the spotty faced oik tells me"... Oh kay says I - is it charged up and ready to go? "oh no - you need to slip this in and charge it" as he withdraws a pack of 6 little bottles of acid... Erm.... how do you mean 'slip it in"?'... "Oh you break the seal and drop the pack in" I point out the bottles of acid are at least 40mm taller than the battery...

"you mean I pour the acid in and charge it right"... 'Oh yeah - says the clearasil kid'

Fuck that says I "this battery lives on its side and I'm fucked if I'm trusting a clip in plastic seal to close it up..."

"Oh.... but your old battery is the same.... "

"maybe - but it looks sealed from the factory to me"

Nah - fugeddit mate - I'll order a proper battery thanks....

Fuck me - in 25 years the 40 year old bike has never failed to start or had an issue with anything electrical. Had this thing a few months and its immobilised already....

Its not off to a great start... Yeah i should have insisted on a new battery but cant help being miffed...

Day wasnt a total loss though - was in a foul mood so got the MTB's out and went and tried a track we have been a bit scared about tackling... (we are rank beginners) ha - one sweaty hour later and a few "OH FUCK" downhill bits and feeling good again - day not wasted....

Owl

30th June 2013, 18:10

Paul in NZ

30th June 2013, 18:18

I'd advise you buy a Yuasa Paul! A Motobatt has more grunt (what I'm currently using), but their reliability is questionable. Mine has been fine so far.

The Sprint and Speed Triple 1050's (05-10) are under-specced and should have the YTX14-BS, but they don't. Earlier triples had the 14 and so does the latest Speed Triple.

Thanks for that. The motobatt went well in the Moto Guzzi (which also always started btw) ;-) Got to be better than what I currently have ha ha.... I think its just the last bach which had a lot of out of box failures..

I actually measured a YTX14-BS side by side and can't see how it could fit into the battery tray? The battery fits on its side into a fitted plastic tray and its very snug in there. Its significantly taller and thus wider in the tray once on its side...

BMWST?

30th June 2013, 18:48

its taken me two episodes like that to realise its just not worth F&^%$#n about with batteries on their last legs.Once they go flat by themselves in a short period they are poked.I had no end of grief with the beemer which in the end was all due to a battery like yours.Once i got a new one no issues.You cant say you werent warned !
I had similar issues with a car a few years back....new battery ,no probs.def get the bigger battery if you can fit it in their,gives you a bit more reserve withthings like heated grips!Bummer missing out on the ride tho

Drew

30th June 2013, 18:56

The Motobatt in my RF, has been magic. Will start my ZX12 with easy from cold, after no use for quite some time too.

Grunty, and I love the reversible posts.

tri boy

30th June 2013, 19:15

I bet the bike shop didn't put a relay in, when they fitted the grips.
It's a must. MHO

Paul in NZ

30th June 2013, 19:23

I bet the bike shop didn't put a relay in, when they fitted the grips.
It's a must. MHO

Nah - power off to grips with ign off.....

As has been said - I was warned and knew better... I never fuck about with batteries but for some reason I wanted to believe this was a magic one LOL.... Once they have been flattened THAT much they ar usually fucked anyway...

vifferman

30th June 2013, 20:07

I'd advise you buy a Yuasa Paul! A Motobatt has more grunt (what I'm currently using), but their reliability is questionable. Mine has been fine so far.
I've had a Motobatt in the VFR for several years now, and it's been perfectly reliable. The only thing I don't like about them is the universal terminal fittings - it's hard to get them done up tight. Having said that, even though I thought mine were a bit dodgy, they've been pretty much OK since I first bolted them on. I'd buy another Motobatt for sure.

Owl

1st July 2013, 06:49

I actually measured a YTX14-BS side by side and can't see how it could fit into the battery tray?

No it won't fit!

What I meant was that the bike should've been specced with the larger battery. Triumph made a boo boo:shutup:

sinfull

1st July 2013, 09:18

Nah - power off to grips with ign off.....

As has been said - I was warned and knew better... I never fuck about with batteries but for some reason I wanted to believe this was a magic one LOL.... Once they have been flattened THAT much they ar usually fucked anyway...

Tank bag issues Paul, Have ya sorted it ? I have an Oxford single magnet bag here you could borrow if not !

