Virago 250

[sunhuntin]

what are some people opinions on a 250 virago? am currently eyeing on up while my bike gets fixed :weep: [the regulators stuffed. wont get it back till at least monday]
the guys fixing scuff have a nice virago in their window.
i had a sit...nice light bike, low as well. v-twin. some paint rubbed off from saddle bags. $4595 [second hand] was actually offered it to ride, but declined...would hate to drop it or something. he said they had insurance, but id still feel really bad if anything happened.

does anyone have one with a givi top box? im lost without my box, and wouldnt be able to live without it, but will it look stupid? also, what saddle bags would be best, and are brackets an essential [to stop more rubbing]

[Ixion]

Something's wrong!

Here's a question about the Virago, it's been up for two WHOLE minutes and Crashe hasn't arrived yet. She must be injured or unwell!

[LilSel]

They are nice bikes...
(have one at home in the garage)

Slow in comparison to ZZR... but then thats the diff between cruiser/sport I guess.
One thing I find with the Virago is that sometimes its a real bitch to find neutral... (its not just me either lol, had a few pple go for a blat n said the same thing)(but that could just be this one... *shrug*)...

Havent got anything bad to say bout them tho :)

[MSTRS]

... im lost without my box, and wouldnt be able to stop more rubbing...

:whistle: :innocent:
Virago - nice. An excellent move from a GN. Go for it, if the price etc stacks up.

[sunhuntin]

:whistle: :innocent:
Virago - nice. An excellent move from a GN. Go for it, if the price etc stacks up.

LMFAO!!!!!

just weighing up the odds here...if i went for it, itd mean new box brackets, which would be at least $100 or more. plus i dont want to ruin the look of the bike...shes a very sexy beast. would be a fun ride, im willing to bet!

[MSTRS]

.... new box brackets, which would be at least $100 or more. plus i dont want to ruin the look of the bike....

Bikeshops are always willing to 'haggle'. If you are serious, then I suggest that part of your purchase negotiation is for them to include fitted brackets. As far as ruining the look of the bike, function over form??

[sunhuntin]

Bikeshops are always willing to 'haggle'. If you are serious, then I suggest that part of your purchase negotiation is for them to include fitted brackets. As far as ruining the look of the bike, function over form??

*cough* form over function... o....we're talking bikes! it does make life easier! plus scuffy looks like her arse has been chopped off.

the brackets were made specifically for the gn...cost me near $200, and the base plate, one of the "stems" snapped clean in half the other day. they were ordered from ventura, and im guessing id have to go the same way again?

i did see one on trademe that had a sissy bar and a softpack on a base plate behind that.

[crashe]

Here I am................ I have just spotted the thread.

Well what can I say about the Virago....

Well they are gorgeous and they are wonderful to handle...
Great around town and also great on country roads trips..

I have been all the way to Napier/Hastings on my bike......
I have been all the way up to Russell on my bike...
She runs as smooth as..... handles corners great....
Economical to boot. She has a 9.5 litre tank.....

They never break down, she just keeps on going.

Really comfy seats (if you have the 5 studded seat)
Low to the ground.... feet forward position and its like sitting on a lazyboy chair...
They are the baby Harleys.... (based on a early harley sportster... but not like the newer sportster out today)

Do I recommend a Virago... Hell yeah.... they do hold their money value..
Do I love my bike........ Hell yeah...:love:

Sunhuntin - Go and test ride one and you too will love the feel of them... They are just the best out there to learn to ride on.... They are just awesome machines....

They have a very quick take off and you can leave others for dead at the lights. Going around country corners after slowing down for the corner again it has a very quick take off.

What year is the bike and how many kms on the clock....
Oh and what colour is the Virago?

[sunhuntin]

cheers for that crashe...you rock girl [good stomping in the mini chopper thread on tm last night, btw.]

might go and have a word to dad about picking up the "V" before work...ride her to work and home, then tool around a bit tomorrow. needs a minor bar adjustment, but thats piss easy.

red and cream if i remember. i think he said 98, but cant be sure. cant remeber how many ks.

[crashe]

Straight bar or handlebars like mine (see avatar pic)

I prefer handlebars like mine... better handling etc.

Is it a jap import or new in NZ....? - Its a New in NZ not a jap import with those colours.

What year is it? 98 - that a good year.. mine is a 97

How many kms on the clock? that helps to know that.. mine has done heaps...lol

What colour is it? red and cream - most common colour..... now they are now black only.

Oh you mean this thread hehehehe: http://www.trademe.co.nz/Community/MessageBoard/Messages.aspx?id=12943027&threadid=12943027

[The Pastor]

They sure are a pretty bike, a nice chicks bike :)

[Drum]

Isn't there a common issue with the starter motors?

Nice looking bike though.

[crashe]

They sure are a pretty bike, a nice chicks bike :)


Oh dear young man..... you are gonna get it now...:whistle:
Did you know that there are a few guys also riding these bikes........:yes:

One is ridden by KBers Oscar da cat in Orewa.....
One was ridden by KBer slashwylde in Auckland.
One was ridden by a KB dude in Hamilton...
Plus many others.

[crashe]

Isn't there a common issue with the starter motors?

Nice looking bike though.

Nup thats the 750cc Virago....

The 250 has no probs at all......

[ManDownUnder]

One was ridden by a KB dude in Auckland (mind has gone blank)


THAT explains it - his mind had gone blank!

Actually to be fair I understand they're a reasonably reliable piece of equipment. Great for the "short of leg"

[crashe]

THAT explains it - his mind had gone blank!

Actually to be fair I understand they're a reasonably reliable piece of equipment. Great for the "short of leg"

Please re-read the post... I have corrected it... at the time I couldnt think what his name was....... it was slashwylde......


Yep they are a great reliable machine....

[bert_is_evil]

... im lost without my box, ...

Hee hee
:lol:

sorry

[sunhuntin]

crashe...i think 14thou for k. ive done 10 on the ginny. ill get back in there tomorrow....take her out for a spin if the weathers good. not gonna take her if its wet.
she had handlebars, though theyd need to be rolled back a bit for me, too far forwards.
very attractive bike...former owner is a member of ulysses. has a dummy air cleaner on the left, while the real was on the right...and they are both way forwards, so out of the way of my knees. i tried a friends steed once, and the air cleaner was in the way.

very light bike....but that was dry. petrol wouldnt add much weight.

he said theres a cherry red/black coming out with the new season...should be nice looking.

[Finn]

My neighbour has one and I've ridden it. It's a great 250 cruiser.

Actually a prominent KBer used to own one too, but said he would kill me if I told anyone and Dover is bigger than me so I better keep my mouth shut.

Isn't the Viagro a Honda???

Edit. Woops. I thought we were talking about the Honda Magna.

