I've never kept a build thread going on any of my other vehicles, so I thought I'd start one for my bike, since I'm still in the beginning. It's a 2005 500F. When I picked it up it was bone stock. My plans are to turn it into a comfortable sport tourer / long distance commuter.
So far I have installed a sport-touring windscreen and a set of bar risers - 1"up 1"back. I'm currently in the middle of installing a 2006 R6 rear shock, just waiting on some sleeve bushing material to bolt it all up.
My rear tire is nearing the end so I picked up a rear wheel and brake from a 2001 Katana. When the tire is done I'll get a new set, 110/150, not sure which brand yet. Is the Katana front wheel a direct swap? I'm not sure I want to change it out just to match the rear, but it's on my mind.
I'm also planning on putting in some Race Tech springs and Emulators in the near future. Any good threads to read up on for emulator installation?
Saddle bags, tail bag, and tank bag should be here soon.
I'm considering putting on heated grips. Any thoughts on ones built into the grip vs ones that go under your stock/aftermarket grips?
Since there don't seem to be any aftermarket seats I'm thinking of picking up one of these gel inserts for cruiser guys and seeing if I can get it to work on our seat http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/3/14/145/21510/ITEM/Saddlemen-Saddlegel-Raw-Gel-Pad.aspx (http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/3/14/145/21510/ITEM/Saddlemen-Saddlegel-Raw-Gel-Pad.aspx)
Here's a quick pic
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/001.jpg)
sw VA eh? welcome! bike looks familiar w/ the white side fairing, d'you get it off craig?
looks like you got a solid plan for the bike. not sure on emulator installation write up, i'd be interested if you find one!
we'll have to go for a cruise sometime
Yep, it sat on craigs list for about 3 weeks before I noticed it.
I'm about an hour from Radford, we'll have to do some riding one weekend.
After market seats from France, with gel and a heater as options:
http://www.topsellerie.com/en-us/SUZUKI-GS-500-seats-petrol-tank-covers-tank-bags-motorbike_7_156.html
Seats without heater are available from Germany. I have these
(http://i1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb442/adidasguy/IMGP0968a.jpg)
Those seats look nice. But at a little over $700 shipped to my door for one with heat and gel I'm not sure I'll be getting one right away. Do you have a link to the one you have from Germany?
I've made conversion sleeves from 10mm to 12mm for the R6 shock and started grinding the swing arm. I need to clearance it a touch more before everything will clear, I was asked to stop early to let my fiance take a nap :icon_rolleyes:
can't wait to see what you do with it,...!
Got the R6 Shock mounted. I haven't gotten to ride the bike yet. Hopefully I can go out for a few hours this weekend and get it dialed in.
I also decided to take a pic of the bar risers to add to the thread.
And I signed up for a fork brace from Reload's second batch.
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/003.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/001-2.jpg)
How do you like the bar extenders???
Here's a link for the seats.
He can do the new style seat if that's what you need.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270684519477&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT
Don't you need a stainless steel chain guard? I know where you can order one :D
Thanks for the link to the German seats, those are priced a bit more in my ball park, although heat sure would be nice.
I just got back from my first ride with the bar risers and the R6 shock. Had to bundle up -mid 30's- but it was a nice day and it had been too long since I had been riding.
I love these bar risers. I'm fairly short at 5'7" and they make all the difference. I rode for 2.5 hours before pulling over for a late lunch, I still felt great I was just hungry. Had a quick bite and hopped back on for another 1.5 hours to finish my loop home. My wrists feel great, back is perfect, I feel like I could ride all day long day after day with these things. And that's what I'm shooting for.
The R6 shock is stiff. I didn't mess with any of the settings, I just wanted to ride, but I'll definitely need to soften things up a bit. Anyone have any good advise on a home made tool for adjusting the preload? Or even a picture of the factory Yamaha tool?
Adidasguy I've checked out your chain guards, but I'm planning on painting the bike flat black soon and don't think it would look good unless I painted it black too. At that point you don't notice it anymore, so there's really no point.
