Ducati Monster Forum

Started one of these in Desmotropic a while back, so why not here?

Took Darmah down to the dog park for a few hours so she could run run run.   Couple of pretty ladies down there.

Then went to check out Coleman Powersports.  I know they don't have the best rep over here, but I was impressed when one of the employees actually told me to take my bike out to Doug at Ducpond for servicing.  That gets a thumbs up.  Plus, seeing as how they are a "local" dealer, I was thinking about hitting them up to help host some local rides...

Which park?

I hoofed it around Denver playing tourist and seeing how it's changed since I last was here/lived out west. Then played some more catch up with the cousins I'm staying with. Found out they are big BSG fans too

The one in Shirlington.  It's only two miles from the flat that I will be living in, so it's nice and convenient. 


BSG?

That's the best dog park in the area. Crazy mobbed on the weekends. There's another dog park upstream - Carlin Springs, I think - that's nice and shady. No fence there, though.

Battlestar Galactica

It is a really nice park, with lots of room for D to go stupid nuts.  LOTS of pretty ladies down there today too.   ;D


Achso.  <looking for the geek smiley>

DRKWNG, that's my park!  I live a short walk from it - looks like were neighbors now.

If you didn't scope out shirlington village, you should. There's a bakery that sells doggie biscuits called Best Buns. And just a couple weeks back a place called Dogma opened up there on the lower lever. It's near Bungallow Billiards.

I'll be headed over there (best buns) in the AM - drop me a pm
if you see this. Also we could coordinate looking at the A* pants.

I just bought a bicycle in Denver.

Rode 200 miles by 10AM. :P

Right now I gotta feed the baby (4 months) and, after, go buy the wife an anniversary gift (6 years). [wine]

Looking forward to riding with some fellow CAMers tomorrow! [moto]

Spent about two hours down at the dog park earlier today, and DAMN if there aren't a lot of pretty ladies down there.  Keeping Darmah is panning out to be one of the better decisions I have ever made.  So glad I kept her instead of the wife.  ;) 

One box came in with half of my riding gear as well.  I'll be going back to Coleman's to test ride that new Multi soon.

Ouch!

Walked around Old Town with Darmah during the early day, had brunch and a few drinks, then went back out later with D to Shirlington Center and did the same. Over all a good day. 

last 2 days...I was off with Dolci's Girl Scout troop being a scout leader type helping them with their Speleology and Geocaching expedition trip in midwestern , PA....

Installed a Trail Tech Vapor on my bike over the weekend. Mounted it on an aluminum bracket with a few LEDs... fun times!

Worked as a VIP/Press mule at the Air Force Cycling Classic this past weekend. Saturday's race was in Clarendon and Sunday's was in Crystal City. Not only did I get paid to do it, but I got 2 free nights at the Crystal City Marriott and a loaner 2010 BMW 1200GS Adventure (with about 100 miles on the clock) to ride all weekend from race sponsor Battley Cycles. Awful darn nice of them to do that for me and the other mule driver who had a loaner 1200RT. I think I got the better bike. The GS is an awesome bike to ride around on in a city environment. The slow speed control and manners of this bike are impeccable. It's also very capable on the twisty backroads too. I got to thrash it around a bit on mine and Lar's favorite AA county roads.

But...

It's no Ducati. So therefore not even a consideration as a replacement. Maybe a stable mate when I can afford a used one.

Sweet Jeebus, that's a goodie!.. My buddy is pimpin' his old bike and has been looking for something digital to complete his vision. The black Vapor is gonna do the trick I think.  [thumbsup]

Just got the email that my car is at the VPC in Baltimore.  Now I just need to get hooked up with a ride to go get it...

And off to the dog park I go...

I did a little searching online and decided that the Vapor gives me the most bang for my buck. The guys at Moto Gadget (http://www.motogadget.com/us/frameset.html (http://www.motogadget.com/us/frameset.html)) make some pretty sweet tachs but they're too expensive ... at least for now ;)

Only issue I'm having is that the tach is jumpy, but I should be able to solve that soon. I'll post in the Accessories thread once I'm all done.

So...  I've been here in DC for a week now and everyday I ask the office when I am going to be able to check in so I am not charged an excess amount of leave.  I was selected for this assignment over six months ago, and they STILL have no idea how to in-process me. 

just don't go and jerk off on the quarter master's desk when he isn't looking!!!

lol  That would be guaranteed to go down well.

oh the ways to apply and reply to that....

Scored free a CB-700 and a CB-500  [thumbsup] One for the friend who had to sell her bike an one for the SO who wants to learn to ride.

Now... just gotta get 'em runnin.

COOOL...CONGRATS!....now all you need is a project area....

Had a chat with the owner of the condo I was supposed to take today, and told him that I wanted out of the lease.  He said he was fine with that but didn't want to let me out until he/we found someone else to move in. 

pull the old "too bad, I am getting redeployed elsewhere" and point to the military serviceman clause in the contract/lease and keep on walking...

Actually turns out its a CB700 and a CX500... The CB is destined for CookieMonster to replace her long sold 620... the CX... well... Might need some CPR we'll see. IF it can be made safe than it'll be a beginner bike for the SO. If it can't be made safe and sufficiently reliable (with reasonable efforts) then she's a scrapper

is the CX a turbo?..if so...those are cool ass bikes...lil heavy for a beginner for the SO though maybe...unless you are dating a Valkerie warrior princess born from Valhalla

No turbo AFIK.

Might be a bit heavy... but she has HD aspirations... that I'm trying to educate her out of.

Valkerie, no warrior princess perhaps. She might be taller n you. Put her in even low heals and she's got me.

duuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuude......did she find you...club you over the head...and drag you back to your cave and beat you into submission then?...if so...I think that's pretty cool!...LOL

Basically... though the modern iteration was 'I think you should look me up.'

well done!  But definitely talk her out of the HD

I thought about it, but wanted to be straight up with him.  Plus, he is an attorney and I imagine he would ask to see the orders.

CX500 - the Plastic Maggot! For a while they were high theft items in the UK 'cause all the mcy messengers swore by them - indestructible. Shaft drive and coolio ComStar wheels.

Found a new place today, AND got out of the troublesome lease. 

And to top it off, the SC should be here next week!!

It all worked out. Cheers!

 [thumbsup] You still going to be down Shirlington way?

Close.  Got a place down the street from the hotel, in Mark Center area. 

Ahhh, Mark Center... First apt in DC was next to that plaza off Beauregard (sp?). The memories. Next pad was in Shirlington (before the development). Even more memories.

Got a new (used) bike  ;D

1995 Monster 900

SWEET!!  Congrats!    [thumbsup]

Work was stupid today so I decided to leave early and go for a ride. Try again tomorrow. [bang]

Talked to the property owner in Shirlington today. Now he says he doesn't want to let me out of that place like he agreed to on Friday.  Looks like I need to talk with an attorney.

paging Statler and Ducatiz, paging Statler and Ducatiz...

Sick the Jags on him. Pretty well seems the guy's a misrepresenting, duplicitous douche.

PICS?!

I was actually advised by both the Alexandria BAR and the Alexandria Tenant/Landlord relations office not to involve the military legal team simply because they are not the most adept at local issues such as this.  I don't know how the guys at Bolling are, but the ones at Hickam weren't the sharpest tools in the shed...

Pics or it didn't happen, eh?!? ;)

I was actually planning on riding it over to the meetup today, but the carbs (FCR 41's) just dump gas from the overflow. Probably a stuck floater... and the fun has just begun! ;D

Welcome to the m900 family!  [moto]

Got a call from the shipping company today.  The SC is scheduled to drop off tomorrow afternoon.

Woo Hoo! Parteeeey!

 ;D

I think before the par-tay, he is going to need a few moments alone with his baby.....LOL

No comment.  ;)

Speaking of babies, here's the new family member:

(http://www.codeherrings.com/images/moto/ducati/m900/m900_01.JPG)

Cleaned out the carbs yesterday: fixed the stuck float, it no longer pisses gasoline!

Of course, the fun cannot end just yet! On the way back from the gas station last night this happened:

(http://www.codeherrings.com/images/moto/ducati/m900/broken_connector.jpg)

I was pulling nicely from a light, enjoying a gentle ([evil]) acceleration when everything just shut off. I was able to wedge the broken wire between the battery case and the connector and it stayed there long enough to ride the bike back home.

FUN TIMES!  ;D

Nice.  Is that the stock color scheme, or was it re-done?


Always a plus.   [thumbsup]

Not a clue. Neither does the previous owner have one.

The bike has an aluminum swingarm, adjustable forks and tach which made me think it might be a 900s... I'll have to do some research.

I remember seeing that bike on CL or maybe Fleabay before...I think last fall...it is NOT a stock scheme...it was repainted/modeled to mimic a Superlight SS...nice bike, but at the time I saw it, the guy was shmokin something good when he was asking nearly $6K for the bike.


congrats on the new to you purchase though!!!

Lookin' nice man. There's been a lot done there

A big orange truck dropped off something yellow at my hotel today. 

a brand new Yellow Pages to let your fingers do the walking?

HAHAHAHHAHAHAHAA

How'd you guess?

6K ?!? Wow, well I got it for much less... it has a few issues, so I figured worse comes to worse, if it's a complete lemon (pun intended) I can always sell it for parts. That's not going to happen tho ;)


Ben, post some pics!

It's a little dirty for now.  I'm going to take it out for a quick check out ride and probably go down to Colemans in a bit.  Need to check the pressure in the tires as well. 

But to hold you over...

(http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z53/b_upton/Moto/DSC00185.jpg)

Did the yellow thing arrive unscathed?

iirc, there were some choice bits on it...like the bike still seems to have the 916 style undertail exhaust with the pipes going up the right side...does it still have the FCR flatsides on it?....looks like it still has the cycle cat rearsets ( which I may still have a set of the passenger peg platforms from my trackbike that I took off in the same black if you need them)...what did you get the bike for, if you don't mind me asking...

Seems so.  We'll see in a little bit.

So far this should be the complete list of extras: under tail exhaust, FCR carbs, rearsets (interested in the passenger pegs btw, my wife wants to have a ride), clipons, alu swingarm, ohlins rear shock, wave rear brake and tach.

Got it for $1800.

Issues so far are dirty carbs (cleaned), frayed wires (I'll have fun replacing them) and tired electrical system, some rust and dirt, rear master brake need replacing, not sure about front brakes, suspension is waaay too soft (feels like it was set up for the bike to ride by itself)... don't know what else, but I'll post! ;)


Very, very, very nice! I've had the pic of a black one as wallpaper for quite a while!

Yesterday I:

1. Blew off work
2. Sorted out some insurance stuff, as my mortgage co wanted to charge me 15x what USAA wanted before the additional discounts they offered
3. Got my roof inspected - gonna need to be replaced
4. Got the girl some flowers and start wars legos
5. Did some more Dev work on http://www.fantasysmacktalk.com (http://www.fantasysmacktalk.com) (shameless plug!)
6. Checked out a new restaurant
7. Started the bicycle research project with some tire kicking at Spokes

speaking of research projects....what happened to the miniature art car racing thing from last fall!?!?!


damn...you got it for a song bro!...granted you have your work cut out for you and it is going to be quite a handfull in the meantime....but good on you for taking on and bringing back from the verge a truly decadant machine that has a whole bunch of unobtanium...

My partner in crime for that one's time is sucked up doing that site which is starting to pay. Might circle back around to it at some point.

What are you looking into?

probably the dead air between the spokes....LOL...

That's about enough out of you.  Go fix my car!!   :P


  ;D

Installed K&N pod filters.

(http://codeherrings.com/images/moto/ducati/m900/kn_pod_filters.jpg)

They go well with the carbs :)

Tomorrow I'll have fun with the battery mount, I'm thinking of moving the batter to the front of the bike... this is going to be interesting.

you are probably going to want to turn the filters roughly 180 degrees for the tank to sit flush correctly without mushing them...just my experience what those filters on my stock carbs anyways...as far as moving the battery and the box with the coils and modules on it...you might be best to get one of those new fangled tiny batteries that MotoWheels and various other people are selling ( since THAT bike doesn't require as much juice as newer FI bikes and therefore it being a more efficient, IMHO, match) and lay out the components all flat with the battery moved to under the seat...this would of course require you to customize the harness which I think you said is going to need rehab work anyway...

Went riding!!!   ;D

Cut up some aluminum in a nice shape :)

I'll post the photos tomorrow.

Pix or shens!

Finally got a ride in - short to avoid the worst of the heat. Then spent way too much time scrubbing down the bike after realizing how dirty it really was.

got up...ate a bowl of cherrrrioooo''s

came to work..haven't worked very hard...and just about to go home and watch the man cook me dinner  ;D

TardYoda, you got it backwards... I fixed if for you  ;D

I don't know Ian, Matt (the man) has got some pretty spiffy skill in that kitchen of theirs.  [thumbsup]

Finally got the chance to go into the office yesterday.  Went in, met everyone and was told not to worry about coming back in until next Tuesday.  lol

Show up around lunchtime on Tuesday, take a long lunch with everyone, and leave early (because IT won't have your 'puter set up yet). [bacon]

Deodorant issue??


 ;D ;D ;D

It took the IT "services" people almost 2 weeks to get me a PC and even then it was only useful as a boat anchor. Bureaucracy, paperwork and lazy people are my main issues with working for the Gov.

On the other side, my boss(es) and co-workers are awesome people, so it's all good in the end :)

ASS!


;D


There seems to be a terminal in my little cube (HOORAY CUBICLES!!) already, but the true question is whether or not it's set up... 

Hey! 

I resemble that remark!