[Scorpygirl]

Yip the Virago is a good bike - all that Crashe says. Although mine sits in the garage more than on the road. :dodge: But that is going to change as soon as the weather decides its going to be nice!! :sunny: or else I sell it!! :shutup: Mine is a 2001 and is black and maroon.

[Maha]

Please re-read the post... I have corrected it... at the time I couldnt think what his name was....... it was slashwylde......


Yep they are a great reliable machine....

And you can stand up on the back pegs (good stretching therapy).....:yes:
And you can glide downhill...arm's stretched out to the side's (more good stretching therapy)...:yes:
All n' All.........a great bike if you are arthritic......:innocent:

:whistle: :2thumbsup :whistle:

[doc]

Actually a prominent KBer used to own one too, but said he would kill me if I told anyone and Dover is bigger than me so I better keep my mouth shut.

I knew that there was something fishy about him he went back into the closet. Thats what you meant isn't it Finn

[Finn]

I knew that there was something fishy about him he went back into the closet. Thats what you meant isn't it Finn

No, Dover and I met online.

[doc]

No, Dover and I met online.

I Bet the video is classified

[Finn]

I Bet the video is classified

Which one, Roll Over Dover, 2 Bald Nuts or The Shetland Riding Horse?

[doc]

Which one, Roll Over Dover, 2 Bald Nuts or The Shetland Riding Horse?

"Oh" I see that you are serious in collecting the serious classic stuff .

[Maha]

Which one, Roll Over Dover, 2 Bald Nuts or The Shetland Riding Horse?

No.......the infamous Bootleg copy of........'Big Ben's white swallow'......:sick:

[sunhuntin]

crashe...any trouble finding neutral like mentioned earlier?

[Scorpygirl]

crashe...any trouble finding neutral like mentioned earlier?

Yes, I have trouble finding neutral. Sometimes you have to rock the bike a bit.

[Waylander]

Nup thats the 750cc Virago....

The 250 has no probs at all......
Uh, all Viragos pre '98 had this problem but most have been fixed by now. Exspecially if it's come from a shop.

Also Crashe, they handle better with flat bars over the bull horns. Snappier response and more control for counter steering. But bull horns are still good asif it comes with them as it's bloddy hard to find risers that will give you clearance you need for flat bars.


Sunhuntin, get saddle bags. Bag rails are fairly cheep compared to top box mount and look heaps better aswell. They will prevent more rubbing also as that is what they are for along wioth keeping the bags clear of supension and the tyre. Also keep them from swinging out when in a corner and draggin the bottom of the bag on the ground ( I have holes in the bottom of mine from that...)

Go the Virago if you are looking to upgrade from the GN to a proper cruiser. You wont regret it.

[sunhuntin]

Uh, all Viragos pre '98 had this problem but most have been fixed by now. Exspecially if it's come from a shop.

Also Crashe, they handle better with flat bars over the bull horns. Snappier response and more control for counter steering. But bull horns are still good asif it comes with them as it's bloddy hard to find risers that will give you clearance you need for flat bars.


Sunhuntin, get saddle bags. Bag rails are fairly cheep compared to top box mount and look heaps better aswell. They will prevent more rubbing also as that is what they are for along wioth keeping the bags clear of supension and the tyre. Also keep them from swinging out when in a corner and draggin the bottom of the bag on the ground ( I have holes in the bottom of mine from that...)

Go the Virago if you are looking to upgrade from the GN to a proper cruiser. You wont regret it.

cheers waylander. ill go take another look tomorrow. what saddles do you recommend? ill likely get a pack rack for it, cos i do a lot of travelling and would need something to support all my bags. just new brackets and keep the base and box ive already got...will see whats more cost effective.

[Waylander]

cheers waylander. ill go take another look tomorrow. what saddles do you recommend? ill likely get a pack rack for it, cos i do a lot of travelling and would need something to support all my bags. just new brackets and keep the base and box ive already got...will see whats more cost effective.
No idea, PM Slashwylde about bags. The ones I have for my 1100 were actually made for a horse....

TerminalAddict would be the one to ask about pack racks. He is the one in Hamilton (though he is actually in Whatawhata) that had an XV250. He had a packrack for it though he recently traded his XV in for a 900 hornet and I took his pack rack down to Virago for his wife's XV250 but he should be able to give you good info.

Most cost effective IMO would be saddle bags and a backpack. Also with the pack rack, even when not carrying the pack you still have those hideous bars haging around the back of your bike. This is just my opinion though, go with what you like and feel most comfortable with.

[sunhuntin]

when i load the bike, i tend to load it heavy....box fully jammed, several bursting shopping bags on top, and a stuffed full backpack on the pillion seat. i could always just put the box on when im planning on riding like that. and leave the essentials in the bags.

i did find one half of a pair of willie and max saddles at the local op shop...if they both been there i would have grabbed them...no point having one. plus the buckles had been cut off.

ive got enough in my savings to pay for it up front, and in cash. rather a big step...i was saving for a harley....lol. just thinking...do i wanna spend that on a 250, or wait till i get my full, and then get a higher cc?

[Waylander]

when i load the bike, i tend to load it heavy....box fully jammed, several bursting shopping bags on top, and a stuffed full backpack on the pillion seat. i could always just put the box on when im planning on riding like that. and leave the essentials in the bags.

i did find one half of a pair of willie and max saddles at the local op shop...if they both been there i would have grabbed them...no point having one. plus the buckles had been cut off.

ive got enough in my savings to pay for it up front, and in cash. rather a big step...i was saving for a harley....lol. just thinking...do i wanna spend that on a 250, or wait till i get my full, and then get a higher cc?

Ugh, riding with that heavy a load and from what you describe, poorley secured..... *shudder*


Depends on weather you feel comfortable with your riding skill or not if you wait and get a bigger cc bike. Cruisers may not have alot of power compared to most other bikes but going from a 250 inline twin to even a 500cc v-twin is a pretty big step. If you feel confident enough to handle more cc and a heavier bike the by all means. If not then the Virago 250 would be a good step for getting used to the extra torque you get from a vtwin rather than a side by side and the handeling differences for the longer wheel base.

[sunhuntin]

Ugh, riding with that heavy a load and from what you describe, poorley secured..... *shudder*


Depends on weather you feel comfortable with your riding skill or not if you wait and get a bigger cc bike. Cruisers may not have alot of power compared to most other bikes but going from a 250 inline twin to even a 500cc v-twin is a pretty big step. If you feel confident enough to handle more cc and a heavier bike the by all means. If not then the Virago 250 would be a good step for getting used to the extra torque you get from a vtwin rather than a side by side and the handeling differences for the longer wheel base.

loads were always very well secured with bungys and the like...never had a problem after learning to tie shopping bags to the back pack. sometimes the backpack was so full there was literally no room between, it, me and the tank, lol.

was thinking of stepping up to a 600cc....but id take it for a spin first to be sure i could handle it...even the virago im not sure on controlling to speed/power. but, as you say, its a good step for learning the power and such.

