From: owner-klr650-digest@lists.xmission.com (klr650-digest) To: klr650-digest@lists.xmission.com Subject: klr650-digest V1 #5 Reply-To: klr650 Sender: owner-klr650-digest@lists.xmission.com Errors-To: owner-klr650-digest@lists.xmission.com Precedence: bulk klr650-digest Monday, February 1 1999 Volume 01 : Number 005 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 17:34:45 -0700 From: "Fred Hink" Subject: Re: (klr650) Air Filters L O N G (winded) - -----Original Message----- From: Brian Bonenfant To: Fred Hink Cc: Guy Cheney ; klr650@lists.xmission.com Date: Sunday, January 31, 1999 9:35 AM Subject: Re: (klr650) Air Filters L O N G (winded) >Question : After clean / re-oiling the OEM filter I was advised to run a >thick bead of heavy grease between the base of the foam filter, to where it >contacts the airbox, to seal any possible dirt or air getting around the filter. >is this something >I should stop, or is there something better to use in it's place Brian, Putting grease on the sealing surface is a good idea for a filter unless it is a K&N filter for an XR which comes with a sealing ring. The sealing surface is most susceptible of dirt infiltration. (gee, two big words in one sentence) :-) Fred ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 17:42:02 -0700 From: "Kurt Simpson" Subject: Re: (klr650) headlight puzzle |Today, I start looking around. Tried replacing the replacement bulb with the |stock I removes last summer. Checked the fuses. Tore open the high-beam |switch. Checked all the obvious blade connectors, all to no avail. I took |out my $15 "multimeter" to try to figure things out. As a newbie I would suggest just buying a simple circuit tester if you don't have one. It is just a probe with a light in the barrel. You establish a good ground with the alligator clip and check the ground with a known positive circuit. From there you can probe to you heart's content. Pop the fuse box, check both sides of the fuse. Check the in and out of a switch, etc. My guess it is the fuse. But my vote is to to always buy the tool paying yourself (to purchase the tool) than take it to the dealer and be held hostage.. Kurt ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 17:33:42 PST From: "Juan Villarreal" Subject: (klr650) (Yet)More battery woes... Well s**t... The much anticipated MX-free, sealed Power Max battery came in from Dennis Kirk. I ran a one volt charger on it for six hours yesterday and even more today with no signs of a charge. Was hoping to start using it instead of the Yuasa but it's not looking good at this point. The Yuasa needed only four hours to acquire a good charge. Do the sealed gel-types require more time? Or did I just get a bad battery? Also... I lubed my clutch and throttle cables today. It got me to thinking about the brake cables (both hand and foot). I've never considered them to be much of a factor due to their limited range of movement. Should I? And what's the best way to go about lubing them? Thanks in advance... Juan Villarreal, '97 KLR (realizing that being a hard charger isn't always a good thing) "The Happy Hooligan" ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 20:41:09 EST From: VFR754@aol.com Subject: (klr650) Performance Mods Finallly Tried out....(Long) Well, first I wannna thank everybody (you know who you are) who helped me with doing all the mods to the Moose. Friday, it was cold, but the sun was out, and I just got the bug to ride so I took the bike out. Went to the local gas station, and filled the KLR up. While I was filling, I looked at the bank across the street's Time/Temp. sign....32 degrees....."Man, no wonder I'm cold!" I thought. The bike feels like a different beast in a few ways. The Progressive Fork Springs really make a huge difference in the feel of the front end. All that mushy diving feel is completely gone. Tracks better in curves, dives way less on hard braking,. I think it's a little harsher in some bump situations, but well worth the change, time and dollars for the mod. I know I'm gonna love it in the dirt and gravel! The K&N jet kit, and Supertrapp IDS pipe go well together. The personality of the bike has definitely changed to more aggresive; and the airbox is a little noisier with K&N filter installed. . Now it acts like an angry, charging Moose, especially in the lower gears. Did a few wheelies while I was out, but my bike has always wheelied well, without the clutch, even before any mods. It's definitely quicker now, and wheelies even easier. I didn't get a chance to see if it would wheelie just cracking the throttle in second gear, but it wouldn't surprize me now. I still have seven discs in the pipe, so I've gotta up that a little bit, and mess with my mixture screw some