I took all the plastics off this afternoon. I've removed all the remaining decals and started scuffing the fairings for fresh paint. Hopefully I can get a few coats on some of them tomorrow. I can't paint them all at once because my spray booth isn't very big.
After my ride yesterday I ordered some heated grips. They have 4 different heat settings. I'll post some pics of those once they come in.
It's coming along :cheers:
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/001-3.jpg)
Your question went unanwsered.The Kat straight spoke front wheel will fit but it is 3.5 inches wide instead of the GS 3.0.I don't think a 110 front tire would be recommended for a 3.5 rim width.No matter.I run 120-60 and 160-60 tires.
Quote from: ben2go on December 16, 2011, 11:32:01 AM
Your question went unanwsered.The Kat straight spoke front wheel will fit but it is 3.5 inches wide instead of the GS 3.0.I don't think a 110 front tire would be recommended for a 3.5 rim width.No matter.I run 120-60 and 160-60 tires.
I assume the axle spacing is the same as the GS though, so you just have to change the front wheel? What about the brakes? Do you run just one side? Do you use the GS rotor or the Katana? Caliper? Does the 120/60 clear the stock fender? I'd love to have a 120 up there. Which tires do you use and how do you like them?
Quote from: Slack on December 18, 2011, 08:49:52 AM
Quote from: ben2go on December 16, 2011, 11:32:01 AM
Your question went unanwsered.The Kat straight spoke front wheel will fit but it is 3.5 inches wide instead of the GS 3.0.I don't think a 110 front tire would be recommended for a 3.5 rim width.No matter.I run 120-60 and 160-60 tires.
I assume the axle spacing is the same as the GS though, so you just have to change the front wheel? What about the brakes? Do you run just one side? Do you use the GS rotor or the Katana? Caliper? Does the 120/60 clear the stock fender? I'd love to have a 120 up there. Which tires do you use and how do you like them?
The center is the same as the GS/early Kat.In the GS forks you would use the GS rotor and caliper.I'm not 100% sure but I believe the 120 will clear the GS fender.I run bandit 400 fender on my Katana front end.A Bandit flat top fender or a Kat fender will clear.I run Shinko 005 Advanced.I really like them.I have almost 3000 miles on them and they only show signs of being scuffed in.They seem to preform well in the wet, but I don't ride in the rain unless I get caught in it.I ride very carefully in the wet.I've never felt like I was loosing traction, like I did with the cheapo Kendas that came on my bike when I first bought it.
Well the heated grips fell through. They were on close out and I was just a little too late, they just hadn't updated the web page yet. So I'll be looking for another set sometime.
Got 4 coats of flat black on the plastics today. Maybe I'll have some time to wet sand them next weekend, probably not though. I'm still prepping the gas tank, I'll take care of that and the front fender when I install my Reload Fork Brace, which should be on it's way tomorrow. I'm shooting to have it finished by mid January.
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/0012.jpg)
looks like its coming along well!!
i see a couple longies hanging around, we'll definitely have to roll the GS's over to a good mountain bombers and make some turns! no longboard here, but i've been pushing the freebord for around 5 years now
I always wanted to try a free board. I ordered one once and ended up cancelling the order before it shipped after losing my job the next day. I've been making boards for a while now. The one with pink wheels is for a friend, the small one is for sale, and the black one in the back ground with the sharp angles will be once I finish it. I've probably built 30 or 35.
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/Boone%20Boards/Decks/002/002-02.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/Boone%20Boards/Decks/003/003-02.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/Boone%20Boards/Decks/005/005-01.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/Boone%20Boards/Decks/005/005-02.jpg)
We'll definitely need to do some 2 wheeled riding soon and some 4/6 wheeled riding when it's warm and the roads are free of sand/salt/gravel.
