Motorbikes. Good fun, aren't they?

[SD]

Went off to take a picture of a war memorial in Chlemsford this
afternoon.

As it was a nice day, I took the CBX.

It's a bit like a rainy day: twice the fun at half the speed.

Not only that, but you get waved at by old duffers on BSAs and the
like.

The brakes get better as they get warmer, too. They're still rubbish,
but definitely better.
--
| ___ Salad Dodger
|/ \
_/_____\_ GL1500SEV/CBR1100XXX/CBX1000Z
|_\_____/_| ..80264../..21661.../..31308.
(>|_|_|<) TPPFATUICG#7 DIAABTCOD#9 WG*
|__|_|__| BOTAFOT #70 BOTAFOF #09 PM#5
\ |^| / IbW#0 & KotIbW# BotTOS#6 GP#4
\|^|/ ANORAK#17 IbB#4 YTC#4 two#11
'^' RBR'06 Points: 75 Miles: 317

[Wicked Uncle Nigel]

Using the patented Mavis Beacon "Hunt&Peck" Technique, SD

Post by SD
Went off to take a picture of a war memorial in Chlemsford this
afternoon.
As it was a nice day, I took the CBX.
It's a bit like a rainy day: twice the fun at half the speed.
Not only that, but you get waved at by old duffers on BSAs and the
like.
The brakes get better as they get warmer, too. They're still rubbish,
but definitely better.

That they are, my foliophobic friend.

I have concluded that the Vmax is a very silly motorcycle indeed. 80
miles for a tankful, FFS! Given that much of it is converted directly
from fuel to a *wonderful* noise, I call that good value.

Mined Ewe, I really *do* get small children waving as I blat past. The
storage space for Werther's is pathetically inadequate...

[d***@burnt.org.uk]

Post by Wicked Uncle Nigel
Mined Ewe, I really *do* get small children waving as I blat past. The
storage space for Werther's is pathetically inadequate...

What's the storage space for chloroform, rubber gloves, ropes and ball
gags like?

[Wicked Uncle Nigel]

Using the patented Mavis Beacon "Hunt&Peck" Technique,

Post by d***@burnt.org.uk

Post by Wicked Uncle Nigel
Mined Ewe, I really *do* get small children waving as I blat past. The
storage space for Werther's is pathetically inadequate...

What's the storage space for chloroform, rubber gloves, ropes and ball
gags like?

I have no need of such artificial aids.

[Gyp]

Post by Wicked Uncle Nigel
Using the patented Mavis Beacon "Hunt&Peck" Technique,

Post by d***@burnt.org.uk

Post by Wicked Uncle Nigel
Mined Ewe, I really *do* get small children waving as I blat past. The
storage space for Werther's is pathetically inadequate...

What's the storage space for chloroform, rubber gloves, ropes and ball
gags like?

I have no need of such artificial aids.

It's for their benefit, not yours

[Andy Bonwick]

On Sun, 2 Jul 2006 18:53:47 +0100, Wicked Uncle Nigel

Post by Wicked Uncle Nigel
Using the patented Mavis Beacon "Hunt&Peck" Technique, SD

Post by SD
Went off to take a picture of a war memorial in Chlemsford this
afternoon.
As it was a nice day, I took the CBX.
It's a bit like a rainy day: twice the fun at half the speed.
Not only that, but you get waved at by old duffers on BSAs and the
like.
The brakes get better as they get warmer, too. They're still rubbish,
but definitely better.

That they are, my foliophobic friend.
I have concluded that the Vmax is a very silly motorcycle indeed. 80
miles for a tankful, FFS! Given that much of it is converted directly
from fuel to a *wonderful* noise, I call that good value.
Mined Ewe, I really *do* get small children waving as I blat past. The
storage space for Werther's is pathetically inadequate...

I was out for a short (30 odd miles) run on the 250 this afternoon and
the fun to be had revving something that small to 18.5k revs in every
gear is something you can't describe in words. It's hard work stopping
it from falling into a flat spot at about 13k revs but with a bit of
effort it can be done. I really should ride that bike more often.

[d***@burnt.org.uk]

Post by Andy Bonwick
On Sun, 2 Jul 2006 18:53:47 +0100, Wicked Uncle Nigel

Post by Wicked Uncle Nigel
Mined Ewe, I really *do* get small children waving as I blat past. The
storage space for Werther's is pathetically inadequate...

I was out for a short (30 odd miles) run on the 250 this afternoon and
the fun to be had revving something that small to 18.5k revs in every
gear is something you can't describe in words. It's hard work stopping
it from falling into a flat spot at about 13k revs but with a bit of
effort it can be done. I really should ride that bike more often.

I did a shorter, shopping, run on the ZXR750. It's *soo* loud. I
really can't bring myself to silence it and I also can't stop myself
from making it pop, bang and spit when I'm in traffic in town.

It's *lovely*

[muddy]

Post by d***@burnt.org.uk

Post by Andy Bonwick
On Sun, 2 Jul 2006 18:53:47 +0100, Wicked Uncle Nigel

Post by Wicked Uncle Nigel
Mined Ewe, I really *do* get small children waving as I blat past. The
storage space for Werther's is pathetically inadequate...

I was out for a short (30 odd miles) run on the 250 this afternoon and
the fun to be had revving something that small to 18.5k revs in every
gear is something you can't describe in words. It's hard work stopping
it from falling into a flat spot at about 13k revs but with a bit of
effort it can be done. I really should ride that bike more often.

I did a shorter, shopping, run on the ZXR750. It's *soo* loud. I
really can't bring myself to silence it and I also can't stop myself
from making it pop, bang and spit when I'm in traffic in town.
It's *lovely*

I really miss the SV for this reason. I had a Yosh RS3 full system on
it. Sounded lovely on the road and positively ace in tunnels when you
hit the rev limiter.

