Hello All! I just got myself an M696. Sick bike (well at least for a first time newbie..) I took a riding course last week and passed with flying colors..Few questions that I have seen asked over these posts but want to get a more critical response...
1) What RPM range should I be riding in under normal cruising speeds (40 mph..) Ive noticed that the RPMS don't really change when I'm in 3rd, 4th, 5th, etc... Obviously when I roll on in a higher gear the engine lags but I'm trying to find out the best gear to be in depending on my speed...I'm not confident enough to go on the freeways yet so my speed will probably never go over 60 for now...
2) Secondly, whenever i roll on from lets say 1st to 2nd or 2nd to 3rd, this engine / throttle response really jolts..and I'm not really rolling on hard..just a slight minor twist but its really jerky...Ive had to adjust to only , barely, barely barely, twist the throttle...Is this normal? Are there any adjustments that can be made to make it less sensitive?
3) I'm absolutely terrified of dropping this bike...I weight about 160 and i can feel the weight of this thing when I'm at a stand still and try leaning left or right....Do you guys have any advice on how to not drop it..;) I know that must sound like a ridiculous question but other than that I'm pretty confident with riding this thing on the streets until i get more accustomed to the intricacies of cornering and high speed riding...
Thanks in advance!!!!
1) welcome-intros normally og here: http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?board=14.0 ;)
2) Get yerself a set of frame sliders-these will protect the bike if you drop it.
3) get yourself some gear if you haven't already. It will protect you if you drop it.
Just say no...
to drugs. ;D
It's a start.
Congrats! Cruise at oh, about 3,500 RPM, it differs a little from one specimen to the other. While breaking the bike in avoid constant speed and load. As far as shifting goes, practice, it will get better.
Hey there.
With regards to #3: I weigh about 125-130 and have an S2R. The weight of the bike is just something you have to get used to, I'm a little chick and I still struggle on hills. I can't flat foot my bike so I practiced coming to a stop and shifting over to one side of the bike so I could better handle the weight. Just practice. And get frame sliders for when you drop it.
#2: On Ducs, anything below say.... 3K RPM is notoriously jerky. Many have fixed this by going to a 14 tooth front sprocket. Its a cheap mod that helps with low speed throttle response.
#1: I believe this all depends on the gearing your bike has but I cruise around at about 4000-4500 RPM. Here's a thread about it: http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=12312.0
I'm sure others will chime in with their advice.
I hope you got the pearl white cause it the fastest. ( everybody knows that dealer should have told you )
+1 on the frame sliders i got mine from motivationusa http://www.motovationusa.com/mvstore/Scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=395
this bike throtle takes some getting used, throttle control comes with time.
Great Advice...The frame sliders I will def purchase...
I dont do drugs so no worries there...But the jerkiness of the throttle can be alleviated by shifting at higher RPM's? Is that correct to say?
First off.....WELCOME TO THE EXCITING WORLD OF DUCATI OWNERSHIP!!!! (even though my wifee says the Ducatis own me)
On the subject of frame sliders I have heard that they can actually do more harm than good in a good oopah at anything over 25 mph. Just sayin. I could also be completely wrong.
Oh "f" it...just ride the damn thing ;D
The frame sliders are just something I would consider...I would love to hear anybody Else's input on them as well.
Also, i want to get your input on Service Maintenance....I purchased a maintainace plan that covers 9 service's over the next 3 years (3 per year)...I paid 1899.00 for it..Did i get raped? Is that a good deal for the next 3 years?
Quote from: LSD4me on December 22, 2008, 02:05:36 PM
The frame sliders are just something I would consider...I would love to hear anybody Else's input on them as well.
Also, i want to get your input on Service Maintenance....I purchased a maintainace plan that covers 9 service's over the next 3 years (3 per year)...I paid 1899.00 for it..Did i get raped? Is that a good deal for the next 3 years?
I did the same thing and I must say it is really nice to know that when you need service done you just get it done. No waiting for finances or anything. I am also lucky because the shop here will pick up and deliver my bike for anything that needs to get done
Quote from: LSD4me on December 22, 2008, 02:05:36 PM
The frame sliders are just something I would consider...I would love to hear anybody Else's input on them as well.
