Hello Forum Newbies!

[TimP]

Rumour has it that some people visit this site, read all the posts and leave. I ask you, where's the fun in that? You're missing a golden opportunity to brag about your latest ride, dream out loud about the bike you ride (or plan to ride next), ask about roads in your area, rant about your pathetic standings in the MotoGP pool (sorry, that's a personal reflection), even tell the world how much you like Harleys!

It's all possible, and it's all good. Just as there's no bad bike (well, compared to a car) there's no bad thread on this site. Take a moment to log on (no money down, nothing to pay) and poke someone in the eye with a pointed stick!

You even get a free gold star! Come on, post something. You know you want to.

[Ivor biggin]

Tim`s right on the money and if anyone checks the Who's on line feature they`ll See just how many guests there are looking things over.
More surprising, though, is the number of members who have signed on and have not yet posted. Fifteen so far and counting. Come on Guys, you already have your gold star so let`s see how good you are with the pointed stick.:D

[Uwe W.]

Tim's idea was a good one; we encourage those new to the forum to use this thread to post a quick hello. The rest of us would like to hear from you, and personally, I'd like to know what part of the country you call home.:)

[Dennis The Menace]

I guess I'm still a newbie too. I'm in Cambridge, riding a 04 Busa.

Anyone want to buy my Cycle Canada collection?

[Uwe W.]

Anyone want to buy my Cycle Canada collection?

Welcome. As for the magazines, what does your collection include?

Note to RB1: Please tell us you actually did get those magazines...:confused:

[Dennis The Menace]

Welcome. As for the magazines, what does your collection include?

Note to RB1: Please tell us you actually did get those magazines...:confused:

Pretty much every issue of Cycle Canada, Motorcyclist, and Sport Rider since about 1998. And the last few years of Inside Motorcycles

[RB1]

Yep, three boxes all, so far, in excellent condition.
Some pretty hilarious stuff in there. Some of the older ads were quite bold.
Very cool. Thanks again Mike.

[Battleax]

Ottawa area, 98 vfr
Cheers

[Uwe W.]

Welcome aboard Battle. Tim, your congenial host, is off celebrating a recent success in the MotoGP pool and isn't able to great you personally at this particular moment. Please feel free to browse and post at will, but I'll ask you not to feed the animals, they can get a little unruly at times.

[TimP]

Thanks for filling in for me while I was temporarily incapacitated, Uwe, "I have always relied upon the kindness of strangers." (just for you, although I have no idea why you always notice the gender-bends :D - Note recently mandated BigginDot).

Hey, Battleax! I almost bought a '98 VFR when I was last shopping for a sportier ride (can't believe it was a decade ago!) I ended up being seduced by a VTR instead, but that V-four is certainly one sweet motor. My only disappointment was with the bars, so I installed a set of Helibars and, wouldn't you know it, it now feels more like a VFR...

As for the local animals, Uwe's exaggerating. All bark, no bite. Usually.

But enough about Uwe, whose disastrous Moto GP weekend has seen his lead in our pool shrink to a mere 19 points, so he's understandably a bit raw right now.

Tell me about the roads around Ottawa. I grew up there but never owned a bike until long after I left. I do ride regularly around Westport (CR36 to Maberley is a favourite). Where do you usually ride?

[motown]

Hello,

got directed here by a friend for Moto GP discussions.
Missed the last race at Laguna because I was expecting it on Speed Channel.
@#$@$#@##^^%##@ !!!!!

anyhow cheers.

[KZDon]

Well, check out the Laguna Seca discussions again as there's a link to view the Euro feed of the race - far better than the CBS broadcast, although it's the same crappy camera work.

[Ivor biggin]

Well, check out the Laguna Seca discussions again as there's a link to view the Euro feed of the race - far better than the CBS broadcast, although it's the same crappy camera work.

I think he might of watched it Don.:D
I.B.

[OLd Fart]

Hello all, I am just looking at getting back into riding. I used to ride between 10 to 15000 klicks a year, but have been off bikes for the past 16 years. I hope to learn lots from all you.

[Uwe W.]

Glad to meet you Old Fart. With a handle like that, you're sure to fit right in.

[Ivor biggin]

Better out than in.:rolleyes:
I.B.

[MarkW]

Mark here - just picked up a copy of your very good mag and saw mention of the forum and here I am

Live in Ottawa and an an expat Brit. Held a full GB bike license since 1990, and have had a full ON car license since 94 when i arrived here, never occurred to me to take my bike test in ON as I honestly thought the days would not return , I am sure you know the story mortgage, 3 nippers needing food, wife who never rode a bike not seeing eye to eye on life's priorities, i.e she thought it more important to pay the mortgage and get bloody hardwood floors than buy a bike

well now I want another bike - so am looking to take bike safety course in Ottawa next spring which I believe gets me my M2 license, then i have to wait something like 18 months to get the full M license, only bugger is that I am told insurance will be a pig as i will be classed as a new rider even though I am 45 first rode a bike in the 80s - anyone got any leads on decent insurance companies that dont believe every biker wants to ride like Barry Sheene ( see i am old ;) ) I wont be looking to buy a rocket probably a virago style cruiser so I hope i wont have to re-mortgage the bricks and mortar to pay for it all, she who must be obeyed would not allow that anyhow

[Uwe W.]

Hi Mark. Insurance is a real pain to deal with; my advice would be to start a spreadsheet and phone EVERYONE that offers it. You never know who'll will give you the best rate.

I was with State Farm for several years because they were giving me the best rate by far, but after switching bikes recently, I found someone was even cheaper for that particular model. The good news is a cruiser will likely cost less to insure than a Barry Sheene replica. Good luck.;)

[KZDon]

Harass your car and house insurer as well to find you coverage for a bike.

Without knowing what you do and what various associations you belong to, your work and or school background may let you get in under a pseudo group plan. Our house and cars are at TD Melloche Monnex for that reason. My bike is under Primmum through the MMIC group plan.

Interestingly for me, Melloche Monnex and Primmum are now both TD owned, and I had a bit of fun this spring when the two arms of the same company were fighting over my business.

[MarkW]

quick update on insurance quest

riders plus seems to be a bit more civilised

$ 50 per month for a rider my age with almost no license history ( my UK license history seems irrelevant) on a 250cc virago - i can live with that

[Hayabusa]

I just found this forum and let me tell you, it wasn't easy...

I live in Winnipeg and ride a BMW R1200RT. My better half just did her Gearing Up course in the spring and rides an '08 F650GS.

I spend wayyyy too much time on another sport-touring oriented site, but I have a feeling I'll be spending just as much time here now that I've found this site.

[Uwe W.]

Hiya Haya. If you ride a BMW, why then the Suzuki moniker?

