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OK, I bought it. Now What?
Re: OK, I bought it. Now What?
On Sat, 24 Mar 2007 17:00:59 -0600, BryanUT wrote:
> "Calgary" <actual.rider_remove_the_obvious_@telus,net > wrote in message
> news:3t9b03d3mfb7p25rvs2p9opl4q7lhbt9r8@4ax,com ...
>>
>>> I bought a 1995 Honda Nighthawk 750.
>>
>>
>> Good choice. It was a stupid move by Honda to discontinue the
>> Nighthawk.
>>
>>
>> --
>>
>>
> Perhaps the Koreans or Chinese will clone it? I really enjoyed mine, in
> hindsight I should have kept it....
Doubtful. They seem to think that the only things we want are cruiser
and sportbike clones.
Sad.
- Nate >>
--
"The optimist proclaims that we live in the best of all possible worlds,
the pessimist fears this is true."
On Sat, 24 Mar 2007 17:00:59 -0600, BryanUT wrote:
> "Calgary" <actual.rider_remove_the_obvious_@telus,net > wrote in message
> news:3t9b03d3mfb7p25rvs2p9opl4q7lhbt9r8@4ax,com ...
>>
>>> I bought a 1995 Honda Nighthawk 750.
>>
>>
>> Good choice. It was a stupid move by Honda to discontinue the
>> Nighthawk.
>>
>>
>> --
>>
>>
> Perhaps the Koreans or Chinese will clone it? I really enjoyed mine, in
> hindsight I should have kept it....
Doubtful. They seem to think that the only things we want are cruiser
and sportbike clones.
Sad.
- Nate >>
--
"The optimist proclaims that we live in the best of all possible worlds,
the pessimist fears this is true."
Re: OK, I bought it. Now What?
Lew <notme@notmindspring.invalid,com > wrote:
:I discovered Honda won't work on bikes over 10 years old. I live north
:of Atlanta, Georgia. Any advice on where to take it?
Most shops will work on it. There are plenty of independent bike
shops that will be happy to help you maintain your scoot (for $75
per hour).
Seriously, buy a shop manual and do the regular maintenance
yourself. You will do a better job and notice other things that
should be addressed while you are at it. When you have to go
something internal (valve adjustments, etc.) that is beyond your
skill level, take it to a shop.
Oil changes, lubrication, batteries, brake pads, spark plugs and
chain/belt adjustments are simple. Tire changes require a few more
tools. I take the bike in for tires.
On your Honda, you shouldn't need dealer service very often.
--
Lew <notme@notmindspring.invalid,com > wrote:
:I discovered Honda won't work on bikes over 10 years old. I live north
:of Atlanta, Georgia. Any advice on where to take it?
Most shops will work on it. There are plenty of independent bike
shops that will be happy to help you maintain your scoot (for $75
per hour).
Seriously, buy a shop manual and do the regular maintenance
yourself. You will do a better job and notice other things that
should be addressed while you are at it. When you have to go
something internal (valve adjustments, etc.) that is beyond your
skill level, take it to a shop.
Oil changes, lubrication, batteries, brake pads, spark plugs and
chain/belt adjustments are simple. Tire changes require a few more
tools. I take the bike in for tires.
On your Honda, you shouldn't need dealer service very often.
--
Re: OK, I bought it. Now What?
The Nighthawk 750 is a deft choice. Excellent play. The Honda 750 is,
after all, the engine that set motorcycle manufacturers on their
collective ear when it debuted. The Honda 750 is motorcycling's
equivalent to the venerable Chevy 350 small block. It's been around
forever, it has great specific output, every mechanic has worked on one,
and it's bulletproof. Your bike is a piece of history. Regardless, it
will serve you well into the future.
I'm dubious of your claim about Honda refusing to work on bikes more
than 10 years old. Though I could believe a dealer would feel it's in
their best interests to have such a policy. Heh. Regardless, most of
the best bike techs don't work in dealerships. They understand that
there are many people who will pay them better than the dealership for
quality work. Given the history of the Honda 750, I'd claim it would be
hard to find a motorcycle tech who hasn't worked on lots of them. Ask
around your community for a good bike tech. If you're in the DC area, I
know one.
But as someone else said, you're better off buying the factory manual
for your bike and a decent set of tools and learning something. You'll
grow a bond with a machine that you wrench yourself that you just can't
get by throwing it and your checkbook at a dealership. Assuming you're
not a dumbass - and anyone who is willing to admit the possibility that
they may need some advice and or training is probably not a dumbass,
you're most likely able to do most of the work a Honda 750 would need.