Also, i want to get your input on Service Maintenance....I purchased a maintainace plan that covers 9 service's over the next 3 years (3 per year)...I paid 1899.00 for it..Did i get raped? Is that a good deal for the next 3 years?
It's a good deal if you put the miles on it and get some major services done under the plan.
I plan on using this thing to the bone...Commuting and joy riding...Its my primary mode of transportation...Im glad to hear i wasnt raped because I was starting to think I got seriously boned on this because other people are saying their 600 mi service was like 150, otehrs were 280, etc..
Quote from: LSD4me on December 22, 2008, 02:19:31 PM
I plan on using this thing to the bone...Commuting and joy riding...Its my primary mode of transportation...Im glad to hear i wasnt raped because I was starting to think I got seriously boned on this because other people are saying their 600 mi service was like 150, otehrs were 280, etc..
When I had the 7500 mile service done the shop showed me how much it would have cost and all I have to say is ouch. I think it worked out to over $800, could be wrong ( I enjoyed the 80's too much)
Quote from: LSD4me on December 22, 2008, 02:19:31 PM
I plan on using this thing to the bone...Commuting and joy riding...Its my primary mode of transportation...Im glad to hear i wasnt raped because I was starting to think I got seriously boned on this because other people are saying their 600 mi service was like 150, otehrs were 280, etc..
But the major services are much more.
Make some calls and get prices on a 6K, or whatever the first service is the valves get adjusted, or belts replaced. The plan cost you slightly more than $200/service. If you use them for oil changes yeah you didn't get a good deal.
If you use them for valve adjustments you got a smoking deal.
Well ive def picked the right forum to become a part of...You guys respond faster than any forum ive ever been apart of and I'm confident I can get reliable advice for the future..
Thanks again!!!
awwww...garsh. Just bored at work and love B.S.ing about bike stuff more than anything [coffee]
My buddy's girlfriend has frame sliders on her sv650, saved the bike a bunch of times from low, moving around the garage/driveway falls. Oh yeah and CRG lanesplitters hold up well to similar falls. :P
My girlfriend put a set of frame sliders on her sv650. She dropped it once the first time she rode it, but that was before the sliders were installed, no damage though.
My sister has a set of frame sliders on her ninja 650R that saved it the day after I installed them. [thumbsup]
I don't have them on the monster (which is my first bike), because I don't like the look of them. Almost dropped it once, but I've been lucky.
I typically cruise at around 5k rpm. I find the engine on my M696 seems to smooth out there. I have the Termi slip-ons and ECU, don't know if that affects the rpm where things smooth out.
The throttle response on mine is choppy at low revs but especially so between 3 and 4k. I think you'll smooth out at starts and such as you ride more, but after having my bike for 5 mos, I still don't run in that range to ride around town.
I've got the motovation sliders and haven't tested them yet, but I sure wish I had had them on my old sv650. Keep in mind that it's a new bike AND a Ducati, plus it's your 1st - I'd prolly get 'em.
Framesliders and bar end mirrors, both are essential.
Quote from: LSD4me on December 22, 2008, 01:33:09 PM
Hello All! I just got myself an M696. Sick bike (well at least for a first time newbie..) I took a riding course last week and passed with flying colors..Few questions that I have seen asked over these posts but want to get a more critical response...
1) What RPM range should I be riding in under normal cruising speeds (40 mph..) Ive noticed that the RPMS don't really change when I'm in 3rd, 4th, 5th, etc... Obviously when I roll on in a higher gear the engine lags but I'm trying to find out the best gear to be in depending on my speed...I'm not confident enough to go on the freeways yet so my speed will probably never go over 60 for now...
2) Secondly, whenever i roll on from lets say 1st to 2nd or 2nd to 3rd, this engine / throttle response really jolts..and I'm not really rolling on hard..just a slight minor twist but its really jerky...Ive had to adjust to only , barely, barely barely, twist the throttle...Is this normal? Are there any adjustments that can be made to make it less sensitive?
3) I'm absolutely terrified of dropping this bike...I weight about 160 and i can feel the weight of this thing when I'm at a stand still and try leaning left or right....Do you guys have any advice on how to not drop it..;) I know that must sound like a ridiculous question but other than that I'm pretty confident with riding this thing on the streets until i get more accustomed to the intricacies of cornering and high speed riding...
