Went out for a ride tonight

Message

Dystopian · #1 Unread post by **Dystopian** » Thu Sep 18, 2008 2:22 pm

Yeah, I took my Kz400 for a cruise because I finally fixed the carburetor problem and about 10 minutes into the ride I suddenly lose power. At the same times I though "It's running awfully hot today" and when I looked down , it was shooting flame from all angles.

It was at this point that an instructor would've been proud. Instead of goosing it or anything, I'd calmly put on both brakes for about 50 feet (Still on fire, mind you) and about 15 mph, I made a leap of faith as I guided the bike to the side of the road and did the first thing that came to mind. I took off towards the biker bar.

I love bikers, this is the second time I've been helped by a fellow biker.
I've got a friend coming over this weekend to survey the damage.

One thing I have to say.
If you're a newb and don't know what you're doing, don't assume all is well. Have someone that knows what they're doing give it a look.
I still have no clue what went wrong. All I can figure is that my petcock sprung a leak again (I thought I fixed the damned thing) and it leaked fuel onto the head.
I am not intimidated, however. I will ride again.

The Doctor · Fri Sep 19, 2008 5:19 am

Sorry to hear that! Maybe the gas was leaking from your carbs since you just had work on them.
good luck
keep us updated.

Fri Sep 19, 2008 6:02 pm

Fortunate for you that you managed to get off before the fire got worse.

Dystopian · #4 Unread post by **Dystopian** » Sun Sep 21, 2008 4:28 pm

Since the bike is totaled and not worth it to repair, I was looking at new bikes.
I really like the Honda 650r (The Dualsport) but jesus, that thing is tall. I wouldn't mind the 230, but most of my travel is doing highway speeds, so I want more than 250 ccs.
What about the Kawasakis? They had one I liked, but I've never seen any of them in person.

JC Viper · #5 Unread post by **JC Viper** » Sun Sep 21, 2008 4:41 pm

The Kawasaki Versys is also a bit tall but many reviewers state that it is comfortable and gets good mileage and is still sporty at the same time.

I'm looking into getting one even though it looks a bit odd but more exciting than my other consideration: 650 V-Strom.

Dystopian · #6 Unread post by **Dystopian** » Sun Sep 21, 2008 4:46 pm

One of the reasons I liked the Honda was that the rear blinkers were on a flexible mount, so when I put it down it won't snap off.

I'd also like to take it into the dirt some times.