As for aftermarket stuff, there are many, many sources. Dennis Kirk, as
has been mentioned, carries lots of aftermarket stuff like windshields
and luggage. I don't know about luggage for Nighthawks, but there are
many who do. Rather than Reeky (rec.motorcycles), I'd recommend you
Google (<- not a verb, just ask Google) for Nighthawk owners
groups/forums. Rather than guesses, they'd be much more likely to
provide emphatic statements like "this make and model number work great,
and here are some pics of the install" or, "don't even think of buying
from these lowlifes...".
If you were a "serious rider" 20 years ago, you may be better off with
the MSF ERC (Experienced). After that, I'd recommend Lee Parks' Total
Control Advanced Riding Clinic. There's no shame in taking any of these.
I know one rider who takes the ERC every year. She also buys a new
Beemer every year, so she may just be doing it to burn through some
cash, rather than for the education.
One thing I haven't seen mentioned is gear. If your thinking on gear is
also 20 years old, you might seriously consider reading up on protective
gear and investing in some good stuff. Having ridden a motorcycle
through a deer at very high speed, I'm really, really, really happy I
destroyed a $400 jacket in the process. That jacket protected me from
all the likely damage in the process of sliding down the highway. I'm
sure if I had done this particular stunt in a jean jacket, I would
gladly have paid $4000 after the fact to undo the pain and the broken
bones and the scars and the road rash. Good gear is worth every penny.
Good luck with the bike and enjoy!
The Nighthawk 750 is a deft choice. Excellent play. The Honda 750 is,
after all, the engine that set motorcycle manufacturers on their
collective ear when it debuted. The Honda 750 is motorcycling's
equivalent to the venerable Chevy 350 small block. It's been around
forever, it has great specific output, every mechanic has worked on one,
and it's bulletproof. Your bike is a piece of history. Regardless, it
will serve you well into the future.
I'm dubious of your claim about Honda refusing to work on bikes more
than 10 years old. Though I could believe a dealer would feel it's in
their best interests to have such a policy. Heh. Regardless, most of
the best bike techs don't work in dealerships. They understand that
there are many people who will pay them better than the dealership for
quality work. Given the history of the Honda 750, I'd claim it would be
hard to find a motorcycle tech who hasn't worked on lots of them. Ask
around your community for a good bike tech. If you're in the DC area, I
know one.
But as someone else said, you're better off buying the factory manual
for your bike and a decent set of tools and learning something. You'll
grow a bond with a machine that you wrench yourself that you just can't
get by throwing it and your checkbook at a dealership. Assuming you're
not a dumbass - and anyone who is willing to admit the possibility that
they may need some advice and or training is probably not a dumbass,
you're most likely able to do most of the work a Honda 750 would need.
As for aftermarket stuff, there are many, many sources. Dennis Kirk, as
has been mentioned, carries lots of aftermarket stuff like windshields
and luggage. I don't know about luggage for Nighthawks, but there are
many who do. Rather than Reeky (rec.motorcycles), I'd recommend you
Google (<- not a verb, just ask Google) for Nighthawk owners
groups/forums. Rather than guesses, they'd be much more likely to
provide emphatic statements like "this make and model number work great,
and here are some pics of the install" or, "don't even think of buying
from these lowlifes...".
If you were a "serious rider" 20 years ago, you may be better off with
the MSF ERC (Experienced). After that, I'd recommend Lee Parks' Total
Control Advanced Riding Clinic. There's no shame in taking any of these.
I know one rider who takes the ERC every year. She also buys a new
Beemer every year, so she may just be doing it to burn through some
cash, rather than for the education.
One thing I haven't seen mentioned is gear. If your thinking on gear is
also 20 years old, you might seriously consider reading up on protective
gear and investing in some good stuff. Having ridden a motorcycle
through a deer at very high speed, I'm really, really, really happy I
destroyed a $400 jacket in the process. That jacket protected me from
all the likely damage in the process of sliding down the highway. I'm
sure if I had done this particular stunt in a jean jacket, I would
gladly have paid $4000 after the fact to undo the pain and the broken
bones and the scars and the road rash. Good gear is worth every penny.
Good luck with the bike and enjoy!
Re: OK, I bought it. Now What?