Thanks in advance!!!!
A lot of what you're describing is normal for a new rider. For example, a throttle feels jerky until you get comfortable with the bike and get some miles under your belt. Without doing any sort of modifications, it will feel less jerky. It's a byproduct of experience. It also depends on your rev range. If you're way high in the revs (7K or more) and in 1st or second gear, the throttle is going to feel too responsive to a new rider. If you're too low, it's going to lug and stumble. Where in the rev range do you find yourself most of the time? And when you say the throttle feels "jerky" is the bike lunging forward and then stopping or is it just that you're having trouble adding only a little bit of throttle at a time?
Try to keep the bike above 3.5K when you're cruising. Lugging it isn't good for the engine and it will feel like it's stumbling along. You'll actually have better control if you keep the revs up a bit. The suggestion of a 14 tooth front sprocket is a good one. Ducatis are notoriously geared high from the factory. A 14 tooth sprock is one the modifications that not only adds performance, but also makes your bike more manageable and easier to ride at around-town speeds
Re the fear of dropping, again, that is will subside as you get more miles under your belt. As many have said already, frame sliders and full body gear is valuable insurance in case of a drop. As someone who constantly throws himself on the ground, let me emphasize the importance of gear. If you haven't already purchased some, you might want to poke around the Gear section and start looking at your options.
Congrats on the new bike. [thumbsup] Ride safe. [moto]
th 14t sprocket will help you smooth out the 'off-clutch' throttling, but also make sure you aren't lugging the bike off the line by trying to avoid slipping the clutch. clutch control will definitely improve your off the line smoothness.
My first bike 10 years ago i wish i had sliders on due to 2 small lowspeed/standing tipovers. and i've been thinking about them for the 696, but haven't done it yet. knocking on wood i won't need em. but my new garage is smaller so kids bumping into the bike to get their scooters and such is much more possible now.
the weight thing is more perceptive the shorter you are. the ducatis are great for having that low center of gravity and if you hold the bike with your legs instead of your arms you will feel the weight near your knees. when standing still i rarely hold the bike with my arms.
Treat all 4 wheel vehicles as tho they are out to kill you and ride accordingly
Along the lines of Capo's post, have you taken an MSF course? If not, here's one of the best parts: SEE. Search (for obstacles/danger), Evaluate (the situation), Execute (a plan).
Quote from: Speedomax on December 22, 2008, 06:07:29 PM
My buddy's girlfriend has frame sliders on her sv650, saved the bike a bunch of times from low, moving around the garage/driveway falls. Oh yeah and CRG lanesplitters hold up well to similar falls. :P
My girlfriend put a set of frame sliders on her sv650. She dropped it once the first time she rode it, but that was before the sliders were installed, no damage though.
My sister has a set of frame sliders on her ninja 650R that saved it the day after I installed them. [thumbsup]
I don't have them on the monster (which is my first bike), because I don't like the look of them. Almost dropped it once, but I've been lucky.
From what I have heard the 2 valve frame on the monster is the problem. They work great on other bikes
Welcome and Congrats! [wine]
The weight of the bike is relative to what you are use to and in time you will get use to it. At 115 lb I'm fine with the weight of my Duc and even my Hog which is 200 lbs heavier. But when I have to move my hubby's Hog around the garage, its extra 100lb is getting into my non-comfort zone.
I found the jerkiness of the throttle unsettling also. The bike wants to go but while in the getting to know you stage, going slow will result in the jerk around experience. I now keep the RPMs in the 3,500 â€" 4,000 range when in lower gears and ignore the screaming of the engine.
Frame sliders are a good idea, but I would also add protective gear for both upper & lower body just in case. You don't have to being moving for protective gear to work, it come in very handy at no-speed tip overs.
Take learning at a pace you feel comfortable with and don't compare yourself to anyone else. Being impatient may get you into the situations you want to avoid. Good Luck and Best to you and your new buddy.
[
3) I'm absolutely terrified of dropping this bike...I weight about 160 and i can feel the weight of this thing when I'm at a stand still and try leaning left or right....Do you guys have any advice on how to not drop it..;) I know that must sound like a ridiculous question but other than that I'm pretty confident with riding this thing on the streets until i get more accustomed to the intricacies of cornering and high speed riding...