also, but the bike is running better than it ever has, and meaner that it's ever been. Now it has an attitude. Starts easier too! I also installed the Moose bash plate, and the Moose aluminum handguards and spoilers. If your gonna opt for the Moose handguards (They are about half the price of Acerbis), you'll probably need to modify your stock levers, or buy shorter ones (FRED DO YOU HAVE SHORTER LEVERS? my dealer doesn't), as my levers were both too long to fit inside the guard (with the spoiler on), no matter how far I moved the stuff over. This was a big fat hassle, so don't buy the Moose handguards if ya don't wanna mess with it. I would imagine that other handguards would probably be similar though. If you can work your way past this, the Moose stuff is very beefy, and the spoilers work very well in the wind and cold. The quality is excellent. Now I don't gotta worry about breaking levers so much if i have an unexpected dismount from the Moose!. You do have to drill holes in the handguard to mount them (spoilers), but that was very simple, and the drill bit is provided. People were looking at me like I was crazy riding in the cold, with snow on the ground, but it was fun for a little while. Wasn't too cold on my body at all with the Fieldsheer Autobahn on, but my RF700 isn't much of a cold weather helmet, so my face was cold even with a balaclava on. Wish I could afford an Arai! So far I've tried, Bell, HJC, Bieffe, Shoei, Nolan, and a few others, and still haven't found a good cold weather helmet under $250.00. I have the Rifle shield for the KLR, but had it off when I went out in the cold, and boy my head could tell it. With the taller shield on, even 32 degree weather is much more bearable. International Motorcycle Show is Saturday. Yeehaw! Hide the checkbook and credit cards honey! FWIW, Bill Swindle A12 "Moose" Montgomery, IL. ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 21:02:24 -0500 From: "Brian Schoonveld" Subject: (klr650) ......Impressed Was impressed to read that Juan did his major KLR trip with only a K+ACY-N filter, everything else being stock? Is this correct? I'm going to do some +ACI-upgrades+ACI-, but to be honest, after doing alittle riding yesterday on my A13 (with some good cold weather gear), I'm wondering about all the brakes talk. I did a couple of what I considered to be 'extra quick' braking trials.........the cycle seemed to stop pretty quick to me, and I wasn't applying total brakes. I respect the experienced riders, and therefore accept that brake improvements can be warranted............but under what braking conditions are the stock ones lacking? thanks, bls. ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 21:03:26 EST From: LPetty4585@aol.com Subject: Re: (klr650) ......Impressed In a message dated 2/1/99 2:00:05 AM !!!First Boot!!!, schoonb@iei.net writes: << but under what braking conditions are the stock ones lacking? >> Anything that requires the front one ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 20:18:26 -0600 From: Alan Henderson Subject: Re: (klr650) headlight puzzle At 02:34 PM 1/31/99 -0800, you wrote: >Alan - thanks for the incredibly quick response!! >Yes, I checked the fuses under the seat. I had some trouble blowing these >last summer - turned out to be a loose blade connector making intermittent >contact. These look fine - tested them with Ohms. Someday, when I'm feeling >brave, I'm going to replace these with blade mini-fuses in a more accessible >spot, but not today. Can you think of anything else I should check? > >MM > I would suggest using the multimeter on dc volts putting the proper probe on a good grounding point and checking the fuse holders to make sure you have voltage. You may have to turn the ignition on I'm not sure. If you have voltage there then follow it out the best you can to the headlight. Maybe someone has a wiring diagram they could scan in and post. Good luck. Alan Henderson, Iowa A13 ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 19:13:38 -0700 From: "Fred Hink" Subject: Re: (klr650) Performance Mods Finallly Tried out....(Long) - -----Original Message----- From: VFR754@aol.com To: klr650@lists.xmission.com Date: Sunday, January 31, 1999 11:50 AM Subject: (klr650) Performance Mods Finallly Tried out....