On Sat, 24 Mar 2007 23:33:27 GMT, Ari Rankum
<ari_rankum@invalid.invalid> wrote:
>I'm dubious of your claim about Honda refusing to work on bikes more
>than 10 years old. Though I could believe a dealer would feel it's in
>their best interests to have such a policy. Heh. Regardless, most of
>the best bike techs don't work in dealerships. They understand that
>there are many people who will pay them better than the dealership for
>quality work. Given the history of the Honda 750, I'd claim it would be
> hard to find a motorcycle tech who hasn't worked on lots of them. Ask
>around your community for a good bike tech. If you're in the DC area, I
>know one.
It's true up here. None of the "factory" dealerships will work on
anything 10 years old or older. The hypothesis is the older the bike,
the less it's worth and the more it proportionally costs to fix. When
the bill comes due, the owner refuses to pay and the dealer is stuck
with the bike and the bill.
On Sat, 24 Mar 2007 23:33:27 GMT, Ari Rankum
<ari_rankum@invalid.invalid> wrote:
>I'm dubious of your claim about Honda refusing to work on bikes more
>than 10 years old. Though I could believe a dealer would feel it's in
>their best interests to have such a policy. Heh. Regardless, most of
>the best bike techs don't work in dealerships. They understand that
>there are many people who will pay them better than the dealership for
>quality work. Given the history of the Honda 750, I'd claim it would be
> hard to find a motorcycle tech who hasn't worked on lots of them. Ask
>around your community for a good bike tech. If you're in the DC area, I
>know one.
It's true up here. None of the "factory" dealerships will work on
anything 10 years old or older. The hypothesis is the older the bike,
the less it's worth and the more it proportionally costs to fix. When
the bill comes due, the owner refuses to pay and the dealer is stuck
with the bike and the bill.
Re: OK, I bought it. Now What?
"sleazy" <none@nil,net > wrote in message
news:e9fb03hgpoung50hrjt0idhjpbjphbno9b@4ax,com ...
> On Sat, 24 Mar 2007 23:33:27 GMT, Ari Rankum
> <ari_rankum@invalid.invalid> wrote:
>
>>I'm dubious of your claim about Honda refusing to work on bikes more
>>than 10 years old. Though I could believe a dealer would feel it's in
>>their best interests to have such a policy. Heh. Regardless, most of
>>the best bike techs don't work in dealerships. They understand that
>>there are many people who will pay them better than the dealership for
>>quality work. Given the history of the Honda 750, I'd claim it would be
>> hard to find a motorcycle tech who hasn't worked on lots of them. Ask
>>around your community for a good bike tech. If you're in the DC area, I
>>know one.
>
> It's true up here. None of the "factory" dealerships will work on
> anything 10 years old or older. The hypothesis is the older the bike,
> the less it's worth and the more it proportionally costs to fix. When
> the bill comes due, the owner refuses to pay and the dealer is stuck
> with the bike and the bill.
That is so weird. If we are talking Nighthawk 750s,weren't they basically
unchanged between 95 and end of run about 2002?
And honestly, this is why Harley thrives. Japanese bikes are ridden and
then thrown to the wolves, because they are cheap to buy, but hard to
maintain. Like most appliances.
But you can keep the old jap bikes running it just takes a little more
effort.
"sleazy" <none@nil,net > wrote in message
news:e9fb03hgpoung50hrjt0idhjpbjphbno9b@4ax,com ...
> On Sat, 24 Mar 2007 23:33:27 GMT, Ari Rankum
> <ari_rankum@invalid.invalid> wrote:
>
>>I'm dubious of your claim about Honda refusing to work on bikes more
>>than 10 years old. Though I could believe a dealer would feel it's in
>>their best interests to have such a policy. Heh. Regardless, most of
>>the best bike techs don't work in dealerships. They understand that
>>there are many people who will pay them better than the dealership for
>>quality work. Given the history of the Honda 750, I'd claim it would be
>> hard to find a motorcycle tech who hasn't worked on lots of them. Ask
>>around your community for a good bike tech. If you're in the DC area, I
>>know one.
>
> It's true up here. None of the "factory" dealerships will work on
> anything 10 years old or older. The hypothesis is the older the bike,
> the less it's worth and the more it proportionally costs to fix. When
> the bill comes due, the owner refuses to pay and the dealer is stuck
> with the bike and the bill.
That is so weird. If we are talking Nighthawk 750s,weren't they basically
unchanged between 95 and end of run about 2002?