[Waylander]

There ya go. Test ride, best way to tell if you can handle it or not. Just remember to take it easy. Don't be too nervous and take it slow, Get someone to follow you if it helps. You wont be hooning about for a while after buying a new bike anyway, not till you get used to it. Problem is shops usually won't let you test ride bikes bigger than 250 unless you have your full. (not sure if you have yours or not) so you may look into getting that first if you're wanting to upgrade to a larger cc soonish.

[sunhuntin]

aiming for my restricted this summer...have had my learners well over a year.

thanks waylander...you certainly helped!

[Waylander]

lol reading back trough this thread I suddenly realize that I sound very much like my father when he was helping me start out on bikes.

I feel all 'old wise man' like now, not sure if I like this feeling or not....

[sunhuntin]

lol reading back trough this thread I suddenly realize that I sound very much like my father when he was helping me start out on bikes.

I feel all 'old wise man' like now, not sure if I like this feeling or not....

*must spread the rep around....*

[crashe]

Carring stuff on the back... I dont have a pack rack at all.


I have had panier bags on filled to the brim, a huge bag on the pillion seat..... and a tent and sleeping bag attached to the huge bag.....
Rode to Katikati like that no problems.....

I have also carried on the back of the bike at different times:
A car seat
A booster seat
A old fashioned woooden highchair
A dehumidifier
A spare tyre
A weedeater
A huge box filled to the brim with papers.
A box of tools and carpenter tools.
All my painting sheets (3 bedspreads, 6 huge sheets)
A huge roll of curtain material
Crutches
Plus many other things all securely tied on.

I have this theroy that if I can get it on the back of the bike then I will take it on the back... saves me getting the car out :whistle:

[MSTRS]

...from a 250 inline twin to even a 500cc v-twin .....

Uh WL? A GN is a single. Low torque, low HP, low state of tune.
Sunhuntin - you would be traumatised for life if you went straight to a 600 (as WL suggested you could). The Virago (as would a Magna or an Eliminator) would be a perfect bike after being on a GN.

[bert_is_evil]

ooh get a Magna, the one with the pipes that cross over - they're sexy looking bikes

[sunhuntin]

Uh WL? A GN is a single. Low torque, low HP, low state of tune.
Sunhuntin - you would be traumatised for life if you went straight to a 600 (as WL suggested you could). The Virago (as would a Magna or an Eliminator) would be a perfect bike after being on a GN.

well...i test rode this morning. i was way out on the k's...try 37thou [now 38, lol] bars need adjusting, as i couldnt see a thing in the mirrors apart from the sky, lmfao. and theres some vibration in the bars at around 80k. i just love the seat! crashe...it is 5 button...very soft. 50k feels fast...even 80k felt more like 100! the new bikes dont look like they have the same seat.

i did have trouble finding neutral..when i stopped, the gear shift wouldnt budge at all. had to hold the clutch with my right hand and find the key with my left, then roll back and forth before the gear would move.

im seriously thinking on it...theyd give me $2000 for the gn, which isnt bad. and the virago looks and feels awesome! i actually got people looking! LOL.

[MSTRS]

That neutral thing seems to be a big issue tho. Have to say that you would not have this problem with an Eliminator (Kawasaki) Drum just (traded/sold/replaced?) his.
Here's Yungatart's http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=395231&postcount=24

[crashe]

well...i test rode this morning. i was way out on the k's...try 37thou [now 38, lol] bars need adjusting, as i couldnt see a thing in the mirrors apart from the sky, lmfao. and theres some vibration in the bars at around 80k. i just love the seat! crashe...it is 5 button...very soft. 50k feels fast...even 80k felt more like 100! the new bikes dont look like they have the same seat.

i did have trouble finding neutral..when i stopped, the gear shift wouldnt budge at all. had to hold the clutch with my right hand and find the key with my left, then roll back and forth before the gear would move.

im seriously thinking on it...theyd give me $2000 for the gn, which isnt bad. and the virago looks and feels awesome! i actually got people looking! LOL.

Yeah aint the 5 studded seat comfy.........:love:

Ok finding neutral: It does happen occassionally with me.
What I do is use the kill switch (on right side) and then find neutral.
But if you tap it gently from second it will find it...
Coming back up from first to neutral is a fine art to do it...practise and you will get it.

38,000km for a 98 model is great......
Im on 87,000km for a 97 model... so you can see I am using my bike all the time...... and she is running sweet.

Yeah the speed thing..... you do feel you are going a lot faster.... cool huh.
They really are great machines to ride.

The new virago seats are a tad wider and also harder..... I dont like the new seats at all to sit on.

Go on buy it....... adjust the handlebars now which are easy to do and adjust the mirrors and away you go.....

Virago's are the way to go...... :love:

[sunhuntin]

cheers crashe...im seriously thinking about it! get a sissy bar and saddle bags. maybe brackets for the top box which will only be used when im going to need it for carrying stuff.

she handled like a dream. i did find the indicator switch very touchy... cancelling too hard meant the other side started up! other than that, just finding where my feet need to go was the trickiest part...which is why i went around town, where id be moving my feet alot.

[Waylander]

Uh WL? A GN is a single. Low torque, low HP, low state of tune.

Ah ok, never having owned one or even ridden one my experiance with GN's is very limited. I've gone as far as sitting on one and that's about it.

[crashe]

cheers crashe...im seriously thinking about it! get a sissy bar and saddle bags. maybe brackets for the top box which will only be used when im going to need it for carrying stuff.

she handled like a dream. i did find the indicator switch very touchy... cancelling too hard meant the other side started up! other than that, just finding where my feet need to go was the trickiest part...which is why i went around town, where id be moving my feet alot.

Indicator:
Flick it to the right to go right...
Flick it to the left to go left...

PUSH it in to stop it.

When you have pushed/flicked it to let people know which way you are going it automatically goes back to the centre position, all ready for you to PUSH it in to stop it.

Feet positioning:
I tend to have my feet in like 'charlie chaplin style' when having my feet up.
so that the right toe is just on the outside of the brake lever all ready to put my toe on it.
After a day or so you will get the feel of what is most comfortable for where you place your feet.

[sunhuntin]

Indicator:
Flick it to the right to go right...
Flick it to the left to go left...

PUSH it in to stop it.

When you have pushed/flicked it to let people know which way you are going it automatically goes back to the centre position, all ready for you to PUSH it in to stop it.

Feet positioning:
I tend to have my feet in like 'charlie chaplin style' when having my feet up.
so that the right toe is just on the outside of the brake lever all ready to put my toe on it.
After a day or so you will get the feel of what is most comfortable for where you place your feet.

ahhh, ok. thanks for that! i was told nothing about the bike [how the indicators work, headlight etc] so was learn as i ride. lol. thats why i stayed around town, so id be forced to learn as fast as i could.
the feet, i keep my right toe under the brake, and my left under the gear shift...i liked not having to move my foot to change up a gear...

im seriously getting tempted by it crashe....lol. if i wasnt going to hawera with mum tomorrow i think id be in there!

