We had our annual Spring Tease here in Michigan this week - and I FINALLY went for a ride on a bike that was delivered just before Christmas. Up until this point I've been bolting some things on and just looking at it longingly. Wow, just wow. I am totally blown away, and am madly in love. I think the biggest surprise was just how easy this beast is to manage. In short, I am still grinning.
That said, my goal is to get it to near 600 miles as quickly as possible and get the first major done, to clear the way for some trips this spring/summer. I have always done all my own work and have owned some forty bikes but only a handful of brand new ones. The last major first service I did myself was an '05 Bandit 1200, which included a valve check (screw-type adjusters and easy). How many of you had done the first major yourself? I have a factory shop manual en route so can do it by the book. Was it a big deal? Level of difficulty? Let the dealer do it?
Second - reflash. I keep hearing I need to do this. I did research it, so not necessarily asking about it, but how soon is too soon? Did you ride yours a while first? Since I have a few bikes that make some great noise, I am going against the grain and retaining the stock muffler to keep my touring somewhat quiet. I understand there are some positive gains to be made in rideability even with the stock can. Okay, fine, so maybe I am asking about it. I'm not necessarily seeking more power (it has plenty to me), but welcome improvements. Is one better suited to this than others? I would also prefer a supporter of this site/group. Not worried about a little down time (it's about to get colder again and I have other bikes), but of course I'll be jonesing to ride the new kid.
Thanks (in advance) for your time. Damn, I love this thing, and what a great group to go along with it.
That said, my goal is to get it to near 600 miles as quickly as possible and get the first major done, to clear the way for some trips this spring/summer. I have always done all my own work and have owned some forty bikes but only a handful of brand new ones. The last major first service I did myself was an '05 Bandit 1200, which included a valve check (screw-type adjusters and easy). How many of you had done the first major yourself? I have a factory shop manual en route so can do it by the book. Was it a big deal? Level of difficulty? Let the dealer do it?
Second - reflash. I keep hearing I need to do this. I did research it, so not necessarily asking about it, but how soon is too soon? Did you ride yours a while first? Since I have a few bikes that make some great noise, I am going against the grain and retaining the stock muffler to keep my touring somewhat quiet. I understand there are some positive gains to be made in rideability even with the stock can. Okay, fine, so maybe I am asking about it. I'm not necessarily seeking more power (it has plenty to me), but welcome improvements. Is one better suited to this than others? I would also prefer a supporter of this site/group. Not worried about a little down time (it's about to get colder again and I have other bikes), but of course I'll be jonesing to ride the new kid.
Thanks (in advance) for your time. Damn, I love this thing, and what a great group to go along with it.