First ride 2004

[JLKasper]

With unseasonably warm and clear weather here in the midwest for the first time this year, I took my '96 out of hibernation for its first long ride since I bought it late last November.  Before I put it up for winter, I followed the consensus of this forum regarding fork upgrades (Prog. springs, 15W), added Stabil,  and rejetted the carbs (#40 pilots, #4 washer under needles, 3 turns out on mixture screws).  I replaced the battery which was kept on a tender indoors, primed the carbs, and the bike fired to life on the first try with no drama.  After a quick pre-ride check, I took off.  What a difference!  It was a mild leap of faith to plunk down hard cash for a cold-natured, lurching, bucking, cantankerous beast three months ago and transform it into a pleasant, steady, and reliably smooth mount a fella can be proud of.  125 miles later, I arrived home with a big smile on my face.  

Now that the shakedown is taken care of, I can concentrate on the other mods I've been waiting on for warmer weather; a replacement for my worn Michelin M50s, K&N filter, ignition advance, main jets, Katana shock, carb sync and various maintenance chores to hone what is already a clean-running bike.  But thanks to you guys and this forum, I'm off to a good start; if I can pry myself off the saddle.  Thanx again, and Cheers!