 ;D

this women cleans...not cooks [laugh]



i'll clean his motos if he cooks me dinner.....or something to that effect  [laugh]



damn!! lucky-

Shit! Come here and that's a deal!  I can cook... and I just spent way to long cleaning up my grubby bike... I could have cranked out a fine fine meal in less time.

Finally went to finish my in-processing.  Spent all day up at Bolling and found out they weren't going to reimburse the full stay at the hotel the way they said they would.  "I'm sorry sir, but the person that approved you for 30 days did so incorrectly.  You are technically only authorized 10 days"...  FML...

that sucks donkey balls.....

That sucks elephant balls!!!

On a lighter side, today I circumcised my clutch lever :)

Did what now?

Broke off the tip of the clutch lever. Unintentionally, I ehm... laid down the bike while making a U-turn.  :-[

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!.....

so, is that the only damage?...did you doink up the mirror or anything else?

No damage other than the circumcised lever, once again frame sliders save the day!

The irony of it is that I had just come down (from Whites Ferry) the gravel part of River Road and I was making the u-turn because I wanted to go back and have at it again  [evil]

To avoid confusion, I wasn't riding the Yellow M900, I was riding my gray M750. No way am I riding on gravel with clip-ons!

ask Ian what it is like to follow me when I hit a gravel road....I was on my old Monster at the time and I think ( I am not 100% on this recollection) he was on his old 620 at the time and Em was bringing up the rear...HAHHAAHAA

Just bought a pocked bike!!! Here's pics:
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_2iRMqa4iTKs/S7H8CYSEMpI/AAAAAAAALto/mhJlhNmyqRs/s1600/Pocket_bike.jpg)

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Got nailed by a pigeon in the helmet going down Benning Rd at about 30 mph. Knocked him clean out and he landed in my lap. At the next light, I'm getting ready to pitch the bird off to the side of the road and it wakes up and flies into the car beside me. The guy in it. says, "Holy shit! I can't believe that." Pigeon hitting is NOT my new favorite sport.

WHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!

Holy crap.  That may be the craziest bike I've ever seen.

Need a video of someone riding it or it's just a big heavy doorstop.

Despite the temp, I got out on the pedals this evening. Rode by the dog park down in Shirlington, but didn't see Ian or Ben. If you saw a chubby, hairy dude on a fixed gear, looking rather dehydrated, that was me.

16 miles. 3 lbs of water weight. Good night.

Derailleurs... boooooo!!!

(http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v349/149/50/537158168/n537158168_1552111_9859.jpg)

removed several hundred pounds of plaster in the new office getting ready to install a large second bathroom.  fingers crossed to move in later in the month.

Sweet man!  That's a nice looking ride.  No where near as billboardy as a lot of Spech's...  I'm looking forward to getting my bikes here so I can get out and do some pedaling...


When do you think you will be all good and done with the move/renovation Chris?  I'm thinking our resident flounder needs to make a showing at one of the weekly events so I can buy him a drink.   [evil]

Sept. 1st.

um....it'll mean I can open a second law office...the plan...

so if I ever get down that way (all 45 minutes to an hour) I'll buy the drinks.

(but I'll be set up to take care of everyone's domestic law, minor criminal, and traffic law needs...in MD...up close to B'more)

Trying to step up in the world are ye?


WORD!   [thumbsup]  I'll hold you to that.  And you of all people should know that I have a good memory.  ;)


Doood!!!!  That's awfully kind of you!!  I don't care what Judd says, you're a stand up guy.  

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAA

yeah, that was funny shit.   earned a drink there.   Ducpainter and I haven't laughed so hard on-forum as we did tonight.

Oh?  Was Judd getting all sandy again tonight?  What did I miss?

not that I was 100% accurate with my response in that thread...and I was trying not to be all legal advising....but even I knew I was more on target than him on that one...but I just didn't have the ammo to call him on it like you and it was foooking brilliant the way you did!

Judd inserting his foot in his mouth up to his chest!

what thread? what thread? what thread? what thread? what thread?

sent you a PM

And I just read through the thread.  SNAP!!   [thumbsup]

it was like BAM!...

BLAMMO!!!!

Meee too share share!

Nice ride Brain... I'm looking at pedal pushers, as (in theory) I'll be able to cycle to work a bit when I change up the jobbie.

Hey Stats - how far is Wheaton from you? That's where this weeks (failed) meet up was planned. We're branching out in the world.  On that note.. I think we should try for the Royal mile again before the end of the month and I change jobs... right now it's just up the street from my office  ;D

got me some disability insurance, hope I never need it.

Unpacking more and more stuff from my kitchen shipment.  I'm going to have so many things to give/throw away...

Ian, Wheaton is hour fifteen with no traffic...give or take.





plaster is heavy.  13 contractor bags at about 75 pounds per bag.  fuuuuuck.   and that's out of a pretty small room that's going to become a bathroom.   I think the house sighed in relief.

running some electric tomorrow.

That far? Hmmm that's not really something one wants to do on a Tuesday evening...

Today... getting my roof replaced... yay. At least the condo association is footing the bill as it's exterior  ;D

Getting an AC check up for my aged system - hang in there bud!

Scheduled a POD to be dumped in my driveway next Tuesday...the moving begins in earnest.

Having a packing party tomorrow (if anyone wants to swing by).  No moving...just packing and you can still eat and drink....just tell me what to buy and I'll get it!

Been putting together Ikea crap for a good bit of the day...

More power to ya!  I got about 1/2 packed...decided I am just throwing the rest out.

I actually wish I would have done just that; sell/trash all my stuff in Hawaii and start fresh up here...

Did just that when I sold my place in Wisconsin and moved here last fall....sold it full of Ikea furniture for more than what it cost new!  [thumbsup] and I didn't have to move it!  [thumbsup] [thumbsup]

Today, I took a walk around the national mall...a little warm but it's a dry heat today, or so they say. Now I'm enjoying my air conditioning and preworking for tomorrow.

I'm moving downtown in a few weeks.  Unfortunately, I'm gonna be bringing some of my IKEA -I mean heirloom furniture with me.

I rode out to Chantilly today to hunt down some good Southern BBQ.  I'm happy to say that  Willard's BBQ (http://www.dcbbq.com) was as close as I've found yet, though the sweet tea was certainly a far cry from grandma's.  Also happy to say that the low fuel dummy light on the Duc is entirely functional.  Which is far superior to the sputter, slow deceleration, reach down for the reserve tank knob whilst keeping up with traffic on 395 dance that I had to do on the CB1.  You live and learn, right?

Why downtown?

Trying to get out of my current place and save a little money on rent at the same time, and a potential roommate is doing her PhD at UMD.  I work in Alexandria.  DC's a good middle point. and I'm still against the commute every day.

Fair enough. 

Where in Chantilly is Willards? 

Best BBQ Ive found around here is The Aldie Rib Man, in Aldie, VA.  The Aldie Store used to have smoked turkey legs that I would find myself driving towards at least once a month from Kensington.  I have a soul food addiction.....

It's on Willard St. off of 28.  I think I rode by that place in Aldie on Friday when I was on my way back from the DucPond.  I was tempted to stop by I was trying to beat the rain.  It is was put the idea of some good bbq in my head though.

Anybody know of some good places to look for decent apartments?  I'm going crazy searching craigslist.

Wasted the whole day at the VW dealer in Alexandria. F*** the salesmen there, f*** him so hard she'll start wearing a dress.

VW has a nationwide deal on their website where qualifying customers can get 0 down, 0% apr on a new Golf for 72 months. Went to Alexandria VW after I saw their "internet price" online for a Golf, spend the whole day waiting to do all the paperwork, 0% became 1.9%, returned with my paystubs more waiting and then when it came to finishing up, the salesman f***ed up and "forgot" to mention that I can't get the internet price AND the VW financing.

Mofo's name is Moussa, I can't speak for the other people who work there, but this guy is a slimy bastard who did nothing but waste my whole day.

Once again, Caveat Emptor!

I am sorry you had to go through all that....there is a saleman at the dealership I work for that I refer all people interested to, cause he is a nice and real guy...but he is a straight up and easy going guy also...and it is usually the people that ask for a reference that are hosing around and waste his time...seems quite he opposite in this case....sorry for your time...

Had work ruin a day off yesterday by working... asses.

But got down with my creative self and started doing some work to my helmet. I'd been using one of the helmet Halo reflectors of a long time - but they have a nasty tendency to come loose at speeds. So off with the halo and on with some white reflective tape I'm cutting to look like the stripes on my bike. It's going well so far.

did you get the curved reflective adhesive material from aerostich or motrax or where?

Tapeworks bulk

http://www.tapeworks.com/ColorChart/ColorChartfr1.html#anchor (http://www.tapeworks.com/ColorChart/ColorChartfr1.html#anchor)

14" by foot multiple rolls.

I'm cutting it myself to width. I found that 5cm, give or take is about as wide as one can do down the center of a helmet when going over the top. Keeping it thin enough, a hair dryer and working carefully has gotten pretty good results. I tried wider at first, but it would just not form enough when going over the top.

Darmah popped my air mattress last night.  Now I have to try to get REI to live up to their "if you're not satisfied with a product in any way we'll take it back" policy.   8)

They will. When they do their attic sale the returns have a tag on them that tells why. I saw one fleece that a woman had for a couple years before she decided she didn't like how much pet hair it picked up...

Seen some BEAT foot gear in the returns.

If you're not a member - get signed up. Besides the junkers the attic sale has some steals.

and the dividend you get every year is always a nice surprise.

Except when you get it, knowing it's 10% of your ELIGIBLE pruchases... and going 'I spent HOW much there?! WTF?! What did I buy?!"

and then you immediately turn around and spend/apply that dividend on something else in the store...

Yeah... it's a problem.

Hi, my name is Ian, and I'm and REI-aholic.

add that to your list of-aholism's.....

Got a speeding ticket from the valiant DC popo.

Cop said I was doing 46 in a 30. I call bull****, it happened on Wisconsin Ave. southbound, a few blocks from where I live. I know the area, I've seen them pull over people before and I know I wasn't doing 46!

Of course what I know and what I can prove are two different things....

If anyone has dealt with this before, feel free to chime in and share your opinion. For what it's work the cop used a LIDAR (laser equivalent of a radar) to tag me.

PM Chris.  Buy him a nice bottle of agave and he will do anything you ask, especially if there's a donkey involved. 

I destockified the 620 when I got home...evoluzione plate relocator showed up on the doorstep. Hoping my plate's tucked up enough to avoid the speed camera they just installed on my route home from work.

Saw Inception today.  pregnant dogin' movie.  Found a couple of apartments in Alexandria, and a few folks that wanna lowball me on the Honda.  Oh, and in the process, I might've gotten cheated out of the Bikini Bike Wash.  LAME!

Where in Alexandria?  I can check to see what might be available where I live if you want, just a touch south of Shirlington. Was thinking you preffered something actually in the city.

Interesting typo I made there.  One should not post using a phone.  I thought I was looking downtown, but I think VA will be cheaper.

I'm sure it will.  What sort of place are you looking for?  I'll ask the property managers what's available if you want me to.

For reference, I'm in a 1bd/1.5bth with a den, about 960 sq ft.  The place has garage parking (enough for the car and both bikes) as well as a 4x10 storage room on site (i.e. in the building) for $1550 a month.  That also includes the $40 a month for the dog.

It's possible. It was def more than a bikini bike wash. Ram put on a good event today. Worth the sunburn.

We met some Duc guys from Baltimore, too. Matt and Moe. Some of you met Matt at a gas station last weekend on the Bowie ride. I think Moe said he was a new rider and was on a beautiful S2R.

I changed my name on here....hasta la pasta, nostawmij!

Ditto. tuanogus -> sugonaut. I see a pattern...

astronaut to sugonaut like space to pasta???

sugo means sauce in italian ;D

I like the change.....I think you should keep it that way B-

in my case....I just don't like being "Moooz" as it sounds like some sort of cow call....LOL

  [laugh] [laugh] [clap] [clap] [laugh] [laugh]

Saucenaut. 

  ;D

You guys are gonna give me a complex  :-[ ;D

Sweated my ass off in the parking garage for half an hour to change my bent up handlebars with the set I bought from Ducatiz. Made plans to drop of the dark one with Mike for a shifter linkage adjustment.

Half hour huh? So it popped right in place it sounds like....

Next 14T and some NOS!

Most of that was wrestling with the grips, right? :P


This NOS (http://www.holley.com/03008RNOS.asp) or this NOS (http://www.permatex.com/products/motorcycle/motorcycle_maintenance_performance/motorcycle_octane_boosters/motorcycle_NOS_Octane_Booster_Racing_Formula.htm), but not this NOS (http://www.drinknos.com/) 'cause you don't wanna be this guy (http://www.gixxer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=226570). ;D

Now that is some funny shit!

Holy shit, how can people be so ignorant?!?

why do some people breed....I mean...it is just the way it is sometimes....

'bout to hit the gym, then come home to some single malt and a cigar... 

washed the bike - thoroughly - and my self, while on the bike ;)

Ummm, was this a speedo-and-sponge kind of thing? Or did you end up riding in the rain? [popcorn]

Exactly, I love to wash the bike in my favorite mankini! Pics coming soon!

...

Got soaked on the way back home. I did enjoy splitting lanes all the way from the ballpark to the 14th Street bridge while everyone else was stuck in traffic ;)

Went on a long, work sponsored ride.  Now I need to go get some degreaser and chain lube.

Finally got off my ass and put the Seven together today.  Took it out on the W&OD for about 15 miles before realizing that I forgot to check the torque on the cranks.   [bang]  Luckily another rider had an 8mm bit on him, so I was able to tighten it back up and get it back home.   [thumbsup]

The Seven? As in Lotus Seven???

