Newbie Hi From Norwich [Archive] - SV650.org

kaivalagi

16-07-10, 04:27 PM

Hi All,

I thought I should introduce myself as I am soon to be a pointy SV650 owner.

I have yet to do my DSA training and tests, Mod 1 next week, Mod 2 soon after. Fingers crossed I wont **** up and I'll get through the tests without too much bother.

I have already got a deposit down on an 3 month old ex-demo black SV650 sport with 60 miles on the clock, something I couldn't let pass by :)

I will be using my bike, after getting comfy with it, to do runs to Preston and Walsall for work every other week as well as having some fun at the weekend. Not sure in the long term whether the better half will join me on the bike, we'll see...she is a bit of a scaredy cat though :)

Any others Norwich based or thereabouts? What sort of things do you guys/gals get up to with your bikes?

Cheers

maviczap

16-07-10, 04:47 PM

Hi,
Welcome to the EAR, you've a couple of Org members nearby Skip & SvRich, but we're reasonably active with EAR rideouts, but its a big region, so folks have to ride a long way for a meet.

But by the looks of it you'll be used to that.

If you're in Preston then there's quite a few orgers over that way too.

There's a map of EAR orger's in my signature

kaivalagi

16-07-10, 05:20 PM

Thanks for the welcome, hopefully it wont be too long before I'm out and about on the bike.

Added myself to the map already :)

Gordon72

16-07-10, 06:15 PM

Hello,
i am only recently new to the forum to.
Welcome along:)

maviczap

16-07-10, 07:08 PM

Hello,
i am only recently new to the forum to.
Welcome along:)

Have you put yourself on the map?

Hello :-P

svrich

16-07-10, 09:54 PM

Hello.
It's true, I'm in Norwich quite a lot, I commute in from Beccles every day. Who are you doing your test with and where is the bike (don't worry, I wont get it, I have an allergy to pointies)?
JimmyJames is another local member but he has defected to Honda with a VTR. If we get together in the summer I'll give you a shout. There are a few good roads out this way which would be goo to get some corneribg experence on.

kaivalagi

17-07-10, 08:37 AM

I am doing my training and buying the bike from C J Balls. The bike has a deposit down, if they sell it to someone else I'd be just a little bit cross :mad:

Give me a little time to get familiar with the bike after passing (fingers crossed first time) and I'll join you on a ride for sure, thanks. I am a real noob, only did my CBT last week so you'd need to be gentle with me :D

Currently I am wondering if I should get a 33bhp ECU fitted to start with...I guess I'll have a better idea once I start training on a hornet....what do you think?

Gordon72

17-07-10, 09:29 AM

[QUOTE=kaivalagi;2321639]

Currently I am wondering if I should get a 33bhp ECU fitted to start with..QUOTE]
Nooooooooooooooo!:rolleyes:
If you are doing direct access then keep the bike as it is meant to be.
I have not ridden a restricted sv so i stand to be corrected but i would think that it only knocks the power off at the top half of the revs anyway.
You will take a while to get used to the bike so by the time you've got used to the sv you will be ready for the power anyway.:D
Dare i say on this forum but the bike does not have much power to start with so i would not be worrying! Even as a new rider.:cool:

Gordon72

17-07-10, 09:32 AM

Have you put yourself on the map?

Hello :-P
Done:rolleyes:

kellyjo

17-07-10, 11:14 AM

Hello and welcome from Peterborough :smt039

I went straight from DAS (on an ER5) to my SV and there was absolutely no need to restrict it. I really dont think you should unles you absolutely have to.

If you can be up and running by September then come and join us on the next EAR rideout. Skip's buying the chips :p (well, actually hes not but it rhymes so thought id write it anyway)

Bored?? Who me?? :rolleyes:

Rob969

17-07-10, 12:29 PM

Hi welcome to the forum. Personally i wouldn't bother with the restriction, i'd never ridden a bike before doing my DAS and got an sv straight after i passed. After the first couple of rides you soon get used to the power.

kaivalagi

17-07-10, 03:33 PM

Currently I am wondering if I should get a 33bhp ECU fitted to start with..
Nooooooooooooooo!:rolleyes:
If you are doing direct access then keep the bike as it is meant to be.
I have not ridden a restricted sv so i stand to be corrected but i would think that it only knocks the power off at the top half of the revs anyway.
You will take a while to get used to the bike so by the time you've got used to the sv you will be ready for the power anyway.:D
Dare i say on this forum but the bike does not have much power to start with so i would not be worrying! Even as a new rider.:cool:

Hello and welcome from Peterborough :smt039

I went straight from DAS (on an ER5) to my SV and there was absolutely no need to restrict it. I really dont think you should unles you absolutely have to.

If you can be up and running by September then come and join us on the next EAR rideout. Skip's buying the chips :p (well, actually hes not but it rhymes so thought id write it anyway)

Bored?? Who me?? :rolleyes:

Hi welcome to the forum. Personally i wouldn't bother with the restriction, i'd never ridden a bike before doing my DAS and got an sv straight after i passed. After the first couple of rides you soon get used to the power.

Thanks guys/gal, just what I wanted to hear...Rob, I am in the same boat as you were so that's good to know. I am a sensible guy with a wife and kid so I would like to think I will control myself and the bike ;)

I deliberately got an SV as a first bike because of the more manageable power delivery, nice torque and better comfort than most other sportier bikes....I think I had a moment of weakness asking the 33bhp question :D

Fingers crossed I'll be in this region in September, and would love to come along on a ride with the EAR posse :smt035

I might even buy the chips!

BTW, I took a trip to Hein Gericke in Norwich today, I'm shopping about for goretex jacket and trousers. I really like their gear, and am very tempted with a 2 piece set....it's that or Dianese textiles but they are ridiculously expensive. I assume it's a general thumbs up for Hein Gerickes own brand?

Rob969

17-07-10, 05:13 PM

best thing i did after passing my test was a track day at snetterton, i'd onlybeen riding 2 months and was amazed at how hard you could actually brake on your bike. Definatley recommend doing one to build up confidence on your bike.

kaivalagi

17-07-10, 07:29 PM

Not a bad idea at all, it would certainly help to know what the extremes of the bike are. I'll see how I feel after I have been riding for a bit....knowing me I'll be up for it in time :)

svrich

17-07-10, 09:08 PM

Another one for a track day. It was great and the limits of you riding aren't as scary to find on one as they are on the road.
Are you going to Hales C J Ball? I got mine from them 3 1/2 years ago and have had good service since. I too went from passing the direct access to the SV. Literally the next day. I chose it over a Fazer 600 and have never looked back. It was very easy to get comfortable with and the power isn't an issue unless you push it hard enough to be. We can hook up for a ride whenever you like. I won't rush about. I can remember what being a new rider was like, in fact I still feel like a new rider some times. And I've a young family too.
I picked up Dianese textiles and have used them daily through all weathers and they have been very good. They are only starting to leak in one place, unfortunately that's the crotch area :( And they held up very well when I had my off in March last year. C J Ball quoted me for a full set of gear (helmet, two piece textiles, gloves, and boots) I asked if they could do better, they called back in 10 minutes and offered the lot for £600 and threw in a back protector too.

kaivalagi

17-07-10, 09:31 PM

How often do track days occur at Snetterton? And what sort of price is it? Insurance doesn't apply I assume :)

The bike is coming from Hales, but is getting moved to the Honda dealership in Norwich for me as it's 5 minutes walk from my place. Fingers crossed I'll get to drool over it when I am there next week for Mod 1 training/test. They've given me a great deal (I think so anyway) on a 3 month old ex-demo black pointy with 60 miles on it :)

I will be taking it to Hales for servicing I'm sure, unless a Honda dealership will do Suzuki servicing? I doubt it but I guess I should ask anyway...

I do have my eye on a Dainese Gator jacket at C J's....but I am very impressed with the Hein Gericke stuff I saw today. If they give me a good deal I shall stick with C J Balls though, can't go wrong either way really. I'll no doubt get my Shoei hat and Sidi boots from there regardless...

I have to get this license thing sorted out first but once on the road and happy with the bike it will be great to hook up and go for a ride, thanks. I just hope I can get comfy on a Hornet for the training and Mod 1 test, slow manoeuvring on a CG125 for my CBT was a pain in the **** to be honest, I did okay but the bike was just not sturdy enough to make me feel comfortable - too twitchy which I hope was due to it's size.

svrich

17-07-10, 10:27 PM

http://www.focusedevents.com/events.asp?event_type=UK
If you scan down there are events on the 2nd and 24th of August, both whole day and evening sessions.
Good luck with the test.
Oh, and if you don't do your own servicing, try to find a trusted local independent place. Cheaper and better than main dealer as far as my own experience goes. But you should be able to manage the main stuff.

kaivalagi

19-07-10, 04:21 PM

Well I just got back from day 1 of my training and apart from being completely knackered I thoroughly enjoyed it. The hornet is a nice bike to ride but I found (nothing to compare yet) that the gears were too close together, it sometimes felt like I hadn't actually changed up when I had...I assume the SV650 with all that torque and lower red line has slightly more spaced gearing?

I managed to nail all the mock mod 1 tests too, most of them first time, which surprised me...it is so much easier slow manoeuvring and swerving on a big bike, when doing the same stuff on a CG125 week before last it was very hard work and didn't feel comfortable to me.

Fingers crossed progress continues and I hope Friday will be a dry day for the mod 1 test, not that forecasted rain should make any real difference, but I would just like conditions to continue as they are :) Observation and all that stuff needs a thorough work out tomorrow!

Also managed to get over to the bike shop to take another look at my black SV with the R&G crash bungs fitted, I so badly want to ride it now...

So, after one day on a big bike I can safely safe I am loving it ;)

edit: Hopp Rider Training was recommended by my instructor for track days, as the tuition and general attitude of the team is apparently more sensible and constructive than some...can anyone share their thoughts/experiences on this? I would like a second opinion if I can get one.