Also do ya know the Oil filter number yet ? I have an HF 191 here (probably wrong as the speed triple takes a different one) left over from when i had the 955, if your's takes that one i'll throw it your way as it may as well get used !

Also seeing ya missed out on ya ride yesterday you might want to look at this one (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=651837574846415&set=gm.681009761916145&type=1&theater) That will give it a good test before ya head south !

Paul in NZ

1st July 2013, 09:42

Tank bag issues Paul, Have ya sorted it ? I have an Oxford single magnet bag here you could borrow if not !

Also do ya know the Oil filter number yet ? I have an HF 191 here (probably wrong as the speed triple takes a different one) left over from when i had the 955, if your's takes that one i'll throw it your way as it may as well get used !

Also seeing ya missed out on ya ride yesterday you might want to look at this one (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=651837574846415&set=gm.681009761916145&type=1&theater) That will give it a good test before ya head south !

Hi - Yup - sorted out in the tank bag now thanks. I have a little strap on number (now now - not THAT kind of strap on) which will do fine until I sort out the ultimate solution which is the factory one. Sadly only the bottom half of the factory kit is on stock these days but thats OK as Patrice at Leather Direct will modify it (once it arrives) to take my old existing 'big' tank bag which already has a zip on bottom...

Have not had to fit my own oil filter yet - happily assured they are freely availiable at supercheap and the like

Ohh - the Ringo ride... Have not done that for yonks and would LOVE to do it but sadly dates clash with some other stuff (story of my bloody life atm)

I saw your speedie for sale.. Is she all sold then?

sinfull

1st July 2013, 11:05

Hi - Yup - sorted out in the tank bag now thanks. I have a little strap on number (now now - not THAT kind of strap on) which will do fine until I sort out the ultimate solution which is the factory one. Sadly only the bottom half of the factory kit is on stock these days but thats OK as Patrice at Leather Direct will modify it (once it arrives) to take my old existing 'big' tank bag which already has a zip on bottom...

Have not had to fit my own oil filter yet - happily assured they are freely availiable at supercheap and the like

Ohh - the Ringo ride... Have not done that for yonks and would LOVE to do it but sadly dates clash with some other stuff (story of my bloody life atm)

I saw your speedie for sale.. Is she all sold then?
Nah ! Still sitting there, might have to do a few things to make it more attractive, the oil cooler needs to come off and find/fix a weep it's had since it was dropped (me being me thought it was kinda cool my hinkley had a small leak lol) but that might be all i do, rather drop the price for a quick sale, than spend more money than i could recoup !
I still have the bloody Commando up on the bench waiting for me to pour several thou into making it pristine again, so am kinda looking forward to seeing the Speed3 go now !

blackdog

1st July 2013, 11:08

I still have the bloody Commando up on the bench waiting...

That bench will have rotted out from underneath it by the time you get there!

Paul in NZ

1st July 2013, 11:18

That bench will have rotted out from underneath it by the time you get there!

Not if its preserved with good oil it wont

sinfull

1st July 2013, 11:19

That bench will have rotted out from underneath it by the time you get there!

Pfffffft

It's tanalised

Paul in NZ

1st July 2013, 12:51

Pfffffft

It's tanalised

And held together with imperial bolts.....

sinfull

1st July 2013, 12:54

And held together with imperial bolts.....
Friggin WW ...........

F5 Dave

1st July 2013, 17:22

Yeah so you need a AGM battery (absorbed glass mat) which is just a convienente packaging method for a wet cell battery but they cope with being side on. I risked a Motobatt lured by their cheap price (got from battery place on Petone foreshore) & claimed superior cranking ability.

Its been just fine for last year of so. I have found that perhaps the voltage does sag down a little more than expected from new (say to 12.5 rather than 12.7 I figured it should hold), but this doesn't seem to affect it in the slightest.

As I'm riding it less these days juggling between other bikes I bought a smart trickle charger from SC & it has a covered plug that connects to the battery & I let it dangle by the pillion rest & just plug the matching plug in from time to time (swapped between other bikes, but you could just leave it on) then you never have to worry & should extend life of battery.

You only need a tiny charger. 0.8 CTEK looks ok for $90