I wish, but something tells me that would raise a few eyebrows ripping down the W&OD in one of those.   [evil]

Here's my Seven:
(http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z53/b_upton/DSC_0064.jpg)

Seven rocks! Damn, manno, you've got good taste (and $$$) in bikes. The closest I ever got to seven was Independent Fabrications. Steel, though. Still have the frame, and I share blood with the guy who welded it.

Lemme know when ur ready for a ride. Though I've got a single (48/16 ratio) I can still move along at 12 MPH average. Plus I can swap the hub and go freewheel for some whoopee.

Dude, Indy's are nothing to scoff at!!  Those things are super sweet rides!  I wanted one for a long time, but ran across a deal that I couldn't let pass by on the Seven.  Is your Indy a Crown Jewel?  Let's get that thing put together and go out for a spin. 

I used to ride this Bianchi, but sold it to get the Seven.

(http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z53/b_upton/DSC_0043.jpg)

ah the famous white carbon bianchi interesting.

and you got an "odonata" to replace it.  i wanted to get an axiom years ago, should have as they were much cheaper back then when the company was just starting out in around '99 or so.   [laugh]

The L'una was a great ride, but was just a hair too long for me in the TT department.  Had it for about three years, then let it go when I saw the deal on the Seven (it's actually an Id8 ).  I was a knucklehead though and didn't keep the Eurus wheels from the Bianchi.  I bought them in Italy and didn't pay all that much for them, but when I priced them here in the states?   :o

Once again, yeah!

F**k these weather websites btw, they're completely unreliable.

Yay, power is out again.........

Of course - because you just restocked the fridge after the last debacle...

I got to spend 20 minutes in my underwear getting poured on while I kept clearing a drain in my back stairwell. I went downstairs just in time to see the water start coming in the back door. I got the Guzzi swingarm off the floor just in time.

Powers back on......I am so moving to VA.

Dude, I'm telling you.  God hates Maryland.

I know I know.......now we have make the beast with two backsING TORNADO WARNINGS IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY!!!

The generator is ready to serve, again.

Took the Seven out for another 35 miles today.  My legs are toast.

yesterday...finished building 3 Billy bookcases with height extenders and then built a 3 door armoire....tonight..celebrate my sister's Bday....and tommorrow night I get to build a 2 door armoire and then start on a daybed with pull out trundle...maybe before this weekend I can get the heavy duty caster wheels put onto the full bar for to be able to make room in the garage for the bikes....

I am a building mofo for the new crib!

crib?  what? 

Is there something you should be telling me? ;D

yes...I am preggers...and you are the daddy!....LOL

Lightweight.  I just did around 40 miles on a bike, and it took about an hour  ;D

Er, congratulations zoom!  [bacon]

Woke up to go to the office, hopped on the bike and started it up. Oil pressure light is glaring at me. Got off, stripped out of leathers, drove the truck to work all pissed off (I have a VW in the driveway waiting for my lazy ass to put the new motor in, also without oil pressure).

Got about halfway there when I remembered it rained last night and that it was certainly just a wet oil pressure sender. Friggin spaghetti electronics.

Then I just was mad I had missed a chance to ride the bike.

EDIT: Oh yeah, did 45 miles on the skinny tired bike this weekend and my legs are whipped too.

we have a few Dub heads here too....what car/motor...early B5 1.8T?

Oh hell, if there are vw folks around here I probably know a few of them (and possibly puked in their backyard, hit on their girlfriend, or both in my younger years).

'90 Golf, still has the original 1.8 in it right now, have a complete low mileage ABA swap I picked up for $free.99 waiting to go in. Not hard work, just been up to about a million things lately and haven't had time.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v432/theartfuldubber/Ze%20Durty%20Mistress/Finished.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v432/theartfuldubber/Ze%20Durty%20Mistress/killboy08-1.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v432/theartfuldubber/Ze%20Durty%20Mistress/DSC01150lomo.jpg)

Sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet!

I have a '94 Golf Mk3 that keeps my mechanical skills sharp. Yet both my wife and I love that car and don't want to let it die!

Mine is a mystery mileage motor (an A2 with a broken odo?? WEIRD!!) that up to a month ago was absolutely bulletproof. It has been down to Deals Gap twice and absolutely stomped on. I'm sure the oil pressure issue is something minor, but I'm almost glad it happened to motivate to finally get around to the motor swap.

Sweet Mk II!!! 

........wait, what?

I just sold my MKII ( '87 Jetta 8v GL with 90K origional miles on it) but I miss my old 87 Scirocco 16V. It had a 9A 2.0 block with an ABA crank and a PL 1.8 head with a Schrick 256 intake camshaft. I had a Koni adjustable shocks/struts with H&R cup springs and a Techtonics cat back exhaust with Borla mufflers. I also had a 4K tranny in it with a bolt kit put in the pinion with a 7A diesel 5th gear. It also had grey Recaro's from a late MKII GLi and some Borbet 16's on it and it ran like a raped ape and was a fun car for sure.

Very nice, sounds like a fun collection of parts. Gotta love VWs, like a LEgo set for big kids. "I'll take this head, this bottom end, and this tranny, the seats from this, the dash from this, and the brakes from this. Voila, perfection"

I'm looking at a Kinetics StgII eventually for the ABA running through a 9A. The brakes are off a MkIII, also have the gray Recaros, sitting on B&G RS2 coils. Absolute blast to drive, and the ultimate sleeper. Slow as a dog in a straight line, but beat a supercharged Miata, an SVT Cobra, a 350Z, and a Mustang GT through the mountains of TN :D You just simply tell it what to do and it does it, brilliantly.

with the early VW's for sure on the Lego comment....all it takes is sweat equity and done!...never ones it is a whole different animal for sure...

for the Kinetics StgII, why run it through a 9A when you can probably pick up a PG system to better run it off of?!?!?

Lol complete brain fart. I'm helping a friend of mine that moved to AZ with a 9A swap and the brain to fingers connection was strong with that one. I'm going with an O2J hydro swap eventually on my car, mostly for availability, replacement cost, and I can find one for most likely free with a few favors (the mechanical variety, not sexual... I mean unless you throw in a pedal cluster).

 
yuck with 02J's IMHO(unless you are doing a VR swap)...I just don't like the feel of em...I'll take a well built 020 tranny in a heartbeat!...

The linkages just need reinforcement. Replace the crappo plastic and rubber jobs with some nice brass machined end links and it feels fantastic.

I'd rather have the crappo plastic as it is cheap to replace when it breaks...

so you are going to convert the shifter and everything to run dual cables through the tunnel as apposed to good ole never gonna break metal shaft that is currently there...and then add the hydraulics necessary to use that trans....usually people strip away stuff, not add it...LOL...you may want to go hunt around Crazy Rays off of 175 for a Corrado to strip and get some of this stuff...

I think I'm in the wrong forum with all this "tranny taking!"

Planning a trip to Thailand soon?

Ordered up the last bits I'll need to sort out that new full system and rear sets. It's been a trip. The final bits are:
AMP Superseal connectors to make a longer lead for the brake switch
Longer hose to supply the rear master
Standoff for the chin fairing to get it to clear the wacky push-me-pull-you brake set up

The last stage will be doing fitting that hose and bleeding the rear brake (any maybe the clutch while I'm getting about it)

Victory! Finally got the 900 out for a test ride. I order to pull that off I had to:

Fit a new reservoir to master line
Bleed the rear brake
Bleed the clutch (didn't need to, but it was time)
Fit heat shield tape to the heel guard
Made a stand-off for the chin fairing, to clear the rear brake push-me-pull-you
Adjust the foot controls.

For those not following my travails - I traded out my low termis and rearsets for a DP '916 Style' full system and some cycle-cat rear sets. There's been a bunch of unexpected hassles, such as the fact the exhaust routes exactly where the shock reservoir was mounted and a few others. Despite that, me likey.

I can feel the fact that the system flows more freely than the stock. There's more torque down low, rolling up through the band. One change up that will require adjustment is with more flow, there's less engine brake. Since I like my engine brake, I'll need to adjust for that.

New rear sets feel good  ;D I was able to set them a bit lower that the last ones - my re-made ACL thanks me.

And the new sound... The ole girl isn't quite as loud as she was (I'm sure Cagey will appreciate that), and less raspy. Best analogy I can cook up is it sounds more car like. I sporty Italian one though...

I'm thinking that once the cold sets in - the pipes might get a does of ceramic coating.

Congrats on gettin' it done! Can't wait to see/hear it.

Ahem...


  ;D

Should have known that was coming.... so here they are

(http://yuu.smugmug.com/photos/978679397_6HSyM-XL.jpg)

(http://yuu.smugmug.com/photos/978679636_DCZx3-L.jpg)

Nice!!! 

Lots of clearance!!

Now I just need a shorter side stand. The one I've got is the cycle-cat +1.25" and it about disappears under the foot peg, making for a game of hide-and-seek when it's time to park.

Thinking the winter might involve getting those pipes ceramic coated. I know it involves sending my shock off the be serviced... bleh.  And perhaps the cans need to be shorter... hmmm

you gonna use Thermosman or Rick at MotoCD?

Talked to Thermosman on Friday - so him most likely

Lusted over a couple of MVs earlier today...

I hope you're lusting over the bikes and not the Mt. Vernon HS cheerleaders.  Details.

Ian - Your bike looks tremendous.  Congrats.

Nah.  Some of those mountain critters running around Winchester are down right scary. 

The post man came by and dropped off some new toys for me ;D

I got this Carbon Fiber front fender off eBay for $69.95. Not the best finish, but I plan to paint it anyway and at that price I don't feel like complaining.
(http://codeherrings.com/images/moto/ducati/m750/new_front_fairing_rside.jpg)

This is the old one for comparison. I'll be keeping it tho, it is Carbon Fiber as well, but it's made to fit the older style forks with 40mm caliper spacing. I'll paint it yellow and put it on the 900 together with another accessory ... ;)
(http://codeherrings.com/images/moto/ducati/m750/old_front_fairing_side.jpg)

Also got the Factory Pro jet kit from ca-cycleworks. The kit includes stainless allen bolts for the carb bodies to substitute for the lame Phillips head screws, titanium needles and a different set of springs.
(http://codeherrings.com/images/moto/ducati/m750/carb_springs.jpg)
One of the needles was unevenly worn, I can't manage to show it on photo, but it looks shiny and feels different when I run my finger on it. For the rest, my idle jets have gone from 37.5 to 42.5, and my main jet is 140.

Not looking for power here (not from a 750 anyway) but for better engine response and midrange. We'll see.

Great BBQ tonight Mr Ramjet, thanks for the invite.  Sure is a shame that those ribs needed so much ketchup... ;)

Buddy of mine bought a bike a few months ago, never ridden before. We had planned on visiting a few friends of ours in Texas that had a baby in October. He says to me - Ted, how about we ride the motorcycles to Texas? So I chuckle and try to convince him that's a damn far ride.

So to try and convince him that isn't the best plan I tell him hey, let's ride to Pittsburgh, grab lunch, and come back immediately. That will be about a 12 hour ride if we take backroads, which will be about one day out of two and a half if we ride to Texas.

So we did. Took 144 and 40 out from Baltimore, then 9 south through WV and back up to 40 until 519 to Steeltown. Gorgeous ride, the weather could not have been any better, and the roads were amazing. 9 has some of the best twisting mountain sections outside of the Smokies.

Grabbed a great lunch at Fatheads in Pittsburgh, then rode home on slab the whole way to make better time and keep it to about 12 hours on the bikes. The temperature dropped about 20 degrees through the mountain and my buddy was turning into a popsicle. After the 5 hour highway trip back I think I convinced him that flying to Austin was a far smarter plan, especially after the text I got the next morning...

"Muscles I didn't know I had are killing me, and I think I lost my taint somewhere around Uniontown."

Great times, if anyone wants to hit some of the WV sections one day I'll gladly lead a ride.

"I guess that taint a surprise!" would have been my response!

Was great to hang out!  I haven't seen Emily in like 2 years!  Thank you for the veritable smorgasboord (sp) of tasty beverages.  make the beast with two backsin screen doors....

Has to happen again!

Oh BTW...............

 [popcorn]

And I didn't even have to call you out...   [laugh]

Yippee! Picked up the 620 from the shop. Got my new fancy phone (DroidX) with GPS tracking...speedo said 95...gps tracker says 91.37mph. Who knew a 620 would haul my lard ass around that fast and still have a little throttle left to give! [moto]

His name may have been Termignoni [thumbsup]

Vacation was too short. Called in sick. Going riding in a bit. But not before I post something about the Mid Atlantic Italian Motofest.

Got me a new gas tank on DNA's dime. The old one was so puffed up that the bike actually fits me differently. Yeesh.

Did you go through a dealer? Which one? Mine's got the middle-age, uh I mean ethanol spread.

Yeah, went through Speeds in Elkridge. While the process was easy to get it replaced, I didn't like that they told me the new tank fixed the issue and that there was no need to coat the replacement tank. I'm not a fan of having smoke blown up my ass. Other than that they've always been great to deal with, even if glacially slow at times.

Took the mtn bike out for a quick spin around Wakefield Park.  Found some pretty good singletrack back behind the reservoir that seemed to loop back on itself countless times.  Stopped for a quick clif bar and got a strange feeling that I was being watched.  Look around for a second and notice a huge F'ing owl sitting on a branch just off the side.  Sat there for a while checking him out before he flew off.  Damn those things are quiet!   [thumbsup]

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3160/2284648890_f32f8715b5.jpg)

last night I unpacked ( mostly) my new to me pannier set for the Gran Canyon....tonight...I hopefully get to finish unpacking and maybe start taking the bike apart to get ready to install...