Skip

20-07-10, 09:38 AM

Welcome! I am based in Wymondham so not far at all - best advice I can recommend is just to get out there and ride - and don't be afraid of the odd rain shower either - wet riding can be just as enjoyable as dry :)

kaivalagi

20-07-10, 05:53 PM

Thanks for the welcome, you're definitely the closest rider to me that I know right now! Do you have an SV? I think your avatar is one but with twin exhausts?

After just 2 days (full days mind) out on a Hornet I am feeling so much more confident now, a couple of months of daily rides and I'll be right with it I am sure :)

Today has been good, we were out all day on the country roads, on the bypass and in town...having not drove or riden any vehicle legally and at length before now, I am quite shattered from all the concentration (more so as I am new) but have no real negative comments from the instructor...he actually thought I was a car driver already as my road sense was good which was nice to hear. Must be all those years as a vulnerable cyclist riding to work and back (5 miles each way though town traffic) that's helped me, that I
or sitting in the passenger seat with my wife after she passed her car test :)

One major thing the last 2 days have taught me though is that there are a lot of bad car drivers out there so riding defensively expecting the worst and keeping a fair amount of space between me and them is by far the most important thing...

I am glad I have a day off from training tomorrow though, I have aches and pains in my arms and shoulders from the very poor road surfaces that are out there...Am I right in assuming that the SV's suspension will be somewhat softer than a Hornets more sportier upside downies?

Skip

20-07-10, 07:25 PM

Thanks for the welcome, you're definitely the closest rider to me that I know right now! Do you have an SV? I think your avatar is one but with twin exhausts?
I have an SV1000S - same plastics as the 650 but frame is bigger among other things - easiest to spot is the twin exhaust set up :)

Once you have passed and want to go for a ride I am more than happy to join you - but I do have a 19 week old baby so time is not always available - but I am sure we can come to some sort of arrangement :cool:

svrich

20-07-10, 09:55 PM

I can feel a sunny trip to Southwold coming on ;)

kaivalagi

21-07-10, 08:09 AM

Thanks for the offer, I'll most definitely take it up, just be aware I will still be quite slow through those country lane corners...

I was having a look at possible routes to Southwold since the last time I saw it mentioned, I think it was posted by Skip on a thread with pics :)

I take it Southwold is a favourite destination for EAR? Never been there before...

Skip

21-07-10, 09:20 AM

Southwold is a usual trip for me - Wymondham > Hempnall > Bungay > Beccles > Southwold and then on the return journey Southwold > Halesworth > Harleston > Pulhams > New Buckenham > Tacnoleston > Wymondham

Great fun :D

kaivalagi

23-07-10, 03:52 PM

Well, Module 1 is done and dusted with no issues whatsoever...I really don't know why I was so nervous to be honest. My module 2 is booked on the 5th August...unfortunately I am working away from home next week....otherwise I would have it sorted on Monday most likely :(
By all accounts it should be a breeze - I'll be riding at 1pm in lunchtime traffic which is good in my opinion

kellyjo

23-07-10, 06:20 PM

Oh well done, thats defintely the difficult one out of the way :p

kaivalagi

23-07-10, 06:33 PM

Thanks, I think so too, mock tests for mod 2 went great, I think I will have no issues with the next one really.

I must admit riding around on the Hornet for the past week has been great, I can't put my finger on it but it fills me with a real freedom. It's almost like a drug, but I'm not addicted to speed yet :D

Skip

23-07-10, 09:00 PM

Congrats - one more hurdle to go then - best of luck :)

kaivalagi

23-07-10, 09:24 PM

Thanks Skip, I so badly want to get on my nice shiny black SV and take it through all the b-roads I've been on the past week. Still not too much more to wait, 2 weeks or so and I'll be sorted :)

BigBaddad

28-07-10, 08:12 AM

Howdo

kaivalagi

05-08-10, 04:11 PM

Well guys, I failed my mod 2 today :(
I put it down to just not being prepared for it, I passed 2 mocks before but have had 2 weeks of no riding and then only 1hr of riding again before my test today.
I've booked up (hopefully) for in a few weeks time but with the previous day for practice too.

I am really kicking myself because the 3 faults were things I thought I'd nailed. Stalling the bike too many times was soul destroying, not like me, nerves got the better of me I think. One serious was for observation when I didn't stop at a normal junction (not stop) but was doing all of 5 mph, he said it was as if I didn't like stopping? The final serious was not indicating onto a dual carriageway, my bad...I was more concerned with the amount of lunchtime traffic.

Still, a full days riding before hand should help no end. Hopefully I'll post nice news next time :)

Skip

05-08-10, 05:20 PM

Sorry to hear that mate - I am sure you will get it next time :)

kellyjo

05-08-10, 05:25 PM

Ah sorry to hear that hun :-(

Remember your mistakes and dont repeat them next time, get a days practise in and i'm sure it'll be all smiles next time :-)

Rob969

05-08-10, 05:39 PM

Not the end of the world mate, Just treat it as a practise run and now you know what to expect next time, having time on the bike the day before will be good as you you'll feel more comfortable on the bike for the day of your test. I had a week between mod 1 and 2 and it took me a few hours to feel comfortable on the bike again, luckily i had all morning on it before my test in the afternoon.

kaivalagi

05-08-10, 07:20 PM

Thanks all, I'll definitely be better prepared next time around. To be honest I can't believe I was given only 1hr prep before my first test...