The painting is coming along. I've sprayed the tank and am 1/2 way through wet sanding everything. I should finish that up today and start spraying clear tonight or tomorrow. I've also got all sorts of other parts sitting waiting to go on: Oxford heated grips, Race Tech front fork springs and emulators, Reload's fork brace, and some Cortech luggage. Just concentrating on getting the paint done right now though.
:cheers:
What sport touring windscreen do you have? Do you like it & does it cause any wind noise or buffeting? I am looking at a Zero Gravity sport touring shield.
Thanks.
I have the zero gravity screen. It helps, but it doesn't keep you completely out of the wind. I have to tuck just a little bit to get completely in the wind bubble.
I've finished the painting. 4 coats of paint on the tail, 5 coats on the sides and nose, 6 coats on the tank, 7 coats of clear everywhere, wet sanded to 1000 grit and with a fresh coat of wax. It's a flat black paint with a satin clear coat. I was thinking about painting the bolts that hold the side plastics in place, but I don't think I'm going too. I like the look.
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/002.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/0013.jpg)
I still need to paint the lower fork tubes and the front fender, I'll do that when I have them off the bike installing the springs, emulators, and brace. I was thinking about painting the fork brace, but I think I'll probably leave it natural, like the faring bolts.
Some pics with the new Cortech luggage, minus the tank bag. I'm going to try sending it back for a magnetic mount model. I'm about to start installing the heated hand grips before I go to bed, I'll post some pics of those once I get them all hooked up, probably tomorrow.
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/059.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/060.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/061.jpg)
paint looks great! really liking the dark black/flat black contrast. matches the frame nicely
if you have the determination, i would KILL for a mild photo/write up of the emulator installation!
Thanks, I like how the paint turned out too :D except the tank, I may respray that. It just doesn't look nearly as good as the rest of the bike. Of course I also messed up the paint on the left fairing while installing the grips. I accidentally let some glue drip on and it ate the paint right off :mad: O'well.
The heated grips rock. That's all there is to it, they kick ass. From now on any street bike I own will have heated grips.
I was planning on doing an emulator write up when the time comes, don't worry :thumb:
Pics of the heated grips, cause otherwise it didn't happen
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/001-4.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/003-1.jpg)
I picked up a spare rear brake stay to mess around with to clearance the Katana wheel. Decided to start working on it tonight. I don't have a shop press, and was a little worried about keeping the geometry of the ends the same while going that rout. So I decided to take a path less followed. Pics tell it all. Probably won't get to continue working on it until next weekend :icon_sad:
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/003-2.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/004.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/005.jpg)
Make me one?
i'm interested to see how that bad boy turns out. definitely keep us posted!
The brake stay is almost done. It's taking me forever with a stick welder and no skillz, but it's just about there. I'll post some pics once I finish it and again when it's painted and installed.
I threw in some new brake and clutch levers. They are a carbon print, but not the standard print with silver rectangles. They have depth and shading in them. I think they look sweet. Only down side is one of the levers has a small blemish, but I'm not going to send it back to Japan for that. I ordered 2 sets, so the blem will just be a back up anyway.
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/005-1.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/006.jpg)
For my birthday my wife got me a Garmin Nuvi GPS and a handle bar mount/water resistant case :thumb:
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/008-1.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/002-2.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/003-3.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/004-1.jpg)
Now I'm going to have to hard-wire a 12v accessory port. Although the Nuvi's battery will last a claimed 5 hrs unplugged. That's cool, no biggie, just something I need to grab next time I'm at the store.
I got some Motul fork oil in the mail today, as well as some new-to-me fork tubes (so the bike won't have any real down time). I'll be starting the springs/emulators install/write up as soon as I finish the rear brake stay. And it seems that the brake stay will be in-the-nick-of-time: My back tire is getting very worn now. So new tires will be on her very soon. I'm thinking Michelin Pilot Road 3's. I should have a Katana 750 front wheel at my door tomorrow or Wednesday so I can step the front up to a 120 when the rear goes to 150 (maybe 160, still haven't decided). I already have a Katana front fender, although eyeballing it I don't think I'm going to like the look once it's installed. Maybe the stock fender will clear the 120, but the Katana fender was only $8, so I had to go ahead and grab it.