[Plain Peter P.]

Greetings H.,

> I have a feeling I'll be spending just as much time here now that I've found this site.<

And you will find yourself very welcome here. This is the site where you get about five hundred years of bike experience, freely shared, as well as the company of some really 'different' personalities. Politeness is required, like jackets and ties in an upscale eatery, but I myself am allowed to get away with a lot of horseshit.

Good on ya, H. The last time I had a BMW was about 1986; the thing rattled and shook just like a Britbike. I hear they have improved them.

[Hayabusa]

Hiya Haya. If you ride a BMW, why then the Suzuki moniker?

I traded an '04 'Busa in for the RT. Before the Hayabusa I rode a '99 1200 Bandit.

[TimP]

Hiya Haya. If you ride a BMW, why then the Suzuki moniker?

Uwe, Uwe, Uwe, (sigh!)

If you ever dragged your butt out of the bog (good column, by the way, I felt decades older after reading how much effort you put into your little mudfest. I immediately went and had a beer to sympathize and savour the after-column buzz. Thanks a lot!) you'd know more about the high-falutin' world of luxury sport-touring. Everybody who rides big, powerful, smooth, pampering mile-munchers knows the Hyabusa is really a BMW in disguise. Anyone who ever rode a Hyabusa and then aged a day or two would immediately begin to realize the wonders of the Bavarian marque.

Oh, sure, they may resist for a while by fooling themselves into youthful fantasy relationships with, I don't know, KTM's, for example, but eventually the pull becomes too great and they are welcomed into the fold. The switch from the Japanese variant to the authentic German is really quite simple, and no-one ever looks back, trust me.

I suggest you ditch that knobby-tired anchor and get your self a Hyabusa. You'll be riding a BMW in no time. :D

Hey, Hayabusa! Welcome aboard! I look forward to spending all day working through your posts! Question: I understand the Hayabusa moniker and the current R12RT ride, so what gives with the F800 Avatar? Thinking of a trade or a bigger garage?

[Hayabusa]

...Hey, Hayabusa! Welcome aboard! I look forward to spending all day working through your posts! Question: I understand the Hayabusa moniker and the current R12RT ride, so what gives with the F800 Avatar? Thinking of a trade or a bigger garage?

Well...I tried to contribute to the site but PayPal no worky (probably the firewalls at work) so I can only use the canned avatars.

I looked through them and it's the only Beemer avatar I could find. A guy I work with just bought a brand new F800ST so I have ridden one. So, there...that's my reasoning.

Oh...and the bike in the avatar is blue. Blus is the fastest colour!

[Malks]

Welcome to the site Hayabusa, you certainly wasted no time cranking up the post numbers. I do not recall ever seeing that many new posts pop up on this site!

[Uwe W.]

I suggest you ditch that knobby-tired anchor and get your self a Hyabusa. You'll be riding a BMW in no time. :D

What are you saying Tim? I've been trying to sell my Hayabusa all summer - talk about an anchor, that one feels like it is tied around my neck.

While I like BMW motorcycles a lot, I honestly can't afford one. Especially since it is the HP2 Sport that I would most like to see in my garage.

[TimP]

See? That's how it works.

Give in to the force, Uwe.

[bubba zanetti]

A quick hello from the Kootenays ... I mostly hang out at ST.N and ADV rider but will visit here now and then. Thanks for the forum !! :D

[Hayabusa]

Hey Bubba - good to see you here!

[Malks]

Hi Bubba, I recognize that handle from ST.N. Welcome to the site.

[sportbikecalgary]

A quick hello from the Kootenays ... I mostly hang out at ST.N and ADV rider but will visit here now and then. Thanks for the forum !! :D

Hey Bubba... welcome to the forum. We need more from the west to join in. How about posting some pics from the Borsht BBQ? How many showed up this year? On ST.N/Canada, I would be RedNeil. I make it to the Kootenays 3 or 4 times a year, but don't talk about it too much as the centrally located riders on here tend to get jealous. Short note... the folks in the maritimes tend to get twitchy when you start lumping them into the likes of Ontario and Quebec types. Like ST.N lots of riders and not many squidly types hang out here, it's quite comfy. :D

[TimP]

Well, I suppose it would be comfier if I knew what ST.N was. At the risk of appearing ridiculous, Could I ask you to enlighten me?

BTW, what to you mean "the likes of Ontario AND Quebec"??? It's getting kinda lumpy in here...

[sportbikecalgary]

Well, I suppose it would be comfier if I knew what ST.N was. At the risk of appearing ridiculous, Could I ask you to enlighten me?

BTW, what to you mean "the likes of Ontario AND Quebec"??? It's getting kinda lumpy in here...


From out here y'all look kind of ... eastern. :rolleyes:

ST.N is Sport Touring dot Net. (http://www.sport-touring.net/) and it's a great site offering advice for anyone that rides in a 'sporting manner.' Much like the CC forum, it tends to attract an older rider that has a few miles under the butt. You'd think it would be for ultraglides, wingnuts and ST-riders, but from what I can tell, if you have 2 wheels and a milk crate (or better) bungied to the back seat and ride with a modicum of awareness, you're welcome. It has sections grouped by geographic area and of course there's a "Canada (http://www.sport-touring.net/forums/index.php/board,34.0.html)" section.... like one section will do for our whole country... but it works :


Being sport touring types, the folks on there are pretty friendly and I've seem more than once, where a person planning a cross country trip is offered acommodation along the way in exchange for new motorcycle stories. Like any forum, each section has it's posters that stand out and Bubba is one of those for the Canada section as he hosts the Bubbas Beef and Borsht run each summer. It attracts folks from Sask, AB and BC along with a few northern states. Naturally the roads around Nelson andTrail are a great reason to go :D

[huron52]

Joined tonight....

Hello from the west coast of Ontario :D

[TimP]

Hey Huron52! Welcome aboard! Lots to chat about here, and you only have to post replies to 657 posts in your first two days to beat Hayabusa's "most-posts-for-a-newbie" record...

But seriously, with a handle like Huron52, and a location on the "West coast of Ontario", I'm confused. The west coast of Lake Huron is Michigan, and while there's a soggy mass of lakes up Kenora way, there's no, you know, coast. What gives?

And are you 52? (Sheesh, Kids!)

[bubba zanetti]

Thanks for the welcome. :)

Yes, I co host the Borscht, Burn and BBQ here in Castlegar with a few local riders. It was our third annual this year and had over 25 bikes.

We meet on Friday night at my house (The Borscht) meet, eat (borscht and sausages) and greet. Then Saturday morning we ride (The Burn) some of the best roads anywhere. Low traffic and low enforcement on fresh pavement. Yep !! Saturday night we go to another riders lovely property and cabin on Arrow Lake ( BBQ ).

