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. :thumb:
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! :cheers: :cheers: