Re: Big trip

["Simon Line" <simonline@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Just got back from my annual odyssey to the World Superbikes at Phillip
Island. Did 8,000 kilometres in ten days riding across Australia, including
a couple of 1,200 kilometre days. Very enjoyable with no real problems. A
couple of things worth mentioning to fellow listers.

Nearly lost the centre stand when one of the two retaining bolts vanished.
Found the problem quickly, but dont want to consider the drama that could
have happened if I hadnt spotted it, and cable tied the stand up. The other
bolt was also loose. Moral, dont trust the dealer always. I should have
checked them properly myself.

Secondly, adjusted the chain once. Tightened the retaining bolt to spec with
torque wrench. It still allowed the eccentric adjuster to slip a bit, and
ease the chain off. Admittedly after a very high speed run of 140-160 kmh
over 200 kilomteres. This is the second time this has happened to me, the
other was on my Daytona. Moral, keep checking the offending bolt. There is a
lot of trust placed in that small bit of metal. If it lets go at speed, look
out.

Best bits. The Bagster tank bag. What an excellent thing, with the map
pocket being invaluable. The Universal Vista throttle lock, wouldnt be
without one on such a trip. The Bridgestone BT204 (used to be the BT54 I
think) tyre still has some life left, and didnt do a bad job given the
straight nature of the trip (except for the Adelaide Hills and the Great
Ocean Road), the load carried, and the constant high speeds of 140-160 kmh.
It wasnt bad on the twisties, and not too bad in the wet. Overall, I dont
think I could have had a better tyre for this trip.

In summary, what a clever bike. Now 16,000 kilometres and loosened up
nicely. No more vibration at 160 kmh/6,000 rpm. Most happy, and now quite
confident  that it will do most of the things the Daytona can, without the
racy riding position, and able to carry a heap of gear when needed.

And the best bit was the victory of Gobert and Corser. Go the Aussies. Worth
the trip. But I might fly next time, and freight the bike to the bendy bits.
Those Adelaide Hills are too good to only spend a couple of days in.

Simon Line
Perth WA


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