knyte

The lic plate light on my FJ is nearly as wobbly as yours.

Woah. That's quite the smack right there. Glad you didn't go down!

Heya @Skidood - you came to the right place for friendly, technical discussions and information. Some great photos and videos too from all over the world.

I'm after a 2nd & possibly 3rd bike for all the same reasons as you - to ride in different terrain, and in case my dad comes for a visit. I nearly kept my V-Strom just for him!! Glad you found a Tracer...they're not quite a UJM, but very nearly.

Interesting findings. Funny write-up!

Thanks. Hadn't considered the clutch plates. Makes perfect sense.

So, just yesterday I began tearing down my FJ in order to fit a replacement alternator cover because I'd marred it up last fall when I dumped it over one day on asphalt. Of course this means draining the coolant (good enough time to change that out), so I thought may as well just drain all the fluids when I'm at it. Anyway, part of this is of course draining the oil. First oil change since installing a magnetic oil plug earlier this year. I just about crapped when I found a sort of 'paste' on the magnet of the oil plug. I cleaned it off with a paper towel, and, sure enough - holding a magnet to the paper towel attracts the two to each other. Searched this forum and found this thread...having never used a magnetic oil plug before, I didn't realize this might be normal wear and tear ? I rode about 8000 km's (bit less than 5000 miles) since installing the plug. Thanks for any input.

Now THAT's looking out for the customer

...friend of mine got a KTM and LOVES the suspension. Hope it brings you many smiles per gallon!

Ola! Got yourself a Tracer yet? ...or just thinking about it?

Glad to hear of your trouble-free experiences; I can only hope to log as many km's with so few problems!!

lolol yep, gear oil is stinky stuff.

I can't offer much except to tell you that I wired my Garmin to the battery for the same reason - power port adapters just rattle out of the factory port. It's not easy to forget, because the screen is lit up as long as it has a power source (with my model, anyway - Zumo 396). I remove the Garmin if I'm off the bike always. Out of all of last year, the one time I forgot was for less than an hour and the bike whirred right over when I got back on. AGM battery, if that helps, but I'm sure a lead-acid wouldn't deplete quite that fast either...doesn't seem to be much of a draw. If/when I have to tear into the front end again, I would follow this thread to add a second switched power port - difference from factory being - I get to choose the port (& find something that offers more friction):

ohhh boy you might regret posting that. I have BIG curiosities and lots of unanswered puzzles

LOVE that idea. Wanted one on first sight.

Agreed; looking forward to seeing some photos of your part of the world! Welcome!

@PhotoAl Thanks for the pics and the write-up. I want one!! Lastly, I'm disappointed. Only one bug splat ?

Pretty sure I've heard Greg (of MotoJitsu fame) talk about Total Control.

I've got an Olympia 3-layer that's similar to this Olympia Troy Jacket The Troy does it all. Huge mesh for summer, rain jacket for wet... ...so the mesh is the main layer. Then you can add a thermal layer (zipped to the inside of the mesh layer, and velcro tabs in the sleeves) and/or a rain layer. The rain layer can be worn inside (also zippered in) or outside (which I prefer). This was among the better choices for value when I was looking ~2 years ago. EDIT: it's the Alpha - and on sale for a scream of a deal: Olympia Alpha Jacket | 50% ($150.49) Off! The Alpha Jacket is the first thing you'll reach for when...

pfft, to heck with the rest of the world! ...I'm waiting for the white crap to disappear

Dang, too bad, I was looking forward to your findings. Thanks for the update!

From your pics, this looks easy/cheap/effective: ..otherwise, I'm sure you're right about an engine hoist or overhead crane. Obviously there'd be a specific point to lift from.

@HGP61 I completely agree with you, and echo your sentiments entirely - I got used to it. Still - there is some deeply rooted ADHD/ADD part of me that is dying without a 3/4 indicator!!

Meh, you're not completely alone! I fumble with the seat adjuster insert every time I have to remove / replace the battery. Never seem to be able to line it up right the first time.