[Andy Bonwick]

Post by d***@burnt.org.uk

Post by Andy Bonwick
On Sun, 2 Jul 2006 18:53:47 +0100, Wicked Uncle Nigel

Post by Wicked Uncle Nigel
Mined Ewe, I really *do* get small children waving as I blat past. The
storage space for Werther's is pathetically inadequate...

I was out for a short (30 odd miles) run on the 250 this afternoon and
the fun to be had revving something that small to 18.5k revs in every
gear is something you can't describe in words. It's hard work stopping
it from falling into a flat spot at about 13k revs but with a bit of
effort it can be done. I really should ride that bike more often.

I did a shorter, shopping, run on the ZXR750. It's *soo* loud. I
really can't bring myself to silence it and I also can't stop myself
from making it pop, bang and spit when I'm in traffic in town.
It's *lovely*

Old men and their toys. It's all a bit sad really.

[d***@burnt.org.uk]

Post by Andy Bonwick

Post by d***@burnt.org.uk

Post by Andy Bonwick
On Sun, 2 Jul 2006 18:53:47 +0100, Wicked Uncle Nigel

Post by Wicked Uncle Nigel
Mined Ewe, I really *do* get small children waving as I blat past. The
storage space for Werther's is pathetically inadequate...

I was out for a short (30 odd miles) run on the 250 this afternoon and
the fun to be had revving something that small to 18.5k revs in every
gear is something you can't describe in words. It's hard work stopping
it from falling into a flat spot at about 13k revs but with a bit of
effort it can be done. I really should ride that bike more often.

I did a shorter, shopping, run on the ZXR750. It's *soo* loud. I
really can't bring myself to silence it and I also can't stop myself
from making it pop, bang and spit when I'm in traffic in town.
It's *lovely*

Old men and their toys. It's all a bit sad really.

Not as sad as old men without their toys, grandad.

[Andy Bonwick]

Post by d***@burnt.org.uk

Post by Andy Bonwick

Post by d***@burnt.org.uk

Post by Andy Bonwick
On Sun, 2 Jul 2006 18:53:47 +0100, Wicked Uncle Nigel

Post by Wicked Uncle Nigel
Mined Ewe, I really *do* get small children waving as I blat past. The
storage space for Werther's is pathetically inadequate...

I was out for a short (30 odd miles) run on the 250 this afternoon and
the fun to be had revving something that small to 18.5k revs in every
gear is something you can't describe in words. It's hard work stopping
it from falling into a flat spot at about 13k revs but with a bit of
effort it can be done. I really should ride that bike more often.

I did a shorter, shopping, run on the ZXR750. It's *soo* loud. I
really can't bring myself to silence it and I also can't stop myself
from making it pop, bang and spit when I'm in traffic in town.
It's *lovely*

Old men and their toys. It's all a bit sad really.

Not as sad as old men without their toys, grandad.

Fuck off you whippersnapper.

[Beav]

Post by Andy Bonwick

Post by d***@burnt.org.uk

Post by Andy Bonwick
On Sun, 2 Jul 2006 18:53:47 +0100, Wicked Uncle Nigel

Post by Wicked Uncle Nigel
Mined Ewe, I really *do* get small children waving as I blat past. The
storage space for Werther's is pathetically inadequate...

I was out for a short (30 odd miles) run on the 250 this afternoon and
the fun to be had revving something that small to 18.5k revs in every
gear is something you can't describe in words. It's hard work stopping
it from falling into a flat spot at about 13k revs but with a bit of
effort it can be done. I really should ride that bike more often.

I did a shorter, shopping, run on the ZXR750. It's *soo* loud. I
really can't bring myself to silence it and I also can't stop myself
from making it pop, bang and spit when I'm in traffic in town.
It's *lovely*

Old men and their toys. It's all a bit sad really.

I want some of this fun too, but I'm a mard arse. Rev limiter? Wassat then?

I'm sat here (obviously) and I just heard a Yammy 650 thumper roar past the
back of the house on its way to the "track". It sounded lovely.

[Pete Fisher]

Post by Andy Bonwick
I was out for a short (30 odd miles) run on the 250 this afternoon and
the fun to be had revving something that small to 18.5k revs in every
gear is something you can't describe in words. It's hard work stopping
it from falling into a flat spot at about 13k revs but with a bit of
effort it can be done. I really should ride that bike more often.

When I finally get the bastard nut off and put a new sprocket and chain
on I will take the GFR out and wring its neck for a similar sort of
distance. Squeezing every last one of those 30 BHP out of it to maintain
a surprisingly high speed takes commitment, but is rewarding in a way
someone who has only ever ridden big powerful machines or learner bikes
wouldn't understand.

[Andy Bonwick]

On Sun, 2 Jul 2006 19:37:27 +0100, Pete Fisher

Post by Pete Fisher

Post by Andy Bonwick
I was out for a short (30 odd miles) run on the 250 this afternoon and
the fun to be had revving something that small to 18.5k revs in every
gear is something you can't describe in words. It's hard work stopping
it from falling into a flat spot at about 13k revs but with a bit of
effort it can be done. I really should ride that bike more often.

When I finally get the bastard nut off and put a new sprocket and chain
on I will take the GFR out and wring its neck for a similar sort of
distance. Squeezing every last one of those 30 BHP out of it to maintain
a surprisingly high speed takes commitment, but is rewarding in a way
someone who has only ever ridden big powerful machines or learner bikes
wouldn't understand.

I've ridden a wide enough range of bikes to know which ones are hard
work to ride. When I can find some spare disposable I'm determined to
de-restrict the 250 (1) and get rid of the flat spot with a bit of
dyno time. If it'd rev straight through from 10k up to the red line
without hesitation it's be even more fun to thrash.