And honestly, this is why Harley thrives. Japanese bikes are ridden and
then thrown to the wolves, because they are cheap to buy, but hard to
maintain. Like most appliances.
But you can keep the old jap bikes running it just takes a little more
effort.
Re: OK, I bought it. Now What?
BryanUT wrote:
> "sleazy" <none@nil,net > wrote in message
> news:e9fb03hgpoung50hrjt0idhjpbjphbno9b@4ax,com ...
>
>>On Sat, 24 Mar 2007 23:33:27 GMT, Ari Rankum
>><ari rankum@invalid.invalid> wrote:
>>
>>
>>>I'm dubious of your claim about Honda refusing to work on bikes more
>>>than 10 years old. Though I could believe a dealer would feel it's in
>>>their best interests to have such a policy. Heh. Regardless, most of
>>>the best bike techs don't work in dealerships. They understand that
>>>there are many people who will pay them better than the dealership for
>>>quality work. Given the history of the Honda 750, I'd claim it would be
>>> hard to find a motorcycle tech who hasn't worked on lots of them. Ask
>>>around your community for a good bike tech. If you're in the DC area, I
>>>know one.
>>
>>It's true up here. None of the "factory" dealerships will work on
>>anything 10 years old or older. The hypothesis is the older the bike,
>>the less it's worth and the more it proportionally costs to fix. When
>>the bill comes due, the owner refuses to pay and the dealer is stuck
>>with the bike and the bill.
>
>
> That is so weird. If we are talking Nighthawk 750s,weren't they basically
> unchanged between 95 and end of run about 2002?
>
> And honestly, this is why Harley thrives. Japanese bikes are ridden and
> then thrown to the wolves, because they are cheap to buy, but hard to
> maintain. Like most appliances.
>
> But you can keep the old jap bikes running it just takes a little more
> effort.
>
>
Among other bikes, I have what is basically a Honda 750 (the Nighthawk
'S' was sold in the US as a 700, but everywhere else on the planet as a
750 - thank the Harley embargo) from 1985. While I have loved my Yamaha
FJRs no end, I'd find it hard to part with my 1985 Nighthawk 'S'. It's
such a classic. Except for a Harley-accommodating shortened stroke,, to
get below the 700cc limit, it's a Honda 750. I have had no problems
getting parts for this bike. Likewise, because it's a Honda 750
(basically), I've had no trouble getting one of the best-reputed shops
in the DC area to work on the things I won't do myself.
Someone with a 1995 Honda 750 and a web browser should have no problems
at all. For a long time, Honda has made some of the best damn stuff
that spins. Hell, I just made another investment today.
Regards,
BryanUT wrote:
> "sleazy" <none@nil,net > wrote in message
> news:e9fb03hgpoung50hrjt0idhjpbjphbno9b@4ax,com ...
>
>>On Sat, 24 Mar 2007 23:33:27 GMT, Ari Rankum
>><ari rankum@invalid.invalid> wrote:
>>
>>
>>>I'm dubious of your claim about Honda refusing to work on bikes more
>>>than 10 years old. Though I could believe a dealer would feel it's in
>>>their best interests to have such a policy. Heh. Regardless, most of
>>>the best bike techs don't work in dealerships. They understand that
>>>there are many people who will pay them better than the dealership for
>>>quality work. Given the history of the Honda 750, I'd claim it would be
>>> hard to find a motorcycle tech who hasn't worked on lots of them. Ask
>>>around your community for a good bike tech. If you're in the DC area, I
>>>know one.
>>
>>It's true up here. None of the "factory" dealerships will work on
>>anything 10 years old or older. The hypothesis is the older the bike,
>>the less it's worth and the more it proportionally costs to fix. When
>>the bill comes due, the owner refuses to pay and the dealer is stuck
>>with the bike and the bill.
>
>
> That is so weird. If we are talking Nighthawk 750s,weren't they basically
> unchanged between 95 and end of run about 2002?
>
> And honestly, this is why Harley thrives. Japanese bikes are ridden and
> then thrown to the wolves, because they are cheap to buy, but hard to
> maintain. Like most appliances.
>
> But you can keep the old jap bikes running it just takes a little more
> effort.
>
>
Among other bikes, I have what is basically a Honda 750 (the Nighthawk
'S' was sold in the US as a 700, but everywhere else on the planet as a
750 - thank the Harley embargo) from 1985. While I have loved my Yamaha
FJRs no end, I'd find it hard to part with my 1985 Nighthawk 'S'. It's
such a classic. Except for a Harley-accommodating shortened stroke,, to
get below the 700cc limit, it's a Honda 750. I have had no problems
getting parts for this bike. Likewise, because it's a Honda 750
(basically), I've had no trouble getting one of the best-reputed shops
in the DC area to work on the things I won't do myself.