[laugh] [laugh] [laugh] [laugh] [laugh]

Really thought I was going to have to choke my boss today.  That stupid pregnant dog single-handidly set back agency/air force relations by about ten years.  Took my about two hours to mend things after she opened her mouth.  She just can't seem to get it through her thick skull that she is a little fish playing in THEIR pond...   [bang] [bang] [bang] [bang] [bang] [bang]

After yesterday's tingly finger sensation, went down to REI and got some Smartwool liners to go inside of the Helds.  Things fit in there like...  Well, like a glove.   ;D

Headed out this morning on the 750 and forgot to turn back the choke on the bike. Worried the bike wasn't idling right I  headed back and rode the 900 instead. [roll]

Spent the day trying to figure out what was wrong with the bike (loose wires, water in the gas, etc...). When I got home I turn on the 750 and realize the choke was on, turn it back, take the bike out for a ride and she runs just fine. [bang]

I wonder if that bike would not be better off without me?  ??? :-[ :-\

Getting rid of it would free up space for that 749 down at the Triumph dealer.  Just saying...




[evil]

or this...

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/mcy/1988470356.html (http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/mcy/1988470356.html)

That is a sweeeeet find! [thumbsup] And very tempting [evil]

But I'll definitely pass, it's carbs and 2V for me. No liquid cooling, 4V and wiring looms so convoluted to make the Mona Lisa seem bland and plain in comparison. I might switch to an FI bike when I can't stand carbs anymore.  :-\

Rode both my bikes today! Commuted on the s2r then dropped off the 620 to get the repairs done.

Stopped by Coleman's Falls Church for a little photo session. Guy says, "Yeah, it's swollen." Duh!! No kidding. Took the pictures and tells me not to expect anything quick. The last one he did took 4 months since the tank was on backorder.And they want to either keep the bike after the warranty work is approved or get a big ol' hefty deposit. Hello free winter storage! Probably 4-6 weeks before it's even approved... [bang] [bang] [bang] [bang]

Zoddamn Coleman.

DucPond or Battley.

So the 750 wasn't running well, missing beats under heavy acceleration. As usual I had thought of all the more sophisticated things, carbs, fuel pump, petcock... then I lifted the tank and it occurred to me it might be something very simple.

(http://codeherrings.com/images/moto/ducati/m750/fuel_filter.jpg)

Some pieces of hose fell out of the filter as well so I'll put in new ones soon. Size is 5/16 if anyone is interested, not 1/4.

And that's why you need at least two bikes ;D

Did anyone go riding today?

I rode the bike to advance auto parts and strosniders hardware, does that count? ;)

Was thinking about doing a quick Bowie run, but...

You were thinking of a quickie in Bowie?!  Eeeeew eeew ew

is that like her saying to kiss me where it stinks and then you taking her to Dundalk/Essex?

Ah yes... Dundalk, land of brown trees, green water and orange skies...

If Sweet-P came along, hell yes!   :D

Sweet-P? That's a hell of a thing to call Jim

Wrong again. 

*sigh* Please to be explaining.

Owwww! That bus hurt!

Think about it...

Massimo = Pepe' = Sweet-P

Had a shitty morning, so taught my class, skipped my office hours and headed out for a ride. Forgot Rock Creek Parkway was closed on holidays, so I had an out and back quickie on River Road. Attitude adjustment; check!

While running daddy daycare today, I managed to find my next piece of gear...

The tank bag is too big for most day trips. And I can't stand backpacks unless it's my hydro and it's 95+ degrees outside. Don't like tailbags because, well... just because. Sooo I found me a sweet chest pack that's small enough to stay lightweight and out of the way, but large enough to hold a wallet, mobile, keys, granola bar, instant water, and a few extra tools. Plus easy access and better center of gravity.

(http://www.civilianlab.no/images/model_logistics.jpg)

Unfortunately, the company is in Europe and I'm having a wicked time finding a seller this side of the pond.

If you're willing to rock a Baby Bjorn, why not go whole hog and just man up with a fanny pack?

Where in Europe?  I've still got buddies over there.  They can always buy it, and then send it over here via MPS.

I will be talking to you about this...I want the new generation quick-lock tankbag mount from SW-Motech, but it's not available in the states from their distributor (twistedthrottle.com).

Oh, so I'm supposed to help you too now?   [roll]

hells yeah! ;D

Where I'm from dope dealers wear fanny packs. I learned pretty early not to make fun. That's all I'm gonna say about fanny packs.


Looks to be Norway (http://www.civilianlab.no/ (http://www.civilianlab.no/)).

What's this new kit we can't get?

This little bit of carbon fiber: cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=320596663250

Ben, here's your Sweet-P [laugh] [puke] [laugh] [puke]
(http://images.contactmusic.com/videoimages/sbmg/foo-fighters-learn-to-fly.jpg)

(Dave Grohl - Foo Fighters - video from "Learn to Fly")

It's the new generation of the tankring you have...the bottom ring doesn't stick up as high as the one you have. I'm afraid that thing would impale me [laugh]

Link for the lazy/using a phone?

I've only seen it in SW-Motech's catalog pdf (p38-39): http://shop.sw-motech.com/cosmoshop/downloads/sonstige/katalog/sw_bc_katalog_2010_englisch.pdf (http://shop.sw-motech.com/cosmoshop/downloads/sonstige/katalog/sw_bc_katalog_2010_englisch.pdf)

Well I figured out why you cannot find it on a merchant site yet.  Did you notice that those pages were marked 'preview'?  And you're teaching tomorrows leaders...

I did notice, which is why I contacted SW-Motech to find out when it was going to be released in the states. Their rep indicated that it was already available from Twisted Throttle, but was wrong. They indicated that it was available from one distributor in Europe, but now appears to be sold out (http://www.muellerimporte.at/quicklock-tankring-p-244593.html (http://www.muellerimporte.at/quicklock-tankring-p-244593.html)).

Fixed that for ya.

If these kids are "tomorrow's leaders," we're in big trouble. For example, I gave an exam in the class I taught this summer with questions copied verbatim from their assigned homework. The average score was 53 and the high score was 87. Really?!? tomorrow's leaders?!? That said, I have had a couple of exceptional students...but they really are the exception, not the rule.

A comma... :p

Ah, you didn't mention you'd actually let your fingers do the walking. So next question... do you know if the new style plates can be fit to older bags? I wouldn't mind a lower profile system like the new one - but the indentation in my current bags depth is the height of the female side of the coupler.

I don't know for certain. You could always put a spacer between the upper ring and the bag. It looks like the mount has 4 screws which I think is like the current model.

For folks playing along at home, my search fu turned up some sellers. Definitely check out Civilian Lab if you're looking for a modular system for touring. Their flagship is a combo backpack + chestpack, keeping weight nicely distributed and close to the body.

• Gear Bunker (link (http://www.gearbunker.com/Covert-RG-Escape-Holster_p_44.html))
• Amazon (link (http://www.amazon.com/Covert-Escape-Flashlight-Camera-Cycling/dp/B000MMQXHA))

Now to figure out a rig for the EZ-Pass transponder... [moto]

(http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z53/b_upton/facepalm/OhSnap.gif)


Uhm...  Hate to tell you, but that's actually an apostrophe. 

One correction was a comma; the other was an apostrophe. [laugh]

Took a little after work Bowie run [moto] ;D [moto] ;D

Finally got a tv stand.   [laugh]

AND, found out that I have access to an environmentally controlled garage that I can store the bikes in over the winter.   [thumbsup]

Redid the cables on the FCRs last night. I had ignored the instructions and used the wrong port on the throttle wheel. Nothing like closing the throttle on the beltway and having it stuck at 4000rpm when a cable kinks sideways.

Nice, wish I had that... I'm looking for a place to set up for some proeject work. Need to have the shock serviced.

There might be room for another bike or two in there...

Painting kitchen log - Day 4

Supplies are running low. Girlfriend is growing weary and her cutting in work is suffering. Paint cans now outnumber ramen noodle wrappers but only barely. Tenant has retreated to his room, haven't seen him for days. Coat #5 begins tonight. It looks like it will be the last one, but I've grown melancholy and refuse to harbor hope. All is lost. If future generations find this message, never paint a kitchen that is dark forest green a bright red. You don't understand the consequences.

you didn't use a Killz Primer 1st did you?

when all else fails...whatever you do...don't succumb to huffing aerosol fumes...it really isn't the answer!

Oh I did. I used High Hiding Primer. It hid the green no sweat. But it's gray. And sucks up paint like you wouldn't believe. So then I had to cover gray. In hindsight I should have hit a coat of white primer between the gray and the red, but then I'd be in two primer coats and two color coats so far and probably still need a third color coat. Instead it looks like one primer coat and four color coats is going to do the trick. Six of one half dozen of the other for the most part.

Bright red is a pregnant dog to paint, period. Will never do it again unless the wall is white to begin with.

The secret to painting a room bright red is to prime it with Gray not white primer.  I learned this after painting a client's living room with literally 8 COATS of Benjamin Moore, Red Alert.   [bang]

Red alert is the color of the Debil!   [evil]

Yeah, the gray worked well, red is just... red.

Valspar Signature Scarlet Sun is also the debbil. Luckily it's also thicker than whale snot so it covers better than most. Five coats is my guess.

More work on the bathroom project. Lots of spackle needed to fix up the half assed work I uncovered when I pulled stuff off the wall. Yay...

Got new rubber and ran 'em in on Lime Kiln. Dayum it's cold.


Good luck with the project. Hollah if you need a 2nd set of hands.

Had another good ride today.  Well, until someone decided to see how their brakes matched up to a Honda Accord that is... 

Finished putting on the new fuel lines and cleaned up the carbs on the 750. [thumbsup]

Then in a moment of sheer awesomeness I also managed to get my wife to almost ride the bike by herself! [laugh]

I had a good crash today. make the beast with two backsing totaled the bike, though. Here's what happened...

Riding along a nice country'ish road, 2-3 clicks back from the rider in front of me. A driver, coasting through a stop sign at an intersecting road, watches the 2 bikes in front of me pass by, and proceeds... Not only did this driver not stop at his stop sign, he failed to look to his left (oncoming traffic). If he had looked to his left as he was not stopping at his stop sign, he would have seen me endo'ing as I try to stop/avoid colliding with his vehicle.

Well, my arms got tired. I don't practice my endos as much as I should. So I decided to let go of my bike and fly away from the carnage unfolding. That worked pretty well but the landing was rough. While I was in the air I had time to reflect on some advanced MSF training, and I remembered to tuck my sh!t in. Once I stopped skipping across the asphalt I calmly stood up, picked up my bike, and walked it to the shoulder of the road. Nothing to it.

Blue lights. Jibber-jabber. Call the best guy around with a m/c trailer...

What could have I done to avoid this? Well, not much. But I did grab too much front brake while maneuvering. What was I wearing? A pair of Levis 527s and a Tourmaster Coaster II leather jacket took most of the beating. I somehow managed to not hit my head, so not a scratch on the helmet. Sidi boots are pristine except for a little rash on the left toe guard. Sidi gloves held up fine but will need to be replaced. I walked away without a scratch.

I'd like to thank Lars, Ben, Jim, and Brian for keeping my spirits up during the paperwork ceremony and the long wait for a tow. Brian gets extra credit for having boobs plastered all over his bike, and for having peculiar graham cracker treats. And Tom did his part on the trip back to Arlington.

The bike is, like I said, totaled. The swingarm and/or subframe is/are bent, the foot controls disintegrated, and just about everything visible is rashed.

I will miss that 696, but the thought of my next bike is keeping me awake tonight.

no problem man...that is what we do and how we roll...and we'll have to put a pair of boobs on your next machine...

speaking of... -> http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=42476.0 (http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=42476.0)

this would be a sweet machine and leave you some coin to get a full set of cowhide and new gloves...

oh....and I have a LOT more of those....I guess I'll have to stick more than 3 on my top case for the next time I see yall....maybe more like 3 dozen...LOL

 >:(

Already sent my notes.. so not much more to say beyond... stupid inattentive drivers/

Ooooo...here ya go B....

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/mcy/2035557298.html (http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/mcy/2035557298.html)

put some supermoto rims and tires on it and completely own the Bowie route!!!

[laugh] [clap]

And, yes, some strong selling points on that 900 sie!

I *think* that one used to live here...

Glad to hear you're ok.  How did the Levi's hold up??

The Levi's did okay. The only tears/rips were down by my left ankle, but my boots were fine. I can't explain that. I had a set of housekeys in my left front pocket; some shredding there. Some abrasion all over, but the denim was intact.

I think when I landed I made impact on my left side first because that's the side of my body most sore today. I think I bounced/rolled a bit and ended up sliding down the road on my right side because that's the side with most of the rash on my jacket and jeans. While I was sliding I tried to get/stay on my back because I had good armor there and in the shoulders. Easier said than done, of course, but I remember making the effort during the crash.

I should probably say this: I am not, in any way, endorsing Levi's as adequate riding gear. I got lucky this time and will probably change my ways when I get back on the road.

You know what January is?! Got to IMS kick a lot of tires and find AutoHag a new bike month... if you can wait that long. Though that 900 S looks pretty sweet.

Next to the Corona tank top (http://obairlann.net/reaper/motorcycle/corona.html) the Levi's jeans is the best bit of apparel a biker can have!  [cheeky]


Jokes aside, I'm REALLY glad you're ok! Had an almost similar experience some time ago, a lady decided that despite her having a stop sign, she had right of way and no amount of honking and flashing could persuade her otherwise. Damn Blessed cops are never around when I need them. >:(

that is where a nice witness whom was less than a 100 yards right behind him helped cement the story to the nice occifers whom responded and cited the Accord driver for the offense....shame it can't always be that way...

yay for the good citizen!

I had the same type tears from my bridge joint "off" and am pretty certain that it's from the broken footpeg. I keep thanking my lucky stars that it only contacted denim and not flesh!!!

