Suzuki GS Twin Digest #11-20
GSTwin-digest Saturday, April 19 1997 Volume 01 : Number 011
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Date: 17 APR 97 15:39:49 EDT
From: AGabinet@dechert.com
Subject: GSTwin Tires and clip ons
Last week Joyce started giving me the particulars on fixing clip ons to a
GS500e. Does anyone know a source for Telefix clip ons? also, Joyce, did
all the stock controls fit on the clip ons? and what did you do for rear
views? How's the riding position down there? Should be more sensitive and
stable gunning out of corners, right?
also, can anyone recommend a good tire fitment for this bike (90 gs500e)?
The sportmaxes I have were not really meant for it.
Ari Gabinet
'90 GS500E
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 18 Apr 1997 12:17:19 -0400
From: nigh@intrepid.net
Subject: Re: GSTwin Tires and clip ons
At , you wrote:
Does anyone know a source for Telefix clip ons? also, Joyce, did
>all the stock controls fit on the clip ons? and what did you do for rear
>views? How's the riding position down there? Should be more sensitive and
>stable gunning out of corners, right?
>
>also, can anyone recommend a good tire fitment for this bike (90 gs500e)?
>The sportmaxes I have were not really meant for it.
Bellevue Suzuki in Bellevue, WA has the clipons. You can find them on the
web. I just used the stock mirrors since I only rode the bike on the street
for 500 miles to break it in. You might try bar end mirrors. All the stock
controls fit and look great.
I use Metzeler ME33/ME1 tires, 110/80 front and 130/80 rear in Comp K
compound for racing. I am happy with them. You can get them in street
compound too.
The riding position is a matter of preference. I like it.
Joyce Nigh
CCS Am#909 WERA Novice#909
Suzuki GS500
SGI Indigo2
Prell Concentrate Shampoo
Polyester Socks
UNIX
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 18 Apr 1997 11:37:41 +0100
From: JAS@Sport-Twin.com (John A. Sweeney)
Subject: [none]
Hi Kris,
I've forwarded your question to the Suzuki-GS list, I know that there are a
few folks on that list who have web pages devoted to GSs. [The motor in the
GS500E has been in production for decades in various displacements!]. Maybe
they will be kind enough to share some of their knowledge with you.
You can find a GS page and more information on joining the GS e-mail list at:
http://www.eurospares.com
and follow the links.
Good luck!
>Date: Fri, 18 Apr 1997 10:34:20 -0700 (PDT)
>Mime-Version: 1.0
>To: STN@sport-twin.com
>From: Kris Fowler
>
>Hello
>
> I am looking at buying a 90' GS500E with 20k. Im doing my homework
>on the
>bike and wwas hoping you could recomend a good place with some info on the
>bike..
>
>
>Thanx
>
> Kris Fowler
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
John A. Sweeney - Sport-Twin News - 415/922-1436
JAS@Sport-Twin.com - http://www.sport-twin.com
224 Ashbury St., San Francisco, CA 94117-2025
------------------------------
Date: Sat, 19 Apr 1997 14:11:42 -0700 (PDT)
From: SUPERBRAT
Subject: Re: GSTwin hey there...
On Tue, 15 Apr 1997, Michael Moore wrote:
> Welcome to the list. Be sure to check out the GS pages on my web
> site.
not only has i checked them out in the past, i have most of it printed
out! :)
> Don't forget that a larger OD rotor will require moving the caliper
> out to match. The GS500 rotor might bolt on - Suzuki is, upon
> occasion, pretty good about things like that. If you can post the
> dimensions of the stock rotor (ID, hole size and bolt circle) I'm
> sure someone can do a quick check against their 500 rotor.
i know. i have machining skills so i might be able to fabricate a carrier
for the calliper. this is all speculation, though. i don't even know it
it'll fit!
