Hi from Stephen (s_devo)

[s_devo]

Hi From Stephen,

Hi I joined KB a couple of months back shortly after purchasing my 2004 GSX 250 and leaving the world of 4-wheeled stop-start traffic boredom behind me on my commute from Howick (Yes I'm a Jafa! - Just Another Friendly Aucklander).

<img src="http://www.onlinestory.net/images/bike7.jpg" width="300" height="210">

I want to say a big thanks to the KB contributors on the Club 250 forum that shared their wisdom and other comments... They all helped me get a sense of what kind of ride would suit me as a learner. Also a big shout out to Dave (CDMoss) for posting the GSX 250 owners manual.

I've had a few hairy experiences and want to thank everyone for their mentoring, advice and support so far - I'm sure some of it has saved my skin already as my awareness of potential dangers has developed over time. Really appreciated.

I'm looking forward to being a part of the KB online community and enjoying life on two wheels.

Cheers, Stephen

[jtzzr]

Welcome Stephen ,tis a good place to get advice (well most of the time:dodge:).Enjoy your new found freedom .

[Kevnz]

Welcome Stephen and safe commuting. I commute every day and love it. It is a good way to get your skills up and learn how to look out for all the dangers out there, cagers! You sound like a friendly Aucklander so maybe, just maybe, thats what Jafa really means:lol:

[fire eyes]

welcome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :headbang:

[s_devo]

Thanks for the warm welcome everyone.

As a noob one of the things I'd really like to learn is how to go about maintaining my bike. I've had a full service done at Haldanes and wow what a difference it makes. Better on the fuel and the bike sounds totally different!

Any advice on how I can learn to do the basics such as checking the chain, changing the oil, brake pads, air filter etc. I could probably work out the 'how' from the manual, but probably not the 'why' and sometimes it's those simple practical tips that can make all the difference. I'm the kind of person that likes to learn from others anyway. I've had a look through some of the forums, but they seem to be focused on quite specific things. Any advice or directions anyone can offer would be really appreciated.

Thanks, Stephen

[Winter]

Hey Mate, Welcome to KB..

My first bike was a GSX also :) I had the blue one. Only advice I can give you is ATGATT - All the gear, all the time. Don't ever just nip around the corner without all your gear on - the universe hates you, and everyone else on the road is out to kill you :)

Sounds terrible, but its Good to remember - you just don't want to trust anyone, apart from that little voice inside your head!

Keep the chain well oiled (give it a spray every tank of gas is easy) and clean (an old toothbrush dipped in kerosene is a great way to get grime off, just besure to oil it again when your done!)

[s_devo]

Thanks Winter

Yeah I totally agree - well except for the universe hating me thing. On day 10 I had my first near-death experience courtesy of courier post!:
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=81479

Any suggestions on what type of oil to get? I've read somewhere not to use chain oil?

Thanks, Stephen

[Fatt Max]

Hey Stephen,

I'm out your way amd commute in each day

Hope to see you on the road mate

All the best

[eelracing]

When it comes to chains any oil is better than no oil,just use it sparingly but often.Welcome to bikes and kb.