I got my Firefox pluggo, ReloadEvery, set to HFL. Will be checking this out at IMS...
http://hellforleathermagazine.com/2010/11/2011-ducati-monster-1100-evo-abs-dtc-diavel-exhausts/ (http://hellforleathermagazine.com/2010/11/2011-ducati-monster-1100-evo-abs-dtc-diavel-exhausts/)

Better image
(http://www.moto-station.com/uploads/9816_normal.jpg)
Not exactly sold on the Diavel exhaust... Where's that barfy smiley?

Damn! Glad you're OK. Hopefully the driver got sited and you didn't (seems they always want to give you the "failure to control" ticket)

The driver got cited with failure to stop. And since my bike avoided his vehicle, it appears "I controlled" my bike.

Here it is [puke] not that it really matters tho, traditionally the exhaust is the first thing to go ;)

BTW, am I the only one to notice some similarity to the StreetFighter exhaust as well.


Brian, why wait until the IMS when there's a yellow 900 with lots of goodies  [evil]

We'll talk! I'm actually leaning towards previously-owned so's enough money for 2 bikes.

Brian, you know what to do...

(http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z53/b_upton/Moto/146_0808_03_z2008_KTM_super_duke_rwheelie.jpg)
 
[evil]

Don't believe me? Just ask Lars.

[evil]


Or...  There's always this:

(http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z53/b_upton/Moto/pictures-mv-agusta-f4-1000-senna-bi.jpg)

Brian, if you look closely you wil notice the rider in the above pictured Superduke has an eyeball about to pop out. This is a common occurrance due to Superdukulocious.

Also his rightside pocket may have a ham sandwich which coincides with with lack of front tire wear, or perhaps a blue-hair on upcoming sidewalk.

Superhyperetards!!! [cheeky]

NOSIR.  That would be this:

(http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z53/b_upton/Moto/0110KTM950sm29-01.jpg)

or this

(http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z53/b_upton/Moto/e87e50c4-d999-4e63-b085-e8385c4d8256.jpg)

and most certainly this

ktm 950 sm (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmeZ2DZINb4#normal)
 
[evil]

Reminds me of how I used to ride my SV  ;D

(http://www.threadbombing.com/data/media/2/JTheadshake.gif)

I voted!  [thumbsup]

hey B....I doubt it is a "true 100hp" but I'd bet it was a good high 80+ hp....and give you the ergo's you want...just have to have the suspension dialed in and still have change leftover for new cowhides

http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=43152.0 (http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=43152.0)

glad you're ok B.  now you get to be the first on the block with the new monster!

Got new baloneys to burn on thursday

My Trailtech came in yesterday... now to get my ECU out to Houston Superbikes for flashing...

I hate wiring.

You prolly already found 'em, but a couple of threads here at DMF on the Trailtech if you get stuck. I'll plug Pepe' again as he's got some experience. Have fun!

yeah, but Pepe' hooked his to his Carbie 750....more wires and shizzle with an FI bike....or maybe it is the same...

Should be the same; each sensor is basically independent of the bike wiring. Only concerns are finding out how the fuel tank reports low fuel, and the routing of the neutral switch.

Definitely have done a ton of research on the setup :) I can't start fiddling with it full time until the ECU gets flashed but I've been looking through the instructions and it seems incredibly straight forward. Which most likely means I'll blow the ECU at one point or another lol.

Installed said baloneys.

Played Black Ops all day, plan to do the same for today ;D

Dude, take a break and come  [moto]. 

I've only taken brakes to take care of bodily functions ;D

what kind of brakes? Berringer? Brembo? Nissin?

Watched a BMW try to keep up with me while I was on Whitehurst Freeway.  It was worth the sexy bike comment she gave me when she caught up to me at the traffic light. 

Was that your dark on red parked in Rosslyn this AM?

Yup that Desdamona.....In all her pristine glory. 

Went SuperDuking.

Cold tested my electric gloves and it's ;D so far.

These here (http://www.newenough.com/street/electric_heated_gear/gloves_socks_misc_/tour_master/synergy_electrically_heated_leather_motorcycle_gloves.html) if anyone wants to check them out.

got Munchkins in da house and I think I am going to be spending a little time with the bikes today in the garage doing some cleaning and maintenance and assessing what all I need to put on the list for winter maintenance...

Started to investigate a big black bear rustling around in a pine thicket about 30 yards from my tree stand (deer hunting).  I decided to stop the investigation......bear season doesn't start until next week and I'm slow with a bolt action.....saw a few spikes and two does.....waiting for big daddy!

Took the Seven out for a spin today.

http://maps.google.com/?t=p&z=15&ll=38.84471893310547,-77.09456634521484&q=http://api.motionxlive.com/motionx-remote/api/gps/host/6aa430cb-6768-4103-b766-8d03b1054f20 (http://maps.google.com/?t=p&z=15&ll=38.84471893310547,-77.09456634521484&q=http://api.motionxlive.com/motionx-remote/api/gps/host/6aa430cb-6768-4103-b766-8d03b1054f20)


Bring back a big slab for Thanksgiving.   :D

Poolesville, Beallsville and places I don't remember the name of. [moto] [moto]

A lot of tile.

Wasted gasoline.

New electrical fixtures in the upstairs, the girlfriend set up the Christmas tree already. I'm going to have a very merry Thanksgiving apparently.

Seriously? 

Finished up diving for the week. :(

Now go have some tequila.   :D

Yeah. We were over at her parent's place for dinner and they gave us a ton of their old Christmas decorations for our house. Instead of tossing them into the basement only to drag them out again in a few weeks she put them up. I'm not complaining, it kept her busy for a few hours while I got to work on the house. Cleaned out the basement workshop in anticipation of winter projects too. This is my first winter owning my house, so I'm looking forward to spending a lot of time hunkered down in the workshop fixing the stuff I never got to over the summer.

The good: had mike give the s2r some love...including some new rubber. This bike is smooth like butter now.

The bad: ran out of gas in the middle of the 395 bridge. Pushed it down into the park. Now I'm sitting on the sidewalk waiting on gas. FML!!!!

I had my bike shut off at the same place not too long ago because I didn't tighten the battery connection enough.  Sucked.  Luckily I was at the top of the bridge so I was able to coast downhill until there was finally a shoulder to pull off on.  I live right by the 395 massachusetts entrance.  Let me know if you need a hand.

I finally installed my Suburban Machinery handlebars.  Going to take them on a test run tomorrow.  The only problem I had was that the handlebars don't work with my bikini fairing, so I had to remove it.  I kind of like having the bikini fairing there, so now I'm going to have to figure out what to do.  Unfortunately, I never got one of those covers for the instrument panel, so I'll have to buy one.

I've got one! I'll put my bikini fairing back on and you can have the cover (it's black, though).

Awesome.  Thanks a lot :thumbsup:  I never planned on sporting the no bikini fairing look, but I guess I will have to do it if I want to use these bars.  So far, I'm liking them.

Dropped off the s2r for tank replacement...and was really glad that I took 50 instead of 66. That wind was cold today. Looking forward to an operational tank and installation of the heated glove liners that I've been too lazy to remove the tank and install.  Not quite sure why [coffee] is  [coffee] and not hot chocolate. ???

Took the metro to work :'(

Drove to Tysons Corner. [bang]

I dunno what the fack they're building out there, but it better be magnificent! It better be the kind of shit you marvel at from outer facking space! Humpback whales better migrate to this facking place! Apple will surely relocate its headquarters to this amazing destination! Letters addressed to Santa will be answered here by an army of recently divorced MILFs bored with their lavishly decorated timeshares!

Then, and only then, will there *begin* to be an explanation for the clusterfack I witnessed today.

Did you hit a "LITTLE" bit of traffic followed by conflicting roadsigns every two feet by chance?

Welcome to the DC area, with some of the most f***ed up traffic in the nation. [thumbsup]

This is why we have sidewalks, shoulders and foldable mirrors. ;D [moto]

And high insurance rates.

And ham sandwiches. 

Tried to pull the battery out of the SD today.  Yea right.   [thumbsdown]

I got some tools....


so, what are you gonna ride Saturday morning?

I've got the tools to do it, it's just too much of a pain in the ass.  After pulling off the chin fairing outers (battery box is inside) I realized that every piece of electrical wiring is routed around the box, and would have to have the tie downs cut off to actually get the battery out.  I was going to bring the battery itself into the flat so I could hook it up to the tender, but no love there. 

I guess I'll be on the SC, as it still starts.   [laugh]

ECU came back in today from Houston Superbikes. Now let's see if I was one of the "starts no problem" guys or one of the "had to send it back twice and eventually they sent me a new ECU" guys.

Also need a VDSTS cable to reset the TPS, anyone? bergdoerfer has one but it would be handy if I could pick it up from someone tomorrow. 59M/5AM model.


That just sounds like a complete pain in the ass...

just put a ham sammich in your mouf and ride dat beeeyotch into da pad and park it behind da couch and plug it in dat way!!!

lol  Yea, ok.  Problem is, it won't start now, and I would still have to do all the dis-assembly just to wire the damn tender up.  Need to bump start it I guess...

I was just peepin in the KTM window (they were closed) and am now wondering if one of those supermoto thingys would have the same problem?

Of being hard to get the battery out?  Maybe.  The key would be to make sure they install a tender before you take delivery of it.  ;)

You make it seem like you'll be worth a shit on Saturday morning.......

I most likely will.  Don't plan on drinking much of that Stella shit that you bought.   [cheeky]

The Stella is for the girls.  We will be drinking Rusty Nails.......

You got an entire keg for the girls?   [roll]

What can I say, I'm an optimist!

so I guess this means your pansy ass ain't gonna make it out to ride then I gather!

Roger?  Riding a motorcycle? 

Get your shots in Lil Buckaroo, cuz tonight we are having a Drink Off!

Whatever.  I'm going riding in the morning.   [moto]

we are embarking from the 'Bucks out in an indirect fashion (as far as I have been told-because I am not the route master/ride leader) out to Williamsport by way of Middletown....in Williamsport, some members have elected to participate in a charity Polar Bear Plunge to benefit the Humane Society...and from there it is proposed to ride to High Rock ( in Cascade) for a Photo-op.

Nice!  Cant wait to hear about the PBP!

Took the Duc out to Balmore for lunch @ Miss Shirley's.  Good time and great breakfast.  Bike feels faster...

That place is fantastic, get the chicken and waffles. Friggin amazing.

Went to Autohag's place to get his help and steal some of his parts.  We tried to put a 14T sprocket on the front, but unfortunately, that didn't work out so well (wrong sprocket :( ).  We still managed to get the emissions canister removed and I got a cover for the back of the instrument panel to put in place of the bikini fairing.  We also removed all the plastic for the oil cooler that doesn't exist on my bike and reattached the voltage regulator on a bracket.  [thumbsup]  Happy New Years to all.

Put my reflashed ECU in the bike, worked like a charm. Had one scary moment when I first turned it over and it didn't try to kick over at all, then remembered I had flipped the killswitch when I pulled the ECU in the first place. Mocked up a fairing for the new guages and dual headlights, looks awesome in cardboard should look tits in aluminum. Fabbed a mounting bracket for the Trailtech, once I get the required electrical components I should be ready for install. Went for a run with my puppy who loved it and is sleeping on my feet at the moment, and played some tennis with my girlfriend and her old man. No mercy, beat them in straight sets :D

Was it the bracket that adds 10 hp?

I thought all brackets added to the bike by default added 10hp...?

Nope. It's the bracket that makes you think the bike won't charbroil your legs in the summer.

Celebrated New Year's 6 hours ahead of y'all  ;D

Cheers and Happy New Year!! [beer]

Got a bunch of  Magpul goodness in the mail today.   [thumbsup]

Whatja get whatja get??

The calendar?

More Pmags.

Get anything to fill them with?

he's probably gonna have to wait for the next good show in Chantilly to stock up....

These replies left me somewhat perplexed since I thought Ben got a different kind of p***Mags in the mail  ;D

you mean the gay midget clown p*** mags?...yeah...well...there's so many different things yyou can do with midgets nowadays!

C'mon - that's what the Internet is for!

Couple hundred rds paid a visit a little while ago.  Probably ordering some more in the near future.

Picked up some lab stuff in Deale and caged back along some of the Bowie run roads just for giggles and grunts. Damn I miss summer!

Harwood road is a mess with a couple of trees fallen across/blocking part of the road. When is it gonna be warm enough to ride? :'(

It will be warm enough in about 4 weeks, maybe five.

And you know Lars is watching the weather obsessively! :) (like myself)

make the beast with two backs!

Good for you!!!  [thumbsup]

No, not at all.  Received an email today outlining how I am expected to show up at Ft Bragg on Monday, to start my way through the training queue...  Which would then turn into a 365 day deployment.  Funny thing is, no one at big AF knows anything about this, and no orders have been cut...  No one seems to have any idea what the make the beast with two backs is going on.  I am technically in a non-deployable billet, but yet somehow I get pulled for a lengthy one?  I was told that it was a by-name-request, but the guys down there don't do that sort of thing without actually talking to you about it first, as they don't want someone whose heart isn't "in it" on their team...  None of this makes any sense...

Damn!!  That sucks........are you gonna leave your bikes here?

When I become president I will make it legal if not compulsory to club idiots who make the beast with two backs up like this...  [laugh]

Isn't Bragg in N.C.? How the hell are you expected to drop everything and be there on Monday??? Fack!

I don't know how this stuff works, but lemme know if you need any help with logistics. I've got some storage room if you need it, too. Fack!

What what what?! I get a little busy and you run off to NC?!

I hope whomever gets their head out of their ass and either gives you the wave off, or some proper freakin' orders. That's not cool.

On an up note, if you end up at Bragg for a bit, I end up down that way a couple times a year as my folks retired to a town about an hour west of Fayettenam.