Will host it again next year and IF folks are nice to me here, I just may post an invite. Lots of fun !!!

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d1/JimFisher1956/indexphp-1-2.png
We have the best ride logo anywhere !!

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d1/JimFisher1956/DSC04303_edited.jpg

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d1/JimFisher1956/DSC02251.jpg

[Kootenanny]

OK, I'm here. Had some issues getting registered (us Buell owners are always discriminated against :rolleyes: ) but finally got that sorted out. Hopefully this'll be a good place to hang with some Canajan riders--guys who won't be rubbing it in that they're riding in December, and who know what a toque is.


Hey Bubba, nice pics--especially that last one! (looks a bit familiar :D )



I make it to the Kootenays 3 or 4 times a year, but don't talk about it too much as the centrally located riders on here tend to get jealous.
I guess those of us who live here should be very quiet then, eh?


http://mywebpage.netscape.com/paddleratcan/MC+road+pics/2+June+07+0007.jpg

[GeländeStraße]

Another new guy here. Been reading the mag for a while now, and I need to say one thing-Cycle Canada holds an incredible pool of real writing talent, which is odd for a motorcycle magazine. Neil Graham in particular stands out in my mind as very talented. I'm looking at bikes right now, so no bike checks yet from me...

[Pete Z]

I'm baaaaaack - and just as opinionated as ever. :p

[HudsonRT]

Hello to all. Was going to do what Tim discribed and decided to stay and register. Looking forward to getting into some of the discussion groups.

[TimP]

Welcome! Glad you could join us. It's a bit quiet around here right now, everyone's too busy putting machines to bed for the winter, I suppose, and being here just reminds them how long it's going to be before the next ride.

Tell me about your moniker. Hudson as in Hornet, Quebec or River? RT, I assume, refers to your BMW. Tell us about your self if you like.

[Ivor biggin]

One each for everyone who has registered on the forum and, as of yet, still not posted.
A special welcome though to Bradzrx. who registered on 08-24-08. Bradzrx is a real estate appraiser who has enjoyed motorcycling since the he was six years old and owns a Kawi1200R, a YamZY250F and a Ducati 1098. Living in Bedford, Nova Scotia he is interested in bikes, skiing, house/renovation, snowmobiles and plotting his return to the rock.
What the hell Bradzrx I want to know what sort of pipes you have on that 1098.:mad:
I.B.

[leomark]

All though I now live in Los Angeles, I have lived in both Calgary and Vancouver and I feel a certain bond with my Canadian friends.

Me and my buddy have been filming the bike world in SoCal for almost 2 years and we met Eric Pritchard from Montreal at Willow Springs during Corsa Classica, the biggest vintage race in the west.
He broke his front wheel during practice but his pit neighbor lend him another wheel, pretty nice.

Anyway, just saying hello.

[Ancient Priest]

From as far away as California, you probably qualify for the Farthest Poster Away award. This is a distinction awarded annually here, and entitles you to as many outrageous opiniions (short of saying F--- Christmas!) as you can post in a slow season when nobody is paying close attention.

You have lived in Calgary and in Vancouver, so you have paid your dues. Your Birkenstocks are working okay where you are right now? I hope and trust....

What is your opinion of snow, Canadian Government, and the forthcoming economic squeeze?

Don't make this a one-shot visit. We in the True North Strong and Free need you to tell us about the outside world. Post us some pictures, will ya?

[Kanadian Ken]

Hey kids....

Living in Halton Hills, Ontario - and right now have an 02 VFR 800 sitting in the garage waiting for the road spooge to clear.

Going to poke around here a bit, see what trouble I can get into.

Cheers!
Ken

[Dennis The Menace]

Hey kids....

Living in Halton Hills, Ontario - and right now have an 02 VFR 800 sitting in the garage waiting for the road spooge to clear.

Going to poke around here a bit, see what trouble I can get into.

Cheers!
Ken

What is a V F R?

[Kanadian Ken]

Mr. Dennis - do I know you?





:rolleyes:

Geez - it seems they'll let ANYONE into this forum.....:D

[Dennis The Menace]

Geez - it seems they'll let ANYONE on this forum.....:D

Yes they will......shhh.

Don't blow my cover.

[Borgnine]

Should have introduced myself. Pardon my bad form:D
Out here in Vancouver---got back into biking after many years away from it. Bought an '05 650 Suzuki Bandit last July. I love that bike!

This is my second post on the forum....the first one was bitching about my Cycle Canada subscription...

[TimP]

Welcome aboard! Don't think twice about that bitching thing. You'd be surprised how many come here for that and stick around once they get to know the crowd.

Actually, the crowd is pretty thin right now. I think everyone must be out prepping their bikes. Uwe will look after your subscription. He's a gem.

[gfab]

hi all,
i'm a newbie so i'll give a quick intro.
i live in ottawa and currently ride a suzuki sv1000 (had a zx12 -- which was stolen and i still miss at times -- an '87 zx750 and i started out on an xt350). use my bike for the daily commute but definitely want to get out for some 2-3 day trips this summer (been difficult with child/family obligations).

look forward to participating when i can.

greg

[TimP]

Hey, Greg, nice roads around Ottawa. Get up into the Gatineau Hills much?

[gfab]

hey timp,
yeah there are some good ones. haven't been through the gats in a while. but last season i've done a few nice rides out along #2 through prescott, brockville and up to shannonville. also, 17 through perth then through westport and old kingston 10 through k-town and to shannonville (is there a bit of a trend there....? :) there is also the famous 'calbogie boogie' i've done a few times.
unfortunately, rides are often limited to commuting due to family obligations. but, i've got some route ideas for this season that i'm looking forward to (and they don't all lead to shannonville) lol

do you have any favorite routes?

[TimP]

I do. I love #10. Next time you're in Westport try #36 north through Bolingbroke to Maberley, then take Hwy. 7 West to 509 North, through Ompah and Plevna, then back South to 7 again (what I affectionately call the Plevna Loop) and back East to Maberley. Stop at the Fall River Inn and treat yourself to a snack before you head home.

I'm not familiar with the "calabogie boogie", though. What route does that take?

[gfab]

the 'boogie' is along 508 through calabogie out to griffith then back along the 41 to renfrew.
here's the address for a site called 'great ontario bike roads'. it has several routes (and maps) in all regions of ontario including the 'boogie':

http://bikeroads.atspace.com/

if you have trouble with this address (though i tried it and it worked) you can search 'great ontario bike roads'.

[TimP]

Thanks for the link, which did work.

Now I've got even more roads and even less time...

[gfab]

sorry..... :-)

[Hawkmeister]

Oh Im sorry. Was I supposed to post here first. Anyway Im the Hawkmeister and I have 2 Hawks 3 ducs and hopefully a goose or two one day. I live on the wet coast, been riding since January, well for 2009 anyway. My wife and I are avid riders hoping to tour down to Wendover Utah this August for a few days of sun and salt. Both of us have been riding since the 70s and one day maybe even write about our travels. We Toured BC, Yukon and Alaska for our honeymoon last summer however we didnt quite see it all. So I guess we will just have to go again. I do enjoy cult bikes and classics, not really into the 600-1000cc race rockets, much more at home on 750 and under twins on Hwy 28 out here on Canadas big Island...

[Caper]

Good day folks. This is my first post on the boards so first of all, hello from the east coast. I've been a rider for twenty five years starting on a Honda Mini Trail 70(man, I loved that bike!) and currently ride a 2009 HD Ultra Classic. I'm one of the weirdo's that keeps all of the back issues of CC including the ones I "borrowed" from the high school library! One of, if not my biggest thrill was having an email posted in Reader's Write in the May '09 issue. It's like being in the Bible!

[TimP]

A CT70 and CC in the library at school? I'm jealous! Or I would be if I was 12 again. School down east must be sweet. Maybe that's why my son refuses to graduate from Dal...

[VIslowpoke]

Caper,

My dad dragged a 50cc Honda mini bike out of the ditch in Burlngton about 15 years ago. I got it running one tme when I was back there. It was a hoot buzzing up and down his 800 foot driveway and doing power slides in the gravel at the end.

More fun than I would have guessed. But he spoiled it by welding on a cross bar to the bottom of the frame with two outrigger wheels and using it to pull his lawnmower!?!

Anyway hello Forum. I guess I am still a newbie even though many of my posts seem to be the last word on the threads I commented on.

I am on Vancouver Island in Esquimalt, riding a 01 Triumph Bonneville year round, which I bought 2nd hand after seeing the review in CC. This followed my beginner bike (74 Honda CB360).

Anyone interested in the good roads between here, Port Renfrew and Chemainus, let me know and we'll get a ride organized. I am wanting to do the Victoria, Port Renfrew, Lake Cowichan loop sometime, with detours onto the twisties in the Cowichan Valley. The good weather is here, lets ride!

[TimP]

Anyone interested in the good roads between here, Port Renfrew and Chemainus, let me know and we'll get a ride organized.

I would have two years ago when I was last on the island, but at the time I was in a rental Buick. Not the best in the twisties.

If you happen to be between Chemainus and Nanaimo, go into the Crow and Gate and hoist something dark for me, will you?

Ta much.

[Caper]

A CT70 and CC in the library at school? I'm jealous! Or I would be if I was 12 again. School down east must be sweet. Maybe that's why my son refuses to graduate from Dal...
As long as Dad's paying the bills and a new group of young ladies show up each year can you blame him!:)

[bradwilson55]

Hii All

I am Brad Wilson Here,
New to this forum,just joined.
I am a health expert by profession,researching on various health related things ,products,issues,etc..
Also i am have great involvement in the discussions and making ma friends networks...

please feel free to share your views....

with regrads,

Brad wilson

[sportbikecalgary]

wellll... this should be a good place to study the effects of long term addiction.

[hixmistian]

wellll... this should be a good place to study the effects of long term addiction.

It's not an addiction, I'm not an addict. I can quit any time I want. In fact I'm going to, right after one more ride, I mean bike. Umm, I mean, well I'll just cut back for now, the odd rip now and then...

I think I need to go to the..uhh...donut shop, yeah that's it. Back in a bit. byee

[VIslowpoke]

I have to say, this isn't a heavily visited forum. Given that the posts I've made are more often than not the final word on whatever the thread topic is, you either acknowledge my expertise in most things and therefore have accepted my opinion as above reproach or argument, or you're just not there.

Maybe I should be out riding.

[TimP]

Actually, it's that we're not worthy. :D

True, we don't get the usual seven-word, rapid-fire posts prevalent on most of the other forums (fora?) that I visit, but somehow the group here holds my interest. By all means, ride as much as you can. It's better than surfing drivel any day. But don't be put off by the slow pace around here. I like to think it's inversely proportional to our on-bike pace...

[VIslowpoke]

TimP, Thank you for the suggestion.I will check it out on my next buzz up Island. My local favourites (Garricks Head and Swans Brewpub in Victoria) will have to do for now since Chemainus / Nanaimo is a bit out of my daily realm.

The local IPA's, bitters, dark lagers, reds and nut browns are definitely worth hoisting and I will be doing exactly that on Friday.

I was saying the other day while downing a Phillips Phoenix over a plate of Ackee and Saltfish at the Reef (Jamaican restaurant on Yates) that we are not only spoiled by 355 days of riding a year, (obligatory 10 days off due to ice and snow (stretched to 20 ridiculously long (though short because it was winter) days this year due to some freakish offshore weather system and a bleeding Arctic Front dumping some -5C degree weather on us at Christmas, white christmas be damned, I wanted to go canoeing), I almost cancelled my bike insurance after 7 days of the torture but then the sun came out and in three days the roads were clear and the grass was growing again.), BUT, Victoria also boasts some of the finest cottage brewerys in Canada. I try to get good beer when I visit the folks in Burlington ON. And I don't care what anyone says, Sleemans all tastes skunky to me. It is all pissy lagers and gassy ales. An ex pat british colleague agreed with me. Swans Brewpub Buckerfield Bitter is as smooth and malty / nutty an English style bitter as you are likely to find. And I have to say, since I started brewing my own IPA and Double IPA at the local Bedford Brewery (you brew place 5 minutes walk from my house). I don't think I'll be able to leave here any more, even to pay a twice annual visit to my former home.

Sorry to brag but you could all consider this an invitation to sample our fine weather, awsome roads and supreme beers (though maybe not at the same time). Available all year round on Vancouver Island.

And lets not even get started on the food.

[hilary clinton]

Thanks for filling in for me while I was temporarily incapacitated, Uwe, "I have always relied upon the kindness of strangers." (just for you, although I have no idea why you always notice the gender-bends :D - Note recently mandated BigginDot).

Hey, Battleax! I almost bought a '98 VFR when I was last shopping for a sportier ride (can't believe it was a decade ago!) I ended up being seduced by a VTR instead, but that V-four is certainly one sweet motor. My only disappointment was with the bars, so I installed a set of Helibars and, wouldn't you know it, it now feels more like a VFR...

As for the local animals, Uwe's exaggerating. All bark, no bite. Usually.