Someone with a 1995 Honda 750 and a web browser should have no problems
at all. For a long time, Honda has made some of the best damn stuff
that spins. Hell, I just made another investment today.
Regards,
Re: OK, I bought it. Now What?
On Sat, 24 Mar 2007 23:33:27 GMT, Ari Rankum
<ari_rankum@invalid.invalid> wrote:
>I'm dubious of your claim about Honda refusing to work on bikes more
>than 10 years old. Though I could believe a dealer would feel it's in
>their best interests to have such a policy.
I ran into the same thing with my Virago. Actually they told me their
limit was five years. What I was told by two dealers was they are so
busy looking after their customer's bikes and warrantee work they are
not interested in doing anything except the really simple stuff on
older models. They also suggested older models can be harder to work
on too.
The dealers exclusions encourage the aftermarket shops to set up
repair and maintenance departments. We have a few in Calgary. The
trick is finding a good one.
--
24 hours in a day
&
24 beer in a case
Coincidence?
I think not
On Sat, 24 Mar 2007 23:33:27 GMT, Ari Rankum
<ari_rankum@invalid.invalid> wrote:
>I'm dubious of your claim about Honda refusing to work on bikes more
>than 10 years old. Though I could believe a dealer would feel it's in
>their best interests to have such a policy.
I ran into the same thing with my Virago. Actually they told me their
limit was five years. What I was told by two dealers was they are so
busy looking after their customer's bikes and warrantee work they are
not interested in doing anything except the really simple stuff on
older models. They also suggested older models can be harder to work
on too.
The dealers exclusions encourage the aftermarket shops to set up
repair and maintenance departments. We have a few in Calgary. The
trick is finding a good one.
--
24 hours in a day
&
24 beer in a case
Coincidence?
I think not
Re: OK, I bought it. Now What?
"Calgary" <actual.rider_remove_the_obvious_@telus,net > wrote in message
news:pqmb0313nhh009l2juaq0kh2ts5cpqf8cb@4ax,com ...
>
> The dealers exclusions encourage the aftermarket shops to set up
> repair and maintenance departments. We have a few in Calgary. The
> trick is finding a good one.
>
Yep. And we have a mutual friend that rides an old Kawasaki....
I think Lyle could fix many old school bikes, and a certain Mark O.
"Calgary" <actual.rider_remove_the_obvious_@telus,net > wrote in message
news:pqmb0313nhh009l2juaq0kh2ts5cpqf8cb@4ax,com ...
>
> The dealers exclusions encourage the aftermarket shops to set up
> repair and maintenance departments. We have a few in Calgary. The
> trick is finding a good one.
>
Yep. And we have a mutual friend that rides an old Kawasaki....
I think Lyle could fix many old school bikes, and a certain Mark O.
Re: OK, I bought it. Now What?
On Sat, 24 Mar 2007 20:47:21 -0600, "BryanUT" <nestle12@comcast,net >
wrote:
>
>"Calgary" <actual.rider_remove_the_obvious_@telus,net > wrote in message
>news:pqmb0313nhh009l2juaq0kh2ts5cpqf8cb@4ax,com ...
>>
>> The dealers exclusions encourage the aftermarket shops to set up
>> repair and maintenance departments. We have a few in Calgary. The
>> trick is finding a good one.
>>
>
>Yep. And we have a mutual friend that rides an old Kawasaki....
>
>I think Lyle could fix many old school bikes, and a certain Mark O.
>
And I'd trust either of them a heck of a lot more than I would any
dealer.
I am trying to do most of the mechanical work on my bike these days.
Not being talented like Mark, Lyle and a few others around here, it
takes me a lot longer and I am probably doing it the hard way, but I
have found if I take my time and read the various instructions several
times it is working out. So far anyway.
I am still hesitant to work on the 850lb Venture while it is on the
lift though. I have visions of it falling off and most likely landing
on me. <g>
--
24 hours in a day
&
24 beer in a case
Coincidence?
I think not
On Sat, 24 Mar 2007 20:47:21 -0600, "BryanUT" <nestle12@comcast,net >
wrote:
>
>"Calgary" <actual.rider_remove_the_obvious_@telus,net > wrote in message
>news:pqmb0313nhh009l2juaq0kh2ts5cpqf8cb@4ax,com ...