(Long) you'll probably need to modify your stock levers, or buy >shorter ones (FRED DO YOU HAVE SHORTER LEVERS? my dealer doesn't), as my >levers were both too long to fit inside the guard (with the spoiler on), no >matter how far I moved the stuff over. Bill, The KLR takes a specific clutch and brake lever. They are hard to find but I do have some. There are no shorter ones than the OEM length. The only thing I would recommend to do is cut off the ends a little to clear your guards. Fred ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 21:29:08 EST From: NILSTIAR@aol.com Subject: (klr650) hand guard/modification howdy, I had the same problem with the Moose guards not accomodating the stock levers on my R/XC. I would have had to grind the bejeebers (pronounced "hell") out of my levers to get them to where I would get the adequate wind/brush protection that I wanted. I ended up trading for the Acerbis (pronounced "those Italian plastic") guards with the optional wind dam insert/attachments. They are flexible to put on---literally! I actually bowed them out a trifle (like a third of an inch) to clear the end-nub of my lever. They (when coupled with the air dams) provide a lot more protection from cold wind than the profile offered by the Moose guards. The Acerbis guards aren't as beefy as the metal of the Moose, but I don't go around picking fights with trees as much as some of our esteemed colleagues (pronouned "fart-knockers") back to watching the collapse of them Dirty Birds, Steve 98 R/XCe 620 ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 20:36:08 -0600 From: "John L. Wilson" Subject: (klr650) Ref Headlight Puzzle I had the same experience--headlight going out and all other lights continue operating. If I rode for more than two hours I would burn out the headlight. In each case, I had blown the headlight fuse which is a separate tube type fuse (not a blade fuse ) in a separate plastic fuse container under the seat. The KLR (at least mine) has a separate circuit/fuse for the headlight. Make sure you are looking at the right fuse. I finally determined that the headlight wiring was not sufficient to handle the 65/100 bulb I had in the headlight. I replaced the 65/100 bulb with stock (55/65) and I have not had any problems since. John =========================================================== John L. Wilson '95 KLR 650 '96 R1100RT STOC #090 Jlwilsn@flash.net HSTA #5817 IBMWR BMWMOA Tulsa, OK =========================================================== > > Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 14:18:44 -0800 > From: Mike Magier > Subject: (klr650) headlight puzzle > > OK - let's just start out by saying I'm an electrical newbie. I've been out > a few times in the last few weeks on my 97 KLR650, all going fine. I > happened to notice yesterday that the headlight isn't on, though. No high > beam either. Brake lights and turn signals are fine, so is horn. > > Today, I start looking around. Tried replacing the replacement bulb with the > stock I removes last summer. Checked the fuses. Tore open the high-beam > switch. Checked all the obvious blade connectors, all to no avail. > Mike Magier (no stranger to being in the dark . . .) > 97 KLR650 > ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 21:48:53 EST From: Cloudhid@aol.com Subject: Re: (klr650) Wiring Diagram On 1/31/99, al.henderson@brain.ames.net writes: snip >Maybe someone has a wiring diagram they could scan in and post. http://members.aol.com/cloudhid/klrwiring.jpg ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 19:19:20 -0800 From: "Robert Morgan" Subject: Re: (klr650) (Yet)More battery woes... Juan my 97 has hydraulic brakes, they are kind of self lubricating as the oil is on the inside part of the "cable." Morgan always the smartass ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 22:54:11 EST From: VFR754@aol.com Subject: Re: (klr650) hand guard/modification In a message dated 1/31/99 6:32:35 PM Pacific Standard Time, NILSTIAR@aol.com writes: << I would have had to grind the bejeebers (pronounced "hell") out of my levers to get them to where I would get the adequate wind/brush protection that I wanted. >> Yeah, I did modify (cut and grind) the ends of my levers and it took about 10 minutes worth of work, but I'm very happy with the results, and am glad I saved the money and purchased the Moose handguards. They are big, tough, and go well with the Bash plate. I just wish I would have modified the levers right away, instead of messing with the handguards for an hour trying to make them fit without lever mods! Oh well, I learn from doing it myself, just like everybody else :) Bill Swindle A12 "Moose" Montgomery, IL. ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 20:15:19 -0800 From: "Darrel & Deanna" Subject: (klr650) Going Stainless From: Alex Jomarron Has anyone made a list of all the different size bolts that they've changed w/stainless? That would make life easy for those of us that don't have a good supplier of hardware. Hmmm......maybe I should! ********************* Speaking of high zoot fasteners, I ran across an ad for titanium fasteners and components in the latest issue of "Twistgrip": Mansson Technologies has a free catalog available at 888-482-6486 located in Campbell, CA. There's a good Malcolm Smith interview in there also. Darrel A12 ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 23:08:12 EST From: VFR754@aol.com Subject: Re: (klr650) Cold Weather Handguards In a message dated 1/31/99 6:32:35 PM Pacific Standard Time, NILSTIAR@aol.com writes: << They (when coupled with the air dams) provide a lot more protection from cold wind than the profile offered by the Moose guards. >> I'm not sure about that. I've seen the cheaper Acerbis guards with spoilers on several KLR's, and they didn't look like they provided as much wind protection. Guess it's a matter of choice. The ones I ordered have big spoilers on em', they are a newer style than other Moose guards I've seen in the past; and in the 32 degree weather, my hands weren't cold at all, with summer gloves on. They actually work better than the big ole' stock guards did for wind protection. I don't know why, but they do. If they work that well in 32 degrees, that's good enough for me, cuz' I seriously doubt I'll ever wanna ride in any weather much colder. Here's a question for Discussion: What's The Coldest Weather Any of Us Have Ridden In on Our KLR's? :) Bill Swindle A12 "Moose" Montgomery, IL. ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 20:20:20 -0800 From: Mike Magier Subject: (klr650) many thanks Thanks to all for the rapid, thoughtful responses to my headlight questions. The list concensus seems to be that the fuse is the likeliest culprit. I checked them both with the Ohm-meter, but never hurts to double-check. All this removing/replaceing of the seat makes me glad I put holes in my side plastic guards for the seat screws - I really hate taking off the Driveline side racks unless ABSOLUTELY necessary. Makes the relative ugliness of the screwholes well worth it. I also got some very uesful "multimeter 101" level info on simple circuit troubleshooting. I even took a look at the KLR wiring diagram - not quite as ugly as I thought it might be. Anyway, I'll keep looking, and thanks again for all you listers making KLR-land such a wonderful place to live!! Mike Magier (chasing those pesky electrons) ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 20:33:00 -0800 From: "Darrel & Deanna" Subject: (klr650) Crazy Soap From: "Fred Hink" Here is a new question that no one has asked yet on the list... What type of hand cleaner works for you? ********************* FWIW, I just use dish soap, but the latest issue of Motorcycle Consumer News remarked that their "best buy" of hand cleaners in their December issue was "Crazy Soap". It won out over about a dozen others. MCN also says in the Feb issue that Crazy Soap dropped in price from $9.99 to $5.99. Maybe in response to the MCN test. If you want to try it, call 800-888-5489. Darrel A12 "Avenger" ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 21:01:33 -0800 From: "Darrel & Deanna" Subject: (klr650) Anza-Borrego State Park From: Rob Gendreau I hope to be in or near Anza-Borrego State Park after the President's Day weekend. Any suggested rides, websites, GPS waypoint sources, etc. etc. would be appreciated. **************************** Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 09:25:03 -0800 From: "Robert Morgan" Subject: Re: (klr650) Anza-Borrego State Park Here are two sources off the top of my head. 1. "Backroad trips and tips to unpaved Southern Ca." Harry Lewellyn, Glovebox Guide; ISBN 0-944781-01-2....I bought mine at Barnes and Noble but I've seen them at the map store. 2. Guide to OFF-HIGHWAY VEHICLE AREAS of California, brochure and map published by the state, picked it up in motorcycle store. ************************* To add to Mr. Morgan's tips, you can access an on-line version of the CA Off-Hi-way brochure at: http://www.off-road.com/~calridng/home.html The paper brochure describes adjacent Ocotillo Wells like this: Over 42,000 acres of desert terrain, from below sea level to 400 ft. elevations. Picnic tables, shade ramadas, fire rings and dump station available. No water available. Bring plenty of drinking water. Open daily, 24 hours, no reservations. No fees. 760-767-5391. Darrel A12 (just full of information today!) P.S. I would avoid the green sticker (dirt bike registered only areas) especially on holiday weekends for the reason Morgan states...chaos theory and alcohol don't mix well. ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 01 Feb 1999 12:30:16 +0000 From: Tom Simpson Subject: Re: (klr650) ......Impressed At 09:02 PM 1/31/99 -0500, Brian Schoonveld wrote: >Was impressed to read that Juan did his major KLR trip with only a K+ACY-N >filter, everything else being stock? Is this correct? I'm going to do >some +ACI-upgrades+ACI-, but to be honest, after doing alittle riding yesterday on >my A13 (with some good cold weather gear), I'm wondering about all the >brakes talk. I did a couple of what I considered to be 'extra quick' >braking trials.........the cycle seemed to stop pretty quick to me, and I >wasn't applying total brakes. I respect the experienced riders, and >therefore accept that brake improvements can be warranted............but >under what braking conditions are the stock ones lacking? thanks, bls. > Repeated hard applications (as in, steep, winding downhills in the mountains) with a heavy load (250 lbs. of me plus up to 75 lbs. of luggage) can lead to a frightening degree of fade in a large hurry. - -Tom '96 KLR 650 But no more. ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 21:59:52 -0800 From: "Darrel & Deanna" Subject: (klr650) Rear Master Cylinder cover From: "K.D. Bailey" Does anyone have the part number handy? **************************** K.D. - The Kawasaki P/N for the rear master cylinder guard is 55020-1502. Fred carries them for $10 -12 at : |^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ | Arrowhead Motorsports |http://www.angelfire.com/ut/moab/index.html *NEW* | 435-259-7356 |^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 99 21:52:25 PST From: "alyef@iname.com" Subject: (klr650) (KLR) TIMING Listers, 1) The service manual says that the KLR does not need its timing adjusted= . That seems strange to me (not being a mechanic). Is there a way to chec= k the timing anyway? Alex ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 31 Jan 1999 22:11:42 PST From: "Paul Christenson" Subject: (klr650) (NKLR) Cold Weather >Here's a question for Discussion: What's The Coldest Weather Any of >Us Have Ridden In on Our KLR's? :) The coldest I've ridden my KLR was 33.8F about a month ago. Such are the problems of living in Silicon Valley, CA... However, I've ridden my XT550 to work (30 mi) in -5F. The car, parked outside, wouldn't start because of the cold. The XT, residing in the basement 10 feet from the furnace, was the only way to get to work. I've ridden to work many mornings in 25-30 degree weather, but that's nothing compared to sub-zero... ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 01 Feb 1999 06:46:55 -0500 From: Bill Wright Subject: Re: (klr650) Cold Weather Handguards VFR754@aol.com wrote: > Here's a question for Discussion: What's The Coldest Weather Any of Us Have > Ridden In on Our KLR's? :) > Here in Hotlanta, it is not always hot. Commuted a couple of times last year(25 miles each way) when the temp got down to 17-18 degrees. NOT fun. Spent entire time thinking about how cold I was, even with Aerostich Darien outfit on. Bike ran rather cold also. Placed a cardboard sheet in front of the radiator the second time and ran much better. My pain threshhold is about 40 degrees. This is the temperature that I quit worrying about how cold it is. I usually commute to work is the afternoon temp is goin' to break 50 degrees even if its below 40 in the morning. Bill Wright Hotlanta, GA. 98 KLR650 - "Special K" - 22k miles ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 1 Feb 1999 07:36:35 -0500 From: MRatta@ADE.com Subject: RE: (klr650) (NKLR) Cold Weather Hehehe, I drove my CBR600 (Faired bikes and riding in a crouched position help you dodge the wind and retain more body heat) to work today and it was 15F when I left... >Here's a question for Discussion: What's The Coldest Weather Any of >Us Have Ridden In on Our KLR's? :) ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 1 Feb 1999 07:39:22 -0500 From: MRatta@ADE.com Subject: RE: (klr650) (KLR) TIMING You will need a timing light, preferably the inductive type. attach the light to 12VDC and clamp the inductive lead to the spark plug wire. remove the top cap on the left crankcase cover and shine the light in there while its running. You should see the F mark line up. when you rev past a certain point, the ignition will advance and you should see it near two unmarked lines on the flywheel. - -----Original Message----- From: alyef@iname.com [mailto:alyef@iname.com] Sent: Monday, February 01, 1999 12:52 AM To: klr Subject: (klr650) (KLR) TIMING Listers, 1) The service manual says that the KLR does not need its timing adjusted. That seems strange to me (not being a mechanic). Is there a way to check the timing anyway? Alex ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 1 Feb 1999 08:07:16 -0500 From: MRatta@ADE.com Subject: RE: (klr650) Cold Weather Handguards I'm really disappointed that acerbis stopped making those full bucket handguards for use with barkbusters... I loved the protection they gave in the winter. Now all we have is those narrow plastic rally