Gordon72

05-08-10, 07:26 PM

don't worry,
All the best riders past second time!;)

BigBaddad

06-08-10, 08:51 AM

Bummer, I'm sure you'll get a date for your retest within the next 12 months or so.

kaivalagi

06-08-10, 02:23 PM

Bummer, I'm sure you'll get a date for your retest within the next 12 months or so.

lol

I couldn't believe the "must wait 10 working days" rule and how booked up in general the DSA are, I guess lots of people fail.....

I'll be talking to the bike shop in a bit to get a firm date that fits around work

kaivalagi

14-09-10, 06:23 PM

Well I finally got a second test sorted out last minute that fitted with a day off work already arranged...thanks to all the block booking that goes on I didn't have much luck getting anything to fit with work before now.

So....I had my mod 2 test today and PASSED!

Such a relief I can tell you, if I failed for the second time I don't know when I could fit another test in with work

I should be paying the remaining balance and picking up my 2010 Black SV Sport on Thursday :)

Shame the summer weather seems to have gone, still I enjoyed riding in the rain today lol

edit: I had to put a black SV up as my avatar, I promise to replace with my actual bike with me sitting on it when it comes home :)

kellyjo

14-09-10, 07:00 PM

Yay, congratulatons :p

BigBaddad

14-09-10, 08:26 PM

Good lad, see you on Sunday then. KJ wants to break you in.

kaivalagi

14-09-10, 09:05 PM

svrich

14-09-10, 10:13 PM

Congratulations.
It's planned as an end of season ride but let us, the locals, know if you are up for an outing and we can see what we're up to.
The next official EAR ride out will be in March, our March Meat Ride out. I'll do my best to find that pub again so Marco can win some more!

Skip

15-09-10, 08:20 AM

Was that rideout really in March?! Blimey how time flies!

Congratulations on passing your test - and to coin a phrase "now the learning really starts"! :)

kellyjo

15-09-10, 08:31 AM

Good lad, see you on Sunday then. KJ wants to break you in.

I promise to be gentle ;)

kellyjo

15-09-10, 08:37 AM

Sounds good, not sure my wife would have anything to say about it though :p

I think Sunday may be a little too soon anyway, I'll see how much time I can get on the bike before then, a trip to southwold would be nice but I honestly don't think I'm ready for that long route yet.

In at the deep ends the best way!! The week after I passed my test I did AR09, the .orgs annual rideout. That was nearly 300 miles in a day, you wouldnt believe how much you can learn in a day :p

When we ride out in a group we use a marker system with a Tail End Charlie. This means you can ride at whatever pace you want, there will always be someone behind you to make sure you dont get lost and there will be NO pressure to ride fast if you dont want to, it will be totally your ride.
Ive got problems with my eyesight at the moment and will definitely have times when my eyes are tired and i'll need to back right off and sit quietly for a while letting the others pass if they want to crack on a bit.

Come along Sunday, I promise you wont regret it! x

Reeder

15-09-10, 03:24 PM

Come sunday! I've only been riding 6 weeks.

BigBaddad

15-09-10, 05:14 PM

Newbies......mumble mumble. Might have another, passed his test today and picks his SV up tomorrow I think.

kaivalagi

15-09-10, 10:16 PM

I really want to come on this ride on Sunday especially as all you guys are making me feel like part of the gang already, but I just don't want to push it so soon...it's a shame I couldn't get a test date sorted a couple of weeks back 'cause then I may have felt different.

If I am feeling any different after going out for a spin on Saturday I'll let you know, you never know :)

Whatever happens I'll definitely be up for a ride or several with anyone later on!

@BigBaddad, is the other newbie from east anglia too?

Reeder

15-09-10, 10:43 PM

I am indeed!

kaivalagi

15-09-10, 11:14 PM

I am indeed!

Sorry that looked a tad rude, I meant the rider who is picking up his bike tomorrow...you've been riding for 6 weeks, I wish I had been :)

Reeder

15-09-10, 11:20 PM

Ah sorry :)

ravingdavis

16-09-10, 01:52 AM

I really want to come on this ride on Sunday especially as all you guys are making me feel like part of the gang already, but I just don't want to push it so soon...it's a shame I couldn't get a test date sorted a couple of weeks back 'cause then I may have felt different.

Wuss :p

In the first week of owning my bike I did just over 1000 miles. Had it just over a year and done over 16000 miles. In at the deep end mate, you wont regret doing it! You will have a cracking time and riding in a big group like that is the best way to learn.

See you there on Sunday!

petevtwin650

16-09-10, 06:19 AM

Might be a bit much for your first rideout as it's 90 odd miles just to get to Grafham I think. Although the rides are always catered for riders of all abilities and I'm sure there would be no pressure to ride beyond your present limits.

However you could meet the gang at Southwold. That's a nice easy run for you. Find out their ETA to there. Add an hour ;) and meet them at their proposed finish point.