>>
>> The dealers exclusions encourage the aftermarket shops to set up
>> repair and maintenance departments. We have a few in Calgary. The
>> trick is finding a good one.
>>
>
>Yep. And we have a mutual friend that rides an old Kawasaki....
>
>I think Lyle could fix many old school bikes, and a certain Mark O.
>
And I'd trust either of them a heck of a lot more than I would any
dealer.
I am trying to do most of the mechanical work on my bike these days.
Not being talented like Mark, Lyle and a few others around here, it
takes me a lot longer and I am probably doing it the hard way, but I
have found if I take my time and read the various instructions several
times it is working out. So far anyway.
I am still hesitant to work on the 850lb Venture while it is on the
lift though. I have visions of it falling off and most likely landing
on me. <g>
--
24 hours in a day
&
24 beer in a case
Coincidence?
I think not
Re: OK, I bought it. Now What?
"Calgary" <actual.rider_remove_the_obvious_@telus,net > wrote in message
news:9kob03tgpf777eat45jtrlv3iharfta17j@4ax,com ...
> On Sat, 24 Mar 2007 20:47:21 -0600, "BryanUT" <nestle12@comcast,net >
> wrote:
>
>>
>>"Calgary" <actual.rider_remove_the_obvious_@telus,net > wrote in message
>>news:pqmb0313nhh009l2juaq0kh2ts5cpqf8cb@4ax,com ...
>>>
>>> The dealers exclusions encourage the aftermarket shops to set up
>>> repair and maintenance departments. We have a few in Calgary. The
>>> trick is finding a good one.
>>>
>>
>>Yep. And we have a mutual friend that rides an old Kawasaki....
>>
>>I think Lyle could fix many old school bikes, and a certain Mark O.
>>
>
> And I'd trust either of them a heck of a lot more than I would any
> dealer.
>
> I am trying to do most of the mechanical work on my bike these days.
> Not being talented like Mark, Lyle and a few others around here, it
> takes me a lot longer and I am probably doing it the hard way, but I
> have found if I take my time and read the various instructions several
> times it is working out. So far anyway.
>
> I am still hesitant to work on the 850lb Venture while it is on the
> lift though. I have visions of it falling off and most likely landing
> on me. <g>
>
>
Hehe, safety first. I was just happy to get the blinkers working on the old
Trail 90.
"Calgary" <actual.rider_remove_the_obvious_@telus,net > wrote in message
news:9kob03tgpf777eat45jtrlv3iharfta17j@4ax,com ...
> On Sat, 24 Mar 2007 20:47:21 -0600, "BryanUT" <nestle12@comcast,net >
> wrote:
>
>>
>>"Calgary" <actual.rider_remove_the_obvious_@telus,net > wrote in message
>>news:pqmb0313nhh009l2juaq0kh2ts5cpqf8cb@4ax,com ...
>>>
>>> The dealers exclusions encourage the aftermarket shops to set up
>>> repair and maintenance departments. We have a few in Calgary. The
>>> trick is finding a good one.
>>>
>>
>>Yep. And we have a mutual friend that rides an old Kawasaki....
>>
>>I think Lyle could fix many old school bikes, and a certain Mark O.
>>
>
> And I'd trust either of them a heck of a lot more than I would any
> dealer.
>
> I am trying to do most of the mechanical work on my bike these days.
> Not being talented like Mark, Lyle and a few others around here, it
> takes me a lot longer and I am probably doing it the hard way, but I
> have found if I take my time and read the various instructions several
> times it is working out. So far anyway.
>
> I am still hesitant to work on the 850lb Venture while it is on the
> lift though. I have visions of it falling off and most likely landing
> on me. <g>
>
>
Hehe, safety first. I was just happy to get the blinkers working on the old
Trail 90.
Re: OK, I bought it. Now What?
Ari Rankum wrote:
> The Honda 750 is,
> after all, the engine that set motorcycle manufacturers on their
> collective ear when it debuted.
Except that the Nighthawk 750 isn't *that* 750. That honor belongs to
the 1969 CB750K, a SOHC design. Then, you've got the second generation
DOHCs, *then* the third generation Nighthawks.
The Nighthawks were the last holdout of the classic UJM. If you can't
find exactly the fairing/luggage you are looking for, be patient, it
will probably turn up used somewhere along the line.