But enough about Uwe, whose disastrous Moto GP weekend has seen his lead in our pool shrink to a mere 19 points, so he's understandably a bit raw right now.

Tell me about the roads around Ottawa. I grew up there but never owned a bike until long after I left. I do ride regularly around Westport (CR36 to Maberley is a favourite). Where do you usually ride?

Thanks for your idea, very interesting :eek:
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[greeneggsnoham]

Heya,

Based in Montreal. Currently riding a 06 Mean streak, although finances permitting I might size down to an F650GS in the near future. I like the mean streak (95 foot pounds of torque at 2750rpm is something to experience), but the bike weighs almost 5 times as much as I do, and parking it is a work out.

I started subscribing to CC a year ago, and have devoured each issue. The only request I have would be to have more advertising from Fire Gloves :p

[craigq]

Hi,

Craig from Ottawa, one of my friends gave me a CC subscription as a gift, I liked it, so I recently renewed for two more years.

I've been riding since 2004:
1. 2004 ZZR250 traded in for:
2. 2007 CBR125R (still have as a daily commuter, cheap insurance, cheap parts, cheap fuel costs)
3. 2008 S40 traded in for
4. 2009 WR250R (learning to appreciate the gravel/dirt roads and just how dangerous wet mud is with no off-road experience).

If I keep this trend of a bike per year SWMBO is going to get vocal...

[KZDon]

Welcome to the ranch. I think it's time for you to do a track day or an off-road course.

have some fun

[TimP]

If I keep this trend of a bike per year SWMBO is going to get vocal...

Yes, but the garage to hold the bike-a-year will be so big you won't hear her.

Welcome to the forum!

[TimP]

I might size down to an F650GS in the near future. I like the mean streak (95 foot pounds of torque at 2750rpm is something to experience), but the bike weighs almost 5 times as much as I do, and parking it is a work out. :p

Have a look at Neil's 800R video linked to elsewhere here. Possibly more nimble than the F650, well-equipped, as likely to hold its value... I like what I see.

Welcome to the forum!

[Caper]

Welcome to the forum!

[tsilliker]

Thane Silliker here. Long time reader. My name has also appeared in the mag a time or two.

Just finished riding the 2009 Iron Butt rally with my highly experienced 1998 Honda ST1100. Third time for both of us. Below are pics from earlier this year when the ST rolled over to 400,000 kms. It currently sits at 430,000 kms.


http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/tsilliker/ST1100/fourhundred-3.jpg


http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/tsilliker/ST1100/fourhundred-2.jpg

[Caper]

So I assume you'll be a regular contributor to the "ride" section! Welcome to the forum. I've always enjoyed your articles in the mag and remember your test of the ST1300 when it came out. Good to see your still riding the 1100.

[yzf1000jon]

Just found the forum and now anticipate more grief from the spousal unit. There's an interesting grouping of riders on here, but representation from Alberta seems sparse, so I'll do my best. I've ridden both long and far, but usually not slow, and am always up for more ideas on fun roads. The last few years road trips have taken a back seat to fast laps (relatively speaking of course), but one must get their giggles somehow. Hey Thane, I'm sure I met you a couple times participating in one of four AB2K's from 96-99. I was one of the few twits trying it on a sportbike each time, good to see one of us has come to our senses!;)

[Dave James]

Hello all,

I finally broke down and signed up to the forum here.
I'm a long time CC reader and have been involved with many aspects of the sport both on and off road over the years. I do a bit of sport touring with my 2002 Yamaha FZ1 and some dualsport and more hardcore trail riding with my KTM 525.

Trials, enduro, ice racing and some desert riding over the years as well. Did the roadrace schools and some track time but too expensive. Oh yeah...I'm cheap too! ;)

Dave

[PEIKIM]

Hello from the East coast....I'm a newbie to this form so going to surf for a while....So far so good.

Currently riding a 2008 DL650 VStrom. It sure does a lot of things right....

Cheers everyone.

[Caper]

Welcome to the forum from another east coaster.

[denialdesosa]

Hi everyone,

I am denialdesosa and this is my first forum entry here.. Since I am new to forum community and I feel I am in midst of my own learning curve. I feel sometimes, that I have to learn a lot, hope you guys have patient on me.Thank you for sharing the post.

[yzf1000jon]

Welcome, and remember, we'll probably poke a lot of fun for silly questions. Only because someone did the same to us at one time. Get some bike pics up!

[Viffer]

Love the Magazine found site thought if magazine is great site will be ...
Hello all. :D
Oh that is a Motorcycle Addict.... Nothing Bad....:eek:

[Ivor biggin]

Hi viffer and welcome to the forum. No need to ask what your riding.
I.B.

[motrhead]

Hi,
My name is Dean, I'm in the South Okanagan/Similkameen area, and I've been riding for thirty-plus years. Twenty of those years were on a CX650Eurosport, and I spent a while on an Ascot FT500. Now I have the RZ350 I have always lusted after, a naked GL1100, and an 82 Seca 650. I hope to add an older FZ Yamaha one of these days (unless I trip over a cheap K-bike first).
I do recognise a few names from STN and ADVRider, and some from the pages of Cycle Canada (which I have been reading since the mid-80s).
I spent quite a few years in the Kootenays enjoying all of those legendary roads (before many other riders had discovered them), but luckily we have roads just as good around here, and most of our great roads haven't been overrun by the slow pokes yet :D

[snowman]

Greetings from the Northwest Territories. New to this site, just joined today. Looking forward to participating in discussions and sharing with other Canadian riders. Still shaping the profile and personal information, will have it up in a couple of days. Currently ride a 2003 Suzuki 2003 SV1000S, riding since 1986.

[TimP]

Hello, snowman! I think you just might be our most Northerly contributor. Google Maps indicates you have, um, one road (?) in Fort Liard. Is the SV to be found screaming up and down #7 or is she berthed somewhere else? Never having ridden North of Superior (I know, I know, I don't get out much) this kind of riding is rather mysterious.

What's it like up there?

[snowman]

TimP-to answer your question. Trailer the bike to the NT/BC border on Highway 7-the border is 38 kms away. At this point the road turns into Highway 77 (BC). Head to Ft. Nelson then either south towards Ft. St. John or west on Alaska Highway towards Yukon/Northeast BC. We do get quite a few riders come right through but mostly on adventure bikes, some touring rigs when the road is dry and solid (but very dusty)

[yzf1000jon]

Welcome! I guess now I have to stop whining about Edmonton winters:rolleyes:! If you're ever down this way let me know, come check out the local races and we'll find a comfy bunk for ya!

[santa]

Hi there. I'm new to the forums but not to bikes. I've been riding and wrenching in excess of 50 years.
I still enjoy riding and do most of my own maintenance.
My current ride is a 1979 Harley FLH. I completly restored it last year including lower end with new crank cases.
Although it was restored it still has the original paint.