I've considered putting it on a track for a day but I know I'd hate
the lack of power no matter how many ego boosts I gave myself holding
corner speed.

(1) It's an FZR250 and they're allegedly restricted in top gear. I can
get it to the redline in 5th but as soon as I change up it loses all
momentum.

[Pete Fisher]

Post by Andy Bonwick
I've ridden a wide enough range of bikes to know which ones are hard
work to ride. When I can find some spare disposable I'm determined to
de-restrict the 250 (1) and get rid of the flat spot with a bit of
dyno time. If it'd rev straight through from 10k up to the red line
without hesitation it's be even more fun to thrash.

I must admit to a hankering after a small capacity four stroke four.
Given my SIG it's probably no surprise to anyone that I have never owned
anything with more than 2 cylinders (unless also having more than 2
wheels). Had a go on an early Honda 400 four though - unbelievably my
only four cylinder two-wheeler experience.

Post by Andy Bonwick
I've considered putting it on a track for a day but I know I'd hate
the lack of power no matter how many ego boosts I gave myself holding
corner speed.

If the other machinery out in your sessions wasn't mega-powerful either
you might be able to live with it. The Morini Riders club Cadwell track
days were always fun for that reason. The GFR was not that much slower
than a 3 1/2, but only if you kept totally tucked down behind the screen
(no knee out - too much wind resistance). Slipping the clutch essential
at the hairpin.

Post by Andy Bonwick
(1) It's an FZR250 and they're allegedly restricted in top gear. I can
get it to the redline in 5th but as soon as I change up it loses all
momentum.

Or just over geared? I managed to pick up a one tooth smaller gearbox
sprocket for the GFR. Makes it easier to keep the power valve open, but
still no fear of over-revving in 6th.

[platypus]

Post by Andy Bonwick
On Sun, 2 Jul 2006 18:53:47 +0100, Wicked Uncle Nigel

Post by Wicked Uncle Nigel
Using the patented Mavis Beacon "Hunt&Peck" Technique, SD

Post by SD
Went off to take a picture of a war memorial in Chlemsford this
afternoon.
As it was a nice day, I took the CBX.
It's a bit like a rainy day: twice the fun at half the speed.
Not only that, but you get waved at by old duffers on BSAs and the
like.
The brakes get better as they get warmer, too. They're still
rubbish, but definitely better.

That they are, my foliophobic friend.
I have concluded that the Vmax is a very silly motorcycle indeed. 80
miles for a tankful, FFS! Given that much of it is converted directly
from fuel to a *wonderful* noise, I call that good value.
Mined Ewe, I really *do* get small children waving as I blat past.
The storage space for Werther's is pathetically inadequate...

I was out for a short (30 odd miles) run on the 250 this afternoon and
the fun to be had revving something that small to 18.5k revs in every
gear is something you can't describe in words. It's hard work stopping
it from falling into a flat spot at about 13k revs but with a bit of
effort it can be done. I really should ride that bike more often.

For a moment, I thought this was still Nigel talking about the Vmax...

[Beav]

Post by Andy Bonwick
On Sun, 2 Jul 2006 18:53:47 +0100, Wicked Uncle Nigel

Post by Wicked Uncle Nigel
Using the patented Mavis Beacon "Hunt&Peck" Technique, SD

Post by SD
Went off to take a picture of a war memorial in Chlemsford this
afternoon.
As it was a nice day, I took the CBX.
It's a bit like a rainy day: twice the fun at half the speed.
Not only that, but you get waved at by old duffers on BSAs and the
like.
The brakes get better as they get warmer, too. They're still rubbish,
but definitely better.

That they are, my foliophobic friend.
I have concluded that the Vmax is a very silly motorcycle indeed. 80
miles for a tankful, FFS! Given that much of it is converted directly
from fuel to a *wonderful* noise, I call that good value.
Mined Ewe, I really *do* get small children waving as I blat past. The
storage space for Werther's is pathetically inadequate...

I was out for a short (30 odd miles) run on the 250 this afternoon and
the fun to be had revving something that small to 18.5k revs in every
gear is something you can't describe in words. It's hard work stopping
it from falling into a flat spot at about 13k revs but with a bit of
effort it can be done. I really should ride that bike more often.

I reckon I've got FAR too much mechanical sympathy for bikes. Having grown
up with engines that self destructed if they approached 5000rpm, I have a
really hard time revving the bollocks off the Zed, even though it goes quite
quickly when I do.

I don't think I've even seen 10,000rpm these last few weeks and I'm grateful
it pulls from 4000 with no effort. Can anyone help me overcome my reluctance
to 'tater this bugger?

[Champ]

On Mon, 03 Jul 2006 15:42:55 GMT, "Beav"

Post by Beav
I reckon I've got FAR too much mechanical sympathy for bikes. Having grown
up with engines that self destructed if they approached 5000rpm, I have a
really hard time revving the bollocks off the Zed, even though it goes quite
quickly when I do.
I don't think I've even seen 10,000rpm these last few weeks and I'm grateful
it pulls from 4000 with no effort. Can anyone help me overcome my reluctance
to 'tater this bugger?

Earplugs.

[Beav]

Post by Champ
On Mon, 03 Jul 2006 15:42:55 GMT, "Beav"

Post by Beav
I reckon I've got FAR too much mechanical sympathy for bikes. Having grown
up with engines that self destructed if they approached 5000rpm, I have a
really hard time revving the bollocks off the Zed, even though it goes quite
quickly when I do.
I don't think I've even seen 10,000rpm these last few weeks and I'm grateful
it pulls from 4000 with no effort. Can anyone help me overcome my reluctance
to 'tater this bugger?

Earplugs.

I wear them, but they don't stop me seeing the rev counter.