But, all through it, it's been an excellent engine. I own both the
Nighthawk's daddy and grand-daddy, and have loved them both. "Reliable"
is a word you'll hear over and over again when referring to them.
+1 on good, modern gear. Last October I trashed one of my armored
jackets in a low-speed fall in a parking lot. Would have trashed my
elbow, shoulder, and arm, but just wound up with a small bruise on my
elbow. My armored pants survived better, but also took up quite an
impact that would have messed up my knee. The sprained ankle couldn't
have been avoided, unfortunately, but the other gear *more* than paid
for itself.
--
"Outback" Jon - KC2BNE
outback jon@ver.no.sp.am.izon,net
AMD Opteron 146 (@2.8) and 6.1 GHz of other AMD power...
http :// folding.stanford.edu - got folding? Team 48435
2006 ZG1000A Concours "Blueline" COG# 7385 CDA# 0157
1980 CB750F SuperSport "CoolerKing"
Ari Rankum wrote:
> The Honda 750 is,
> after all, the engine that set motorcycle manufacturers on their
> collective ear when it debuted.
Except that the Nighthawk 750 isn't *that* 750. That honor belongs to
the 1969 CB750K, a SOHC design. Then, you've got the second generation
DOHCs, *then* the third generation Nighthawks.
The Nighthawks were the last holdout of the classic UJM. If you can't
find exactly the fairing/luggage you are looking for, be patient, it
will probably turn up used somewhere along the line.
But, all through it, it's been an excellent engine. I own both the
Nighthawk's daddy and grand-daddy, and have loved them both. "Reliable"
is a word you'll hear over and over again when referring to them.
+1 on good, modern gear. Last October I trashed one of my armored
jackets in a low-speed fall in a parking lot. Would have trashed my
elbow, shoulder, and arm, but just wound up with a small bruise on my
elbow. My armored pants survived better, but also took up quite an
impact that would have messed up my knee. The sprained ankle couldn't
have been avoided, unfortunately, but the other gear *more* than paid
for itself.
--
"Outback" Jon - KC2BNE
outback jon@ver.no.sp.am.izon,net
AMD Opteron 146 (@2.8) and 6.1 GHz of other AMD power...
http :// folding.stanford.edu - got folding? Team 48435
2006 ZG1000A Concours "Blueline" COG# 7385 CDA# 0157
1980 CB750F SuperSport "CoolerKing"
Re: OK, I bought it. Now What?
On Sat, 24 Mar 2007 23:33:27 GMT, Ari Rankum
<ari_rankum@invalid.invalid> wrote:
>If you were a "serious rider" 20 years ago, you may be better off with
>the MSF ERC (Experienced). After that, I'd recommend Lee Parks' Total
>Control Advanced Riding Clinic. There's no shame in taking any of these.
"Shame?" heh. I don't think I've ever seen that reason used by any
student or potential student to avoid a skills class. Expense,
arrogant disdain, impatience, yes, but shame is a new one on me.
--
Turby the Turbosurfer
On Sat, 24 Mar 2007 23:33:27 GMT, Ari Rankum
<ari_rankum@invalid.invalid> wrote:
>If you were a "serious rider" 20 years ago, you may be better off with
>the MSF ERC (Experienced). After that, I'd recommend Lee Parks' Total
>Control Advanced Riding Clinic. There's no shame in taking any of these.
"Shame?" heh. I don't think I've ever seen that reason used by any
student or potential student to avoid a skills class. Expense,
arrogant disdain, impatience, yes, but shame is a new one on me.
--
Turby the Turbosurfer
Re: OK, I bought it. Now What?
On Sat, 24 Mar 2007 16:24:25 -0000, Lew
<notme@notmindspring.invalid,com > wrote:
<snip>
> Now I need some wise advice from the group.
Hey, we've got all kinds. The good, the bad, and the ugly.
>
>I discovered Honda won't work on bikes over 10 years old. I live north
>of Atlanta, Georgia. Any advice on where to take it?
I think you can manage a lot with a manual and a 3/8 drive ratchet and
metric sockets. A few other tools may come in handy.
>
>My bike came with a dinky handlebar-mount windscreen. It doesn't do
>much except cause turbulence. Where is the best place to get a larger
>screen, preferably removable? I usually ride without one, but would
>like the option for longer rides and bad weather.
Sorry I can't help you (I'm on the West coast). I will suggest that
you get something that attaches to the frame, not the handlebars or
fork or whatever, as those are likely to be more tiring on long rides,
and may introduce instabilities you don't need.