[crashe]

Just remember to not accidently knock on the hazard lights...... yep they have them... on the left side of the handlebars.

RESERVE: Turn the switch to UP.
Leave it DOWN for all other riding... I never turn mine to off.

Kill switch: on the right hand side - its that RED button.

Hazard lights: On right hand side below the Kill switch.

Start button: the bottom button under the RED button.


Headlight: Blue light comes on when on FULL

Horn: Red button on the left hand side below the indicators.

I have both feet out in charlie chaplin style and always ready to move in to either change gears or brake.

[Virago]

Hi Sunhuntin,

Just to add my voice to the chorus.

Mrs V is on her learner's, and we got her a Virago 250 to learn on. Her's is a 2003 model, only had 2000k on the clock when we bought her, now 5000k.

With regard to the idea of pack-rack, we got a Ventura pack-rack a few weeks ago, bought it off a fellow KB'er (thanks TerminalAddict). It does rather spoil the lines of the bike (see photo), but it is superbly functional. I've also posted a photo with our RJays Explorer pack fitted. Mrs V used this set-up to do a solo trip to Central Otago last week, a round trip of about 1000km.

You'll find the Virago to be a very comfortable laid-back ride, but still able to keep up on the open road. It will cruise comfortably at 100k, and will do 130k if pushed.

Handlebars - the standard Virago bars are a narrow buck-horn style, very comfortable for shorter riders. Some imported Viragos have flat T-bars fitted, which give more elbow room for taller riders, but are a stretch for shorter people. We looked at one with T-bars fitted, but Mrs V found them very uncomfortable. However, the buck-horn style fits her perfectly.

As mentioned, finding neutral can sometimes be tricky, but don't let that worry you - you'll soon get used to it.

250 Viragos hold their value too, as they're very popular learner bikes.

If you get hooked on the cruiser experience, the Virago will be the perfect stepping-stone to the bigger cruisers. You'll find yourself trying out other cruisers for size, like the Honda Shadow 750......

Good luck!

[sunhuntin]

Hi Sunhuntin,

Just to add my voice to the chorus.

Mrs V is on her learner's, and we got her a Virago 250 to learn on. Her's is a 2003 model, only had 2000k on the clock when we bought her, now 5000k.

With regard to the idea of pack-rack, we got a Ventura pack-rack a few weeks ago, bought it off a fellow KB'er (thanks TerminalAddict). It does rather spoil the lines of the bike (see photo), but it is superbly functional. I've also posted a photo with our RJays Explorer pack fitted. Mrs V used this set-up to do a solo trip to Central Otago last week, a round trip of about 1000km.

You'll find the Virago to be a very comfortable laid-back ride, but still able to keep up on the open road. It will cruise comfortably at 100k, and will do 130k if pushed.

Handlebars - the standard Virago bars are a narrow buck-horn style, very comfortable for shorter riders. Some imported Viragos have flat T-bars fitted, which give more elbow room for taller riders, but are a stretch for shorter people. We looked at one with T-bars fitted, but Mrs V found them very uncomfortable. However, the buck-horn style fits her perfectly.

As mentioned, finding neutral can sometimes be tricky, but don't let that worry you - you'll soon get used to it.

250 Viragos hold their value too, as they're very popular learner bikes.

If you get hooked on the cruiser experience, the Virago will be the perfect stepping-stone to the bigger cruisers. You'll find yourself trying out other cruisers for size, like the Honda Shadow 750......

Good luck!

hi virago...thanks for the pics!! how easy are the brackets to fit? am thinking of only using the top box when im anticipating a heavy load. will likely get a sissy bar and brackets for saddle bags too. or...i could leave the box brackets on, but leave the box off unless needed...get a bit of padding for the short "backrest" thingy.

the bike im eyeing up is a 98 and she is mint. not a speck of rust that i saw [and i looked!] whereas my gn is about 11 months and rusting already on the bolts and some specks on the pipes. one major patch on the support under the end of the exhaust.

[Virago]

.......how easy are the brackets to fit?........

The Ventura brackets fit in place of the chrome grab rail, so changing from one to the other just takes a few minutes - you just need some metric allen keys.

But........if your rear indicators are mounted on the chrome grab rail, they need to be relocated to the sides of the rear fender. Not a hard job.

[sunhuntin]

The Ventura brackets fit in place of the chrome grab rail, so changing from one to the other just takes a few minutes - you just need some metric allen keys.

But........if your rear indicators are mounted on the chrome grab rail, they need to be relocated to the sides of the rear fender. Not a hard job.

awesome...i knew i could count on KB for some decent, trustworthy advice.

[sunhuntin]

I DID IT!!!

my gn is now theirs, and the virago is now mine!! dropped the bars down, altered the mirrors, wrote a few words and done!

have asked for the l plate back, and also the brackets from the top box [i took in the original grab rail for them]

going to pick her up tomorrow...though im not looking forward to riding an unfamiliar bike in this shit weather.

[Virago]

Yeehaa!!!

Another convert......

Well done on the purchase, I'm sure you'll be really happy with it.

Looking forward to some photos.:yes:

[sunhuntin]

cheers virago. ive ordered chrome ventura racks for the top box and also leather saddlebags. so she should look pretty good!

*must spread rep around*

[Waylander]

CONGRATS!!!

Get the pics up soon aye? lol and prey for better weather so you can cruise!.

[Scorpygirl]

I DID IT!!!

my gn is now theirs, and the virago is now mine!! dropped the bars down, altered the mirrors, wrote a few words and done!

have asked for the l plate back, and also the brackets from the top box [i took in the original grab rail for them]

going to pick her up tomorrow...though im not looking forward to riding an unfamiliar bike in this shit weather.

Well done Girl!!! :scooter: Welcome to the Virago club!! :rockon: :yes:

[sunhuntin]

cheers scorpy and waylander!

im hoping the wind will drop tomorrow. cant wait for the summer to come...gonna be awesome!

[crashe]

wohoooooooooo you go girl.........

See I told you to buy it.... and you listened... wohooooo

You really wont know yourself once you get to know your new baby.....

[MSTRS]

You are gonna love your new bike. Good choice!

[sunhuntin]

wohoooooooooo you go girl.........

See I told you to buy it.... and you listened... wohooooo

You really wont know yourself once you get to know your new baby.....

lol....yep! she is great! theres no wind or rain today, so i spent the morning just riding. had to make a pit stop at home after a bee got me, but once that was sorted, i was out again!
heaps of people lookin at me, my boss and co worker both love it [my boss is a biker himself, though he doesnt have a bike right now]

crashe...how does the steering lock work? til i get that sorted, im not willing to take her into town.