[Christofire]

Post by Beav

Post by Champ
On Mon, 03 Jul 2006 15:42:55 GMT, "Beav"

Post by Beav
I reckon I've got FAR too much mechanical sympathy for bikes.
Having grown up with engines that self destructed if they
approached 5000rpm, I have a really hard time revving the
bollocks off the Zed, even though it goes quite quickly when I do.
I don't think I've even seen 10,000rpm these last few weeks and
I'm grateful it pulls from 4000 with no effort. Can anyone help
me overcome my reluctance to 'tater this bugger?

Earplugs.

I wear them, but they don't stop me seeing the rev counter.

Duct tape then.

[Beav]

Post by Christofire

Post by Beav

Post by Champ
On Mon, 03 Jul 2006 15:42:55 GMT, "Beav"

Post by Beav
I reckon I've got FAR too much mechanical sympathy for bikes.
Having grown up with engines that self destructed if they
approached 5000rpm, I have a really hard time revving the
bollocks off the Zed, even though it goes quite quickly when I do.
I don't think I've even seen 10,000rpm these last few weeks and
I'm grateful it pulls from 4000 with no effort. Can anyone help
me overcome my reluctance to 'tater this bugger?

Earplugs.

I wear them, but they don't stop me seeing the rev counter.

Duct tape then.

But, but, I might damage me motor if I can't hear it or see what it's doing.

Then I'd have to buy a ZX-10R.

[Champ]

On Mon, 03 Jul 2006 21:37:43 GMT, "Beav"

Post by Beav

Post by Champ
On Mon, 03 Jul 2006 15:42:55 GMT, "Beav"

Post by Beav
I reckon I've got FAR too much mechanical sympathy for bikes. Having grown
up with engines that self destructed if they approached 5000rpm, I have a
really hard time revving the bollocks off the Zed, even though it goes quite
quickly when I do.
I don't think I've even seen 10,000rpm these last few weeks and I'm grateful
it pulls from 4000 with no effort. Can anyone help me overcome my reluctance
to 'tater this bugger?

Earplugs.

I wear them, but they don't stop me seeing the rev counter.

Gaff tape.

Jeez, do I have to think of everything?

[Beav]

Post by Champ
On Mon, 03 Jul 2006 21:37:43 GMT, "Beav"

Post by Beav

Post by Champ
On Mon, 03 Jul 2006 15:42:55 GMT, "Beav"

Post by Beav
I reckon I've got FAR too much mechanical sympathy for bikes. Having grown
up with engines that self destructed if they approached 5000rpm, I have a
really hard time revving the bollocks off the Zed, even though it goes quite
quickly when I do.
I don't think I've even seen 10,000rpm these last few weeks and I'm grateful
it pulls from 4000 with no effort. Can anyone help me overcome my reluctance
to 'tater this bugger?

Earplugs.

I wear them, but they don't stop me seeing the rev counter.

Gaff tape.
Jeez, do I have to think of everything?

No, Chris beat you to it :-)

[Verdigris]

Post by Champ
On Mon, 03 Jul 2006 15:42:55 GMT, "Beav"

Post by Beav
I reckon I've got FAR too much mechanical sympathy for bikes. Having grown
up with engines that self destructed if they approached 5000rpm, I have a
really hard time revving the bollocks off the Zed, even though it goes quite
quickly when I do.
I don't think I've even seen 10,000rpm these last few weeks and I'm grateful
it pulls from 4000 with no effort. Can anyone help me overcome my reluctance
to 'tater this bugger?

But it only gets really interesting above 8,000. It's one of the things I
like most about the Zed, just running around at stupid revs in low gears.
And if it has a rev-limiter I haven't found it yet.

Just go for it. It's essentially a de-tuned 9R engine so it doesn't seem
likely that you're going to hurt it.

[Beav]

Post by Verdigris

Post by Champ
On Mon, 03 Jul 2006 15:42:55 GMT, "Beav"

Post by Beav
I reckon I've got FAR too much mechanical sympathy for bikes. Having grown
up with engines that self destructed if they approached 5000rpm, I have a
really hard time revving the bollocks off the Zed, even though it goes quite
quickly when I do.
I don't think I've even seen 10,000rpm these last few weeks and I'm grateful
it pulls from 4000 with no effort. Can anyone help me overcome my reluctance
to 'tater this bugger?

But it only gets really interesting above 8,000.

Oh I know. It's been there a few times (I even managed to see 12,000 a
couple of times) but recently I've had the wife on the back and at 8000 with
the trottle nailed at the stop, it starts to get really light on the front
end and I doubt she'd appreciate the horizon moving too much, but even when
she's not been on the back, I've ben riding like she is. I'm being a cunt I
know.

It's one of the things I

Post by Verdigris
like most about the Zed, just running around at stupid revs in low gears.
And if it has a rev-limiter I haven't found it yet.

Nor me. I wonder if it's actually got one?

Post by Verdigris
Just go for it. It's essentially a de-tuned 9R engine so it doesn't seem
likely that you're going to hurt it.

That's what I've heard, but I'm an old twat, brought up in the days when
revving the tits off something was considered naughty. Anyway, you're right,
I should give it some and I will this afternoon, just so I can say I did.

At least now, I can't say it's the handling after getting my tyres to their
correct pressures.

[Christofire]

Post by Beav
I don't think I've even seen 10,000rpm these last few weeks and I'm
grateful it pulls from 4000 with no effort. Can anyone help me
overcome my reluctance to 'tater this bugger?

<waves>

This week might be tricky though. It's got busy very quickly.

[Beav]

Post by Christofire

Post by Beav
I don't think I've even seen 10,000rpm these last few weeks and I'm
grateful it pulls from 4000 with no effort. Can anyone help me
overcome my reluctance to 'tater this bugger?

<waves>
This week might be tricky though. It's got busy very quickly.

No probs Chris.