<snip>
Al Moore
DoD 734
On Sat, 24 Mar 2007 16:24:25 -0000, Lew
<notme@notmindspring.invalid,com > wrote:
<snip>
> Now I need some wise advice from the group.
Hey, we've got all kinds. The good, the bad, and the ugly.
>
>I discovered Honda won't work on bikes over 10 years old. I live north
>of Atlanta, Georgia. Any advice on where to take it?
I think you can manage a lot with a manual and a 3/8 drive ratchet and
metric sockets. A few other tools may come in handy.
>
>My bike came with a dinky handlebar-mount windscreen. It doesn't do
>much except cause turbulence. Where is the best place to get a larger
>screen, preferably removable? I usually ride without one, but would
>like the option for longer rides and bad weather.
Sorry I can't help you (I'm on the West coast). I will suggest that
you get something that attaches to the frame, not the handlebars or
fork or whatever, as those are likely to be more tiring on long rides,
and may introduce instabilities you don't need.
<snip>
Al Moore
DoD 734
Re: OK, I bought it. Now What?
Wow! I didn't expect this kind of response. Thanks for all the
suggestions. It was beautiful this weekend in Georgia and I was riding
(200 miles today!) and didn't have a chance to answer anyone. I got
all the web site suggestions and will try them tomorrow. Someone
pointed me to the Cycle Gear shop near me and I got an inexpensive tank
bag for now. As for the safety course, I am going to call the Honda
Riders Education Center in Alpharetta this week and get signed up. I
looked them up and it's the closest to me. I assume they're all right.
As far as Honda not working on bikes over 10 years old, I heard it from
2 dealers. I don't know if it's corporate policy or the dealers
personal policy. I have a Clymers manual that the privious owner had
so maybe I will do some of the stuff myself. See you on the road!
--
Lew
Wow! I didn't expect this kind of response. Thanks for all the
suggestions. It was beautiful this weekend in Georgia and I was riding
(200 miles today!) and didn't have a chance to answer anyone. I got
all the web site suggestions and will try them tomorrow. Someone
pointed me to the Cycle Gear shop near me and I got an inexpensive tank
bag for now. As for the safety course, I am going to call the Honda
Riders Education Center in Alpharetta this week and get signed up. I
looked them up and it's the closest to me. I assume they're all right.
As far as Honda not working on bikes over 10 years old, I heard it from
2 dealers. I don't know if it's corporate policy or the dealers
personal policy. I have a Clymers manual that the privious owner had
so maybe I will do some of the stuff myself. See you on the road!
--
Lew
Re: OK, I bought it. Now What?
Lew wrote:
>
>As far as Honda not working on bikes over 10 years old, I heard it from
>2 dealers. I don't know if it's corporate policy or the dealers
>personal policy. I have a Clymers manual that the privious owner had
>so maybe I will do some of the stuff myself. See you on the road!
>
I've heard this from a few shops. The usual excuse is parts or manual
availability. The first question to ask is if they'll work on a 2003
Nighthawk. If they say yes, then inform them that all of the '91-'03
Nighthawks are mechanically identical. Same parts, same manuals.
Frankly, I don't think you'll need the shop much. If you've got the
Clymer manual, that should cover just about anything you'll need. My '93
Nighthawk has never seen the inside of a shop. Keep the oil clean and the
chain lubed and you're good to go.
John
--
Message posted via MotorcycleKB,com
http :// www .motorcyclekb,com /Uwe/Forums.aspx/bike/200703/1
Lew wrote:
>
>As far as Honda not working on bikes over 10 years old, I heard it from
>2 dealers. I don't know if it's corporate policy or the dealers
>personal policy. I have a Clymers manual that the privious owner had
>so maybe I will do some of the stuff myself. See you on the road!
>
I've heard this from a few shops. The usual excuse is parts or manual
availability. The first question to ask is if they'll work on a 2003
Nighthawk. If they say yes, then inform them that all of the '91-'03
Nighthawks are mechanically identical. Same parts, same manuals.
Frankly, I don't think you'll need the shop much. If you've got the
Clymer manual, that should cover just about anything you'll need. My '93
Nighthawk has never seen the inside of a shop. Keep the oil clean and the
chain lubed and you're good to go.
John
--
Message posted via MotorcycleKB,com
http :// www .motorcyclekb,com /Uwe/Forums.aspx/bike/200703/1
