rustyshackles

Lots of Nikens as in recent tours, but I think I’ve glimpsed a Tracer 9 in pastel blue livery. Anyone else following the race?

I have more Aerostich gear than I care to admit but I’ve been lurking on eBay and advrider waiting for a used unlined R-3 in my size to pop.  I’m a big Aerostich fanboy.

Another good article, thanks for sharing @Lone Wolf.  I will add one thing to the electrolyte information that's less known outside of athletics.  A number of companies sell electrolyte capsules which take up next to no room and allow you to stick with water and avoid sports drinks.   Powders and other formulations are out there, I like the simplicity of the capsule.

This article is the last word on the subject IMO. Until reading this I reached for mesh when the heat was really on.

https://www.ironbutt.com/ibmagazine/ironbutt_1002_62-66_Hot.pdf

Friction, heat and moisture are the enemies.  Eliminate one and you should be okay.

Another school very worthy of consideration is Stayin’ Safe.  I did this in 2018.  We spent the better part of 2 days on mountain roads in N. Georgia and North Carolina.

There was time spent on the range but it was mostly on roads. We’d stop for roadside instruction from time to time.  What’s great is riders wear earpieces and the instructor, who is riding behind, gives feedback in real time using one-way radio.  When we weren’t being coached on riding technique there was near-constant chatter about safety.

I moved my Zumo XT (which is quite good, a big upgrade over the 660) to my current bike and now find it to be a bit jiggly.  Location is above the instrument gauge using a Cosmo Moto RAM ball setup and short RAM arm.  Location on previous bike was on handlebars and there was very little movement of the GPS unit.

for those with the XT have you had it detach from the base?  The connection appears less solid that the 660.

Aerostich Darien 

Pack-It Gear: Protective Organizers | Eagle Creek

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Your gear deserves the best. Protect it with our Pack-It Gear line...

Someone will scream these are too expensive but this is just one option for organizing items inside a larger bag.  There are many brands, sizes, levels or protection, durability etc.  of similar products.  Beats plastic grocery store bags.

Tar snakes are common here in N. TX too. As someone said they’re not all the same, but I cannot see a difference in the materials.

Another threat to traction in my town is decorative brick at some intersections.  Looks nice I guess but slippery when wet!   I sometimes struggle to keep relaxed arms when turning on it.

I scored a smoking deal on the Held Carese II at chromeburner.com.  Not currently on sale by them but it’s a very nice jacket with vents aplenty.  Waterproofness via a Goretex liner that can be worn inside or outside the jacket.

5 hours ago, Ride365 said:

Assume been running at least 91 octane?  

Yes

For those (like me) who lack the tools, time and know-how to DIY paying someone is the only option.  I live near a big city yet independent mechanics are scarce, which leaves dealerships.  

What's the answer?  Maybe keep selling or trading bikes just before they hit serious maintenance milestones like valve adjustments.    

The symptoms, low RPM lugging and chugging, surfaced in October.  MPG also plummeted.   Full Akropovich exhaust, ECU tune was done 3+ years ago.  Valves were checked at 26k and I think in spec but I need to find the paperwork.  

@Salish900 I agree something isn't right.  As far as I know valve inspections were done correctly, I didn't do the work but I've done business with the dealer since buying the bike there in 2016 and I don't think they have screwed me.  

2015 FJ-09, all scheduled maintenance done by the book and on time.  All valves showing serious wear with one completely toast.  Cost of repairs exceeds value of bike.

Needless to say I am massively disappointed, I expected much more considering the meticulous maintenance (all done by a dealer).   I'm not looking for sympathy, just want to moan and groan and where better to do it.  

Now planning my next move.  I shouldn't write off Yamaha but I feel betrayed.  WIll probably buy used, considering V-Strom 650 or 1000, or Versys 1000, maybe Bandit 1250s or R1200RT.  I will put some bits & pieces from the bike up for sale here. 

I’ve taken Lee Parks level 1 & 2 and found it beneficial.  They teach a specific turning method, described in the book Total Control.  Reading the book before taking level 1 is useful.  

I saw 30+ photos someone posted on a Tracer Facebook group and I gotta say the look of the bike is growing on me.  Concerning though is one photo of the fuel gauge, which similar to current models had the 1/2 to full portion as a single segment.   Hopefully the current method of suddenly plunging from showing full to 1/2 won't continue.  

A brief local getaway can help clear the mind and restore balance, particularly when such beauty and tranquility are within reach. Sounds like it was mission accomplished 👍!  

Thanks for sharing.

Great stuff put a smile on my face

9 hours ago, Alisia said:

Thank you, I'll take a look

@Alisia contact ASV if you don't see anything about this on the web site.  If memory serves they generally do this only on request.

ASV levers are nice, high quality and adjustable on the fly.  Also they sometimes have refurbished or reconditioned levers available at a nice savings.  I did this for my FJ-09 and previous bike and the wait was reasonable.

Plug-in or not?

Then there’s this