[Gyp]

Post by Beav
I reckon I've got FAR too much mechanical sympathy for bikes. Having grown
up with engines that self destructed if they approached 5000rpm, I have a
really hard time revving the bollocks off the Zed, even though it goes quite
quickly when I do.
I don't think I've even seen 10,000rpm these last few weeks and I'm grateful
it pulls from 4000 with no effort. Can anyone help me overcome my reluctance
to 'tater this bugger?

OK, I've not ridden the thou, but I suspect it might be a bit like the
750.

It's not that it's ludicrously fast, it just gets a bit frenetic and
doesn't feel totally under control. I know it's not the power or the
speed per-se that's the issue, as I've ridden Black Mike/Champ/Daz's
Gixxer thous a lot faster with a lot more confidence.

I'd put it down to the cheapie suspension on the 750, and thought that
the Zed thou suspension might be the answer. It might be that whilst
better, the thou suspension might limit it in the same way the 750
suspension limits the 750 (perhaps fitting the thou suspension to the
750 might be the optimum compromise? Giz a go :-))

Thankfully, the bike has a good midrange, and it's at its most rewarding
when riding it at 6-7 tenths rather than trying to wring its neck
everywhere. It's not so bad hitting the higher revs in the higher gears
when the thrust is more manageable (and the soft rev limiter doesn't
catch you unawares either).

I guess a telling thing is that my recent attempts to get the front
wheel airborne on the Zed have been aborted because it gets a bit too
exciting, whereas last weekend I was getting quite competent at turning
the Harley into a unicycle, albeit for short periods, without any of the
feeling of impending death.

[Champ]

Post by Gyp

Post by Beav
I reckon I've got FAR too much mechanical sympathy for bikes. Having grown
up with engines that self destructed if they approached 5000rpm, I have a
really hard time revving the bollocks off the Zed, even though it goes quite
quickly when I do.
I don't think I've even seen 10,000rpm these last few weeks and I'm grateful
it pulls from 4000 with no effort. Can anyone help me overcome my reluctance
to 'tater this bugger?

OK, I've not ridden the thou, but I suspect it might be a bit like the
750.
It's not that it's ludicrously fast, it just gets a bit frenetic and
doesn't feel totally under control. I know it's not the power or the
speed per-se that's the issue, as I've ridden Black Mike/Champ/Daz's
Gixxer thous a lot faster with a lot more confidence.
I'd put it down to the cheapie suspension on the 750, and thought that
the Zed thou suspension might be the answer. It might be that whilst
better, the thou suspension might limit it in the same way the 750
suspension limits the 750 (perhaps fitting the thou suspension to the
750 might be the optimum compromise? Giz a go :-))

I fancy fitting the 750 suspension to the thou :-)

[Gyp]

Post by Champ
I fancy fitting the 750 suspension to the thou :-)

:-)

Right, if you can get hold of Beav's Zed thou for a couple of hours, I
reckon I can sort the suspension.

[Beav]

Post by Gyp

Post by Champ
I fancy fitting the 750 suspension to the thou :-)

:-)
Right, if you can get hold of Beav's Zed thou for a couple of hours, I
reckon I can sort the suspension.

I've welded the yokes:)

[Beav]

Post by Gyp

Post by Beav
I reckon I've got FAR too much mechanical sympathy for bikes. Having grown
up with engines that self destructed if they approached 5000rpm, I have a
really hard time revving the bollocks off the Zed, even though it goes quite
quickly when I do.
I don't think I've even seen 10,000rpm these last few weeks and I'm grateful
it pulls from 4000 with no effort. Can anyone help me overcome my reluctance
to 'tater this bugger?

OK, I've not ridden the thou, but I suspect it might be a bit like the
750.

Likely enough I suppose.

Post by Gyp
It's not that it's ludicrously fast, it just gets a bit frenetic and
doesn't feel totally under control.

I've never felt it was lacking in control on the occasions where it has been
leathered, but the thought of the motor revving at 10,000+ fills me with
trepidation. I'm expecting a nut sac full of valves and bits of cylinder
head. (It's only a "mind" thing I'm sure)

I know it's not the power or the

Post by Gyp
speed per-se that's the issue, as I've ridden Black Mike/Champ/Daz's
Gixxer thous a lot faster with a lot more confidence.

This is the fastest bike I've ever ridden regularly. I *have* ridden others
like the Gixxer 750 and a couple of R6's, but not often and not for long
when I have, but the speed isn't the problem, it's this mechanical sympathy
thing I've got. Being n ex-mechanic doesn't help.

Post by Gyp
I'd put it down to the cheapie suspension on the 750, and thought that the
Zed thou suspension might be the answer.

The front end is magic, but the back end's a bit "boingy" unless theres a
pillion. I've thought about reducing the compression damping a little, but
then it's likely to bollocks up sometihng when I've got the missus on board
and that wouldn't be a good thing.

It might be that whilst

Post by Gyp
better, the thou suspension might limit it in the same way the 750
suspension limits the 750 (perhaps fitting the thou suspension to the 750
might be the optimum compromise?

I don't know if the front end will swap over though, as the thou has USD's.
The back end is all grease nippled up too, (5 nipples for the suspension
linkage) so unless the 750 is just a non greasable set up with the same
linkage, it might not be straight forward.

Giz a go :-))

EoSM.

Post by Gyp
Thankfully, the bike has a good midrange, and it's at its most rewarding
when riding it at 6-7 tenths rather than trying to wring its neck
everywhere. It's not so bad hitting the higher revs in the higher gears
when the thrust is more manageable (and the soft rev limiter doesn't catch
you unawares either).

Yeah, but at the higher end of the rev range in 5th and 6th, the fucker's
doing 140+. Not too many places I can get away with doing that sort of speed
oop 'ere in t' frozen north.