Freakin impossible to find a 12v flush mount power supply with a cover/lid locally. On my way home last night I stopped at Advance Auto, Auto Zone, Car Quest, and Napa. No dice. I was hoping I wasn't going to have to order one online (shipping charges) but I guess that's my only choice :sad:
Try a marine outfitter for boat owners.
saw some for sale on here a while back..
how's the brake stay coming along?
The brake stay is done! :woohoo:
I haven't painted it yet, but here are some pics of the test fit.
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/025.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/026.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/027.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/028.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/029.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/031.jpg)
It is snug up front with some room in the back. This is perfect: it's a brand new chain, 39t rear sprocket, and 17t front sprocket. So as everything wears in I'll have room to adjust the wheel backwards. I'm not sure if I'll keep the 17t front. I just wanted to give it a shot and see what it did to my gas mileage: I ride a lot at 75 mph.
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/024.jpg)
I also installed 2 inline fuel filters, one on each line between the petcocks. They are Russel, anodized black, and have a replaceable element. So they should save me some headache if the screen ever rips in the tank petcock.
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/023.jpg)
I've been working on test fitting the Katana front wheel. It's not quite a straight swap, but I've worked out all the kinks. Once my new tires are mounted (UPS should be bringing them by today) I'll do a write up on how to install the Katana front. I have everything ready to go for my front forks, but I'd like to finish the tires first. And after the forks are done I'll move on to wiring (the project has grown to a bit more then just a 12v power port).
Quote from: adidasguy on December 01, 2011, 11:09:33 PM
After market seats from France, with gel and a heater as options:
http://www.topsellerie.com/en-us/SUZUKI-GS-500-seats-petrol-tank-covers-tank-bags-motorbike_7_156.html
Seats without heater are available from Germany. I have these
(http://i1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb442/adidasguy/IMGP0968a.jpg)
Would you sell the blue gs500f one?
It'll match =)
great progress slack! i'm itching for some warm weather so i'm not called to the mountain every weekend.
brake arm looks good!
Thanks. The paint on the brake stay is drying as we speak. Warm weather is right around the corner.
My new tires are in. Michelin Pilot Road 3's. 120/60ZR17 and 150/70ZR17. Already made an appointment to have them mounted and balanced next week. I had the shop order a new set of bearings for the Katana wheels also.
I started working on installing Race Tech springs and Cartridge Emulators, I couldn't wait until the tires were on. I had to stop when I found out that the GS damping rod needs a spacer to work with the Emulators. The spacers are now in the mail and Race Tech should be updating their web page info. Follow the "how to" thread here: http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=59261.0 (http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=59261.0)
It's been a week since I finished installing the Katana wheels and new tires, along with all new fork internals. But I still haven't gotten to ride it yet. When I went to install the new chain I realized I needed a special tool to press the missing link together. I ordered it immediately, it was supposed to arrive today. So, I planned a long weekend of riding. I get home from work today and guess what, no package :sad: It won't be here until Monday.
:mad:
:( That sucks. Get out a hammer and a punch... or get a temporary removable link.
Hell, I got a removable link, check it once every few days, has never so much as budged on me.
Nothing stops me from riding.
That does suck that you cant get out riding, but look on the bright side. You could have snow like I do and you CANT ride for 2 more months until it melts.
Just wanted to say hi to everyone. I moved a few months ago and went a long time without internet. I'm still in SW VA, but instead of B.F.E. I'm in Roanoke now. So I'm back around now.
The bike is doing great. I've installed a K&N lunch box filter and rejetted. I did it mostly to open up some good real estate for the fuse box and bank of relays I still haven't installed. I'm really liking the new intake noise.
Hope everyone has been well!
You're close to some good BRP riding on your way out to the dragon's tail.