[Rocking Couple]

welcome santa

I've heard that paint quality is one of Harley's strong suits. But I didn't know it was even back in 79.
There is a section here: http://www.passionperformance.ca/community/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=13 for posting pics of your bike, so post one up when you get a chance.

[yzf1000jon]

OOOH a Harley guy, hope you have thick skin, we pick on everyones bikes in here, Harleys just seem to get it more often;)

[santa]

OOOH a Harley guy, hope you have thick skin, we pick on everyones bikes in here, Harleys just seem to get it more often;)

Thats one thing I have "old thick skin".:)

[emanuelchirot]

hello, hello!i am Emanuel and i am from Romania, i just want to congratulate you for this site, i am glad i found you, there are many interesting posts here!
i'll be back soon!

[YZF750Rrrrrr]

hey, just thought i'd drop a 'hello' post. been riding, hmm...since '98, off & on, & had a variety of bikes. with the wife expecting in a couple months with our first, i was leaning towards 'having' to sell my baby, but then i realized that if i did, the chances i'd be getting back on a bike before i was 50 were somewhat remote. so, screw it, the bike stays. i guess i'll just have to cut down on the speed a bit...

ps - i'm not exactly new to the 'net, or forums for that matter, but i can't seem to post images that aren't URL's. do you have to be a 'forum supporter' to post pics from your own documents?

[Rockwall]

Hi from the big town on the big rock off of the left coast.

Long time Cycle Canada reader, newbie to the forum. I think Neil should keep up the fantastic writing, Uwe should keep his pants on, and CC needs a "Workshop" and "Technical Riding" section. Not to mention other mags ('cept this once, I guess), but I picked up a few issues of Visordown from the UK, and that's an example of what a motorcycle mag should be.

Just got a Triumph Street Triple, and love the thing to bits. I'm probably out riding, so may not poke around here much, but I'd thought I'd say hello anyway.

Cheers!

[yzf1000jon]

Get some pictures up, and quit rubbing it in!;)

[Rockwall]

K. Sorry it's in my garage.... and I'm a lousy photographer even when I'm not using my phone...

I've added a few mods since; some TechSpecs tank pads, BG Racing sliders, but generally the bike looks like this:

http://i935.photobucket.com/albums/ad199/rockwall/IMG_0203.jpg


And it's a real hoot! :D

[yzf1000jon]

Nice touch on the mirrors, look like Rizoma? That would be a weapon in the twisties, like over to Gold River!:)

[Rockwall]

Thanks. They were the first mod done - before I drove it home, even (them and tires). The stockers are ugly, and I find I can see better with these little guys (less elbow, more road!) And actually, they're out of the Triumph accessory catalogue, but they look identical to something Rizoma offers. Just about 1/3rd the price. Win Win!

Haven't made the run to Gold River (yet). But it's on my list, for sure.

[yzf1000jon]

It's more fun than the road to Ucluelet due to the lack of traffic and longer distance covered, rated well in the Destination Highways BC book.

[Ivor biggin]

Hi fast Eva, you wouldn`t be related to fast Mable would you? I used to go out with her till my mom put a stop to it.
I.B.

[PhlyinPhil]

That's me.

Bikeless at the moment living in Vancouver BC.

1981 Honda XL 100 had for 1 week 2nd year of University in AZ 1987
1987 YSR50 Sep 87 till stolen Nov 87 weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!
198? GPZ 550 (the one with the digital fuel guage on the tank) Jan 88 Jun 88
1998 Bandit 600 bought new sold 2001
200? EX 500 Ninja (Black with red) 2005-2006

[rjames]

james here..

I don't have a motorbike because i sold mine.. i want to upgrade my bike still searching that would be a recommendable. :)

[yzf1000jon]

What kind of riding and budget are you looking at?

[motrhead]

i will be classed as a new rider even though I am 45 first rode a bike in the 80s - anyone got any leads on decent insurance companies that dont believe every biker wants to ride like Barry Sheene ( see i am old )
_____________________


Just wait a cotton pickin' minute...I'm 45 and I am not old, and I'm still trying to ride like Barry Sheene, same as I have been for the last twenty-odd years! So speak for yourself slow guy :D ;)
Good luck with the insurance thing...Ontario insurance hasn't changed a bit since I lived out there 25 years ago. It still costs more than the cost of a bike for an new rider to get insurance. As much as I hate the idea of our ICBC mandatory insurance...it's still better than the Ontario BS.

[Laker]

Just wait a cotton pickin' minute...I'm 45 and I am not old, and I'm still trying to ride like Barry Sheene, same as I have been for the last twenty-odd years! So speak for yourself slow guy :D ;)
Good luck with the insurance thing...Ontario insurance hasn't changed a bit since I lived out there 25 years ago. It still costs more than the cost of a bike for an new rider to get insurance. As much as I hate the idea of our ICBC mandatory insurance...it's still better than the Ontario BS.

It`s O.K. motrhead they already shitcanned Mr. daviidwilson for a blatant spamming infraction. Oh and 45 isn`t old unless your expecting to see a fair deal from the insurance companies before you croak.

[gbob929]

Glenn here in Amherstburg (very southern Ontario)
Posting as gbob929. Still learning all this forum stuff.
Posed a few days ago in tech, looking for some help with suspension
rebuilders. Got a few good tips. Thanks

[Caper]

Welcome from the east coast.

[zzrcanuck]

Hi everyone, name's Dave and used to post on the forum as davek.
The forum kinda disappeared and now I see it's back all modernized and pretty so I signed up again.
I ride a 2003 zzr600/zx6e and am from the greater Barrie area :D
Cheers
Dave

[Caper]

Welcome back.

[Viffer]

"I ride a 2003 zzr600/zx6e and am from the greater Barrie area"

All I ask is keep all the snow there k????:p
Glad your Back..
Paul

[don lovering]

hello guys i have been riding since 1964 i was in the first class of motocycle mechanics in ontario mike duff (michelle) was our teacher iwas lucky enough to watch hailwood beat agostini at mosport duff was 3rd on a single cyl arter matchless i will try to list some of the bikes i have owned

1964 honda cub stepthru 50
1965 honda 150 benely
1968 kawasaki 250 samuri
1973 yamaha tx 750
1972 kawasaki 500
? suzuki 500
1972 suzuki ts 125 with atm 125 cyl piston head & pipe
1973 cb 750
1980 kawasaki kz 750
1980 canam qualifier
1984 5 6 yamaha venture royale
1987 kawasaki voyageur
1980 kawasaki 650 (restoration)
1980 virago 750(restoration)
2001 yamaha vstar 1100

[msbikes]

i am new to this forum so please be kind
i have been a rider for 43 years
i do my own repairs and maintenance
my current bike is a 1992 750ss ducati
i also have in back up an 82 gpz750 kawi,83 gpz1000r kawi and a 77 tt500 yamaha
i live in northern ontario just out side of sudbury

[Caper]

Welcome to the boards from the east coast to both of you. Between the both of you you've got an impressive list of past rides and hopefully stories to go with them.