Post by Gyp
I guess a telling thing is that my recent attempts to get the front wheel
airborne on the Zed have been aborted because it gets a bit too exciting,
whereas last weekend I was getting quite competent at turning the Harley
into a unicycle, albeit for short periods, without any of the feeling of
impending death.

I've had the thou up on its back wheel accidently on three occasions now.
One time I was only passing a fucking Nissan Micra in Manchester city centre
and she was pissing about. I just cracked the throttle (in first) and at
about 30mph, the front sailed up as did my heartbeat. City centre wheelies
when you don't wheelie aren't recommended:)

Anyway, you're welcome to give the thou a go if we ever get face to face.

[Gyp]

Post by Beav
I've never felt it was lacking in control on the occasions where it has been
leathered, but the thought of the motor revving at 10,000+ fills me with
trepidation. I'm expecting a nut sac full of valves and bits of cylinder
head. (It's only a "mind" thing I'm sure)

I ride an archaic 45-degree twin with a 6,000 RPM red-line.

At 7,500 RPM it feels like it's going to knock the planet out of orbit.

Taking a Zed engine over 10,000 is not scary.

Post by Beav
This is the fastest bike I've ever ridden regularly. I *have* ridden others
like the Gixxer 750 and a couple of R6's, but not often and not for long
when I have, but the speed isn't the problem, it's this mechanical sympathy
thing I've got. Being n ex-mechanic doesn't help.
I don't know if the front end will swap over though, as the thou has USD's.
The back end is all grease nippled up too, (5 nipples for the suspension
linkage) so unless the 750 is just a non greasable set up with the same
linkage, it might not be straight forward.

Front will swap if you swap the yokes. Oddly the front mudguards are
common.

I'll make the back end fit

Post by Beav
EoSM.

Splendid.

Post by Beav
I've had the thou up on its back wheel accidently on three occasions now.
One time I was only passing a fucking Nissan Micra in Manchester city centre
and she was pissing about. I just cracked the throttle (in first) and at
about 30mph, the front sailed up as did my heartbeat. City centre wheelies
when you don't wheelie aren't recommended:)

Ah but you do wheelie. You may not have planned it, but you do wheelie
-)

Post by Beav
Anyway, you're welcome to give the thou a go if we ever get face to face.

I'm all excited now...

[Beav]

Post by Gyp

Post by Beav
I've never felt it was lacking in control on the occasions where it has been
leathered, but the thought of the motor revving at 10,000+ fills me with
trepidation. I'm expecting a nut sac full of valves and bits of cylinder
head. (It's only a "mind" thing I'm sure)

I ride an archaic 45-degree twin with a 6,000 RPM red-line.

I've got one of them too, but it doesn't redline until lose to 10,000. With
open exhausts it's a bit loud though.

Post by Gyp
At 7,500 RPM it feels like it's going to knock the planet out of orbit.
Taking a Zed engine over 10,000 is not scary.

I know, but it's an ingrained thing, spawned back in the 60's. Cortina GT's
didn't rev that hard and my old Beezer would've blown apart at half those
revs.

Post by Gyp

Post by Beav
This is the fastest bike I've ever ridden regularly. I *have* ridden others
like the Gixxer 750 and a couple of R6's, but not often and not for long
when I have, but the speed isn't the problem, it's this mechanical sympathy
thing I've got. Being n ex-mechanic doesn't help.
I don't know if the front end will swap over though, as the thou has USD's.
The back end is all grease nippled up too, (5 nipples for the suspension
linkage) so unless the 750 is just a non greasable set up with the same
linkage, it might not be straight forward.

Front will swap if you swap the yokes. Oddly the front mudguards are
common.

My yokes are staying put, I've only just cleaned 'em.

Post by Gyp
I'll make the back end fit

Post by Beav
EoSM.

Splendid.

Post by Beav
I've had the thou up on its back wheel accidently on three occasions now.
One time I was only passing a fucking Nissan Micra in Manchester city centre
and she was pissing about. I just cracked the throttle (in first) and at
about 30mph, the front sailed up as did my heartbeat. City centre wheelies
when you don't wheelie aren't recommended:)

Ah but you do wheelie. You may not have planned it, but you do wheelie -)

Yeah, but I shit myself every time. I need to work on doing them
deliberately.

Post by Gyp

Post by Beav
Anyway, you're welcome to give the thou a go if we ever get face to face.

I'm all excited now...

Yeah, right:-)

[SD]

On Sun, 2 Jul 2006 18:53:47 +0100, Wicked Uncle Nigel

Post by Wicked Uncle Nigel
That they are, my foliophobic friend.

Your *what*?

Post by Wicked Uncle Nigel
I have concluded that the Vmax is a very silly motorcycle indeed. 80
miles for a tankful, FFS! Given that much of it is converted directly
from fuel to a *wonderful* noise, I call that good value.

Sounds familiar. 100 miles to reserve on the silver beastie.

It also sounds better with a Shoei full face on, than with an HJC
flip-front.
--
| ___ Salad Dodger
|/ \
_/_____\_ GL1500SEV/CBR1100XXX/CBX1000Z
|_\_____/_| ..80389../..21885.../..31432.
(>|_|_|<) TPPFATUICG#7 DIAABTCOD#9 WG*
|__|_|__| BOTAFOT #70 BOTAFOF #09 PM#5
\ |^| / IbW#0 & KotIbW# BotTOS#6 GP#4
\|^|/ ANORAK#17 IbB#4 YTC#4 two#11
'^' RBR'06 Points: 85 Miles: 413

[darsy]

Post by Wicked Uncle Nigel
Mined Ewe, I really *do* get small children waving as I blat past. The
storage space for Werther's is pathetically inadequate...

I was down in Kent yesterday, and saw a group of 4 Vmax riders, all in
open face lids, wraparound shades and grey straggly beards.