Might even find someone to ride back with.

BigBaddad

16-09-10, 07:06 AM

@BigBaddad, is the other newbie from east anglia too?

My home town...King's Lynn http://forums.sv650.org/showthread.php?t=157506

kaivalagi

16-09-10, 10:55 AM

Wuss :p

In the first week of owning my bike I did just over 1000 miles. Had it just over a year and done over 16000 miles. In at the deep end mate, you wont regret doing it! You will have a cracking time and riding in a big group like that is the best way to learn.

See you there on Sunday!

Yeah, yeah, yeah :) At least give me the chance to enjoy my bike on my own for a little bit, selfish I know, I may well do a few 100 miles in my first week, but in my own way and in my own time...There is a very very slim chance I may feel up to it on Sunday but I won't say yes until I've been out on the bike proper first

Might be a bit much for your first rideout as it's 90 odd miles just to get to Grafham I think. Although the rides are always catered for riders of all abilities and I'm sure there would be no pressure to ride beyond your present limits.

However you could meet the gang at Southwold. That's a nice easy run for you. Find out their ETA to there. Add an hour ;) and meet them at their proposed finish point.

Might even find someone to ride back with.

Sounds like a damn good idea, that way I'll get to meet everyone, and I might even buy a few portions of chips :)

My home town...King's Lynn http://forums.sv650.org/showthread.php?t=157506

Good stuff, you both need to get on the map, norfolk looks a bit too bare for my liking :) http://www.mapservices.org/myguestmap/map/tiltsv

Skip

16-09-10, 11:04 AM

However you could meet the gang at Southwold. That's a nice easy run for you. Find out their ETA to there. Add an hour ;) and meet them at their proposed finish point.

Might even find someone to ride back with.
I may well manage to do this if you are interested?

Cant get a pass for the whole day though :(

Reeder

16-09-10, 01:21 PM

Should totally do that.

kaivalagi

16-09-10, 03:20 PM

I may well manage to do this if you are interested?

Cant get a pass for the whole day though :(

I have the go ahead from the other half for that, and it sounds like a good intro to the group to me, thanks for the offer :) I'll let you know one way or the other end of play tomorrow, after I've picked up the bike and done a few miles on it...I haven't ridden it yet :(

I would have picked it up today but I had a software release go horribly wrong last night and haven't slept since. Just finished for the day (or 2) so it's time for a few beers then sleep me thinks....

edit: quick question, the bike only has 46 miles on the clock, what would you guys recommend in terms of breaking her in as it were? Are we talking nothing above 4K RPM for 500 miles??? I have no real idea...

petevtwin650

16-09-10, 03:33 PM

edit: quick question, the bike only has 46 miles on the clock, what would you guys recommend in terms of breaking her in as it were? Are we talking nothing above 4K RPM for 500 miles??? I have no real idea...

4k will have the bike struggling IMO. I would try and stick to 5 with a occasional run up to 6. Don't labour it uphill and warm it up 1st before setting off. Try to use the gears and not hold it at a particular revs for too long (ie motorway cruising. Not particularly likely where you live:) ) Blip the throttle on down changes if you can too.

Skip

16-09-10, 03:39 PM

When I broke in my Z750 I was told to go to 4-5k for the first 100 miles and then add 1000rpm for every 100 miles after that.

I had it dyno-ed at 9,000 miles and the operator said it was "nice and loose" and it made the most power he had seen from that engine :) Used no oil either in the 13,000 miles I had it :D

svrich

16-09-10, 09:10 PM

Gordon72

16-09-10, 10:27 PM

that must have been you're bike sitting in cj balls showroom in norwich today then,
Don't worry about running in when you pick the bike up cj balls will go through that before you get the keys!,
Congrats on the test and relax about the riding, No one expects you to ride beyond your limits.(unlike me who dropped it a while back!)
Just remember to enjoy yourself:D

kaivalagi

17-09-10, 07:25 AM

I can show you the way back from Southwold towards Norwich if you can make it. It's a nice easy run but can get traffic logged at the weekend, which also means that you can ride at your own pace back to Beccles then choose either the main road back to the city or drift across to Bungay and up to Poringland. It would be a good run for both you and the bike.
Thanks for the offer, I think I'll be fine though. I actually tried out google navigation on my phone yesterday (audio only) and that works quite well, so worst case if I was alone heading home and got lost trying to get to Norwich I could still find my way home fine :)

that must have been you're bike sitting in cj balls showroom in norwich today then,
Don't worry about running in when you pick the bike up cj balls will go through that before you get the keys!,
Congrats on the test and relax about the riding, No one expects you to ride beyond your limits.(unlike me who dropped it a while back!)
Just remember to enjoy yourself:D
Yes it was, up at the back with a little sold sticker on it :)

Lol, I am thinking I'll be fine once I have actually had a little ride on the bike, it's just newbie nerves and the unknown...

When I pick the bike up today I am turning left onto the road and going around all the broads area for about an hour I think, can't wait...

