maddog

One word. Drool.

I wrote up some comments earlier today but my cable system crashed as I tried to post them. They obviously didn't make it through. So, some clarifications: I did get to the rest stop shortly before 8:30am, by my watch. In any case I apologize again for keeping you waiting. I'm closer to 150lb. than 130. A true lightweight. Helps with fuel economy. Doesn't hurt my bike's performance either. 'stich bought new in early '97, now has many miles. Hell, I lived in the thing for five months straight once while on an extended m/c "vacation". Yes, it looks like crap, but is still serviceable. Yes, I'm slow, in comparison with others I've ridden with. And old, too. Hope you captured some more video besides the short run to Shaniko you posted. We did hit some pretty good roads, and though we didn't "stop and smell the roses", we passed through some awesome landscapes. I'm enjoying your recap and pics. Keep it coming.

Too bad about all the traffic between Challis and Stanley, as that's one of my favorite rides in Idaho. Fishing season really brings out the crowds here. Next time you're in the area, head north from Challis towards Montana, as there's some fine twisties and scenery. It is a bit boring for a while coming from Stanley towards Lowman on 21, but the scenery is at least nice. The fun bits, if there is no traffic, are really fun. The run from Lowman down through Idaho City and then to Boise is plenty twisty, if more than a bit bumpy in places, and a regular run for those of us in the area. Lately, though, very heavy LE presence has kept me off hwy 21. Glad you didn't encounter the critters which abound in Idaho. Deer, elk, coyotes, even moose and cattle are not uncommon in the areas you rode through. Nice pics and commentary, look forward to reading about the rest of your ride.

Come on, Miguel. How about the rest of the ride? And it was a pleasure riding with you on the last leg into Troutdale. I know I had fun, despite the heat of the afternoon.

kaldek, why did you feel the need to do the "cleaning"? How many miles on your bike? What fuel do you typically use? Had you tried other methods of cleaning fuel system prior to this service? If so, what? I most often use Chevron gas, and have run Seafoam and other stuff in the fuel as stabilizer and cleaner. I have a relatively high mileage 5th gen and am wondering if this sort of service is necessary. Not sure if my local Honda shop is capable but there are probably f.i. specialists who could do it. Thanks for going to the trouble of documenting the process and I hope you get some good results.

When I had my old '96 VFR, I kept it stock, with the one exception of a K&N filter, but that didn't stay long. As for performance, a really good tune-up, including valve adj., plugs, filter, carb adj. worked wonders on mine. Not being a bike mechanic, or any other sort of one, I took mine to a reputable performance shop. Watched much of what they did, particularly the carb tuning. Following the work, that old high mileage VFR ran like a bat out of hell.

I've been using the Bosch 3323, as it's much cheaper than the Honda filter (my local Honda shop is a major rapist on parts pricing) and I can get it without riding clear across town in major traffic to reach a Walmart, where some of the others are apparently available. Besides, I hate shopping at the 'mart. Not sure how good the Bosch is, but I have had no issues when using it. 3-4k miles for oil changes on mine.

I'll be there in spirit, if not physically.

Very impressive and unique color scheme. I like it a lot. One-of a-kind bikes seldom look as good. Hope to see it in person one day.

Stunning bike. Love the color, though I missed where you mentioned exactly what color that is. Very good" how-to", well written and comprehensive. Now, go buy some 3M clear adhesive to protect that paint. Forget the brand, but I think kits are available for 6th gen.