It's definitely a suitable bike for you, Nigel.

[Wicked Uncle Nigel]

Using the patented Mavis Beacon "Hunt&Peck" Technique, darsy

Post by darsy

Post by Wicked Uncle Nigel
Mined Ewe, I really *do* get small children waving as I blat past. The
storage space for Werther's is pathetically inadequate...

I was down in Kent yesterday, and saw a group of 4 Vmax riders, all in
open face lids, wraparound shades and grey straggly beards.
It's definitely a suitable bike for you, Nigel.

No doubt about it.

[Christofire]

Post by SD
Went off to take a picture of a war memorial in Chlemsford this
afternoon.

As it happens, I took a few pictures today. Fr. Jack cajoled me into
taking the following of a 400Four:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/christofire/180028377/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/christofire/180028478/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/christofire/180028666/
(that last one with an added RF900 in purple - mmm)

Finally, a bike for BGN to aspire to:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/christofire/180028845/

[Beav]

Post by Christofire

Post by SD
Went off to take a picture of a war memorial in Chlemsford this
afternoon.

As it happens, I took a few pictures today. Fr. Jack cajoled me into
http://www.flickr.com/photos/christofire/180028377/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/christofire/180028478/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/christofire/180028666/
(that last one with an added RF900 in purple - mmm)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/christofire/180028845/

I'm glad I missed the Rivvyfest now. My eyes would've bled if I'd seen that
thing in the flesh.

[SD]

Post by SD
Went off to take a picture of a war memorial in Chlemsford this
afternoon.
As it was a nice day, I took the CBX.

As a follow up to my "sensible MOT tester" post, it appears that
today's run was completed without the aid of either stop or tail
lights.

Ten minutes with a soldering iron (like I should have done yesterday)
and all's well.
--
| ___ Salad Dodger
|/ \
_/_____\_ GL1500SEV/CBR1100XXX/CBX1000Z
|_\_____/_| ..80264../..21661.../..31308.
(>|_|_|<) TPPFATUICG#7 DIAABTCOD#9 WG*
|__|_|__| BOTAFOT #70 BOTAFOF #09 PM#5
\ |^| / IbW#0 & KotIbW# BotTOS#6 GP#4
\|^|/ ANORAK#17 IbB#4 YTC#4 two#11
'^' RBR'06 Points: 75 Miles: 317

[Elly]

Post by SD
Went off to take a picture of a war memorial in Chlemsford this
afternoon.
As it was a nice day, I took the CBX.
It's a bit like a rainy day: twice the fun at half the speed.
Not only that, but you get waved at by old duffers on BSAs and the
like.
The brakes get better as they get warmer, too. They're still rubbish,
but definitely better.

I had a most entertaining ride back from Leighton Buzzard this
afternoon.

Having just left the deer park that the Duke of Bedford is good enough
to allow the serfs to drive through, my interest was piqued by a
rather lovely Aston Martin Vantage which was being driven in a
positive and enthusiastic manner. I picked off a couple of cars and
dropped in behind him and he, being an observant and sporting fellow,
took up the challenge, indicated and engaged warp speed. By 'eck
those things don't half shift.

Oh what fun we had! I've not ridden the back roads from Woburn to
Steppingly at those kind of speeds before and I have to say, his Aston
certainly rode the bumps better than the 9R. Mind you, I stayed with
him but I'm not afraid to say that there was no way I was going to get
past him. I was rewarded with a very cheery wave as he peeled off into
the car park of the French Horn and I went right towards Flitwick,
grinning like a loon and trembling everso slightly.

It was really nice to see a car of that pedigree being driven so well.

Being back out on the bike made me remember what good therapy it is
and how it focuses the mind and makes you put the things that are
troubling you away for a while.

[Champ]

Post by SD
Went off to take a picture of a war memorial in Chlemsford this
afternoon.
As it was a nice day, I took the CBX.
It's a bit like a rainy day: twice the fun at half the speed.

I took the 750 turbo out for a good run yesterday. It's still bloody
brilliant

Post by SD
Not only that, but you get waved at by old duffers on BSAs and the
like.

I don't get this, tho.

[mike. buckley]

Post by Champ

Post by SD
Went off to take a picture of a war memorial in Chlemsford this
afternoon.
As it was a nice day, I took the CBX.
It's a bit like a rainy day: twice the fun at half the speed.

I took the 750 turbo out for a good run yesterday. It's still bloody
brilliant

Mine's still in the garage. Did the throttle balancing but it still dies
after idling for 15-20 seconds, perceived wisdom is a dodgy TPS - but I
can live with blipping the throttle. Carbtunes rock!

Valves and cam cover oil leak next. Then I might finally get to put some
miles on it, provided the front forks don't fucking collapse again.

The RD is proving surprisingly reliable - of course now I've said that
it'll self destruct at Mallory...

[Champ]

On Mon, 3 Jul 2006 12:21:56 +0100, "mike. buckley"

Post by mike. buckley

Post by Champ

Post by SD
Went off to take a picture of a war memorial in Chlemsford this
afternoon.
As it was a nice day, I took the CBX.
It's a bit like a rainy day: twice the fun at half the speed.

I took the 750 turbo out for a good run yesterday. It's still bloody
brilliant

Mine's still in the garage. Did the throttle balancing but it still dies
after idling for 15-20 seconds, perceived wisdom is a dodgy TPS - but I
can live with blipping the throttle. Carbtunes rock!

Mine has an unreliable tickover - I have to set it a bit high (~1500
rpm), otherwise it occasionally stutters. I keep meaning to put a
multimeter on the TPS.

Post by mike. buckley
Valves and cam cover oil leak next. Then I might finally get to put some
miles on it, provided the front forks don't fucking collapse again.