[Geordie]

Lifan? 250 Virago? got a 250 Lifan engine new in the box but no wiring diagram, no one in the Orient seems to want to help me out in getting it running? vairous dealers have tried to no avail? I wnt to hear this thing run, any ideas any one? 8 terminals on the CDI? do they need all them?

[yungatart]

Well done, Sunhuntin'! You will love that bike!
I ride an Eliminator - and it is just so cruisy, way better than the GN.
So when are you coming over to show off your new bike... plenty of room in our gargre

[sunhuntin]

Well done, Sunhuntin'! You will love that bike!
I ride an Eliminator - and it is just so cruisy, way better than the GN.
So when are you coming over to show off your new bike... plenty of room in our gargre

ill get there at some stage...i am totally in love with this bike! the footpegs are comfy, the gear changes smooth.....*homer simpson drool*

[crashe]

Lifan? 250 Virago? got a 250 Lifan engine new in the box but no wiring diagram, no one in the Orient seems to want to help me out in getting it running? vairous dealers have tried to no avail? I wnt to hear this thing run, any ideas any one? 8 terminals on the CDI? do they need all them?

Are you the dude that posted in Trade Me in the motoring section....?
If so I am the one that said I have the wiring diagram......
PM me...

[crashe]

crashe...how does the steering lock work? til i get that sorted, im not willing to take her into town.

I have never used mine lol....

I brought a Kyptonite lock that goes on the front disc and then have a stretchy bungy type cord attached to that and then out the other end up on the handlebars so that I dont forget that I have the disc lock on.


You should have a funny L shape key for the steering lock which is on the left hand side.

[Geordie]

how do i get to speak to you?

[sunhuntin]

I have never used mine lol....

I brought a Kyptonite lock that goes on the front disc and then have a stretchy bungy type cord attached to that and then out the other end up on the handlebars so that I dont forget that I have the disc lock on.


You should have a funny L shape key for the steering lock which is on the left hand side.

yeh, ive got the key, but cant get it to lock, or if i do, i cant get the key out, lol.

ill have to get a chain i think....

[Scorpygirl]

yeh, ive got the key, but cant get it to lock, or if i do, i cant get the key out, lol.

ill have to get a chain i think....

Make sure you have the bars turned to the right. If you can't get the key out just gently move the bars a little. Either that or put some CRC on the key and then push the key in and out of the lock a few times before trying to lock it - this will ease up the tumblers in the barrel.

Glad you are enjoying your new baby!!! :yes: :scooter:

[crashe]

Make sure you have the bars turned to the right. If you can't get the key out just gently move the bars a little. Either that or put some CRC on the key and then push the key in and out of the lock a few times before trying to lock it - this will ease up the tumblers in the barrel.

Glad you are enjoying your new baby!!! :yes: :scooter:


I will try to remember to try my key out tomorrow... and see what happens.

Scorpygirl - When are we going for a test rides...?
Name the day and time.

[sunhuntin]

Make sure you have the bars turned to the right. If you can't get the key out just gently move the bars a little. Either that or put some CRC on the key and then push the key in and out of the lock a few times before trying to lock it - this will ease up the tumblers in the barrel.

Glad you are enjoying your new baby!!! :yes: :scooter:

thanks for that! ill give it a try tomorrow. tonight shes locked in the shed, whereas normally she would be in the lean too.

pics tomorrow as well.

[terbang]

Its a great feeling getting a new bike innit..! Enjoy.

[Dak]

Yes, seen you today, you didn't even wave :-))) I was just heading out across the motorway bridge as you were coming in.

[crashe]

how do i get to speak to you?

I have sent you a PM (private message)

[Ixion]

Mr Geordie is a new chum who may not understand the PM system. If you look at the top right of the KB screen you should see "Private Messages": Unread 1 (or some number). Click on the Private Message words and it will take you into the Private Messaging (PM) system, where you can send messages (sort of like email) to other members.

[sunhuntin]

Yes, seen you today, you didn't even wave :-))) I was just heading out across the motorway bridge as you were coming in.

i gave a nod if i remember rightly...was busy changing down, otherwise i would have waved [normally do] i didnt see you wave either....considering the weather there wasnt many bikes out...i think i saw about 5 all day....

my apologies...next time!

[crashe]

Mr Geordie is a new chum who may not understand the PM system. If you look at the top right of the KB screen you should see "Private Messages": Unread 1 (or some number). Click on the Private Message words and it will take you into the Private Messaging (PM) system, where you can send messages (sort of like email) to other members.

I sent him a PM explaining it... :rofl:

[Dak]

i gave a nod if i remember rightly...was busy changing down, otherwise i would have waved [normally do] i didnt see you wave either....considering the weather there wasnt many bikes out...i think i saw about 5 all day....

my apologies...next time!

Hee, no problemo, just winding you up. Thought you may of been pre-occupied, new bike and all, good choice BTW.

[sunhuntin]

Hee, no problemo, just winding you up. Thought you may of been pre-occupied, new bike and all, good choice BTW.

lol. good stuff. :sunny: i did wave at one bike and got no response, but thats ok.

got the saddle bags, going to have them put on this afternoon, the brackets for the top box are going to be cut and re-welded so they fit and then chromed. also gonna get the steering lock looked at. then all ive gotta do is a knob for the trip meter and shes finished.

shes gonna look hot once im done! LOL

EDIT: got the lock sorted out...saddles hopefully fitted monday.

PHOTOS: http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v244/sunhuntin/classics/virago/

[Drum]

Good stuff! Nice bikes those Viragos.

Dont forget to watch Easy Rider a few more times before Summer!!

[Virago]

Just had a look at your photos - nice!

See the little rubber bungs on the side of the rear fender? That's where the rear indicators will need to be remounted before you can put a pack rack on.

Hope you get some nice weather up there over the weekend!

[Scorpygirl]

Nice bike Sunhunt...I loved that peaches and cream colour for the Virago. Hope you get lots of :sunny: to go riding this weekend.

[sunhuntin]

Just had a look at your photos - nice!

See the little rubber bungs on the side of the rear fender? That's where the rear indicators will need to be remounted before you can put a pack rack on.

Hope you get some nice weather up there over the weekend!

cheers....how much do you think the remount will cost? cant wait till its all done! the bags he got me are nice....very basic with a silver concho. bloody effort to get that back seat off though!

drum...seen easy rider....didnt think much of it though. i like harley davidson and the marlboro man better....marlboro is hot!

thanks scorpy...had a look on google, and didnt find many pics of ones this color...must be harder to get or something? :love:

[crashe]

cheers....how much do you think the remount will cost? cant wait till its all done! the bags he got me are nice....very basic with a silver concho. bloody effort to get that back seat off though!

drum...seen easy rider....didnt think much of it though. i like harley davidson and the marlboro man better....marlboro is hot!

thanks scorpy...had a look on google, and didnt find many pics of ones this color...must be harder to get or something? :love:

Colours of the Virago:
They originally came out all black.
Then they came out in the Maroon & Black
Some came out just Red
As well as the colour you have.
The latest colour is now all black again..