BRP has too slow of a speed limit and is too patrolled. Back in the 90's, before park rangers were aloud to sit on the side of the road and run radar, the BRP was fun, but too many bikers messed up too many times and got peoples attention. Federal tickets are a lot more lenient then state tickets though. About a decade ago I got a 60mph in a 35 and it was only a $70 ticket with no court date, just had to mail it in by some date.
Seeing this for the first time. I like the work you've done on the GS.
I've similarly modded mine, ST wind screen, 1" up and back risers, GPS, saddle bags(when needed) and large tank bag, 120/160 tires on stock front/kat rear rims. You may also want to try either the $20 ATV seat cover from walmart(great or the money) and also look into Greatdaytoride.com, he modifies your stock seat foam.
Quote from: Slack on October 10, 2012, 05:06:36 PM
BRP has too slow of a speed limit and is too patrolled. Back in the 90's, before park rangers were aloud to sit on the side of the road and run radar, the BRP was fun, but too many bikers messed up too many times and got peoples attention. Federal tickets are a lot more lenient then state tickets though. About a decade ago I got a 60mph in a 35 and it was only a $70 ticket with no court date, just had to mail it in by some date.
In 20 years,I've only seen a ranger once.
Quote from: ben2go on October 10, 2012, 08:10:20 PM
In 20 years,I've only seen a ranger once.
I've been pulled over on my bicycle for speeding while on the parkway.
In 15 years I've run across rangers probably 500 times.
The rangers hang out in the good areas where there is more parkway traffic. I saw them almost every time out when I lived in Boone, NC.
Forgot to mention that I threw on some lowered foot pegs from Knight Designs a few thousand miles ago. I'm short, but I like the reduced knee angle for long stints in the saddle.
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/002-3.jpg)
I just added an R6 throttle tube and Long Boy fuel screws last night. The R6 tube is 1/6 turn, with a cam 36.7mm in diameter.
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/011-2.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/019-2.jpg)
I also thought I'd mention that my carbs are jetted at 20/65/142.5 with the screws currently 3 turns out, but I haven't messed with adjusting those yet.
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/009-2.jpg)
I'm diggin your filters set up.I am planning to run Kientech extended fuel screws.They're $30 per pair.How much are those Long Boys?
looking good, big improvement. painting front fender should make a big difference.
I hadn't herd about greatdaytoride.com before, thanks Nathan. That's way cheaper then the French or German competition.
The long boys were $45 shipped http://www.factorypro.com/Prod_Pages/prods11.html (http://www.factorypro.com/Prod_Pages/prods11.html)
I wish those breather filters had been cheaper ($10 each), but I really like the way they look with the tank off, and I had to do something after installing the K&N Lunchbox.
Higgins I know I had said I was going to respray the fender, but I actually have grown to like it. There are several different blacks all over my bike and I like how they work with each other, versus everything being the exact same shade of black.
I need to pick up some bracket making supplies from my old house, but other then that I think I have everything I need for the next project:
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/006-2.jpg)
Quote from: Slack on November 03, 2012, 04:09:17 PM
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/006-2.jpg)
Plug it in, Plug it in!
Sorry, that was lame, I know... just wanted to sub! Great Bike!
- Bboy
I wore out the rear tire after about 8,000 miles. The Michelin Pilot Road III 150 was just too wide. I had to keep the back wheel tilted just off true alignment to keep the chain from rubbing the sidewall. This caused funky handling and wore out the left side of the tire before the right. When it was done it looked like I had done 100 laps on a Nascar oval. I replaced it with a Pirelli Corssa II 140 a few hundred miles ago. It feels a bit funny with a 140 on the back and a 120 on the front, but it will work until the front wears out and I can drop back down to a 110. I couldn't get all the way to the edge of the 120 anyway.
I've also switched back from the lowered foot pegs to the stock foot pegs. I'm doing a lot less (i.e. almost non) interstate riding, and I like the sportier ergonomics for back roads. The nearly 2" drop was a little extreme for my 30" inseam anyways. For the same initial reason I've also switched back to a 16 tooth front sprocket. Speaking of which, I just ordered new sprockets and a chain; I've already removed a link out of my chain to stretch its life.