Thanks in advance!!!!
[/quote]
as far as question 3, how not to drop a bike... simple, dont' drop it. and don't ride it ever. those are two sure fire ways of not dropping a bike 100% of the time.
other than that, the obvious advice is to
be mindful of your footing when stopping,
be mindful of inclines and declines at all speeds especially below 20mph,
look where you want to go and keep your head and eyes always looking up dont' stare at the ground right in front of you, bc that is where you don't want to end up espeically when doing u turns.
and dont' try to stop a bike from being dropped once its on its way down get away from the bike and let it fall, you will only possibly hurt yourself more by trying to lift a 400lb piece of metal with one hand or one leg when its falling, and no offence, unless you are an olympic caliber powerlifter at 160, lifting over 400lbs with one leg or arm is a lot of weight for most people.
all joking aside, good luck and welcome to the board and stay safe out there.
and like everyone says, get the best gear you can afford and wear it. even the more budget priced motorcycle gear will protect you better than most non motorcycle gear. you dont' have to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars to get good protection, you can easily find good new gloves/pants/boots/jacket combined for probably under 300 if you shop around and get a dot/snell helmet for under 100 brand new and you will be very well protected. of course if your budget allows for 1000s of dollars of equipment go for it, but if not you still can ride very very safely.
Quote from: labbedds on December 22, 2008, 10:03:39 PM
Framesliders and bar end mirrors, both are essential.
+1 on the frame sliders, -1 on the bar end mirrors, at least while you are starting out and learning to ride.
Once you feel more confident and less likely to drop it, then add on the bar end mirrors.
Oh and some good reading here: http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=3151.0 ;)
Picture yourself on a duc on the highway,
With new triple trees and marmalade tires
Someguy calls you, you answer quite slowly,
A guy with kaleidoscope eyes.
nothing against your skills, but everybody passes the MSF. it's a great first step, but.....
practice practice practice.
and as stated ...gear gear gear ALWAYS!
Quote from: bobspapa on December 23, 2008, 07:18:38 AM
Picture yourself on a duc on the highway,
With new triple trees and marmalade tires
Someguy calls you, you answer quite slowly,
A guy with kaleidoscope eyes.
[laugh] [laugh] [laugh]
Quote from: LSD4me on December 22, 2008, 02:05:36 PM
The frame sliders are just something I would consider...I would love to hear anybody Else's input on them as well.
Also, i want to get your input on Service Maintenance....I purchased a maintainace plan that covers 9 service's over the next 3 years (3 per year)...I paid 1899.00 for it..Did i get raped? Is that a good deal for the next 3 years?
which dealership did you purchase it from?
So i thought i would chime in again after a few weeks and let everyone know how I'm doing...(not that u care...) ha ha
My fears of dropping it are completely gone, i am definitely more comfortable with riding it and riding in traffic...(Safely..)
The one major obstacle i have yet to overcome is switching gears...Sometimes i switch gears so smoothly its like an automatic and sometimes my hands just don't coordinate...clutch in gas on...the symphony has yet to be completed but is progressing nicely...
There are a few things about the bike that have me puzzled....After driving from light to light, sometimes i will be sitting at a light and will rev the engine (not like those A holes...;) and the exhaust will backfire or "explode?"...is this normal? should i be concerned?
I also wanted to know what impact driving straight will have on my tires...i don't really turn more than usual and i am concerned with wearing down the center of my tires...should i be concerned?
Lastly, putting gas into this beast is a pain...I have yet to spill a drop on the paint which is why its a pain..;)...i basically hold the fuel pump to the side and hang over and look and wait to see when gas starts accumulating into a consistent "puddle" next to the fuel opening...this method KILLS my back
Other than that, having a kick ass time... [thumbsup]
But... we do care. :'(
[laugh]
The shifting will smooth out with time and experience. Did you go to a 14t front sprocket? Finally got mine a wk ago and it makes a huge difference.