I have the only known Black and white Virago in Auckland.:love: :love:


Import colour from Japan is a bluey colour.

[sunhuntin]

Colours of the Virago:
They originally came out all black.
Then they came out in the Maroon & Black
Some came out just Red
As well as the colour you have.
The latest colour is now all black again..

I have the only known Black and white Virago in Auckland.:love: :love:


Import colour from Japan is a bluey colour.

koolies! thanks crashe. i think mine is one of few viragos in town...certainly unusual enough that i thought id know the previous owner, but i dont. quite like have an individual bike....:love:

virago...are you going to the burt munro thing in invers next month? im thinking of coming down for it.

[Waylander]

Been a few of them popping up here. (even a black and white one)

Think I've seen 5 different ones, should pay attention to rego's to make sure.
Summer comming up might be a few more comming out of the woodwork.

[crashe]

Been a few of them popping up here. (even a black and white one)

Think I've seen 5 different ones, should pay attention to rego's to make sure.
Summer comming up might be a few more comming out of the woodwork.

Yeah I had heard throu the grapevine that there was a black and white Virago down there in Tauranga... with a sissy bar on the back.

The one in Tauranga and mine are the only known black and white 250cc Virago's around that I have ever heard of.

The Black and white Virago's were actually destined to go to the States or Canada... they shipped the wrong crates to NZ... so somewhere in the states or Canada is at least 2 Virago's with colours that stand out from the rest of them...:whistle:

[sunhuntin]

Yeah I had heard throu the grapevine that there was a black and white Virago down there in Tauranga... with a sissy bar on the back.

The one in Tauranga and mine are the only known black and white 250cc Virago's around that I have ever heard of.

The Black and white Virago's were actually destined to go to the States or Canada... they shipped the wrong crates to NZ... so somewhere in the states or Canada is at least 2 Virago's with colours that stand out from the rest of them...:whistle:

*adds black and white virago to "to buy" list*

[Virago]

cheers....how much do you think the remount will cost?.......

I did Mrs V's pack-rack mount - not a hard job, so if you get a shop to do it it shouldn't cost much.


virago...are you going to the burt munro thing in invers next month? im thinking of coming down for it.

No plans to go to Invercargill - too busy. But let us know when you're passing through Dunedin, I'm sure Mrs V would like to compare notes on 250 Viragos!:yes:

[sunhuntin]

I did Mrs V's pack-rack mount - not a hard job, so if you get a shop to do it it shouldn't cost much.



No plans to go to Invercargill - too busy. But let us know when you're passing through Dunedin, I'm sure Mrs V would like to compare notes on 250 Viragos!:yes:

cheers for that...gotta talk it over with the boss first for time off. planning on stopping in chch for a night and finishing the next day, then do the same coming back.

[Bob]

Oh how I miss our 250 Virago - if there had been space in the garage for a 3rd bike, it would still be with us now.

Bought it for my wife Laura as an incentive to pass her full test (125cc restriction over here until you get your full licence) - and I had to keep it ticking over until she could ride it... and every time I rode it, I came back with a grin like the Cheshire Cat.

It's silly, it's underpowered... but dear lord it is SO much fun you'll keep going back for more.

For a more detailed review, take a look at this article I put together a while back. (http://www.bobpickett.co.uk/bkit/xv250.htm)

Hope this helps.

Bob

[Headbanger]

Saw the new bike parked beside the servo earlier in the week.

Very classy, Puts the old GN to shame.

[sunhuntin]

Saw the new bike parked beside the servo earlier in the week.

Very classy, Puts the old GN to shame.

was that you that give me a nod? i nodded to a harley earlier, and was surprised to get a response, lol. [this was while at work] come into work some time...make yourself known. im there usually 3-7.

thanks bob....gonna take a look at your article. EDIT: its telling me it cant find the server, even after refreshing.

[Headbanger]

Nah, That wasn't me, I only just bought my current bike on Sunday, and went on my first proper ride on her last night. Been without a roadbike for the last six months while I have been gathering my funds.

I do call into your BP from time to time, In fact your coffee machine commited suicide on me last week.........:gob:

[sunhuntin]

Nah, That wasn't me, I only just bought my current bike on Sunday, and went on my first proper ride on her last night. Been without a roadbike for the last six months while I have been gathering my funds.

I do call into your BP from time to time, In fact your coffee machine commited suicide on me last week.........:gob:

lol...was majorly fucked up. the guy told us to clean it every day...typical, the minute we start, it craps out on us.

whats your bike look like?

[Headbanger]

Like this....Though I intend to strip off the sissy bar, replace the headlight,change the bars, and at some stage paint her the darkest blue (with a hint of pearl) I can get, and maybe a fatbob rear guard.

[Headbanger]

Oh yeah, and a fancy-pants set of mag wheels....

[sunhuntin]

very nice!! will keep an eye out for ya. seems a distinctive paint scheme...likely not too many of em around town.

[Phoenix]

Like this....Though I intend to strip off the sissy bar, replace the headlight,change the bars, and at some stage paint her the darkest blue (with a hint of pearl) I can get, and maybe a fatbob rear guard.


Im sure Ive seen that bike around town before

[sunhuntin]

well...i got the brackets mounted up and the top box on. got saddle bags as well.

the guys had a black ventura rack. i wanted chrome, but ventura dont make em for the virago, so paragon went beyond the call of duty and service and got her chromed.
the mechanic had to cut and re-weld a tab so it would bolt on right, and also fabricated and chromed supports for the bags. it seems there was also a wrecked virago rack, as he also welded on tabs for the indicators [without wrecking my own rack] and the tabs are the same as whats on my rack.
ant got in a chrome grab-rail, so when the box is off, i can fit that without her looking cut off.

the bags are small willie and max. very plain, but enough fancy bits. they got the laced part stitched so it would all lie flat.

ill get some photos tomorrow. im beyond impressed with the service from the guys at paragon. so long as i live in town, they will be getting all my business for everything bar petrol.

[Phoenix]

yeah? ants a good guy, random

[Virago]

Sounds like a good set-up - love to see photos!:yes:

[jessi_girl]

Colours of the Virago:
They originally came out all black.
Then they came out in the Maroon & Black
Some came out just Red
As well as the colour you have.
The latest colour is now all black again..

I have the only known Black and white Virago in Auckland.:love: :love:


Import colour from Japan is a bluey colour.