So   what happened?

Someone F'd up back in San Antonio. No word yet how this is going to pan out.

just sit tight until they give you official orders, otherwise they'll hang you on being AWOL and try and make the beast with two backs up your life onward...

Kept looking outside my office window wishing I rode the Monster to work.  Looks so nice outside.   [bang]

Good luck!

Uhm, yea...  I've got that covered.   [roll]

Took the bike for a nice spin around the city, stopped off to top off with a cupcake from Georgetown Cupcake and finished filling out MVA form for vanity plates.

Options are:
TICKET
1BDTOY
BZZZZZ
ZOOOOM

I would say that one is off limits.

how about "MNYPIT"  [laugh]

How about... 2NDTRY.



What.... too soon?

Removed one of my rearsets, exhaust brackets, top triple, and handlebar clamps.  Got everything off effortlessly until the right rearset.  One of my bolts is stripped, and I have exhausted all measures to get it off.  I tried using torx bits, extractor kits, etc.  Finally I got an extractor bit that would stick, and of course, it broke off in the screw head!!!  I almost lost it except I was partly distracted from having bloodied up my knuckles on the ground when it snapped, lol. 

I've been trying to figure out how to remove this damn thing all weekend, and that was the ultimate slap in the face.  Now my last resort is to reassemble all the parts I removed and try and figure out where to take it to get the extractor bit removed and get the stripped bolt taken out....... After buying every damn thing in the world, going to a combination of Sears, Home Depot, Ace Hardware and trying every method I am finally waving the white flag of defeat, lol.  This problem is above my skill level. 

Anyone wanna help a struggling member out?  I would be forever grateful.  [bow_down] [bow_down] If not, if anyone has a good suggestion on where I could ride the bike to that is really close to DC, that would help too.  What a day....

I had to throw that one on there for giggles. 

Hahahah  [thumbsup]

Ooooh, one of those  [bang] [bang] [bang] moments, been there!  :-[  Post some photos of your current predicament ;)

There's a few threads about stuck/broken bolts in the Tech section, this one (http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=43778.0) in particular.

If you can manage to get the broken bit out, you could try the process over starting with PB blaster. Drown the bolt in lube and let it rest. Then douse again and hit it with an impact wrench. If that doesn't work then you can try a heat gun. I don't have a garage so I can't help much more.

As far as locations go, Cycles of Silver Spring (http://www.cyclesofsilverspring.com/) is probably the closest to where you live.

Also for a reference for you and everyone (especially myself  :-[, I still use grease) since the bolts are steel and the case is aluminum, some anti-seize is a must when the bolts go back in.

Is the head flush with the bracket or is it proud, recessed? Get a hammer and chisel and put some slots on either side of the extractor (this is in the middle of the bolt head, yes?), then see if you can use a punch at an angle in the slots to get it turning. Maybe spray some PB Blaster or other penetrant first (let it stand overnight) to try and loosen up the threads. At the worst you'll have to drill the damn thing out, although the extractor piece is probably hardened steel. If that's the case you may have bring it to a professional.

I'm not sure if I can get the bit out or not at this point.  This a small piece of it sticking out of the screw, but I don't know how to attack it.  The bolt is recessed into my rearset, so that definitely made it a pain in the ass to get to.  Some of the extractor bits weren't long enough to even get in there.  I tried tapping inside the hole and then using the reverse bit, but nothing was grabbing the bolt.  I finally used an extraction bit that was big enough to grab the rounded out hex hole and it stuck.  My drill couldn't handle the job though and started smoking, lol.  So I tried a more powerful drill and that failed also.  Then I went and purchased an impact drill, but the problem was that the head on those things is not adjustable, so I had to have a specific bit to use on it.  So, that basically lead me to use a t-handle where you can insert a bit into it and tighten it down.  I figured, if no drill will work, I will just muscle the thing loose.  That's when the bit snapped.  I had to walk away from the situation at that point, so I haven't attempted anything since.  I'm thinking for my sanity though, it would be easier to put the triple/handlebars, etc back on and take it somewhere that knows what the heck they are doing unlike me, lol.  I don't like claiming defeat, but sometimes you have to cut your losses I guess.   [bang] [bang]

I'll try and take some pics tonight.

PB Blaster - let it soak for a while then attack things again.

And for future reference, left handed (counter-clockwise cutting) drill bits. They are a bit of a pain to find in person, but easy enough online. If you hit the point where you have to drill they can, on ocassion, spin the broken screw back out without even needing the extractors.

Good point - a friend helped me drill a f*&^ed bolt out with one of these - it only got about 1/3 way in when it started to back the bolt out. Funny thing was the threads were great inside - no visual clue why the thing had gotten stuck in the first place.

Well, I did it Saturday and not "today", but I bought a completely disassembled '75 Norton Commando. I will be the third owner, but as the prev owner never rode it (he just took it apart and bought lots of replacement stuff) or titled it, the State will consider me the second. 4500 miles! Sad part is it rusted away for 20+ years in a shed. Gruesome "before" pics. Luckily Andover Norton still makes every single part for Commandos, even including complete frames, so anything that's missing can be easily gotten. You vintage bike aficionados will understand my drooling when I saw the original wiring harness in a ziploc bag with no hacked connectors, cut wires, etc. looking like it was made yesterday.

Sweet!!  Think you'll have it done by the time I get back?

My problem now is that I don't know how the heck to even get the screw extractor out that is stuck in the stripped screw, lol.  If I could get that out, I could take another shot at it.  I'll have to take some pics tonight to visualize the whole thing.

can you get some sort of pick or awl in between the bit of extractor and the metal of the bolt for to wedge and pry/pop it out?

Possibly, if I knew what the heck an awl is  [laugh] [laugh]

Seriously though, the extractor bit is lodged in there pretty good.  I'm not sure that a pick would help, but then again, I don't know what I'm doing or I probably wouldn't be in this position in the first place.

Flat head screwdriver that's thin enough so you can hammer it between the two parts.

Another thing you can try is to use a dremel to cut a slice into the head of the bolt and then hammer it. But PB blast it first!

How many screws hold your rearsets in place? Are the other ones stuck as well? If you can remove the other bolts, you could use a dremel (or another cutter) to saw off the head of the bolt and then slide off the rearset.

It's an antique bike we're talking about here, so it requires proper assembly. We'll all be retired and have grankids by the time it's done!  ;D [laugh] [cheeky]

Au contraire! (that's British slang for f*** off)  [cheeky]

I'd love to have it done by June, but late fall is more realistic. Frame needs paint and head needs some work (stuck / bent valve) and the seat needs fixing up. Other than that it's just seeing what the ravage of time (rust) has done to various bits.

It's a pretty simple bike and I've owned two so I'm familiar with them. Biggest issue I think will be cleaning it!

British bikes get a bad name, some deservedly for when the industry teetered on bankruptcy and there were QA issues, but a lot of it is because they're just old and have been sitting or flogged or "fixed" by guys with hammers and channel locks (that would be me) and then people expect them to ride like new.

Had a some fun with a little f***er yesterday, the engine rpm (aka crankshaft postition, aka G28) sensor.

Not a big deal, it's just held in place by one screw, except the mofo is located behind the front engine mount... [bang] [bang] [bang]

Anyway after only 3 hours, more swearing than I thought I was capable of, and thanks to the invaluable help of my gramma' (same one in the bike pic [thumbsup]), I managed to replace the damn thing.

Pepe....did you roll the car up onto stands or anything to increase the room for access?...it makes a HUGE difference...hence why I have ramps and stands....

The only way to really have good access to the spot would be to take off the whole front end of the car: bumper, lights, radiator, fans (!!!)... everything. Then it would be just plug and play.

And really the main issue wasn't the engine mount itself but all the stuff around it, electical wires and tubing. I know far too well how easy it is to strip the head of a bolt when the socket wrench isn't flat agains the head and slips off. [bang] [bang] [bang]

I didn't use stands because there's more than enough space underneath the car for access, and all I needed to lift the engine was the jack. It's just a matter of placing it at the right spot! [thumbsup]

Might have dodged a bullet today...

isn't that what you'll be doing lots of next month?



I got stitches out today and got pics of the cool kevlar strapping inside my shoulder.

SHOOSH YOU!!

And another  [thumbsup]

Just got me a new set of wheels

.
.
.

all 4 of them  ;D

Golf TDI?

Nope.

2008 Civic Si.  [evil]


26K miles, in very good condition, 14K!

Couldn't find a TDI on craigslist with less than 100+K miles. And VW doesn't have any financing offers on them. So I started looking around for a used Golf, and checked also for a GTI and finally came along this Civic.

Well?

They used to hang traitors.








I keed I keed, fine purchase. If you ever need to bump start it with a hand crank though, my ratchet handle should just about do the trick. Be careful though, your transmission might not be used to that much torque.

+1!!!

Heh, yea when the Golf is running it has enough torque to pull the Si like a big dog walked by a little kid [laugh]

For some reason Honda didn't want to put a Turbo or a Compressor in the Si, so it has to rev up high to get power.  ???  I did find a few aftermarket forced induction kits tho, so that can be fixed! [evil]

As of Wednesday morning, the Doc declared me non-deployable due to my back issues.

There's a fabulous joke in there somewhere but for the life of me I'm just not clever enough right now to put it together.

WOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! [thumbsup] [moto] [evil] [clap] [moto] [moto]

Dammit!  There goes my stable.......


 ;D




Awesome Bro!   [thumbsup]

Man, that Stupor Duke is gonna look kick ass with a limper tag on it! ;D

Does this mean you'll put mounts for the walker on the SD? [laugh]

Found out I gotta replace the bottom rails on my Commando frame, it's rust damage is b.a.d. bad
Luckily I have a line on a replacement...

Then I geeked out and made a binary counter:

Binary counting LEDs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucAIzM-uAUI#normal)

Well I think I found the person I need to figure out how in the hell the stock fuel light works :D

So Tocino, step into my office, I have a few questions I'd like to ask you  [leo]

I think you're problem is it's Italian. You've got to insert more Lire.

I tried lying to it and saying "the fuel, itsa low, blinky da boopity".

Still nothing.

did you threaten it like it owed you money?....

Purchased a new Rimoza rearset from Monsterparts for the S2R800.  Decided agains the Acewell and put it on fleabay.  Gonna stick with the stock instrument cluster. 

Never heard of them before  [laugh]

Keep it coming.......RIZOMA.  Sometimes I'm dyslexic

Ordered up some MBP collets, and a shim measuring tool.  Oh boy!

Next on the shopping list is a chain, sprox, belts and gaskets!

Got the Shorai battery in the post today.  DAMN that thing weighs close to nothing!!

What kinda $$ was the battery?

batterystuff.com sells the 14 amp hour for $148 and the 18 amp for 181 (ups ground shipping included).

I got a 14 and just tested it today, I used it to start up both bikes (the 900 with FCR and the 750 with Mikuni carbs) after they had been sitting for about a month: No problem with either bike.

If I had a fuel injected bike with high comp pistons, I would definitely get the the 18 amp battery, but otherwise I think the 14 is just fine. [thumbsup]

Here's some pics: packaging (keep it! you'll need it to fit the battery) and weight (in grams) 700 vs 4430 about 6.3 to 1 ratio! :o

(http://www.codeherrings.com/images/moto/var/battery/battery_01.jpg)

(http://www.codeherrings.com/images/moto/var/battery/battery_02.jpg)

(http://www.codeherrings.com/images/moto/var/battery/battery_03.jpg)

Got mine from battery suff as well. They only charged me an additional $12 to second day air it.   [thumbsup]

I put the battery back in the 900SS.

But then one of the terminal nuts slipped out and fell who knows where.

Spent 10 mintes looking around the engine / floor for it.

Gave up and went looking for the ones I'd saved off the last battery. After 10 more minutes found them.

Then I realized I should check the tire pressure. That only took 10 times longer than it should have.

Rolled the bike out. Shoot almost out of gas.

Spent 5 minutes getting it started (flatslides = no choke)

Rode to gas station and filled up on gas.

Got to work 1/2 hour late.

But - I was able to ride the entire 1.5 miles! (of course walking would've only been 5 blocks)

 [moto]

Literally? How long had it been sitting? Do you have a fuel pump?

I just hit the starter a few times, gave it some gas and then hit the starter again and it fired right up.

You might want to check on the fuel adjustment screws.. :-\

It'd been sitting for something like 3 months.
If it had no fuel pump it wouldn't be working at all. :)
Yeah - I never touched the screws since installation as they're supposed to be close.

Mainly because it's been sitting for a while.

Took the bike out for a spin through Va with a friend.  Weather - PERFECT, Bike - PERFECT, Roads - PERFECT, Exhaust Grunt - PERFECT.  Women checking out the bike - PERFECT.  Can't believe I came back to my office to do work after that ride!

Put my bike back together after getting my stripped screw taken care of and went out for a nice test ride to make sure I put it all back together correctly.  Guess my powdercoating project is going to have to wait a bit now; couldn't stand to miss out on this weather.

Edit: Also tried out the 14T for the first time.  Bike has a lot more pep now.  Going to have to adapt to it at low speeds though; got a bit jerky every now and then.

Rode to work today and aside from the roads being wet it was nice ... until the bike died on me: kink in the fuel line :-[

Too bad this weather wont last, back to below freezing on Tuesday with chances of snow, and it might suck until the end of the month :'(

 :'(   :'( Mossimo, how dare you ruin this day with your predictions of doom and gloom.  At least let me believe that the warm weather is here to stay for one day.  [laugh]

It will be pretty nice on Monday! ;)

Took the SD out to Skyline and had a bit of an eye opener on 211.

Heard there was still salt and such out there.  I imagine that is what you are referring to.

