Flat four Versys

[PRD]

Just wondered how Colin was getting on with his Versys.

[Lonewolf]

Is he not still in Japan?

[flatfour]

PRD and Wolf, I returned from my month in Japan just over a week ago. A very good trip!

I took the Versys to the dealer a few days ago to have the heated grips fitted, the last of the accessories that I originally ordered with the bike to arrive and go on. They are the Kawasaki version, however the dealer (Seastar) have made a very tidy job of fitting them. There have been quite a few adverse comments on the Versys site in respect of the length of the grips (shorter than the original, non - heated) and the recommended method of installation (taping of wires etc.) Seastar have, however developed their own way around these issues and the end result is tidy.

I have been exceptionally pleased with the bike, it seems that every modern bike that I buy is an improvement over the previous and for me, the Versys is even more suited to my use than the GTR was. I find it very responsive at mid - range speeds, comfortable and easier to manoeuvre, due no doubt to its lighter weight. I have now covered some 2,500 miles.

I had mulled over attending this Sunday's ride in Wales, however it would be a full weekend for me due to distance, so reluctantly I have decided not to. (I am visiting Auschwitz the week after next, so time is not on my side at present). Hope to see you all at next year's gathering, if not sooner.

[stoketim]

Hi Colin are you going to Aushwitz on the bike, I went 2 years ago  it is a must visit place.  might be ok this time of year when we when  there was very long que's to get in, I would recommend you book it in Krakow and go on one of the mini bus's that collect you from your hotel. While you are in the area visit the Salt mines

[flatfour]

Tim no, not on the bike. It's a BA flight and hotel deal, organized by a friend who is very interested in WW11 history. As you suggest we are joining an organized tour from Krakow, although I think that the return has been varied to allow enough time to visit Birkenau as well.

I know that the Salt Mines have been considered as part of the visit, however I am unsure on the final arrangements as I have not seen my friend for almost two months, due to my time in Japan. I shall find out next Wednesday!

[PRD]

How much has the chain needed adjusting since you got the bike?

[flatfour]

PRD I've adjusted it once, although that was probably not really necessary. It's just that I am so used to monitoring chain tension on the old bikes that I tend to adjust a chain as soon as there is scope to do so without over tightening. On the old bikes, the gear change quality drops sharply if the chain is even slightly on the loose side.

My brother has a Yamaha MT09 bought around the same time as I bought the Versys. He has covered just over 3,000 miles and also adjusted the chain once.

Some time ago, when I bought my first "modern" bike (Ducati ST2) I was told by the dealership that modern chains would only normally need adjusting twice in their life, once when bedded in and then at around half life. This seems to be the case, as in 15,000 miles, the chain on the ST2 was only adjusted twice.

I do carry a small spray of chain oil with me (under the seat) and lubricate the chain regularly, probably every 500 miles or so. Personally I use a heavy oil spray (Putoline) as I do not like chain wax, having been warned off it by a number of dealer technicians.   

[PRD]

Interesting. Thanks for info.

[Charlie747]

PRD I'm feeling you needing that mountain pass again 

[PRD]

You know me so well! But this time I want you on pillion!!

[Charlie747]

You know me so well! But this time I want you on pillion!!

It'll be like a Thunderbird or Joe90 disaster movie with the motor and clutch knacked on the way up and the brakes burning out on the way down !

The combined body mass may break the frame before we even start Pete ! 

Remember

Rule No 1 shaft drive 

[PRD]

Charlie you are so right I must always keep shafted!

[Charlie747]

Charlie you are so right I must always keep shafted!