Venus97

Birdman-my mileage went down slightly when I mounted a taller ZG sport touring screen, but then went back up when I mounted Scorpion slip ons. I finished a 200 mile ride today, got 47 mpg in mixed highway/mountain riding. I was thinking of adding jet kit but the bike runs so well I best not mess with it.

I'm having some difficulty removing and replacing my avatar photo. I can remove my old photo and upload a new one from my desktop, but when I choose the new one it always uploads the old one. I can even get the photos to new album I created Any suggestions?

I have a '97, I'm getting in the low to mid 40's mostly freeway at 70+ mph. I usually fill up when the gas gauge is below a 1/4, takes btwn 3.6 to 4.1 gallons and miles is anywhere from 160-180. I did run it to 200 miles 1 time and was starting to sweat. It seems there is a reserve, but I'm not sure where that starts on the gauge. I have noticed mine has gone down a little recently and I'm attributing it to the colder temps. I also wonder when the oxygenated winter blend will hit the stations, which is known for lowering mileage. Maybe where you are it has already started???

I know the Pirelli Diablo Combo sale is sold out per web site, it said some stores may still carry some tires. I was thnking of calling the nearest store to try and purchase at sale price good tomorrow, but I know nothing of these tires. They stick pretty well? How about longevity? (Metzler M1 rear only last 3k, so their combo is really not that appealing) Thanks.

I saw a post similiar to this in other forum, and was real interested but 3,000 miles for rear? That is not very far.

I know my stock '97 with 19k on the clock lacks good suspension (ie sluggish handling, jarring over bumps, etc) I cannot afford to Front and Back at the same time. What do you folks recommend first? (I'm thinking Front, but maybe I'm wrong) With the 2 shocks for sale currently on the board, it has got me thinking. :icon_think:

============================ I agree. They removed a couple of door dings form our van in less than 30 min, for about $60.

I also have purchased his products for my Bandit, he knows his stuff and is a nice guy to boot! :icon_clap:

--------------------- good idea. I always have heard to change the chain and sprockets at same time, otherwise one will prematurely wear the other.

This is a good question. I have heard to do it before and after storage. Before, for the reasons mentioned earlier, to get the contaminants out, and after to get the condensation, etc out. I am not sure if the 2nd change is necessary in my case because I usually start it and try to ride it at least around the block a couple of times every 3-4 weeks in the dead of winter.. Otherwise, it connected to a batter tender and covered.

I know there is a site or two, but I do not know what they are. I think some of the maufacturers also sound clips on their sites. For what's its worth, I have a '97 and recently bought a pair of Scorpions. I really like them, deep throaty sound and will never need to re-pack them. They are not terribly loud. I enjoy a few more MPG per tankful and have not had to do any mods. Good luck.

I bought a set on e-bay several weeks ago, for about $25. They are flat and have some type of flat chrome finish on them. I was going to paint them but decided they look pretty good as is. They are not the dimpled ones, which I admit look better but I think also are way too pricey. :icon_snooty: I can try and track down who I bought them from if you like and post a link.

These results mentioned in this thread are based on 18T Front and leaving rear the same (45T), correct?

Living in S.F., that is your largest challenge! Just kidding. Based on your requirements I would suggest the following: 1. Givi Touring Screen-you may be able to locate one on e-bay or here. I do not think they make them anymore new. 2. I have Converti-bars. They are much more adjustable that the Helis. 3. Change in front springs. I have yet to do this, but everyone who does raves about the positive difference. I think this will be my next project. 4. Head north to Napa area or even further up to Eureka, CA or even Gold Beach, OR and enjoy the beauty. Good luck.

I didn't notice my tail light staying on all the time, but that's because I promptly mod'ed the wiring to it so that the "off" position kills ALL of the lights. Dunno about the missing connector on the left side. I noticed it, and decided not to install it. I gave it to Pete (PlasticXXhead), because I have HID hi and low, so the flash to pass was useless to me. --------------------------------------------- I can't focus, I think it has something to do with this avatar

------------------------------------ Nice looking bike, great job!

Looks great! Good job.

I use 2 methods, the basic snap trap with cheese in it. I also take very fine steel wool, wrap it in cheese making it a little ball. The mice will eat it, then pass away when they cannot digest the steel wool.

Thanks for the update. Sounds like a matter of narrowing down the culprit. Kepp us posted.

I bought a CL-15 earlier this year, and really enjoy it. I did not try on an AC-11 so I cannot compare the two. I am not sure and going by memory here, but I believe I went with the CL-15 because it had a higher safety rating (Snell 2005) and the features I wanted.

I have heard people checking it both ways. My opinion in order to get the most accurate reading, the bike should be off both stands and held level by "an assistant." Then use the dip stick w/o screwing it in. If you were by yourself, you can check it on the center stand as well-I do not think it is that critical. I agree with Warchild, do not check it on the side stand.

I had to do something similiar when I installed my slip ons. I found a very small nut (no, not one of mine ) and JB welded it to the top of the stand where it enteres the stand's receiver (JB weld is a man's best friend next to duct tape) and then used black touch up paint. It came out perfect and not even noticeable.

I used my '97 mostly for commuting and trips to the Dragon a couple of times a year. The commute is almost 30 miles each way on freeway running 70mph+ with occasional bursts of throttle/speed to avoid or get out of unsafe situations. I have no engine modifications at all. I was getting about 40-43 mpg with the stock pipes. I recently switched to Scorpion slip ons and now I'm getting consistently 46 mpg. Of course I did not buy the bike for high mpg reputation, but I think my mpg is very good considering its performance capabality. What are other Bird owners getting? :icon_think: (Now if I can just modify the suspension so the bike does not loosen my fillings, I'll be set)

Yes, the brake and clutch lines have been replaced with longer ones. I actually have my convertibars set as high as the electrical controls and turning clearance allows. This is probably 1 1/2 to 2" higher than stock clip ons. I also added the Zero Gravity Dark Smoke Touring shield as well. (I have the bike set up more for sport touring). I can always lower the bars if I feel like leaning over more. Thanks.

Here are some pictures, I hope they help you.