The main reason for this post is I finally got started on my electrical project. I'm planning on adding a 12v DC power outlet and a 115v AC power outlet with on-board power inverter. I'm going to set each one up on a switch so that they won't have constant power running to them (like while riding in the rain) and they will only be active when the ignition is turned on, so that they won't drain the battery even if I forget to turn the switch off. I'm also going to rewire the heated hand grips so that they will only be on with the ignition key (I've had to push start my bike more than once because of them). I'm also going to add some mirrors with turn signals built in so that I can throw some fog lights on where the stock turn signals sit.
So far I've mounted the switches, DC outlet, and AC outlet. The AC outlet has an waterproof cover that accordions out when you plug something in. I've also made brackets for and mounted a fuse block and relay block. I still need to figure out where and how I'm going to mount the power inverter, remount the brain box for the heated grips and re-rout the wiring for the heated grips, then wire everything else up.
Everything is marine grade, so hopefully it will last on the bike.
Pics of Progress:
WARNING TO ADIDAS GUY: Pictures contain graphic mutilation of fairings. Not for the faint of heart. Viewer discretion is advised. :flipoff:
:D
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/019-3_zpsa1252d61.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/020-1_zps3162dfc1.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/021-2_zps84b21ffa.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/001-7_zps2aa15bbb.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/007-3_zpsfb852a68.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/006-3_zps0cf19a1d.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/008-4_zps97b90bd9.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/018-2_zps5e2e972d.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/011-3_zpsadc71dce.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/012-2_zpsda6a80ff.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/013-2_zpsfac12a1e.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/010-2_zps067360eb.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/016-2_zps97ced197.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/014-1_zps4246a80c.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/0032_zpsce64edae.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/0012-2_zpsd81622db.jpg)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/0042-1_zps1d1fd6e9.jpg)
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Man thats a lot of junk in your trunk :icon_rolleyes:
Looks feckin awesome :thumb:
Thanks :D
It's going to add a few pounds all in all. I guess I'll have to start taking massive dumps before each ride to compensate :oops: huuuwuugha :icon_eek:
I've realized I never posted any pics or gave any mention of my Renntec rear rack. My wife got it for me for x-mas used from a member on here, can't remember who now. I like being able to strap my tool bag right onto the back when going to work instead of trying to divide my tools between the tail and saddle bags. And my wife likes using a tail bag instead of saddle bags when she's riding with me so she doesn't have to sit on the cross straps.
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/GS500F/001-7_zpsecac4b6e.jpg)
I also got a bit more done on the electrical project. I didn't have quite enough room to mount the power inverter between the battery and air filter as I was hoping too. So I decided to mount it to the back side of the fairing, right under the AC outlet. This will reduce wire and save weight compared to putting it under the tail plastics. I am actually thinking about weight Coda, that's why the fuse box and relay bank are in the center of the bike, not back in the tail. Although, honestly, I don't think I'm a good enough rider to tell the difference between that small an amount of weight shifted that short a distance. Anyway, I found a bracket of some sort in my scrap metal pile that looked like it would work, epoxied it to the back of the fairing and then epoxied part of the shell of the power inverter to the bracket. I can still disassemble the inverter and remove the working bits, those aren't permanently attached, just the back half of the outer case.
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I also remounted the brain box for the heated grips from the tail to under the gas tank on the inner side of the frame. The main reason for moving this was to make it so that I can remove the fairings without having to remove the gas tank. The way I had wires run before I had to fish one out from the tail to the fairing to remove the left fairing. Now the wire disconnect will be right at the fairing, instead of in the tail.
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Clever on the electricals! You can plug in a microwave and a coffee maker!
I recognize the bags: Just saw a set for sale on the EX-500 forum in case someone wants a set like that.
http://www.ex-500.com/index.php/topic,44954.0.html
Thanks. The intended use is to charge my cell phone and GPS on long motorcycle camping trips. But I definitely plan on getting a video of me using my bike to power a drill or something once it's all done.