I've got a 696, and the backfires seem to be a characteristic of the bike when it has the racing ECU. I've been told by one person that's because it runs lean, and by another it's due to running rich. I don't know, but I like the pops and backfires on decel - of course, I firmly believe that that's the bike talking to me. ;D
As far as putting gas in, I just put the nozzle all the way in and let the auto shut off stop me, which is usually at about 2.6 or 2.7 gallons. Since I don't fill up until the fuel light cuts on (.8 gal left), that's pretty much a full tank. I used to spill or backfire gas occasionally until I started doing it that way.
Keep on riding safely and enjoy!
Glad to hear the riding is going well! [thumbsup]
I agree the shifting will improve with practice.
As far as the backfiring is concerned, hopefully the other 696 owners will chime in, but it might be something to ask your dealer about.
Lots of straight driving will cause your tires to square off, eventually you will want to replace them unless you find some more twisty routes. ;) If that is most of your riding, next time look into sport touring tires.
And for putting gas in, I'm short and I usually hook the hose over my shoulder, which allows me to point the nozzle straight down and see better while I am filling my tank.
I adjusted my throttle wire to help with the smoothness. Maybe there's too much freeplay on your bike too? Mine is now just about tight and it's much easier to control. Don't overtighten, you need a little tiny bit of freeplay. It is delivered with generous freeplay and then the wire stretches a bit = too much freeplay IMO.
Backfiring is not very good - have the dealer fix it - don't accept the common answer: "that's normal" ;)
The backfiring may be the result of the coil issue that some 696s have - have it checked next time you are at the dealer. Some backfire IS NORMAL depending on the lean/richness. You can spend your days trying to get the mix just right or like most of us, just enjoy the sweet sound.
the 696 does seem more tempermental as far as the off throttle popping. but i love the sound. it's more menacing that way. the 14t sprocket made a huge difference in low speed riding for smoothness sake.
oh and ALWAYS get the coils checked. you never know if that worker was on sick leave [wine] when they found the problem
as with any bike, an aftermarket power commander tweaked to not worry about Euro 3 emissions would smooth it out a lot and maybe add some decent power. but stock it's still nice.
i think i finally have the go ahead from my personal bank loan officer (ie the wife) for pipes, so i will see the difference with a more open exhaust system.
I did actually have the coil issue on my 696, it was fixed, and the pops/backfires on decel continued essentially unabated. So I'm guessing that this is, in fact, normal for this bike. As Raux said, I'm sure it could mostly be eliminated with a PC, but I enjoy the sound, so I'll probably leave it alone. If I ever do a PC it'll be because the throttle response is still abrupt at 3500-4k rpm, even with the 14t sprocket, although it's much improved.
Quote from: swampduc on January 16, 2009, 06:24:37 AM
I did actually have the coil issue on my 696, it was fixed, and the pops/backfires on decel continued essentially unabated.
LSD, check w/ you dealers about the coils
LSD and swampy popping on Decel is a common symptom of an exhaust leak. Have a walk around and check the various exhaust connections. It doesn't have to be some gaping hole, just a little looseness can do it. I had a 620 w/ highmounts that developed a popping problem. Someone told be about the leaky exhaust cause for this. I had a good look around, but didn't see any signs of leaks (soot at the seams etc) but tightened all the joints in the exhaust system - and bam! Problem solved. Fix time about 30 min (15 of which was dicking around) cost $0
LSD, if you're interested in doing some of your own basic maintenance, but don't have tools yet -Here's a thread on getting a basic tool box http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=12262.0
There's also more some in-depth gear heady tool discussions going too.
+1 on the 14t counter. I installed the 14t because of the low gearing from a start. I do believe that the 14t allows the engine to rev a bit quicker due to the gear ratio, but I was never really good at math because I spent too much time in college [drink]
Quote from: NWapex on January 16, 2009, 08:18:51 AM
+1 on the 14t counter. I installed the 14t because of the low gearing from a start. I do believe that the 14t allows the engine to rev a bit quicker due to the gear ratio, but I was never really good at math because I spent too much time in college [drink]
With the 14 teeth front sprocket the bike will run at 1/15 x 100 = 7% higher revs (the right college) at all times. It means a quicker start and it means the next gear shift will come sooner. At some specific speeds this is good, at other speeds a 15t would have been better. The statement that 14t is "better" for city riding is inaccurate - it's only "better" from standing still. Unless of course city riding means really slow speeds, in first gear only....