Skip

17-09-10, 07:48 AM

kaivalagi

17-09-10, 09:41 AM

PM'ed, I'd hope there will be some of the guys there for 3pm ish. The google map for the trip has the duration at just under 5hrs (missing Southwold at the end) and the planned leaving time is 10:30...

kaivalagi

17-09-10, 06:05 PM

My mechanical baby is home now, after a nice little 25 mile run around. Lovin' it already :)
Took a bit of adjustment to get used to the engine, riding position and steering but I like it a lot...

I need to limit to 5500rpm under 500 miles, 7250rpm under 1000 miles then I am free to explore the bike's ability better, 80 miles on the clock now, slowly getting there :)

Parked up pic:
http://i781.photobucket.com/albums/yy91/kaivalagi/Scratch/mysv650.jpg

BTW it's not oil on the floor, it's scottoiler FS365 :)

Reeder

17-09-10, 07:13 PM

Very very nice! Best colour too ;)

BigBaddad

17-09-10, 07:27 PM

33 horses never looked so good. Pity about the damage.

kaivalagi

17-09-10, 07:33 PM

Very very nice! Best colour too ;)

It's a case of snap right? You have the same, 2010 in Black?

33 horses never looked so good. Pity about the damage.

Nooooo, I did DA :) Although I still have to limit for the running in...

Maybe damaged after Sunday :p

edit: can anyone tell me what is the purpose of the little circular metal handle with rod to one side under the rear seat cowl, I couldn't find a mention in the owners manual anywhere :(

maviczap

17-09-10, 08:54 PM

Well it looks like I will be able to slip away this Sunday afternoon so I will meet you all at Southwold - what time should I aim to get there though :???:

If you want to follow me there kaivalagi you are more than welcome. PM me if you like.

Well Gary reckons it'll take 3hrs 13mins, so if we leave at 10:30 then 13.45 is when we should arrive

But allowing for a tea, piddle & fuel break somewhere, plus U turns, wrong turns, I'd say between 14:30 & 15:00?

PM me you mob Skip, and I'll update you during the ride

Reeder

17-09-10, 08:55 PM

Mines 05 naked in black sir. It's a tank prop. Stops it closing when you're working on stuff :)

kaivalagi

17-09-10, 09:07 PM

Mines 05 naked in black sir. It's a tank prop. Stops it closing when you're working on stuff :)

I think I got you and gsak in a muddle...see you in Southwold on Sunday, have a fun ride over :D

Reeder

17-09-10, 09:09 PM

I'm in Lowestoft just so you know. If the weathers **** I will just pop to say hi rather than do the whole ride ;)

Mighty Boosh

17-09-10, 09:14 PM

kaivalagi

18-09-10, 06:58 AM

I'm in Lowestoft just so you know. If the weathers **** I will just pop to say hi rather than do the whole ride ;)

That's one big ride for you, atleast you wont have too far to go to get home afterwards

Very shiney.:cool:

You got a cover for it?

I hope I can keep it that way, got some Mer polish for the car that should keep it that way

It was under a cover over night, it's being looked after ;)

Next to consider are fender extender, rear hugger, R&G tail tidy (comes later) and I see you have them all...

Gordon72

18-09-10, 09:20 AM

yep i'm the one with the 10 plate black like yours:), Well used to look like yours anyway!:smt022:smt022

kaivalagi

18-09-10, 01:10 PM

yep i'm the one with the 10 plate black like yours:), Well used to look like yours anyway!:smt022:smt022

Yep, I'd be crying too...still running fine though right?

I just had a nice ride out to the coast and back, now at around 130 miles on the clock...best think about booking that first service soon :)

kaivalagi

18-09-10, 04:09 PM

Reeder

18-09-10, 06:15 PM

Good to hear you came out of it ok sir.
We shoulda gone for a ride together today! Was lovely weather and I've done over 200 miles on the bike today on my own just scratching some back roads.

Mighty Boosh

18-09-10, 07:47 PM

Had my first scare.....

Coming onto a small (but not so mini) roundabout in a 30 zone, no traffic to the right or ahead, just as I enter the roundabout a people carrier comes careering from the left, probably breaking the speed limit and there are no signs of it braking at all. I yanked on the front brake and had to steer to the left too otherwise I'd have been in it's path, lost the front wheel for a moment then let off and regained control again.

Shook me up just a bit, and the SUV just keep on going....woman driver who was probably on the phone

In some ways I am glad it happened as I will take nothing for granted on a roundabout again!

If I had come off I may have been able to get the reg but there were no witnesses and I would have likely had to claim on my own bloody insurance...no more inner city back road shortcuts me thinks...

Good to hear you lean't a valuable lesson. There are some riders who never get a second chance.

Ride like every car is out to get you and always expect the unexpected

Regarding modding your bike..

For more comfort when riding, you can adjust the angle of your fr/brake and clutch lever.

Looseen the perch bolts and move them downwards to a more comfortable position.

Stock settings arn't the most comfortable for most riders.

And it's free.:cool:

kaivalagi

18-09-10, 08:27 PM

Thanks for the tips, I'll give the lever adjustment a try

I am so glad I am having to run in the bike, it's meant I have been more conservative in my approach and am learning how ignorant drivers are to motorcycles in the mean time...urban riding is such a danger in my eyes now!