> Another way to increas the brake power (besides braided steel lines
> so the pressure doesn't go into flexing the line) is to put a smaller
> bore mastercylinder on. You can usually find the bore size cast or
> stamped on the underside of the mastercylinder housing.
i'm getting braided steel lines soon. might look into a new master
cylinder, although i just rebuilt mine last summer.
:)
going to the races this weekend at thunder hill. if anyone's going, see
you there! i'll be on a black GS450 with orange pinstriping, black cordura
riding suit and black shoei RF700 helmet with a troy lee sticker kit on
it. :)
- -Beth
DoD#4508, Unitrans#545, AMA#542204
Mine: 1982 GS450ES, 1980 GS450ES Projects: 1959 3TA, 1971 CL350
****************************************************************************
beffie's homepage is kaput until further notice. sorry. :(
------------------------------
End of GSTwin-digest V1 #11
***************************
GSTwin-digest Tuesday, April 22 1997 Volume 01 : Number 012
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Date: Sat, 19 Apr 1997 14:13:30 -0700 (PDT)
From: SUPERBRAT
Subject: Re: GSTwin hey there...
On Wed, 16 Apr 1997, Brad Babcock wrote:
> Hi Beth,
> I've run into you on the Suzuki list, too. I have a 1983 GS450E,
> and the front brake is a single disk. I'd almost bet that those forks would
> fit on your 450, and the GS500 ones might, too. That might be an easier
> solution than devising a rotor carrier. With some luck at the salvage yard,
> it might be cheaper, too. Just a thought. Heard from the 900 Kawi owner
> that I surprised at a light, "Boy, that's a fast little 450!" Good luck
> with your project.
i have a single disk up front, too. i just want to see if i can bolt on a
different disk. :)
yeah, they're fast little bikes. i can pin the speedo needle on 90 easily
with her and she still has revs to go. scary but fun. :)
- -Beth
DoD#4508, Unitrans#545, AMA#542204
Mine: 1982 GS450ES, 1980 GS450ES Projects: 1959 3TA, 1971 CL350
****************************************************************************
beffie's homepage is kaput until further notice. sorry. :(
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 1997 10:22:00 -0800
From: "Michael Moore"
Subject: GSTwin The Laguna Seca Vintage races
About 3 weeks ago Michael Green from West Coast British (Racing)
called and offered me the use of his 200cc Ducati (a sleeved-down 250)
for the Team Obsolete Vintage "Exhibition" races at Laguna Seca, and
no great arm twisting was needed to get me to accept his offer. I
entered the Ducati in the 250GP, and in a fit of optimism entered the
Laverda in F750. The Laverda didn't get together in time, so I
swapped the entry for a slot in the 350GP race on the 200.
I left for Laguna Seca last Thursday midday, and arrived around 3PM to
register and then help run tech (Michael Green of WCBR, his friend
Rob, and I ran tech all weekend).
Friday the fog was in, and the morning Vintage practice (and pretty
much every other practice) was scratched due to near zero visibility,
especially at the top of the hill going to the Corkscrew.
Things cleared up around noon, and I eventually got to take the WCBR
200cc Ducati out to get familiar with it and refamiliarize myself with
the track (which I last rode in 1987). The Duckling was freshly
assembled and needed some break in. The carburation was a bit off too
but I didn't want to mess with it until I was more familiar with the
bike. As it worked out, it never was changed as the limited practice
didn't give enough opportunity for testing (and if it is at all
rideable I'll leave things alone rather than go into a race with an
untested change).
Friday night in Salinas the rain came down pretty heavily, but after
some delay Saturday morning the track was finally dried out enough for
practices. The Vintage practice was late in the morning, and the race
(last of the day) was about 6PM. The jokes about rounding up enough
flashlights to tape to the bikes were getting a bit strained by then.