Quote from: LSD4me on December 22, 2008, 02:26:10 PM
Well ive def picked the right forum to become a part of...You guys respond faster than any forum ive ever been apart of and I'm confident I can get reliable advice for the future..
Thanks again!!!
You think they respond fast now, wait until you post something stupid.
Anyway, welcome and enjoy your bike.
Quote from: psycledelic on January 16, 2009, 09:45:00 AM
You think they respond fast now, wait until you post something stupid.
Or derby an item... even faster then.
Sounds like i have alot to talk to my dealer about in approx 300 miles..;P
I more thing...When droping down into first gear (both standing still at a light AND while driving) it makes a really loud clicking noise when it actually hits the gear...none of the other gears react this way...only when dropping into first...its dfficult to describe the sound....its definetely normal but im not sure if it is supposed to "clank" as loud as it does...also at a stand still, dropping to first jerks the bike somewhat...nothing big but its noticiable...
Otehr than that, you guys have great input!! keep it comin..;)
My bike does the same thing. I'm normally not accepting "that's normal", but I think this is.
Some "clunking" going into 1st gear is normal.
i love that CHUnK when i step on first gear at lights. other bike riders look at you strange.
Quote from: Raux on January 17, 2009, 12:41:17 AM
i love that CHUnK when i step on first gear at lights. other bike riders look at you strange.
LOL yeah they do.!!
Quote from: grandpa nate on December 22, 2008, 02:01:57 PM
First off.....WELCOME TO THE EXCITING WORLD OF DUCATI OWNERSHIP!!!! (even though my wifee says the Ducatis own me)
On the subject of frame sliders I have heard that they can actually do more harm than good in a good oopah at anything over 25 mph. Just sayin. I could also be completely wrong.
Oh "f" it...just ride the damn thing ;D
I am also considering installing frame sliders on my M696.
Can you or someone explain why its a bad idea to install a frame slider?
I was thinking about frame sliders as well but was informed by a very reliable source that they can actually done more harm than good when installed on a 2 valve frame. Something about tweeking the frame more than if not installed. Again I have not tested this theory (thank god) but I trust the guys at GP as they have never guided me in the wrong direction.
My understanding (and personal experience) is that frame sliders work very well for tip-overs and low-speed crashes, which are more typical scenarios for newer and shorter riders. [thumbsup]
However, there are conflicting reports for high-speed crashes, in some cases they seem to protect and some cases they may make it worse.
There's a lot of what ifs when it comes to sliders. Generally they will probably save you money.
Yes, they can do bad things under the wrong circumstances. Becuase of the naked nature of the monster they have a greater potential to dig in on soft surfaces when compared to a fully faired bike. But if you keep it on hard stuff, they will do a lot of keep from grinding holes in your tank, case and occasional yourself
So in most cars, you cant get into first until you are going slower than a certain speed, trying to force it will reward you with some crazy sounds, even with the clutch in. The clunking may be the result of trying to downshift into first too soon and too fast. Try staying in second (even with the clutch in) until you are stopped, you'll hear less clunk.
Quote from: somegirl on January 21, 2009, 08:48:36 AM
My understanding (and personal experience) is that frame sliders work very well for tip-overs and low-speed crashes, which are more typical scenarios for newer and shorter riders. [thumbsup]
However, there are conflicting reports for high-speed crashes, in some cases they seem to protect and some cases they may make it worse.
I agree, in a tip over situation they will save you lots of money, and when it comes to high speed crashes, the last thing i'd be worried about is my bike-- there is insurance for that.
I tested the frame sliders on a low speed low side of my 696 and they did help prevent major damage. Be mindful, though, that even "minor" "cosmetic" damage of this bike adds up QUICK!! :o I hope you don't ever experience that - or me either, again! (The good news is I got Termis out of the whole deal. 8) ).
Have fun and be safe.
Quote from: maillotpois on January 21, 2009, 06:56:27 PM
I tested the frame sliders on a low speed low side of my 696 and they did help prevent major damage. Be mindful, though, that even "minor" "cosmetic" damage of this bike adds up QUICK!! :o I hope you don't ever experience that - or me either, again! (The good news is I got Termis out of the whole deal. 8) ).