Next time I think I may well lose my rag with whoever is responsible and not let it go! Hopefully they'll then think twice about their actions *fingers crossed*

ravingdavis

18-09-10, 08:35 PM

Had my first scare.....

Coming onto a small (but not so mini) roundabout in a 30 zone, no traffic to the right or ahead, just as I enter the roundabout a people carrier comes careering from the left, probably breaking the speed limit and there are no signs of it braking at all. I yanked on the front brake and had to steer to the left too otherwise I'd have been in it's path, lost the front wheel for a moment then let off and regained control again.

Shook me up just a bit, and the SUV just keep on going....woman driver who was probably on the phone

In some ways I am glad it happened as I will take nothing for granted on a roundabout again!

If I had come off I may have been able to get the reg but there were no witnesses and I would have likely had to claim on my own bloody insurance...no more inner city back road shortcuts me thinks...

Woo, nasty. Well done on recovering from a front slide, you must have bloody good reactions! Scary moments happen, part of the learning process.

Mighty Boosh

18-09-10, 09:09 PM

Next time I think I may well lose my rag with whoever is responsible and not let it go! Hopefully they'll then think twice about their actions *fingers crossed*

Most car divers will claim they didn't see you or tell you that you were going too fast.

Please don't loose your rag, Car versus bike = bike looses.

Let it go and concentrate on defensive riding.

A member on here had a signiture something like..

A good ride is one which you return home from.

kaivalagi

19-09-10, 08:30 AM

Woo, nasty. Well done on recovering from a front slide, you must have bloody good reactions! Scary moments happen, part of the learning process.

Thanks, it's good to know just how great the sv is! I put a lot of it down to me doing road racing on bicycles when I was younger (and fitter)...I think my natural balance on 2 wheels did it for it, well that and just how light and nimble the sv is :)

Most car divers will claim they didn't see you or tell you that you were going too fast.

Please don't loose your rag, Car versus bike = bike looses.

Let it go and concentrate on defensive riding.

A member on here had a signiture something like..

A good ride is one which you return home from.

I'll try not to lose my rag, I am generally a well tempered guy...

Even with the scare I am loving every moment on 2 wheels

deltron

21-09-10, 11:42 AM

It always makes me laugh when people pull out on me or try to pull across on a dual carriageway - when I turn around and gesticulate at them they always just raise their hand really casually to say sorry and I'm thinking "you just tried to f'ing kill me!". :smt011

Was good to meet you on Sunday, hope you manage to get those 600 miles in ready for the first service :)

kaivalagi

24-09-10, 10:50 PM

It always makes me laugh when people pull out on me or try to pull across on a dual carriageway - when I turn around and gesticulate at them they always just raise their hand really casually to say sorry and I'm thinking "you just tried to f'ing kill me!". :smt011
too true, I've started the guesturing already...stuck on a roundabout in clogged up traffic with some driver inch'ing ever closer today trying to ignore I existed, I gave them a nice view of my kangaroo leather palm...not got as far as using more offensive signs just yet, nothing has demanded it since the other day thankfully

Was good to meet you on Sunday, hope you manage to get those 600 miles in ready for the first service :)
You too, hope went when the bloody crap weather got here, I had to cancel the first service on Monday, I just wont get enough miles in...although I did go for a nice ride tonight around all the back roads around the broads etc, I'm not liking the fallen leaves on small back roads I'm starting to see though! I have Saturday and hopefully Sunday afternoon available for more miles

@All, Newbie question on stands :)...is it worth spending the extra on an Abba superbike stand? And does the front lift also work well with the SV i.e. should I just get the package? The Abba site says "we do not recommend this front lift for a motorcycle with a V-twin engine"

I don't like the idea of a paddock stand as I'll be on my own sorting things out! I would appreciate your input as the I want to be certain before a £140 purchase.

Also, is there still a 10% discount with Abba if purchased over the phone by a forum member?

petevtwin650

25-09-10, 07:48 AM

@All, Newbie question on stands :)...is it worth spending the extra on an Abba superbike stand? And does the front lift also work well with the SV i.e. should I just get the package? The Abba site says "we do not recommend this front lift for a motorcycle with a V-twin engine"

I don't like the idea of a paddock stand as I'll be on my own sorting things out! I would appreciate your input as the I want to be certain before a £140 purchase.

Abba stands are very good, especially if you have the bike specific ends, but a bit of a faff for day to day use IMO. Not a problem if you're only going to use it for lubing the chain or maintenance though. The front lift, IIRC, goes under the engine which is great if you want to get the forks out I presume, but it lifts on the engine, which if you have a v-twin means the the front exhaust pipe is usually in the way.

Rear paddocks stands are easy to use so long as you have a grab rail or rack, and swingarm bobbins.

kaivalagi

25-09-10, 08:02 AM

Abba stands are very good, especially if you have the bike specific ends, but a bit of a faff for day to day use IMO. Not a problem if you're only going to use it for lubing the chain or maintenance though. The front lift, IIRC, goes under the engine which is great if you want to get the forks out I presume, but it lifts on the engine, which if you have a v-twin means the the front exhaust pipe is usually in the way.

