Representin’ #ATLUTD
With the miles ahead of me (and a day with nothing planned), I updated my bike to a five-stripes theme. I think an Atlanta United decal on each of the panniers will round it out.
Installing a Motech Center Stand
I bought the Motech Center Stand for V’Strom DL1000 as an impulse purchase. The fitment is perfect and generally easy to install (even though there are cautions for DIYers), The only challenging step was the installation of the springs (a spring installation tool is extra and not included). I used a small length of 1/2 copper tubing to pry the end of the larger spring in place. The smaller spring was easier to install using vice-grip pliers. Tying up the … Read More
T-3 Final Touches
I leave for family vacation next week. This is my last week to get the bike ready for the road. The new tires are installed and seem to ride fine. Some reviews indicated that the Tractionator GPS tires are noisy and that the TXC-70 front handling isn’t ideal. So far, I don’t see any concerns with handling or road noise. I opted to install the Rotopax gas tank under the left pannier. This should keep the weight lower and more … Read More
T-4 Putting it all together
In spite of a few minor setbacks, the bike is home and ready for final assembly. The electrical connection for the heated jacket was much simpler than anticipated. The Rotopax gas tank is proving more difficult to mount. I don’t like the solution of mounting under the panniers as I often use the panniers as a chair. I need a smooth base when detached from the bike. The back rack seems to be the best place, but I’m going to … Read More
T-5 Finished my last week of work for a while
With my last week of work completed, I’ll now be able to focus more on trip preparation. The V-Strom Engine Control Module (ECM) has been replaced. The 11,000 mile maintenance is complete, with the exception of a new air filter. The tractionator gps front tire was been on backorder, so I opted for a Continental TKC 70 for the front. The Klim Lattitude jacket arrived with a better fit. The heated jacket is on the way. I will need to … Read More
T-6 Bike Maintenance
The new tires are ordered (decided on Motoz Tractionators). The bike is in the shop for 11,000 mile maintenance and ECM replacement (Suzuki recall). New fluids all around, thorough chain and engine inspection. I will add electrical connection for heated jacket liner and Rotopax spare gas tank. A few mail order items are being exchanged for a better fit. All should be here for an on time departure. I enjoyed a call today with my friend in Vashon, WA. Looking … Read More
T-7 Online Shopping Completed
Watching Adventure Rider Forum Threads to insure I am well prepared for the trip. Critical items arriving now include Klim Hi-Viz riding jacket, warm base layer, 12V tire pump, Moto-Skivees, RotopakX Gas Tank, and mosquito net.