[joemwm]

hello all. Just about too start ( hopefully-17 here) my 2nd season this year.
I have been spending my time reading about motorcycles instead of riding. I almost got the mistress ready to go for spring. there is a set of driving lights on back order:rolleyes: oh well. Are we there yet??:confused:

[msbikes]

YO CASPER
just got myself back here and would like to know the difference between
biker and motorcyclist so that i can teld if you dist me or not.
so how about it .
both ride both can and will fall so tell me the difference oh YODA.
msbikes

[Caper]

No offence intended msbikes. I'm simply saying that I personally don't enjoy pretending to be a "badass biker" on weekends at the donut shop but I do enjoy motorcycling whenever and wherever I can. Of course this is my opinion only. It's Caper by the way, as in Cape Breton and once again I'm happy to have someone with your experience join the boards and as I said I hope you'll share your experiences with the rest of us.

[yzf1000jon]

Biker=black leather vest and assless chaps sitting in the bar while the bike shines out front.

Motorcyclist=rarely seen as they are usually on the road less travelled.

;):D

[msbikes]

yo caper
sorry about the bad typing
nothing ment by it
i guess i am not a biker as i dont drink it cuts in on my riding time .
just go my baby running to day sounds good fells good
msbikes

[Caper]

Nice! Did you post any pics of it yet in the readers ride section?

[msbikes]

if i could figure out how to i would

[Caper]

I'd try and explain it but honestly I'm not too sure either. I'm sure one of the more computer savy people on here can explain it to you better than I could.

[Battleax]

if i could figure out how to i would

First step is to get the image on the web somewhere (photo sharing site, facebook, etc.). Once that's done and you are viewing it in your web browser you can copy the web address.

Then when composing a message here on the forum there is a button at the top of the window that allows you to insert the web address for the image.

Or just get it on the web and let us know where it is.

[garethfrith1]

Hello Everyone...

Just joined here and hope to learn from you guys!

[Caper]

Welcome!

[GR650]

Hey all just bought my first bike in twenty years, and really am wondering what the hell I was thinking all that time. Picked up a 1983 Suzuki GR650 Tempter and I love it! Anyway Shout out to my fellows from Beautiful BC where we can ride all year ;)

[TimP]

am wondering what the hell I was thinking all that time.

I'm guessing family, mortgage, work, you know, all the stuff that gets in the way of riding.

Welcome back, but go easy on the "'year-round BC biking" jazz. Those of us elsewhere - even Tropical Toronto - get a touch edgy when the late-January "Hey I just did 500 miles in my shorts!" gloating starts.

[GR650]

Well of course we do like to talk about it, but I still remember pulling my RZ350 out of storage once in Edmonton in January, because the roads were bare. That two stroke sure didn't like January in Alberta LOL.

[TimP]

Much better! Your post has that "Gee, I'm a dedicated biker and, well, I tried." aspect without the taint of actual success that would have had some of us wishing we could gnash our teeth if only they would stop chattering.

Anyway, no snow here now so carry on.

[350 Sebring]

OK, OK, I will post something, its good to learn new things right? My wife and I recently went to Holland and Italy in May and...now the money is gone. I did not get to ride there but snapped a pic of every bike or scooter I could. Plus we toured the Ducati factory, wait for it, the morning they were on strike. Some were just getting back to it while others were dragging their feet.

I even spotted a 1960 Moto Guzzi 500 ( horizontal single ) in Montecatini Terme with sidecar in what looked like it's original paint. It ran beautifully and idled ever so slowly. Once I figure out how to post a picture...

Bob aka 350 Sebring

[Smiley]

Welcome. Let's see some of those photos!

[cheeefwiggum]

Excellent forum!
I'm a scooter/motorcycle guy from Manitoba.
Have been for 25 years now. I have owned old japanese bikes and new american models. My passion has recently joined the path of scooters.
My current ride is a Ruckus and the fun I get from scootin' around town is immense. I still long for something a bit bigger,yet at this point in my riding life,it's not needed. Perhaps a T-max......:rolleyes:

[ducati14]

I am riding a Suzukie 65o Executive - it'll easily do 160 - i got it because the insurance for my 78 Honda CB400A was $1,250; now because the Suzuki is a step through scooter(with a much bigger mill), the insurance is only$650! That is the mentality of Manitoba Public Insurance Corp.

My trajectory was an 80 kawasaki that seized up at 33 mph til it cooled off - to a Ducait 160 Junior Monza - muy excelente - to a '76 750 Automatic by Honda whose mirrors would clear the vibes at 73 mph - to a 78 400A to a Pacific Coast 800 - swift and still in the garage - to my current scooter. Yeehaa!

[ducati14]

Wise budget conscious riders in Manitoba are switching to scooters because:

motorcycle - CB400A - $1250 per year
scooter - 650 Burgman - $650 per year

and, anyways, haven't you always wanted to try a xcooter ...

You need to know that we have MPIC - a crown corporation as the only game in town.

[alexasan27]

hi guys,im newbie in this forum and im glad to be here.





check this outaed battery (http://www.aedlifepower.com/aed-batteries.html)

[grendel]

Well, I'm at mid-life crisis point, I suppose. (lol)

When I was a teenager, I rode around on dirt bikes, but it was nothing serious. Now, though, nearly 25 years later, here I am pushing to get back onto a motorcycle. I'm seriously excited, and I've been actively researching and planning over the last 1.5 years. I'm not sure which bike I'll end up with just yet. My only real criteria at this point is that I prefer standard/naked bikes, and in the 400cc-500cc range - otherwise, my options are open, although whichever bike I opt for, the 500cc limit is non-negotiable for my first bike (Manitoba Public Insurance rates increase dramatically once you pass 500ccs).

I've already acquired my helmet (full face) and jacket. I'm casually shopping for boots and gloves that I like. I recently passed the written test for my motorcycle endorsement, and I'll be taking the Manitoba version of the MSF course pretty soon to complete the endorsement requirements. At that point, I'll start shopping in earnest for the bike itself. Come Spring, I should be ready to start riding!

See y'all in the threads!

[Laker]

Come Spring, I should be ready to start riding!

Welcom on board grendel and please don`t wait `till spring before sharing your views.