Been doing lots of soldering. The wiring harness is almost done. I just need to pick up a few more ring terminals and 2 diodes tomorrow and button it up. I've designed it so that it is completely removable, although the way I've routed it I don't think it will ever be in the way of anything. Still, if I decide to strip the bike to the frame and repaint it one day I won't have to hack into the harness.
Also I still need to mount the new mirrors and run wires for the turn signals and I haven't purchased the aux lights yet. I'm leaning towards Piaa LP530's but haven't made up my mind.
Got a fresh set of sprockets and a chain this weekend. Hopefully I'll have time tomorrow to finish the wiring, install the chain and sprockets, change the oil, and if I'm lucky check the valves.
What? DC power to an inverter to a cell phone charger that converts it back to DC? Why not skip it all and hook up a USB or Cigarrette style connector? Cheap inverters are bad on batteries. Running AC appliances will be cool. Maybe a toaster.
Btw, renntec rack was from me. Originally from adidasguy. All GS500 parts start or end with adidasguy. Glad to see its getting used.
Thanks for the rack Blue, it is being well used!
I just changed the oil and filter. I'm about to check the valves. I need to pick up some allen bolts to mount the new mirrors. I still need to run wires for the signals in the mirrors. And I need to swap out the chain and sprockets. But the auxiliary wiring harness is done! :cheers:
It took a few days in the garage, but it is by far the cleanest wiring job I've ever done. Wiring is already run to quick disconnects for the aux. lighting, I'll leave the stock turn signals on until I get the lights mounted.
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Got the chain and sprockets on. I'm trying out a 15 tooth front since I'm almost never on the interstate anymore. I'm liking it so far but I'm holding off judgement until I can go for a ride that includes a long 75mph interstate stint to see if it's too buzzy now.
I liked my 15 tooth until I did a 45 minute ride on the interstate.Speed limit was 70 and bike was way to buzzy in the bars.I have Kat front end and clip ons so that made it worse, I'm sure.
Figured I'd give an update.
Back in early spring 2013 I injured my throttle wrist at work. The bike sat parked as I was unable to ride for nearly a year. I didn't really feel like coming on here, it just rubbed salt in the wound. About the time my wrist was finally feeling better and I was thinking about getting the bike ready to ride I blew out my knee (late spring 2014). Finally, around thanksgiving last year, I felt healthy enough to ride again. Got the GS running again and also purchased a KLR to play in the dirt with.
So, now I'm back around. Looks like things have slowed down a lot, but they do every winter. Can't believe Patrick is gone. . . don't know how to say what I feel on that one, I'm not going to try :sad:
I'll get some pics up of the KLR soon enough. It did come with a Givi top box that I transferred over to the Renntec rack on the GS :D
I am glad you are healthy and riding again!!! :cheers:
Hmmm, That's no good :sad:
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Back firing through the carbs will cause that and also a valve that is not completely seating.Could be fuel pool from leaking carb fuel valve/needle and seat back firing in the intake port during start up.
my old SV650 did that once or twice. Just start the thing! THEIR BULLET PROOF!!oh wait.
Well I rode it to work one day 2 weeks ago or so. I noticed it smelt bad of gas and I had a small leak after work. Rode it home and parked it in the garage, until I got the carbs off today. And that is what I saw.
It has been very hard to start and warm up for the last month or two. I was planning on checking the valves (it's been 8,000 miles or so) and changing the spark plugs (15,000 miles).
The o-ring on the float needle plunger looks great. I measured the floats at 12.8mm (book says 12-14) I haven't put the carbs back on yet to try the clear hose method.
Should I replace the float plunger o-rings anyway? the bike is only 10 years old.
Why else would fuel puddle in the cylinder? I figured either my o-ring would be shredded, or the floats would be way out of whack.