Have fun and be safe.
was wondering about that. so even on a lowside the highexhausts get damaged?
Quote from: Raux on January 21, 2009, 09:51:04 PM
was wondering about that. so even on a lowside the highexhausts get damaged?
My Termis have not been damaged with two low-speed crashes (knock on wood).
Quote from: Raux on January 21, 2009, 09:51:04 PM
was wondering about that. so even on a lowside the highexhausts get damaged?
Well, it got scratched up a bit. Not too bad, and didn't really "need" replacement. The cover over the exhaust and exhaust hanger (forgive my lack of accurate terminology :-[ ) DID get damaged.
This is the way I view frame sliders. On monsters with the trellis frame they probably do more harm than good to the bike. However, at higher speeds usually the bike is going to be done for anyway. Most damage to bikes happens at lower speeds anyway especially for new riders not being able to handle the bike at low speeds. In these situations frame sliders can save lots of money.
I say put them in and for low speed save your tank and your money. For high speed chances are the bike is totaled with or without them so who cares.
Quote from: needtorque on January 23, 2009, 12:12:07 PM
This is the way I view frame sliders. On monsters with the trellis frame they probably do more harm than good to the bike. However, at higher speeds usually the bike is going to be done for anyway. Most damage to bikes happens at lower speeds anyway especially for new riders not being able to handle the bike at low speeds. In these situations frame sliders can save lots of money.
I say put them in and for low speed save your tank and your money. For high speed chances are the bike is totaled with or without them so who cares.
Soooo...win win :)
They also hold it up maybe an extra inch or two when on its side. very little bit helps when picking a bike back up.
So....Like a DONK, i dropped it today.... [bang]
It was drizzling out so when i went outside to smoke a cig, i noticed a small pool of water accumulating on the instrument panel...I then thought i was the HULK and tilted the bike right to get rid of the water....it topples over like a jenga board...holy f'n shit...i then had such an addrenaline rush i lifted it back up in like 3 seconds...to my SURPRISE...hahaha, NO SCRATES AT ALL.....woo hoo [beer] [beer]
But i still feel like such a f;n donk.... [thumbsup]
Quote from: LSD4me on January 23, 2009, 03:54:12 PM
So....Like a DONK, i dropped it today.... [bang]
It was drizzling out so when i went outside to smoke a cig, i noticed a small pool of water accumulating on the instrument panel...I then thought i was the HULK and tilted the bike right to get rid of the water....it topples over like a jenga board...holy f'n shit...i then had such an addrenaline rush i lifted it back up in like 3 seconds...to my SURPRISE...hahaha, NO SCRATES AT ALL.....woo hoo [beer] [beer]
But i still feel like such a f;n donk.... [thumbsup]
ok, do you have sliders?
The funny part is i DO NOT have sliders and there are NO scratches whatsoever...im dumbfounded...i thought for sure i would have at least dented the gas tank or something....NOT A SCRATCh....i reallly lucked out i think
Quote from: LSD4me on January 23, 2009, 03:54:12 PM
So....Like a DONK, i dropped it today.... [bang]
It was drizzling out so when i went outside to smoke a cig, i noticed a small pool of water accumulating on the instrument panel...I then thought i was the HULK and tilted the bike right to get rid of the water....it topples over like a jenga board...holy f'n shit...i then had such an addrenaline rush i lifted it back up in like 3 seconds...to my SURPRISE...hahaha, NO SCRATES AT ALL.....woo hoo [beer] [beer]
But i still feel like such a f;n donk.... [thumbsup]
You should really resist the urge to mess around with your bike if it's just sitting there minding it's own business. Although probably not the reason for your drop, keep in mind that Ducati kickstands are pretty crappy. When you park it, make sure the kickstand is all the way down and back, even jiggle the bike a bit to make sure it's stable on the kickstand.
I've been riding motorcycles over thirty years. My Monster was only down twice. The first time, it fell off of the kickstand about five minutes after I parked it level on level concrete. The second time I totaled it (completely smashed into a twisted mass) and I'm still recovering from the wreck over a year later. Just another reminder to ride safe and always wear your gear.