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tranx |
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tranx L Plate Warrior
Joined: 29 Nov 2023 Karma :
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A100man |
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A100man World Chat Champion
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tranx |
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tranx L Plate Warrior
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stinkwheel |
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stinkwheel Bovine Proctologist
Joined: 12 Jul 2004 Karma :
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jeffyjeff |
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jeffyjeff World Chat Champion
Joined: 02 May 2020 Karma :
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Posted: 21:15 - 30 Nov 2023 Post subject: |
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Turn it forward. ____________________ History shows again and again how nature points out the folly of men - BOC |
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tranx |
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tranx L Plate Warrior
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Ste |
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Ste Not Work Safe
Joined: 01 Sep 2002 Karma :
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A100man |
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A100man World Chat Champion
Joined: 19 Aug 2013 Karma :
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Posted: 10:44 - 01 Dec 2023 Post subject: |
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jeffyjeff wrote: | Turn it forward. |
Errm yeah, possibly that way too..
BTW does it have to be depressed or pulled out then turned like a watch? ____________________ Now: A100, GT250A, XJ598, FZ750
Then: Fizz, RS200, KL250, XJ550, Laverda Alpina, XJ600, FZS600 |
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tranx |
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tranx L Plate Warrior
Joined: 29 Nov 2023 Karma :
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Posted: 16:43 - 18 Dec 2023 Post subject: |
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jeffyjeff wrote: | Turn it forward. | That seems to be right because I got a spare speedo which has the reset knob sprung anticlockwise i.e. backwards. That's unlike the one installed which has no bias and is just sloppy, so swapping speedos seems like the way to go.
Next is to replace the coolant and on some VT500 diagrams there appears to be a cap on the overflow tank, which is beneath the air filter/filter box, but can't find one on mine ('1987 EF'). Is there one?
or maybe when the cold rad has been filled, and topped up when all the air has come out, it will displace the right amount automatically into the overflow when it heats up?
So far have changed the oil & filter/transmission oil, lubricated cables, and it starts easily and runs smoothly. Gearbox and clutch are smooth and easy, with no noticeable play in the driveline. Suspension, seat, and riding position are very comfy except that foot pegs seem unnecessarily high.
Torque is good from 3000rpm and it seems to like revving, with redline at 9500. Haven't risked motorway yet but guess it will be happy at 70 in the high 6th gear. It's already perfect for shopping but can't find any panniers for it, or saddle bags to go under the seat... |
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tranx |
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tranx L Plate Warrior
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tranx |
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tranx L Plate Warrior
Joined: 29 Nov 2023 Karma :
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Posted: 14:22 - 25 May 2024 Post subject: VT500 EF 1987 |
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tranx wrote: | ...Next is to replace the coolant and on some VT500 diagrams there appears to be a cap on the overflow tank, which is beneath the air filter/filter box, but can't find one on mine ('1987 EF').... | - It's under the seat
tranx wrote: | ...Torque is good from 3000rpm and it seems to like revving, with redline at 9500. Haven't risked motorway yet but guess it will be happy at 70 in the high 6th gear... | - 70 comes up easily at 5500 in 6th but there is more 'go' available in 5th, so 6th is an overdrive.
The throttle is high geared too, with less than a quarter turn to full throttle. This makes it feel responsive, like a 'sport mode' but without fuel injection's tendency to jerkiness.
Handling is very light but steady, with excellent balance of springs and shocks for the bumpy lanes, except that at low speed it can occasionally feel a bit unsure in a straight line, which might be due to road surface, Bridgestone Battleaxe BT46/tyres, or pressures?
There is an easy centre stand, low seat height and very comfy, and the small screen is not just cosmetic because at 5' 10" it definitely reduces wind blast and buffetting. Great for cruising and longer journeys.
The mirrors and dashboard/clocks are super-visible and in just the right places, with the prominent turn indicators being excellent reminders.
Engine and gearbox are very smooth, the bike feels light but solid and it's all amazingly sophisticated for 1987.
Downsides? Road dirt sandblasts the swing arm bridge; knees feel a bit high at first; sidestand is a bit flimsy; back end seems unnecessarily high. |
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