guards or use maier full buckets, which have all the character of plastic on a BMX bike. :/ In a message dated 1/31/99 6:32:35 PM Pacific Standard Time, NILSTIAR@aol.com writes: << They (when coupled with the air dams) provide a lot more protection from cold wind than the profile offered by the Moose guards. >> I'm not sure about that. I've seen the cheaper Acerbis guards with spoilers on several KLR's, and they didn't look like they provided as much wind protection. Guess it's a matter of choice. The ones I ordered have big spoilers on em', they are a newer style than other Moose guards I've seen in the past; and in the 32 degree weather, my hands weren't cold at all, with summer gloves on. They actually work better than the big ole' stock guards did for wind protection. I don't know why, but they do. If they work that well in 32 degrees, that's good enough for me, cuz' I seriously doubt I'll ever wanna ride in any weather much colder. Here's a question for Discussion: What's The Coldest Weather Any of Us Have Ridden In on Our KLR's? :) Bill Swindle A12 "Moose" Montgomery, IL. ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 1 Feb 1999 07:34:29 -0700 From: "Fred Hink" Subject: Re: (klr650) Cold Weather Handguards - -----Original Message----- From: MRatta@ADE.com To: klr650@lists.xmission.com Date: Sunday, January 31, 1999 11:13 PM Subject: RE: (klr650) Cold Weather Handguards >I'm really disappointed that acerbis stopped making those full bucket >handguards for use with barkbusters... I loved the protection they gave in >the winter. Now all we have is those narrow plastic rally guards or use >maier full buckets, which have all the character of plastic on a BMX bike. >:/ > I can get you those "full bucket" hand guards for your barkbusters. They come in white,red, blue or yellow and includes all the mounting hardware. Cost is $27.95 If you think the regular Acerbis Rally Guards won't cut the mustard then you should check out the Acerbis "Rally Pro" guards. They are bullet proof. Fred ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 1 Feb 1999 07:39:35 -0700 From: "Pokluda, Gino F" Subject: RE: (klr650) Cold Weather Handguards >>I can get you those "full bucket" hand guards for your barkbusters. They come in white,red, blue or yellow and includes all the mounting hardware. Cost is $27.95 If you think the regular Acerbis Rally Guards won't cut the mustard then you should check out the Acerbis "Rally Pro" guards. They are bullet proof.<< I ride with the Acerbis Rally guards w/ spoiler and they work fine in the winter. This morning was 25 degrees and my hands stayed reasonably warm for my 32 mile commute. Gino ------------------------------ Date: 30 Dec 05 09:36:02 +0000 From: Dave Cook Subject: (klr650) thanks/silicone Yesterday I did the Progressive fork springs, lowering links ,fast front = fender and Supertrapp IDS..Massive massive thanks to the list and magazine = for the tips and instructions. The IDS is (as Gino said) a bit of an iffy = fit. What is the name of the high temp silicone used to seal it? Thanks = again.Dave. ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 01 Feb 1999 08:08:18 -0700 From: Bogdan Swider Subject: (klr650) To: "'klr650@lists.xmission.com'" I'm a Rip Van Winkle when it comes to chains. I "threw mine off" with the purchase of a Beemer. I thought I bought an endless loop in purchasing a macho DID X ring, but out of the package came a master link. No big deal, my 72 Suzuki Titan had one of those. There I was, on Super Bowl Sunday '99, trying to use my paws + needlenose to install the thing. Seems on the eve of the millenium you need a "chain press" ( $16.50, J. C. Whitney). The advantage of a link appears to have left us. I can't see removing it on the trail or road. (By the way, how do you remove it?) Might as well go the full monte and get a riveting link, but a J.C. Whitney riveter goes for $ 69.98 (not pesos or Canadian loonies my Nafta brethren, the real thing), and I get to use it every 20k miles. Any advice, council or opinions? How strong are these modern master links? Bogdan "Clueless in Colorado" ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 01 Feb 1999 07:44:57 PST From: "Juan Villarreal" Subject: (klr650) Potpourri Fellow listers: Thanks for turning the clue light on with regards to the "brake cable lube." I knew they were hydraulic but I thought they still might be actuated by a cable of some sort. Oh never mind... "Was impressed to read that Juan did his major KLR trip with only a K+ACY-N filter, everything else being stock? Is this correct?" That is correct Brian. I don't know what the "K+ACY-N" thing is but the carb, air filter, and exhaust system on my bike are all bone stock. I plan on staying with this