Then it was probably more of a butt clencher! [laugh]

Yesterday, got solidly to work on my projects. Hung the 900 from some rafters and pulled off all the exhaust spaghetti and the whole rear suspension save for the swing arm, which is next. Shock's going off for service while I get down with the grease on the rest of it. New sprocket and chain's on the way... and shortly I'll be checking some valves. And I'll see about running my tubes out to that ceramic coating shop to have that done.

Good times.

I got DRAG BARS! (http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=46586.0)  [laugh] [leo] [wine]

?

Almost lost the front on one of the hair-pins.

The Lonely Island - J*** In My Pants (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JsSEI2Le-so#normal)

fo real yo' (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=130486926581&autorefresh=true)

Are you saying you bought those wheels?


I got stuck behind a jackknifed tandem semi on the inner-loop. That thing was all messed up.

Nah, a pretty girl probably glanced at him.

Shoveled out the trucks.  I'm done for the day. 

How much did you get?  Bethesda looks like about 1.5ish.

Oh yeah! ;D

little over 6.

Having some cake today Chris?

Or just  [drink]

I think he is having a hot toddy right now to thaw from shoveling....

Had to come do the office sidewalks.  Good shoulder rehab.  G and I had a nice dinner Sunday.  Today is regular work day for both of us.  We're throwing ourselves a rather elegant party in march to celebrate both our bdays (I turned 40, she is also turning 4... turning 32 for the ninth time.

and doesn't look a day over 26!   [thumbsup]

 [wine] [beer] [drink]

True story, it's funny, she doesn't look asian...

(http://romston.com/wp-posts/11-02-12-average_asian_aging_process/average_asian_aging_process_Img01.jpg)

Got a counter offer on the place that I'm trying to buy.

Pulled a 10' poplar branch out of my moms living room.  Luckily she wasn't under it.  Penetrated the flat copper roof and the tip ended up about 2' off the floor.  The suck.

Installed a temp patch until copper guys can come out.

They countered a full price offer?

Got me a little package [evil]

(http://codeherrings.com/images/moto/ducati/speciale/wheels_box.jpg)

About time to dedicate a thread to my baby ;D

condolences.   [laugh]

3-

Dropped the tank for my S4R on the garage floor.......I need a good painter for chip repair please asap!!! :(

Went ridin' damnit!!

Took the Aprilia DD out for some riding!!  Everything else I saw were Harley riders, chromed out Gixxers and a bunch of scooters.

I built a flower box and helped weed the front yard garden....that along with some other general puttering about...

I bottled a crap ton of brown ale.  Gearing up to brew a Coopers ale.

bring it on over and I'll certainly help drink it up for ya!!!

I tried to burn down a house using brake-clean and an ordinary household propane torch! And you can too! Here's how...

Cleaned out the basement workshop, ready to take on some projects. Shot a begrudging glance at the bike and the damn fuel light that is still kicking my ass.

150 Miles. That's a conservative estimate of what I can get out of a tank of gas on the 750. [thumbsup]

Yeah, I know my average miles before empty, but I'd like to get the fuel light working on the Trailtech. Haven't had time to dig into my latest theory on how to wire the damn thing up to actually make it work. If I don't figure it out soon I'm just going to wire everything else up and fix the fuel light later.

Finally made it out to the MVA today and got temp tags and registration for the civic. [thumbsup]

Then took it for a little drive: that engine loves to rev! It's pretty much the opposite of the Golf (lots of torque at low rpms), the VTEC kicks in between 6-6.5k and it howls until the limiter kicks in. [evil]

Had lots of fun on the MoCo back roads then picked up the lady wife and took her to dinner at one of my favorite italian restaurants (http://www.ilpizzico.com/). Win win :D

Had the swingarm and hoop parts off - cleaned them up, greased the pivots and had them back in. Had the belts off and started checking the valves. Vert intake looks good, but the exhaust is looking all upside down. Opener way tight and closer way loose... bugger.

right there by D&D Auto Body in that lil strip mall like building?...Hmmm...is it more northern style or what?..the Scaloppine Alla Sandra sounds delish....

Doesn't look like anything special from the outside, but it's a great place and the food is just awesome! [thumbsup]

The chef and maitre d' are both Sicilian but the food is from all over Italy.

LOVE THAT PLACE.  You're right, it doesn't look like much of anything from outside but I have always found it to be great food. [thumbsup]

Dropped the S4R off at DucPond in Winchester Va.  Even though there is a Duc dealer 10 miles up the road, I drove 2.5 hours one way to get better service.

Changed the oil, filter and front/rear brake pads.  Shops make no money on an oil change.  Supplies alone cost between $70.00 - $90.00. 

Just downloaded tuneECU onto the lap top.  Now all I need is a USB to OBDII cable and I'll be able to load a different map onto the SD.

Stripped one of the intake valve cover bolts on the horiz cyl  [bang]  balls. This could be a real hassle.

On the good side, Rear suspension is in good order.

Are you going to have it dynoed and custom map?
Or just an existing map?

I've been looking for one with the motohooligan airbox and sas blockoffs.

There are quite a few maps being shared over on SD.net.  I'll probably download a few of those (from people with similar set-ups to mine) and see what happens.  Ultimately I'll get it dyno tuned, but I want to wait until I get a MH box as well, and will need to find someone who's familiar with tuning off of tuneECU.

The SD has an OBD2 diagnostic plug?

Ok, slightly different.  There is a bespoke cable for this project that uses a 6 pin connector on one (KTM) side, and then an OBDII on the other.  Then you use a USB to OBDII adapter and voila.   [roll]

I don't know about the roll eyes..... When I had the Gixxer with the PC3 it was a straight PC3 adapter plug cable with a USB so it would go straight to a computer. None of this two different cables that finally lead to the same thing. Sheesh. Talk about having to make things more complicated than they need to be, unless, of course, if that is just what has to be done to make things work.  [roll]

And the difficult complications are why I "rolled my eyes".  But then again, this is a bike that took close to three hours just to change the battery.   [roll]

You are kidding? Right?

Maybe a bit of an exaggeration, but not by much. That thing was a MAJOR pain in the ass.

ross-tech.com has em for the VAG emulators...so you can software to diag your Dub and the hardware for your SD....just sayin....


at least it was the bolt and not the bolt hole....I have some various extra hardware if you can give me measurements, I can dig through and see if I can find it for you!

VAG emulators??? so that's what they call 'em now, eh? You guys need to go out more and hook up with REAL people! [laugh]


Zooom what do I need to fix the stripped threads on the engine case? It's where one of the kick stand bolts screws in.

you CAN put a helicoil in it, but I think you are going to be better off with a Time-Sert repair kit because the Time-Sert is a steel insert instead of a spun coil...is it an M10 x 1.50 ???...I can't remember...I had to do one on my old Monster that I gave to the ex because I was doing the stupid move of spinning the bike on the kickstand and it caused undo wear to the point that my kickstand about fell off when I went to park the bike one day...luckily, it was in my driveway AFTER a ride that I discovered this....

Pepe....they aren't cheap-but they are WELLLLLLL worth it!

http://www.timesert.com/html/mtrcsert.html (http://www.timesert.com/html/mtrcsert.html)

Thanks for the link, I'll look into it. :-*

Well, I didn't need to start research on Timeserts, luckily. I finally had to bust out the drill, and lefty bits to get that valve cover off. Mercifully some heat, the lefty drill bits and a spiral remover got it loose. Damn thing was bent just a touch, thats what must have given me such hassles.

But at least I didn't have to remove the head to get it out... what a nightmare that would have been.

So now, I just have to do a little shim sanding, have my shock serviced, pick up my exhaust from the coaters, do my new chain... ugh.

Who did you use for the PC?  I'm looking forward to seeing how it turned out.

Figure engineering out in manassas - that place that does the bike frames

I purchased a set of RS taichi GP Evo gloves.

Planned to go riding, but life got in the way.  Ended up ordering the cable to re-map the SD though. 

Had the brake/clutch upgraded to radial masters from an 08 848, cleaned all the grit and grime from the bike, painted the midpipe and threw on the vanity plate (TICKET).

Tempting fate there are touch are you?

Fixed it.........that is how it starts.....

Uhm, no.  Got rid of the last one and have no intention of getting another one.  Well, unless she's rich that is.   ;D

I washed the wife's new monster and got started on various maintence items on it and did the same on the DR250 (wife's dual sport/my city commuter).

Went to a b'day do and had some pretty tasty noms...

Today I put my '09 Ulysses up on BadWeb : http://www.badweatherbikers.com/buell/messages/21/620908.html (http://www.badweatherbikers.com/buell/messages/21/620908.html)

Then I put a blatant plug for it on a non-Buell message board  ;D

Man I've been wanting a Ulysses pretty badly but don't think I have the $$ for it right now.  What do you want for it anyway?

I'd watch out for that Tocino guy. Putting that junky Buell up for sale.  ;D

Just kidding! As a purchaser of a formerly owned by Tocino S2R, I can tell you the bike will have been well taken care of.

I'm need 6 large. I of course forgot to put that in the ad originally - and I hate it when people do that.

Anyways - I wouldn't say this has been pampered, just not ridden that much. What I *really* should have done this winter was repaint the muffler, but that would have meant taking it off, sanding, painting and then buying a new metal strap (there's two and if you reuse the front you end up with a broken exhaust supposedly)

I *did* change the oil. That's one thing I tend to do a lot. Not that big on internals, but gotta have clean oil. Cheap insurance. Wait, did I just make this an oil thread?

Cooked the heal of my new boots that just came yesterday! :'( :'( :'(

Failed miserably to track down my brake light problem on the S2R. [bang] [bang] [bang]

dropped the sails off at UK annapolis for some Spring TLC.

Stopped by APS (Annapolis Perfomance Sailing) to discuss my damaged main halyard (and look at expensive sailing goodies)

bought the pieces parts of my left Sato rearset I need to make it back to normal.  (They're pricey initially, but I love that you can order bits and pieces straight from them to fix parts you grind into the track)

went to Court.

Did ya win?

20 yr old foster care kid in college who I started representnig when she was 10.


so yes.  yes I did.


(but I had very very little to do with her success)

 [thumbsup]


Sitting down for dinner and a beer while watching FP1.

Managed to fix (and I use this term loosely) the brake light. Turns out it was already on....just never turned off.

Good deal.   [thumbsup] 

Sent you an sms.

If aint broke then you fixed it! Was something grounded out or something?

Don't know for sure. I just have the rear switch unplugged at the harness right now and the front is working fine...who uses the rear brake anyway, right?!?

Rear brake is great for settling the chassis when coming into the corner.

You mean I'm supposed to be able to turn?!?

Hopefully I learn something about that when I hit total control on April 3...

Did the shakedown work on the Trail Tech today. Calibrated the speedo within 1% of a GPS system. Firmed up the indicator light attachment points and adjusted the safe temp lights.

Love the way it looks and works. Nice to have that one off my plate. Now of course the Golf decides it needs a starter. Never ends.

Technically last night - put in my adjusted shims and sealed up the valve covers, refit the airbox, got everything lined up for my new belts, punched out my old chain and riveted up the new.

Nice work  [thumbsup]

Where are they having that class at?  I've been seriously considering attending one to up my skills.

Columbia

http://www.totalcontroltraining.net/HTML/Schedule.html (http://www.totalcontroltraining.net/HTML/Schedule.html)

I thought you already had a driver's licence? ???





 :P [evil]

Thanks.  Going to take a look at this.

They also teach MSF's ERC (experience rider course) at NOVA community college in Shirlington. $90 bucks. It did me a world of good to attend.

http://www.nvcc.edu/wdce/alexandria/specialized/advanced.htm (http://www.nvcc.edu/wdce/alexandria/specialized/advanced.htm)

Went zipping around Anne Arundal County...

DRKWNG was blinded by green panties.

They were nice, but not as impressive as that other thing...

the "other thing"?...what'd you end up at the Hangar Club starin at the wanna be chippendales in green thongs?!?!!?

Uhm...  No.

It's in the sighting thread.

Ahh got my new belts on. For anyone who hasn't done this before, I recommend gloves when wrestling the vertical cyl cam. You have to wrestle it half way into the helper springs which takes at bit of effort. Combine that with the sharpish edges of the pulley and the devilish tendency to shoot past the alignment mark if you look at it funny and you get beat up fingers fast.

Went back to the stock mid-pipe with udder and then took the Duc to Annapolis for a little visual love and then putted around the city.  Came back and had a couple of friends over for a BBQ.  Tomorrow will try to fit the my SSR Rear sprocket on the bike!

Disassembled the Commando forks to see what was what.

So, what was what?

It was pretty good inside. I was worried everything would be rusty but at least they hadn't been drained of oil before it was left in the shed for 30 years. Things weren't frozen up and as they've never been apart all the threads are good. Sadly I can't say that for the outside:

(http://stevebacon.org/images/Norton/ForkTube_512.jpg)(http://stevebacon.org/images/Norton/ForkSlider_512.jpg)

If I have any money left after it's running I might get this sweet cartridge setup a guy in England makes. Compression and rebound damping on Norton RoadHolder forks - whoda thunk?

Rode with Lars and Cagey...and started thinking...

Quick! Somebody tell me NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

No.

No.

Got one day closer to doing that which I know I shouldn't do, but am seriously contemplating anyway. [evil]


And I took a ride this afternoon...nice out there!

Got an email today saying that my TuneECU cable has shipped.  Can't wait to start playing with the KTM's map.

Planning to get your wedding vege  lopped off?

Anybody speak panda? I don't even know what that means?!?

You sir, are obviously not a Top Gear fan. Your wedding vege(tables) - man bits, twig and berries, etc

[leo] LOL... managed to get a summons for "passing on the right" in Arlington. On the scooter. During rush hour.

