It all started in spring of 2011 in New England. I decided to sell my little cruiser I'd ridden for years and buy something a little more exciting. It had to be naked and it had to be faster than a 800cc cruiser. The Monster was an obvious choice and I decided on an 2006 S2R 800 as a reasonable transition. Searched around, found and purchased one from a nice gentleman in my state rather easily. My wife delivered me to the bike and within the hour ride home, I couldn't be happier with my choice.
I immediately started to modify it with what I could afford. CRGs/Barends/Tail chop/Belt and chain covers painted etc. Nothing too drastic or expensive...
Good thing.
After a month and about 1200 miles of getting-to-know-you riding in June to July, I was at a stoplight on a hot day after work. Suddenly I was struck by an epiphany. Actually to be honest it was called a Suzuki SX4 Hatchback, but to be fair it was a sudden realization that both me and my new bike were now lying on the ground.
The 81 year old gentleman that got out was pretty shaken up. His equally aged wife in the front seat seemed to be as well but she never got out of the car and in fact was covering up her forehead/eyes with her hand most of the time.
Fast forward...cops came...his fault...damage noted. (Handlebar into tank dent. Bent handlebar. Swingarm scratched, clutch hand lever snapped, both directionals snapped on side, CRG now a CRGarbage.) All finished up, cop offers a flatbed. I was able to pry the rearset clutch lever from the engine enough to ride it home. Only after I left did I realize the forks were a little off and the handlebars facing a few degrees in the opposite direction but I made it home safely. How did I fare? Great! I walked away, I did however manage a sizable bruise/scrape on right leg, not too bad. Pride? well...we won't go there, but worst of all, two days later a lower back pain that I am still living with today.
The S2R was considered totaled and sadly driven away on a flatbed not too long after. Removed from summer riding and with my settlement in the mail, I did a lot of online window shopping. So many choices, upgrades and options. I eventually got the settlement and after looking at so many bikes, it was obvious which one I was supposed to buy. The S4Rs.
I talked to countless sellers throughout the country but could never find that right one, until late November. Someone again in the state had one for sale with only 675 miles on it. I went and saw it and fell in love. It being the beginning of winter I knew I would have plenty of time to modify it and get it ready for spring.
There she sits today...modest mods I've done include: Tail chop, 5" Termi chop, motodynamic tail light, Rizoma "round" clutch plate, SM HL clutch cover, CRG Barends, New belts, fluids and new tank from factory.
At this point, the final chapter of this story is getting my back to a place where I can ride this beast. As of now a 30 minute ride leaves me in a world of pain the next day. My Dr's are on the case.
I would like to say that I appreciate the support from the forum and it's members. I've sent loads of questions and PMs and everyone has been extremely helpful, so thank you. Stay safe !
