Chassis & Body FAQ

[webmaster]

FAQ = Frequently Asked Questions...

I am looking to add a "frequently asked questions" section to the website to save space and time.... I will have it partitioned into categories that correspond to the categories in the forum here - engine, electrical, chassis, etc.

What do you think should be in the Chassis & Body FAQ?

On thing that comes up and gets answered every year and a half -> what is that plastic welder thingy that you can use to fix the shroud mounting inserts? There are two different rods that come with it - which one is the right one to use? (gasgasman?)

thanks,
jeff

[Eric K]

Jeff,

In this section, it would be good to have tips and techinques to improve longevity or ease of service. There are many years of experience and we could benefit from sharing it.

Examples
linkage and swingarm servicing (good seals to use and labor saving tricks)
setting steering head bearing preload
aligning a chain
fixing a bent brake rotor

A table of sprocket gearing and riding conditions of the various members would be good.

[MattR]

Question:
How do you prevent the kickstand from auto-retracting?

Answer:
There are several options to "defeat" the auto-retraction.

Option 1) Install a spare chain link at the kickstand mounting bolt and attach the spring to this new eyelet location. This causes the spring force to be forward of the kickstand pivot.

Option 2) Cut-off the stock eyelet and reweld it to a location further forward of the kickstand pivot. This provides a "cleaner" look and the location can be fine-tuned to achieve the desired spring retention force.

Option 3) Take off the kickstand and use a nearby tree, rock, vehicle, person, or wildlife to holdup your bike.

[Dave]

Questions:

Does anyone make a longer throttle cable?
Where can I get frame guards like the '05 and later models?
My plated frame is beginning to rust. What can I do about it?
Any fixes for a floppy shifter tip?
I'm a big guy and my GG seems cramped. Any suggestions?
The plastic shroud inserts are pretty fragile. Any fixes?
Man that kick start lever is short. What other options do I have?
Man that kick start lever is perfect in length. What are all those limp legged folks whining about?