It's one of those "you can pay to avoid going to court" deals. Anyone know what this might set me back for? Ballpark?

I've seen a few episodes, but haven't ever heard that one.



Brian!! You're alive. Haven't seen you around these parts recently. Haven't the slightest about the ticket...photo redlights in DC are $175 though. I'll let you know how "mail-in ajudication" works out. Really officer, it wasn't me speeding through that light. It was that other car that you can see in the picture.

Sold the beater jeep for $50 over the asking price!!!!!!!!!! I love a bidding war!

Hey Brian, I've got a 620 for sale. [evil] ;D

Lol.  Sorry, but I can't help but laugh at that one.  That's ridiculous.  I think your problem was that you were in Arlington.  They won't bother with shit like that in DC.

Damn scooter trash...

You've got to tell the story of this one.

[laugh] [laugh] [laugh] [laugh] [laugh] [laugh] [laugh] [laugh] [laugh] [laugh] [laugh]

Yeah Brian, it's scooters riders like you that give motorcyclists like me a bad name.

A 620 is too much bike for me. Even my scooter gets me into trouble. Ima just buy a Harley and be done with it.

That's nuts.  I ride through Arlington twice a day every day.  I doubt a day has gone by yet that I didn't pass on the right (many times).  I'm not even sure that's illegal - especially in heavy traffic when by chance the right lane flows better than the left (unless you weren't in a lane when you passed - VA doesn't like any kind of lane sharing).  I've no idea what the ticket would run, but you've also gotta factor in future insurance rates and any points on your license.  I've paid a couple tickets 'cause I didn't want to go to court and later wished I'd gone to court.  The one time I went to court I got off completely (and that was way before I was even thinking about going to law school).

In VA be aware that, at least when I got my last ticket many years ago, your first court date is for a traffic court, which in my limited experience was just a place for the judge to rubber-stamp whatever the cops said.  The judge literally stamped the paper and wouldn't let me present a defense.  If you go to court be prepared to appeal to a real court.  I appealed to what I think was probably the VA Circuit Court and got a fair hearing.  

bikepilot, thanks for your insight! I've learned it's 3 points for 3 years. I've no @#$%ing clue what that means as this is my first offense in this area. How do the "points" work? Do you start with zero and work your way up? Or do you start with 100 and work your way down? When I die do I keep my points?

Sas, you're right. I was in disbelief that this [leo] took the time...

I just built the worlds sturdiest camera mount. Details tomorrow.

I'm not at all expert on points, but as I recall you start with zero.  If you are a good boy for long enough you can accumulate a few negative points.  If you are bad you get points, if you get too many points your license is revoked (I think 12 points is the cut-off, but could be wrong).  Points go away over time, maybe 1 per year or so.  You can also knock some off with traffic school sometimes.  Insurance costs will generally go up the more points you have.

Well it's tomorrow.

I picked up a ContourGPS cam (http://contour.com/camera/contour_gps (http://contour.com/camera/contour_gps)) this week to shoot video of group rides, track events, and general shenanigans. It's an awesome camera with a bunch of features I like more than the GoPro I've used before, but they slack pretty heavily on giving you suitable mounting options right off the bat. GoPro isn't honestly much better, and it is tough to find a good spot on a naked bike to mount that awkward brick of a camera.

So Contour makes a rollbar mount that would probably work pretty well for fork mounting, but it's rather spindly and they want $50 for what is essentially a hose clamp and an articulating arm.

(http://contour.com/images/product/roll_bar_action.png?1300847096)

Turns out I know where else to buy hose clamps for a lot cheaper, and I can machine something a bit sturdier than that arm without too much trouble. I'm going to make a thread about this as well, but you CAMmers get a sneak peak.

I took a piece of 3/4" aluminum round stock and 1 1/2" x 1/8" flat stock aluminum I had in the basement to build an uber rock solid mount.

Here's the recipe:
1 Fernco 2" rubber pipe joint (comes with two hose clamps)
~5" of 1 1/2" x 1/8" aluminum flat stock
~2" of 3/4" aluminum round stock
2 split ring lock washers
2 flathead machine screws

Using a vice and a long handled adjustable wrench I slowly bent the aluminum flat stock. Then I drilled and tapped the round stock on both ends to match the machine screws. Drilled and countersunk the holes in the flat stock ends, then assembled the whole shebang with lock washers and red threadlock at the joints. Used the Fernco fitting and hose clamps to strap it to the bike, and voila, ready to stick on the Contour rotating mount.

(http://contour.com/images/product/rotating_product.png?1300847096)

Final cost was about $6, it would be probably $20 if you don't have aluminum stock handy (shame on you). You would be left with enough material to make about 8 more of these if you were so inclined.

And the final result -

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v432/theartfuldubber/ContourMount.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v432/theartfuldubber/ContourMount2.jpg)

Nice work, Artful! I gave up mounting cams on my duc due to vibration in the handlebars. My next try was going to be the fork similar to what you've done.

If was was so inclined - what would an Artful special run?

The Fernco should isolate vibrations pretty well, and since it's a direct connection on a suspended part it's about as stable as you're going to get. Also the wide angle of the Contour or GoPro lenses go a long way in smoothing out bumps and shakes.

I could probably build another one for $40 accounting for my time and materials. I filed and polished mine, I could do a rougher one for $30ish.

quick range trip over lunch.

New office is only 5 min away so hopefully I'll find time to do 50 rnds every few weeks instead of a few hundred every other month.

WHERE?...OnTarget? or where is the new office or shooting range?

select fire.

guy's a douche and no more head shots there because idiots were shooting ceiling and breaking all the target hangers... but it's nearby.  I bring my own ammo and targets so range time is cheap.

Lol I used to live in the Burnout and would go to Select Fire on weeknights. They ever replace any of the damn bulbs in that place or do you still need a tactical light to see the target?

Always empty when I go so he give me a lane with lights.  Hahah.

Today there was a "chatty" guy next to me who I had to tell to leave me alone.  He couldn't hit a silhouette from 7 yards. 

I forgot about that place due to the shitty experience I had there...I musta purged them from my memory...

On Target though isn't bad, but it is on the other side of the Bawlmore beltway offa 175 and the BW Pkwy...

Good friend of mine's father owns On Target. Nice range, their stuff works and they have a pretty good shop as well.

I've always been pleased with the place...lanes and rentals have always been clean and in good shape...

My only gripe with the place is that they sold me a Taurus 24/7 .45ACP with a straight face. No one better rob my house if they don't want to get shot once then beaten to death with a jammed pistol.

There's a pretty nice indoor range just down the street from my new office location.  It would be a great way to kill an hour or so during lunch, or after the day, but they don't offer any on sight storage, and I can't exactly have personally owned weapons  with me where I work...   [thumbsdown]

(http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd110/grumpylawyer/gun.jpg?t=1301086837)

today.  15 yards.  7 rds (one magazine)

I suppose that group would look better on a silhouette all clustered in 4 inches or so.   At 7 yards I had a few groups all touching.  at 25... well... I'm getting old ya know.

Not too shabby. 

Kimber?

you would do better with a mosin-nagant!  [laugh]

wilson.

(Jud used to like to comment on the overpriced gun whenever I called him out on bullshit and he got whiny)

VERY nice.  And now that you mention it, I remember you saying something about it in Chinatown that time.   [thumbsup]


He was only like that because he had a crush on you, and that's the only way he knew to show it.

Oh yea, got the cable I needed to re-flash the ecu on the SD.

Jim, did I mention that this software works on Triumphs?   [evil]

 ;D Nope, you didn't! I gotta sell this 620 and then I'm all over one! And then my friend Tocino and I can have another suspension party! [laugh] [laugh]

I'm excited to hear how this thing works for you. When you gonna do it? Tonight while you've got a lil' sumpin' sumpin' helping out?

Nah, not going to mess with it tonight.  Maybe some time over the weekend though.

Sold the Buell!

Congrats!!

Drinks are you tonight then?

er, uh ... no.  :)

Ordered the goods for Jim and Steve's Excellent Suspension Adventure. ;D

About to go make the beast with two backs up the SD.

I've been looking for a new paperweight. ;)

Put the Monster on CL one more time http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/mld/mcy/2287257134.html (http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/mld/mcy/2287257134.html) and noticed someone decided to put their crap up for sale as well http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/mcy/2287000721.html (http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/mcy/2287000721.html)



 ;D [laugh]

Somebody already bought that turd!!!!!!

Went for a three hour ride and ended it right with smoked brisket around a fire. My fingers are starting to get feeling in them. Camera seems to work great, but I dunno if my computer is going to be beefy enough to display HD video...

nice piece...of all the variants of the .45acp...I am still partial to my 2 Colt 1991 A1's, though I did have a warm IZ_ for a Para Ordinance P1445 just because it weighed an extra 5 pounds with a full double stacked high cap mag...LOL...but that was once a long time ago...if I were buying one today though, I'd probably go back and forth between a Wilson, a Les Baer Custom, and a Colt Gold Cup.

What was it?

My 620! ;D ;D ;D ;D

And I found a sweet ass deal on a daytona 675! Can't wait for the shop to open on Tuesday...unless of course the guy with the other one calls me back and I buy it tomorrow. Now what was that song?....jizz in my pants. [laugh]

Details please.

07 Black 2600 Miles $4995 Looks like it's bone stock and I'd have some farkle $$$ left over.
There's also an 09 Black 1500 miles $7200.

Decisions, decisions. Any advice from the peanut gallery?

The newer one is going to have slightly revised bodywork and better suspension.  It will also have a little bit (something like three) more hp as well due to slight better internals in the motor.

Almost forgot, the newer one will also have slightly better brakes as well: monoblock front calipers.

And for the record, my '08 sold for $7500 with about 7000 miles on it.  I'd go for the '09 if it was me doing the buying.

It's is damn tempting! I feel like a kid in a candy store!

How's the SD?

Don't know yet.  It seemed to take the map just fine, but the truth will be told when I actually get the thing out and ride it.

On another note, found out today that my neighbor's bike was just stolen, from the next garage over!  I then found out that my two stands (that I thought he had borrowed) were also stolen.  I spent the rest of today trying to get both of mine secured seeing how the make the beast with two backsers know where they are.  Kind of baffled that they didn't actually take my two at the same time as well.

That sucks ASS!! They probably heard the KTM and were afraid to ride it off in case it explodes!

Is your garage secured? Mine is, but not very well...it's got a door with an automatic opener. How you have them secured? I should do mine since I would cry like a little pregnant dog if it was gone! Maybe I should think about full coverage insurance. ???

I've got full coverage on both of them.  The SC's policy is even updated with the mods that have been put on it.  But even with all that, there is still no way I'd be able to replace it with what the insurance would give me if it was stolen.  So now it's sitting right outside my front door, on the forth floor.  Someone would have to take the elevator up, get past the lock and then move it back to the elevator without my dog hearing it and going apeshit, which would then bring me and at least a .45 iffin' I'm at home.  The SD is still down in the garage, but with three braided steel cables (one on each wheel and one through the frame) locking it down to the cement support. 

And that's why I don't have it full coverage on anything!

I should devise some 11ty billion volt shocking mechanism to secure a bike....of course, I'd forget it was on and sizzle myself.

What make/model of bike did the neighbor have? And... how the hell did the thieves get in and out of your compound? IIRC there's a gate. I'd guess someone on the inside was involved.

It was the previous generation R1.  Kind of a black/cherry color, which I imagine would not be all that rare...

And yes, there is a gate there, but you can always find people slipping in after a resident opened the gate for themselves.  I am going to go chat with the property management on Monday.  I'm kind of disappointed they didn't bother to contact any of the other moto owners in the complex to let us know that thieves were in the area.

Mhhhh lots of  [bacon] !!
 





[laugh] [cheeky]

Yea, figured it was a Japanese bike. Thieves suck. We need a [paranoid] emoticon, now.

I went to Clinton Cycles open house yesterday to check out an RSV and naturally it was sold. So instead of running for my life, I ogled the 675's as they were asking $8399 for 09's and 10's. Back in January they were asking $7499.

That 07 seems like a good deal compared to other 07's I've seen listed.  I rode a friend's once; they're cool.  If I were to get a full fairing sport bike, I think it would probably be that.

Worked, counted daytona dollars and  [drool] [drool] [drool]. Why are so many shops closed on Monday?!?!?

Bought a ticket for London. Gonna go to the Silverstone MotoGP round.  [moto]

Bought an RF-1100. Nicest helmet I've ever owned by far. It's like wearing a sexy couch. Not a great visual, but you get the idea.

You gonna wrap it?

Nah, I rarely if ever put graphics on any of my helmets. If anything I'll do something REALLY subtle.

It's like the mechanics car that never runs, the graphics guy stuff rarely has decals on it. It even bothers me that I can't peel off the Shoei logos since they're cleared over.

Put a deposit on this: http://lancaster.craigslist.org/mcy/2292609256.html (http://lancaster.craigslist.org/mcy/2292609256.html)  [moto] :o

Going to pick it up on Saturday morning. [evil] ;D [clap] [bacon]

$6500 is SOOOOO much better than Pete's Screw You Center!

Sweet!  Can't wait to wre, I mean ride it.   ;D

I won't be out on Sunday because of the TC course, but will plan to ride it the following week....and, of course, there will be pics before then.

you basterd!


How I envy you!  [evil] [thumbsup]

Have you been to Silverstone? Anyone? Pointers? We're thinking about camping nearby - seems to be the only option.

Plopped my fat ass onto a Diavel! They've got two at Speed's and a demo bike is being put together in the back. When it's ready, they'll be some test ride possibilities.

This is the first time I've seen one in person. It's an interesting beast. I like some things and hate others. Probably not one in my future, but I may change my mind after a ride.