Quote from: Slack on May 24, 2015, 01:11:05 PM
Well I rode it to work one day 2 weeks ago or so. I noticed it smelt bad of gas and I had a small leak after work. Rode it home and parked it in the garage, until I got the carbs off today. And that is what I saw.
It has been very hard to start and warm up for the last month or two. I was planning on checking the valves (it's been 8,000 miles or so) and changing the spark plugs (15,000 miles).
The o-ring on the float needle plunger looks great. I measured the floats at 12.8mm (book says 12-14) I haven't put the carbs back on yet to try the clear hose method.
Should I replace the float plunger o-rings anyway? the bike is only 10 years old.
Why else would fuel puddle in the cylinder? I figured either my o-ring would be shredded, or the floats would be way out of whack.
Check your oil,or change it,and make sure no fuel drained into the sump.Fuel in the oil will kill the bearings pretty quick.The main issue I had was a bad petcock diaphram leaking fuel down the petcock vacuum line.The other was bad needles and/or the o rings.Their is a pin on the needle that is spring loaded.Make sure it operates smoothly.Mine went flat and stuck in,causing my float levels to go off really bad,flooding my engine.The O rings will shrink over time from drying out,and loose their seal.This can be hard to see or feel.I'm not sure if anyone has come up with a non vacuum replacement for the newer style petcock.I haven't been closely following the GS forum for a few years now.I mainly pop in from time to time.
Spring loaded pin?? that could be my problem. I don't remember any "springy" part. This is on the little cylinder that the floats move up and down to block/allow fuel into the bowls?
I'll get new o-rings, of course I can't order them until Tuesday.
I was also thinking of getting a CRF250X (manual) petcock in the near future. I'll go ahead and pick up one of those too.
And hey Ben, while I have your attention: when you were running the stock front fork on the track did you say you eventually ran .95kg/mm?
Quote from: Slack on May 24, 2015, 05:26:47 PM
Spring loaded pin?? that could be my problem. I don't remember any "springy" part. This is on the little cylinder that the floats move up and down to block/allow fuel into the bowls?
I'll get new o-rings, of course I can't order them until Tuesday.
I was also thinking of getting a CRF250X (manual) petcock in the near future. I'll go ahead and pick up one of those too.
And hey Ben, while I have your attention: when you were running the stock front fork on the track did you say you eventually ran .95kg/mm?
I have the older carbs.Your new style may not have the spring loaded needles.
I never did do track days.Dgyver did tack days.I don't know what he was running.I think he stuck to all stock katana 600 front end.I did install progressive springs soon after getting my first GS.It was a big help but showed how soft the rear is for a big guy like me.Straight rate springs are more predictable in my opinion.They are more consistent than a progressively wound spring.
I'll do some more comparing left to right. It was on the center stand, but only one side filled up. So it has to be something in the carbs, perhaps in addition to the petcock leaking.
Quote from: Slack on May 24, 2015, 06:07:02 PM
I'll do some more comparing left to right. It was on the center stand, but only one side filled up. So it has to be something in the carbs, perhaps in addition to the petcock leaking.
Multiple carbs are a pain like that.I do all my carb work either on the center stand with the bike level,or on my lift jack with the bike level.It doesn't take much to throw off float bowl levels when the bike isn't level,left to right and front to back.I learned that the hard way.
Replaced the petcock with a manual one and adjusted the floats, they were a bit high. All is well. Thanks :D
Good deal.
I've been busy. . .
I've been collecting parts for a long time now to take the GS to the track. But I didn't want to do the conversion permanently until I had a different bike for everyday riding [enter KLR 650 Stage Left].
So I've added tank grip (Stompgrip), e-bay clip-ons below the triple tree, bar end mirrors (I do still want it to be street legal), an Acerbis Cyclops headlight, short stalk blinkers (all 4), CBR (or was it GSXR?) rear-sets with mounting plates a member on here made a few years back. I also stripped all my accessory wiring out, put some cheap grips on, and swapped in a shorter SS brake line up front.
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/Little-X/012_zpswchghwdl.jpg)
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Looks good to me.