Hi there,

i'm kinda new to all this but been reading up on the Virago talk... mine is the one sitting in LiLSel's garage at the moment.... it's a 92 Virago, pearly white and maroon kinda colour with 17,000 ks on the clock... not too bad i thought for being 14 years old... she is a sweet first bike, although i haven't been riding much since i got her (weather being crap and all).... it's all very exciting tho :yes:

[crashe]

Hi there,

i'm kinda new to all this but been reading up on the Virago talk... mine is the one sitting in LiLSel's garage at the moment.... it's a 92 Virago, pearly white and maroon kinda colour with 17,000 ks on the clock... not too bad i thought for being 14 years old... she is a sweet first bike, although i haven't been riding much since i got her (weather being crap and all).... it's all very exciting tho :yes:

Welcome to KB.......

Very low KM's for that year of your bike.....
but you need to get out on her and ride her a lot more often......
No good just having her sitting there in the garage....... gathering dust.

Yep the VIRAGO is a great bike to ride........
I have clocked up a fair few kms on my baby.

Colours of the Virago:
They originally came out all black.
Then they came out in the Maroon & Black
Some came out just Red.
Some are Maroon and cream.
The latest colour is now all black again..

I have the only known Black and white/cream Virago in Auckland.:love::love:


Import colour from Japan is a bluey colour.

[LilSel]

Hi there,

i'm kinda new to all this but been reading up on the Virago talk... mine is the one sitting in LiLSel's garage at the moment.... it's a 92 Virago, pearly white and maroon kinda colour with 17,000 ks on the clock... not too bad i thought for being 14 years old... she is a sweet first bike, although i haven't been riding much since i got her (weather being crap and all).... it's all very exciting tho :yes:

I think I ride it more than you!! :laugh:... you need to go do your scratch and win a licence!! (and new helmet) :done:

[jessi_girl]

I think I ride it more than you!! :laugh:... you need to go do your scratch and win a licence!! (and new helmet) :done:

are you riding my bike when i don't know about it? lol... dodgy bugger.... just don't drop it alrighty....

yeah, i totally gotta get my licence and get out there properly.... summer is coming :sunny: WooHoo!!!!!!

where is the best place to get a new helmet from???

[LilSel]

are you riding my bike when i don't know about it? lol... dodgy bugger.... just don't drop it alrighty....

yeah, i totally gotta get my licence and get out there properly.... summer is coming :sunny: WooHoo!!!!!!

where is the best place to get a new helmet from???

Hey somebody has to or you'll have flat battery and then you'll just whine at me till I fix it anyway!!
Drop it?? :laugh: Tui ad!

[crashe]

are you riding my bike when i don't know about it? lol... dodgy bugger.... just don't drop it alrighty....

yeah, i totally gotta get my licence and get out there properly.... summer is coming :sunny: WooHoo!!!!!!

where is the best place to get a new helmet from???

If you want to store it, you can always store it in my garage......
And I could ride it as well...... just to keep the engine turned over......:yes:

Full face helmet at any bike shop or also at Motohaus in Western Springs Rd Kingsland. Make sure it fits nice and tight and securely

:scooter: :scooter: :scooter: :scooter: :scooter:

[LilSel]

If you want to store it, you can always store it in my garage......
And I could ride it as well...... just to keep the engine turned over......:yes:

Full face helmet at any bike shop or also at Motohaus in Western Springs Rd Kingsland. Make sure it fits nice and tight and securely

:scooter:

Then i'll lose the collection of bikes that im accumulating!! :bye:

Going to look at a CBR on the weekend too :D

[crashe]

Then i'll lose the collection of bikes that im accumulating!! :bye:

Going to look at a CBR on the weekend too :D

Yeah but this way I can start collecting VIRAGO's:love: ....:yes: :yes:

[jessi_girl]

If you want to store it, you can always store it in my garage......
And I could ride it as well...... just to keep the engine turned over......:yes:

Full face helmet at any bike shop or also at Motohaus in Western Springs Rd Kingsland. Make sure it fits nice and tight and securely

:scooter: :scooter: :scooter: :scooter: :scooter:

ha ha, i might just take you up on that.... i'm not sure if it is her or her father that i have to worry about more riding my bike when i'm not around :shit: lol... nah, it's all good... you know i trust ya Sel :wink:

[Kwaka14]

Uh WL? A GN is a single. Low torque, low HP, low state of tune.
Sunhuntin - you would be traumatised for life if you went straight to a 600 (as WL suggested you could). The Virago (as would a Magna or an Eliminator) would be a perfect bike after being on a GN.

yeah but it's an inline single.....

[crashe]

yeah but it's an inline single.....

A 250 VIRAGO:love: is a V-twin......

[sunhuntin]

A 250 VIRAGO:love: is a V-twin......

think hes talkin about the gn engine.

crashe...my report on the virago for travelling. as you know, ive just got back from invercargill. my ass was so sore i was sometimes stuck on the bike unable to move due to pain, and the foot on the stand needs to be bigger [think camel!] as she fell/blew over 3 times, and nearly went over a 4th.
i would also like to start collecting the viragos. each cc rating. rashika says the 750 are harder to find.

however, she didnt miss a beat! she ran awesome the whole way there and back again, and deserves a damn good polish when i get the chance.

[Virago]

..........I would also like to start collecting the viragos. each cc rating. rashika says the 750 are harder to find..........

Ooooh, that would be an impressive collection. That would include 9 basic cc ratings altogether - 125, 250, 400, 535, 700, 750, 920, 1000, and 1100. Within those cc ratings are several model variants.

I believe the 125 was available in Britain.

The 400 and 535 are seen here occasionally as second-hand Jap imports. Here's a 400 for sale:

http://www.motorcycletrader.co.nz/DesktopDefault.aspx?UsedBikeID=1815077&TabID=3553&Alias=motorcycletradernz

The 700 are not seen here often. They were sold in the USA in the 80's as a sleeved-down 750, to slip under the 700cc limit imposed on imported bikes (to protect the USA bike industry).

The 920 was the original big Virago, which then became the 1000, and later became the 1100.

The 750's are getting rarer but still come up occasionally. Here's one:

http://www.motorcycletrader.co.nz/DesktopDefault.aspx?UsedBikeID=2161452&TabID=3553&Alias=motorcycletradernz

The 1100's are more common, as they are imported in large numbers from Japan. Mine is a Jap import.

I've never heard of a full collection before, so good luck if you do it!

[sunhuntin]

Ooooh, that would be an impressive collection. That would include 9 basic cc ratings altogether - 125, 250, 400, 535, 700, 750, 920, 1000, and 1100. Within those cc ratings are several model variants.

I believe the 125 was available in Britain.

The 400 and 535 are seen here occasionally as second-hand Jap imports. Here's a 400 for sale:

http://www.motorcycletrader.co.nz/DesktopDefault.aspx?UsedBikeID=1815077&TabID=3553&Alias=motorcycletradernz

The 700 are not seen here often. They were sold in the USA in the 80's as a sleeved-down 750, to slip under the 700cc limit imposed on imported bikes (to protect the USA bike industry).

The 920 was the original big Virago, which then became the 1000, and later became the 1100.