configuration through next summer's ride back to the States. For some, the lack of increased performance can seem like unacceptable or marginal performance. Not so! That having been said, I do plan on doing the Dyno, K&N, SuperTrapp thing once I get back to the States, but for now the stock system blows my hair back just fine. Will take another look at the box my Power Max battery came in. I consider the gel bottle thing to be a long shot but you never know. I'm hoping that is indeed the problem, as I don't want to hassle with a return. Will let all of you know. Lately there's been a fair amount of discussion regarding the use of GPSs. Take a deep breath, relax, and open your minds, as I'm going to play devil's advocate here. What I have to say may not sit well with some, but given the expense and potential hazards associated with the misuse or over-reliance on such systems I think it needs to be said, as I haven't read anything along these lines to date. Being an Air Force navigator, I don't think it's unreasonable to say that I have a unique perspective/appreciation for the uses and benefits of a GPS. However, the thing I have noticed when flying as an instructor is a tendency for some crews to place an over-reliance on the system, or worse yet, use it as their sole source of navigational awareness. When I see that, I start pulling circuit breakers and dropping batteries, forcing the navigator and the rest of the crew to WAKE UP AND GET THEIR HEADS BACK INTO THE GAME. Even with all the bells and whistles, the old formula of heading, time, and distance still rule supreme. Yes, there is a place for the GPS, but it's not at the head of the class. And it definitely doesn't belong on a person's handlebars either (anybody heard of the term "fix"?). I cringed when I read that posting from the guy who was looking for a power source for his GPS. I'm just waiting to read of an accident report where a person rode off a cliff or into someone's backside while fiddling with their waypoints, or had to be rescued due to the fact that they didn't carry any charts or a compass with them in addition to their broken unit (it's gonna happen, if it hasn't already). Turn it on, get oriented, turn it off, and move on. While I can see some situations where it's use is warranted (featureless terrain, uncharted roads, enduro races, etc.), I also believe those situations to be very much the exception rather than the rule. I would be very reluctant to abdicate the situational awareness one has to maintain when operating only with a map, a compass, and some common sense. I just don't see it. I fear a lot more people are buying and using these things than the actual need justifies. Oh and let's not forget the manufacturers who would have you believe that your rides would be made "Just so much safer and more enjoyable" by the use of a GPS. Bullshit... Cognitive thought is the ONLY thing that makes my ride safer. In summary, when flying, I consider GPSs to be 90% function, but in riding, they look to be about 90% gimmick, novelty and fun. Nothing wrong with that, just so long as it's remembered. Thanks for allowing me my two cents worth. Juan Villarreal, '97 KLR (never lost, merely "disoriented") "The Happy Hooligan" P.S. My coldest day of riding? Recently it got down to about 72, but it felt like 65 due to all the humidity in the air. It sucked! ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 1 Feb 1999 09:03:45 -0700 From: "Vik Banerjee" Subject: Re: (klr650) Potpourri - -----Original Message----- From: Juan Villarreal To: KLR650@lists.xmission.com Date: Monday, February 01, 1999 8:45 AM Subject: (klr650) Potpourri > For some, the lack of increased performance can seem >like unacceptable or marginal performance. Not so! That having been >said, I do plan on doing the Dyno, K&N, SuperTrapp thing once I get back >to the States, but for now the stock system blows my hair back just >fine. I rode a stock (no engine/exhasut mods) KLR for a year with no problems. I am putting a K&N in, DYNOjet Kit and suppertrapp this year. Frankly, its not because it is necessary I just like to tinker and see what happens. If I want to go silly fast I just jump on my GSX-R and remind myself why I like my KLR so much. Cheers, Vik ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 1 Feb 1999 11:07:09 EST From: VFR754@aol.com Subject: Re: (klr650) Potpourri In a message dated 2/1/99 7:47:09 AM Pacific Standard Time, villarrealjuan@hotmail.com writes: << P.S. My coldest day of riding? Recently it got down to about 72, but it felt like 65 due to all the humidity in the air. It sucked! >> LOL! I'm sitting here dreaming of the day that it will get to 50 degrees here, with a windchill of 40, and I'll be happy rider! Juan, you bring back the fond memories of when I lived in Texas, and rode my bikes all year round! I used to ride Padre Island on my Interceptor, flying down the beach, along the Gulf, staying on the hard part of the sand near the water. Sun, fun, Oh yeah, and the Helicopter beach patrol yelling at me to put my helmet on! Turns out beaches on Padre are public roadway in Texas, and there was a helmet law at the time. Don't know if there still is now. Oh 50 degrees, where art thou??? Forecast says Snow tomorrow?? Aaaaarggghhhh! Bill Swindle A12 "Moose" (Which is more moosely than before) Montgomery, IL. ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 1 Feb 1999 09:29:35 -0700 From: "Vik Banerjee" Subject: Re: (klr650) Potpourri - -----Original Message----- From: Juan Villarreal To: KLR650@lists.xmission.com Date: Monday, February 01, 1999 8:45 AM Subject: (klr650) Potpourri >Fellow listers: > Being an Air Force >navigator, I don't think it's unreasonable to say that I have a unique >perspective/appreciation for the uses and benefits of a GPS. >for the GPS, but it's not at the head of the class. And it definitely >doesn't belong on a person's handlebars either (anybody heard of the >term "fix"?). > I am always suprised that it is military or ex-military personnel that usually have negative comments regarding the use of GPS for motorcycling. I am not suggesting their is anything wrong with military personnel - I spent ten years in the army. But I think we often fail to recognize that GPS use for motorcycling is generally quite different than military use. What I mean is in military operations (air, sea or land) navigation is everything (well almost) and we have to find our way across unmarked areas usually by the least sensible route (ie low ground) - this all combines to make navigation a challenge. For these type of operations I agree that reliance on only one type of navigation system (be it GPS, compass or just reading the ground) is foolish and people will die. Civillian motorcyclist use GPS two ways (generally): 1. Travelling by backroads it is useful to program in waypoints for turns so we don't have to have our noses in a map all the time. This lets you look around and enjoy the ride - with a beep from your GPS telling you to get ready to turn. I have used a GPS on my handle bars for this type of ride several times and it is a great tool. I doubt anybody would drive off the road as it takes as long to look at your GPS display as it does to read your spedometer, tach or odometer. And let's face it a total GPS failure is not exactly life threatening on a county road. At worst you have to look at your map for ten minutes and/or ask a local to establish your position. I can see no real problem with realiance on GPS for this type of riding. 2. Travelling offroad GPS can record your route for future reference and allow you to follow a route you selected from a map. Again I think having a GPS unit on your handle bars causes no real problem and is easy to glance at for navigation purposes. I seriously doubt someone would be so intent on their GPS that they would ride off a cliff - and if they do I'd just call that natural selection. However, a total failure of your GPS in this situation could be serious and a back up navigation method is required. A map and compass (and knoledge of their use) would make great sense and if you regularly note your progress on the map at rest stops based on GPS positioning it doesn't take a lot of time and will let you get your bearings rapidly if your GPS craps out. >I cringed when I read that posting from the guy who was >looking for a power source for his GPS I just put a 12V cig liter socket on my KLR for my GPS! > In summary, when flying, I consider GPSs to be 90% function, but >in riding, they look to be about 90% gimmick, novelty and fun. Hey we can all have our opinions, but I'd say GPS is a functional tool for motorcyclists and can be used sensibly and safely. I look at it like an electric can opener. I use my eletric can opener everyday and its a handy tool, but I also have a swiss army knife in case it craps out - haven't had to use the swiss army knife yet. Don't get me wrong I am not suggesting that learning how to use a map and compass is a bad thing, just that GPS is not a bad thing either. And remember you can lose your map and compass when riding too! However you chose to navigate - have fun and don't get lost! Cheers, Vik ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 1 Feb 1999 09:30:37 -0700 From: "Vik Banerjee" Subject: Re: (klr650) Potpourri Sorry about that post re: GPS I forgot to spell check it before sending it! Vik ------------------------------ End of klr650-digest V1 #5 **************************