Thanks for that, I want it mainly to get the rear wheel off the ground for maintenance and not to use every day, the side stand is fine for that. Having the suspension loose is a nice to have though.

Rear paddocks stands are easy to use so long as you have a grab rail or rack, and swingarm bobbins.
No grab rail at the mo, still in a box with the seat, not sure it's ever gonna go on to be honest...

maviczap

26-09-10, 07:18 PM

kaivalagi

26-09-10, 09:05 PM

Get an ABBA stand you won't regret it. Having a paddock stand is just as big a faff as an ABBA stand, plus there's more chance it'll fall off the paddock stand, than the ABBA stand
Paddock stands are a PIA, even in the garage, as an ABBA stand will breakdown as take up no room, whereas a paddock stand will be a useless lump of metal tubes that conspires to trip you up and get it the way when you're not using it.

As for the front lift, I didn't bother with one. A car jack will do the same job, with a lump of wood to protect the engine

Thanks, you've just confirmed what I was thinking. I'll also get myself a lump of wood for using with my car jack :)

I will be calling Abba tomorrow to check whether any discount is available to orgers...it was available sometime back according to posts and I am hoping 10% off is still available...I shall see

Also, I have some FS365 but have been advised to get some ACF-50 for the winter, I haven't seen it around but to be honest haven't looked hard...any ideas on a well priced stockist?

petevtwin650

26-09-10, 09:25 PM

Get an ABBA stand you won't regret it. Having a paddock stand is just as big a faff as an ABBA stand, plus there's more chance it'll fall off the paddock stand, than the ABBA stand
Paddock stands are a PIA, even in the garage, as an ABBA stand will breakdown as take up no room, whereas a paddock stand will be a useless lump of metal tubes that conspires to trip you up and get it the way when you're not using it.

Agreed paddock stands aren't as steady as an Abba stand, but they take quite a bit longer to use and my Abba stand takes up far more room than my foldable paddock stand. Also, once you get the knack, you can put the bike on the paddock stand after ever time you use it.

Anyhoo, it sounds like you're commited to the Abba, so last advice would be to check out Ebay before you commit to a new one.

kaivalagi

26-09-10, 09:51 PM

Anyhoo, it sounds like you're commited to the Abba, so last advice would be to check out Ebay before you commit to a new one.

Yeah I've pretty much made my mind up now, I spoke to my dad who had bikes until his knee packed in and he advised an Abba stand too as he had one. That and having no grab rail on the bike has made my mind up 100%.

I will definitely check out ebay first, just the carriage might sting a bit at a guess...I ought to check on here too...

maviczap

27-09-10, 06:54 AM

About £13 for ACF50, but better than FS365

Don't get ACF50 on your disks as you won't be able to stop!!!! Paint it on in these areas

Leave it on all winter, don;t be tempted to wash it off is the percieved wisdom with ACF, no matter how dirty your bike gets

kaivalagi

27-09-10, 11:32 AM

I've ordered my Abba stand, got 10% off retail via the phone thanks to this forum! £94.41 all in...

I did look on ebay I would have probably saved at most £30 in the end after buying the SV fitting kit for £18, but I figured I'll have this stand for whatever bikes I have over the years, so bugger it, buy new! I am sure I wont regret it...

I'm looking for someone local who sells ACF-50 now...any one bought the bigger bottles and DIY spray unit for £30, is it worth doing over the aerosol to £12?

MONOLITH

27-09-10, 01:09 PM

Reeder

27-09-10, 01:56 PM

Or get some off ebay like I did :) 5p cheaper than HG including delivery!

kaivalagi

27-09-10, 04:33 PM

Go to Hein Gericke in Norwich, they stock ACF-50. Went and bought some from there the other day, cost £14 for the aerosol which isn't bad.

I second the comment about using a paint brush to apply to the more fiddly areas.

It was those HG salesmen that convinced me to get FS365 when I didn't know any better, I've used it already too so can't take it back :(

Definitely don't like the sound of that stuff on the discs! paint brush...check

BTW, welcome! 1 post in and you're already helping!! Cheers - what's the bike and where are you in East Anglia?

Or get some off ebay like I did :) 5p cheaper than HG including delivery!

I have just bought some online along with neck warmer, tank pad and muc off from intobikes...and I just remembered I have a £10 off HG coupon to use...damn...nevermind, I'll have to think of something else to buy at HG now :)

maviczap

28-09-10, 12:54 PM

ACF 50 £9.99 at Busters this week

Sorry if its too late ;)

http://www.busters-accessories.co.uk/productinfo.aspx?catRef=AACF50

kaivalagi

28-09-10, 09:56 PM

Oh well thanks anyway, if I needed other stuff too it would have been a great deal, but with P&P it's just as cheap to go to fleabay for it on it's own...

Busters do regular promotions on various bits and bobs do they? Might have to keep an eye out...

Oh, I oiled my chain tonight using my Abba stand, felt a bit weird to put the Abba stand on wonky when the bikes over to one side but sturdy when upright and in use...