The 750's are getting rarer but still come up occasionally. Here's one:

http://www.motorcycletrader.co.nz/DesktopDefault.aspx?UsedBikeID=2161452&TabID=3553&Alias=motorcycletradernz

The 1100's are more common, as they are imported in large numbers from Japan. Mine is a Jap import.

I've never heard of a full collection before, so good luck if you do it!

thanks for that virago. and were the cc ratings all avaliable in the colors crashe listed? like, would i be able to get each cc in the same color, or did they differ? would be cool to have a full stable all red and cream, lol.+

[wolf.47]

xv250 a great bike to start on, i like the v twin motor, has got good low and mid rev power, so cruising around town in 3rd and sometimes 4th is smooth.

[crashe]

crashe...my report on the virago for travelling. as you know, ive just got back from invercargill. my ass was so sore i was sometimes stuck on the bike unable to move due to pain, and the foot on the stand needs to be bigger [think camel!] as she fell/blew over 3 times, and nearly went over a 4th.


however, she didnt miss a beat! she ran awesome the whole way there and back again, and deserves a damn good polish when i get the chance.

Hey I just travelled from Auckland to Palmie in one day...... butt survived really well...
Next day Palmie to Upper Hutt and then all around Upper Hutt re LooseBruce funeral.
Next day Upper Hutt to Hastings.
Then Hastings to Whangarparoa in one day.

Over 1550 kms and the butt was fine...

Bike falling over..... how strange.... never had that happen to me.

Look at how you park her up...... make sure you get the angle right.. re parking. When you get off... put your hands on the seat to see how much she wobbles... if it looks too much re park her up..

The VIRAGO does have a good lean on when on the side stand '/' seems to be more so than other bikes.
So you do have to make double sure. Sometimes the road is not quite right for the bike lean... I have had to repark her a few times until I feel totally comfortable at leaving her parked up.

Hope nothing got damaged when she fell over.

[sunhuntin]

Hey I just travelled from Auckland to Palmie in one day...... butt survived really well...
Next day Palmie to Upper Hutt and then all around Upper Hutt re LooseBruce funeral.
Next day Upper Hutt to Hastings.
Then Hastings to Whangarparoa in one day.

Over 1550 kms and the butt was fine...

Bike falling over..... how strange.... never had that happen to me.

Look at how you park her up...... make sure you get the angle right.. re parking. When you get off... put your hands on the seat to see how much she wobbles... if it looks too much re park her up..

The VIRAGO does have a good lean on when on the side stand '/' seems to be more so than other bikes.
So you do have to make double sure. Sometimes the road is not quite right for the bike lean... I have had to repark her a few times until I feel totally comfortable at leaving her parked up.

Hope nothing got damaged when she fell over.

all 3 times of falling, she was on flat ground. ive had them weld a bigger foot, but am going to go bigger again. the second fall, she lost an indicator and mirror, 3rd drop, she lost a bit of fuel. the last two i can safely attribute to wind. i had her parked on an almost vertical side street in dunners with no problems. :mellow:

and as far as the numb ass....youve had the bike longer than me. i think the gn would have been a more comfortable ride actually. [cept i wouldnt have got there!] was comfy enough for the first 200k, but after that, itd get to the point where even lifting my ass off the seat at lights hurt like hell.

hey...if my old man comes over, im gonna take him on a tour. wanna meet in auckers one day?

[crashe]

all 3 times of falling, she was on flat ground. ive had them weld a bigger foot, but am going to go bigger again. the second fall, she lost an indicator and mirror, 3rd drop, she lost a bit of fuel. the last two i can safely attribute to wind. i had her parked on an almost vertical side street in dunners with no problems. :mellow:

and as far as the numb ass....youve had the bike longer than me. i think the gn would have been a more comfortable ride actually. [cept i wouldnt have got there!] was comfy enough for the first 200k, but after that, itd get to the point where even lifting my ass off the seat at lights hurt like hell.

hey...if my old man comes over, im gonna take him on a tour. wanna meet in auckers one day?

That is so bizarre how your bike fell over so many times...
Had my bike almost 7 years.... and never happened to me.

Sore ARSE - This is my longest ride that I have ever done....
I guess cos I was getting off to refuel every 150 kms may have helped... :whistle:


Meeting up....... yep that would be great.... will show you our neat roads up here as well...

[sunhuntin]

That is so bizarre how your bike fell over so many times...
Had my bike almost 7 years.... and never happened to me.

Sore ARSE - This is my longest ride that I have ever done....
I guess cos I was getting off to refuel every 150 kms may have helped... :whistle:


Meeting up....... yep that would be great.... will show you our neat roads up here as well...

i did refuelling in 200k stretches. just hoping like hell id make to the next one. i did stop more often than that to look around and things.

[crashe]

i did refuelling in 200k stretches. just hoping like hell id make to the next one. i did stop more often than that to look around and things.

hmmmmmmm thinking about this...

I have got GN250 shocks on the back of my bike... :whistle:

After I had been hit the cost of putting on original shocks was expensive at the time... so I put on a pair of second hand GN250 shocks...
so maybe thats the difference...
(looking for another set or GN250 rear shocks)

Also what level you got the shocks set at...?
Mine are at soft setting. Not lowest notch but the next notch up.

Also how much gear were you packing on the back of the bike...?
( I had a tank bag and a backpack strapped to the back seat)
Did you leave enough room for your butt and legs not to be too cramped up.


Doing long distance.. you need to be comfy on the seat..

[Waylander]

Rekon you just need more miles under your belt to be really used to riding it. Also your seat isn't broken in yet, Crashe's seat is.

Give it time, in a few months and some more long rides you'll say riding the GN was like sitting on a mechanical bull compared to the Virago.

[sunhuntin]

hmmmmmmm thinking about this...

I have got GN250 shocks on the back of my bike... :whistle:

After I had been hit the cost of putting on original shocks was expensive at the time... so I put on a pair of second hand GN250 shocks...
so maybe thats the difference...
(looking for another set or GN250 rear shocks)

Also what level you got the shocks set at...?
Mine are at soft setting. Not lowest notch but the next notch up.

Also how much gear were you packing on the back of the bike...?
( I had a tank bag and a backpack strapped to the back seat)
Did you leave enough room for your butt and legs not to be too cramped up.


Doing long distance.. you need to be comfy on the seat..

that may be the difference! im not sure what setting, but going over solid bumps, the bike did bottom out a few times. i had a basically empty backpack [only had a huge teddy bear, shampoo etc in it] saddlebags with sneakers in one, and maps/ tie downs in the other, and my other backpack with a small bag of yet more bears in the topbox. so while it was bulky, it was no way too heavy. less than a pillion. and the tiedowns were on the uppermost side [right] in the hopes of helping balance the lean.

waylander :scooter: yeh...more miles sounds about right. am gonna head to paeroa next year, so thatll help.