[grendel]

Welcom on board grendel and please don`t wait `till spring before sharing your views.

No worries there... this seems like a pretty good forum so far. :cool:

[yzf1000jon]

If you're looking to buy through a dealer, new or used, Christmas time is before most of the bike shows and new inventory. Dealers are willing to haggle to move last years or older stock. Spring hits and the prices will go back up. So if you can stand spending the last half of winter sitting in your garage on your new bike making vroom vroom noises, spring will be that much sweeter.

[Caper]

Welcome to the form from the east coast and welcome back to riding.

[350 Sebring]

Folks

I promised a while back to jump in and post some pictures of a Guzzi 500 one lunger and sidehack in Italy and other goodies. I never did figure out how to insert pictures. I am new to posting on any forum. I know how to e-mail pictures fine. Why is it so awkward to post pics here? Educate me. I tried the FAQ.
Confused.

[dman01]

Folks
Why is it so awkward to post pics here? Educate me. I tried the FAQ.
Confused.

Unfortunately, you can't upload pictures directly to the forum. They have to be uploaded/stored on a photo album site like Image shack, Flickr, Picassa or even Facebook first and then you can post them here by inserting the image's url in your post. Click on the "insert image" button in the menu when writing your post and a pop up will ask you to input the image url.

Hope to see some pics soon!

[350 Sebring]

Thanks to Derrick you might, If I have this URL right you may see a picture here taken of a Guzzi 500 sidehack in Italy earlier this season. Lets see how it goes. The learning curve is a steep road.

Bob

https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/2kquOgWa_4n-l1f061jIuDzmY2Mjt-jdh6_MQ8_jeF0?feat=directlink

[350 Sebring]

Your patience is appreciated.


https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/2kquOgWa_4n-l1f061jIuDzmY2Mjt-jdh6_MQ8_jeF0?feat=directlink

Bob

[dman01]

Your patience is appreciated.


https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/2kquOgWa_4n-l1f061jIuDzmY2Mjt-jdh6_MQ8_jeF0?feat=directlink

Bob

Bob you're using a link to the photo on Picassa instead of the photo's url, which I've used so that the image appears in the post, like this.https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-4Y59RuyZ_3I/TfJMmplVejI/AAAAAAAAA_w/QdjUm6ZeV40/s640/IMG_3618.JPG

[yzf1000jon]

I use photobucket and just copy and paste the IMG link to here, is that wrong? even if it works?

Is this just an excuse to post a pic of Me? :p

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v639/yzf1000jon/Turn5.jpg

[dman01]

I use photobucket and just copy and paste the IMG link to here, is that wrong? even if it works?


Not at all. Obviously it works fine, but I know with Picassa you have the option of choosing a url that links to your photo on their site or getting the url that embeds the picture on your own website, blog, forum etc.

[350 Sebring]

Well, finally the infamous Guzzi sidehack picture made it on the page. Thanks Derrick.

If anyone wants to click on the picassa url I sent earlier and click on "Motorcycles in Holland and Italy" there are more bikes to see from this past spring's trip. We managed a trip to the Ducati factory where the workers choose that time to go on a mini-strike for the morning! We did get to see some final assembly and testing of a Diavel's: brakes, lights, electronics, clutch, transmission and engine on the rolling road.

The other plus was the museum which had all Ducati's milestone bikes. The young tour guide did an exceptional job. I was especially interested in a nicely restored yellow and chrome 70's 450 Scrambler. Unlike my sad 450 awaiting revival in the shed. Maybe this winter.

Bob

[bunky]

Hello,
Have been riding for a couple of years and have decided to move up.
Am very interested in the Yammy fjr1300 and just wondered if anyone has personal info on this ride.
Good or bad and because of budget restraints ($10k tx included)will be looking for an older model.
Thanks in advance.

[YellowDuck]

No personal experience but the only copmlaint I recall from all of the reviews was substandard engine heat management on the original one, such that the rider got roasted a bit. Sure you have already seen that in the online reviews. Other than that it seems like an awesome ST bike.

[yzf1000jon]

I've seen an FJR at the local shop getting the valves checked and at 80,000kms (second service) they were still in spec. Oil changes are wonderfully easy on the bike too. So it's a mechanically sound machine. Right now I could use a little engine heat to keep my knees warm!;)

[bunky]

I did hear about the heat, but from my perspective, getting some heat during the early and late months of riding, seems to be a reasonable tradeoff. I guess I just wont stop moving in the summer months.
Thanks for your feedback.

[angelocardoc]

Hi

Just got back into riding after a 15 year hiatus.:)

[yzf1000jon]

welcome
You're located in the Northern Lights? :confused:

[angelocardoc]

Aurora Ont.

[yzf1000jon]

I see, I was wondering why it was spelled wrong, why the hiatus and what are you riding now?

[angelocardoc]

My first bike was an 84' Honda Nighthawk 450, way back in 1989. I had a lot of fun with it. (Everything was fun back then) I then bought an 85' Yamaha Virago 1000. Nice cruiser, very comfortable. One night a friend and I were riding and he wiped out in front of me. Shortly after that I sold the Yami and didn't ride sine then. My friends accident kind of freaked me out.
Then, for some strange reason, I got the urge to ride.
I didn't want a cruiser this time around. I wanted something that was light and flickable, and had an upright riding position. I was looking at starter bikes, GSX650F, FZ6, Ninja 650, EX500 and GS500F. Price was the leading reason why I picked up an 07' GS500F. Cheap to buy, cheap on insurance, looks pretty good and has an upright riding position. Now that I've put about 6k on it, I think I need to step up. I’m really liking the 1250 Bandit SEA and the FJR. Not sure if all that power will just get me into trouble.

[yzf1000jon]

For the same reasons the GS was a good choice the Bandit would be a fantastic choice. Cheaper and lighter than the FJR, cheaper to insure and easier to maintain. (and I'm wearing a yamaha shirt right now) Lot's of bottom end torque means either way the right hand is what'll get you in trouble, not the power.

[angelocardoc]

It's the right hand that I can't trust. Similar problem I have with my right foot.

[ducati14]

Yo Grendel, How'd the Manitoba bike course go? Are you ready to rock and roll come spring and will you be sitting on the chosen bike in a garage over winter making vroom vroom noises?

[British Steel]

I will play. I live in brantford. And like most I cannot think of a better hobby or passion than motorcycles. And I am saving my pennies for a thruxton.

[davidburley74]

Hi this is David.
Actually i am newly join this fourm, and this site. I am from US and i want to say Hello to all of the member in this fourm.

Thankyou

[yzf1000jon]

Welcome, too bad your timing is a bit off as there's only more than a week left before they will be closing this forum down.