Valves? What't the problem. The cam cover leak should simply be a
matter of replacing the paper gasket. Probably also worth digging out
the four rubber end bungs and re-seating them with some silicon gasket
goo.

And how did the forks collapse? Never heard of that before.

[mike. buckley]

Post by Champ
On Mon, 3 Jul 2006 12:21:56 +0100, "mike. buckley"

Post by mike. buckley
Mine's still in the garage. Did the throttle balancing but it still dies
after idling for 15-20 seconds, perceived wisdom is a dodgy TPS - but I
can live with blipping the throttle. Carbtunes rock!

Mine has an unreliable tickover - I have to set it a bit high (~1500
rpm), otherwise it occasionally stutters. I keep meaning to put a
multimeter on the TPS.

Post by mike. buckley
Valves and cam cover oil leak next. Then I might finally get to put some
miles on it, provided the front forks don't fucking collapse again.

Valves? What't the problem. The cam cover leak should simply be a
matter of replacing the paper gasket. Probably also worth digging out
the four rubber end bungs and re-seating them with some silicon gasket
goo.

Well the cam cover needs doing as it's weeping badly enough to cause a
slight blue haze in traffic - and it makes me smell of oil all the time,
which I don't notice but apparently "it makes the house stink". Seems a
waste of time not to do the valves at the same time as doing the gasket?

Post by Champ
And how did the forks collapse? Never heard of that before.

Fucking forks. FUCKING forks. They locked up a few weeks ago - badly
enough that total movement was 5mm, seals were leaking as well due to
pitted stanchions. Took em apart, sorted the seals and smoothed off the
pitting. Fitted em, went down road and they bottomed out over the
easiest of bumps. No idea what caused the bottoming out, nor the first
problem of them stiffening up (waaay too much for the anti-dive to be
causing it). I refilled with oil and they were then fine, if maybe a bit
weak. Went out after the throttle tune and they bottomed out again,
although nowhere near as bad - the air may have leaked out since the
initial top up, that device of balancing the forks air pressure is
highly suspect. I've been v careful with the amount of oil I've put in,
I might just go to a heavier oil before I do anything drastic as they're
quite easy to refill, currently have medium (15w), they're supposed to
be filled with 10w but Turbo forum recommends 15w.

The forks are really pissing me off, but the rest of the stuff is either
routine maintenance that I'd like to get done, or jobs I knew needed
doing when I bought the bike. I'd like to split the forks properly but I
don't have the tools, and the broom handle trick hasn't ever worked for
me.

[Champ]

On Mon, 3 Jul 2006 14:22:10 +0100, "mike. buckley"

Post by mike. buckley

Post by Champ

Post by mike. buckley
Mine's still in the garage. Did the throttle balancing but it still dies
after idling for 15-20 seconds, perceived wisdom is a dodgy TPS - but I
can live with blipping the throttle. Carbtunes rock!

Mine has an unreliable tickover - I have to set it a bit high (~1500
rpm), otherwise it occasionally stutters. I keep meaning to put a
multimeter on the TPS.

Post by mike. buckley
Valves and cam cover oil leak next. Then I might finally get to put some
miles on it, provided the front forks don't fucking collapse again.

Valves? What't the problem. The cam cover leak should simply be a
matter of replacing the paper gasket. Probably also worth digging out
the four rubber end bungs and re-seating them with some silicon gasket
goo.

Well the cam cover needs doing as it's weeping badly enough to cause a
slight blue haze in traffic - and it makes me smell of oil all the time,
which I don't notice but apparently "it makes the house stink". Seems a
waste of time not to do the valves at the same time as doing the gasket?

Ah, I see. Doing the shims is mildly involved, and it's pretty easy
to do the cam cover gasket (just tank needs to come off - compare that
with my ZX10R game last week!). The shims sit under buckets, so you
have to remove the cams to get at them. The process is:

- remove cam cover
- measure gaps, and write down
- if any out of spec, remove cams and measure shims. The numbers
usually wear off, so have a micrometer handy
- work out what shims you require. On lucky but rare occasions, you
can swap round the existing shims without needing any new ones.
- rebolt cams. Careful with that camchain tensioner, Eugene
- re-measure

[z***@technologist.com]

[Re: Motorbikes. Good fun, aren't they?]

NO, they're shit, the spawn of the devil.

And the people who work on them.

Took the FJ in for a lengthy and costly fettling (mixture, carb
balance, plugs, tappets, timing) at an emporium recommended on here.

Didn't the fucker break down on me in the middle of London 2 days
later.

Name and shame will be in evidence should there be any problem with the
RAC dumping the bike back a these shysters on Monday.

I'm now hoping my 3 lumps of bad luck are truly used up !

P.

[SD]

Post by z***@technologist.com

[Re: Motorbikes. Good fun, aren't they?]

NO, they're shit, the spawn of the devil.

FJ1200 in "a bit shit" shocker.
--
| ___ Salad Dodger
|/ \
_/_____\_ GL1500SEV/CBR1100XXX/CBX1000Z
|_\_____/_| ..80389../..21885.../..31432.
(>|_|_|<) TPPFATUICG#7 DIAABTCOD#9 WG*
|__|_|__| BOTAFOT #70 BOTAFOF #09 PM#5
\ |^| / IbW#0 & KotIbW# BotTOS#6 GP#4
\|^|/ ANORAK#17 IbB#4 YTC#4 two#11
'^' RBR'06 Points: 85 Miles: 413

[z***@technologist.com]

Post by SD

Post by z***@technologist.com

[Re: Motorbikes. Good fun, aren't they?]

NO, they're shit, the spawn of the devil.

FJ1200 in "a bit shit" shocker.

"Expensive spanner monkey" in a bit shit shocker.

It's at times like this I wish i'd done it myself !
At least this time I have a scapegoat ;)

Cheers

P.