mikeG

Knowing the large number of threads on the subject of tires, I tried to focus my question on preferences between the BT57's or BT020's. Since no one even mentioned the 57's, I'll take that as a "no confidence" vote. I used to be a Metzeler person, and went through 2 sets of MEZ4's on my old VFR. In both cases, I got good mileage/handling, but the front tires wore on the sides into a triangular profile, and started feeling pretty non-linear once worn. I then tried 020's for a season on the VFR and was pretty happy. Price is better too. Guess I'll try a set on the Bird. MikeG

My 99 XX picked up a screw in the rear tire, and since they have 9000 miles on them, it's time to buy a new set. The 57's are OEM replacements, but I had the 020's on my previous VFR and really liked them. I am a sport touring rider rather than a peg scratcher, so mileage is a priority as well as decent grip. What say the list? MikeG

Try the Shell Rotella synthetic 5W40. Not energy conserving--works well in motorcycles per mu experience. Avail in Walmarts for about $12.80/gal. I think Shell is trying to break into the market with it, because it used to be $18.00/gal. MikeG

Buy one of the Mityvac's in Autozone for about $30. Works great on clutches too. Be done in about 15 minutes. If you get bubbles, take out the bleeder and wrap a little teflon tape. MikeG

I did the rims only on mine, and painted the center silver. Looks great. I think the center cast area might be best done by a pro with the right equipment. It's pretty rough. MikeG

Great pictures. I can vouch for your instructions because I did the same job on my XX last fall. The last thing I did was to open up the wire groove in the right bar just like you described. Haven't had much riding time this spring yet due to weather, but initial impressions are very favorable. The riding position is very much like my old VFR. MikeG ps also in Ma--work in Framingham, live in Bolton