The Saturday race was F750/350GP/Pre52/Class C. Dave Roper was
riding the Dick Mann BSA triple in the race, but the clutch expired
and he retired. I don't have the F750 results, but in the 350GP race
Michael Green got the holeshot, and after a few turns noticed
something dragging. It turned out the megaphone had fractured, and
Michael pulled off in Turn 5 and battered the megaphone until it broke
off the rest of the way. He then rejoined the race, passing 5 riders
by the Corkscrew, and taking the lead by Turn 5 on the second lap. He
went on to lap the 350s up to 4th place (in a 6 lap race), and passed
all but the top 5 F750 entries. Erik Green, on a Team Obsolete AJS 7R
was second, and I managed to take the 200 Ducati past a 250 TSS
Bultaco and an AJS 7R, as well as one or two of the Pre'52 bikes for
10th in class.
Sunday the weather was much nicer. I spent the morning helping Dave
Roper strip the clutch on the BSA so it would be available for David
Aldana to ride in the midday exhibition. All the metal plates were
warped and the other plates were shedding the friction material. We
couldn't get the plates pulled out of the clutch (this is a dry clutch
mounted in the primary cover, not the stock BSA/Triumph cast iron
abomination lurking deep in the bowels of the engine) and ended up
having to pull the clutch and drive the hub and plates out. A
moderate amount of dressing of the slots in the hub and basket was
needed to get the new plates to move freely. I had just gotten my
hands cleaned up when the PA announced first call for the Vintage race
(500 Premier, 250GP, Classic 60s).
I scrambled into my gear and went over to the WCBR pit area. I
checked for fuel, plugged in the battery, and got Rob to push. It
wouldn't fire, and then Rob noticed the rag was still stuffed in the
carb bellmouth - DUH! After removing the obstruction the bike started
up and I made my way to the hot pit gate. Upon arrival the bike died
and wouldn't restart - nary a pop. I pushed back to the pit and, as
it was the only thing I could think of that I could do, swiped the
battery out of the WCBR 350 Ducati and attracted the attention of a
bypasser for a push (yelling in a full-face helmet isn't very
effective for this). The bike started up - it turned out that Rob and
Michael hadn't put a fresh battery in it and the previous day's use
had drained it.
I rushed back to the hot pit gate, but since the rest of the grid was
already forming on the track I was directed up to the starter's
position (at the bridge across the track, well up the front straight)
and told to wait there until the entire grid had gone by. This gave me
a nice uphill standing start, and I crested the hill to see the last
rider leaving turn 2.
Spurred on by the adrenaline generated by the bad battery incident,
and getting more comfortable with the bike with each lap (and no doubt
helped by the good luck pat the bike got earlier in the morning from
Beth Dixon) I was able to catch up and pass an unknown number of
riders (I don't have the results sheet for Sunday) and finished 3rd in
class (250GP). Being on a 200 against the 250s (including at least
one Bultaco 250) I was pretty well chuffed by this. As expected,
Michael Green ran away from everyone to take the 250 class as his
second win of the weekend.
Other tidbits: Yvon duHamel was the top 350 rider in the 500
Premier class on a TO AJS. John Cronshaw was entered in the class on
the ever-so-trick Unity BSA, and I'm sure he finished well up in the
pack if not in first. I think I did see him at the victory circle
after the race, but I had pulled well back from the stand so as to
stay out of range of the spraying champagne.
Instead of trophys we were presented with certificates signed by the
riders in the exhibition laps (see my other post on this), and 3rd
place also netted me a $75 gift certificate to AirTech, one of the
Team Obsolete sponsors.
Overall, the Team Obsolete races went very well. The riders all had a
good time, no serious crashes occurred (being there for FUN was
repeatedly emphasized by race director Randy Bradescu), and the
spectators seemed to be enjoying the races. With luck, SCRAMP and the
AMA also were pleased and we'll be able to do it again next year.
Cheers,
Michael
Michael Moore
Euro Spares, SF CA
Distributor of Lucas RITA and Powerbase products
Sole North American source of "The Racing Motorcycle: a technical guide for constructors"
http://www.eurospares.com
AFM/AHRMA #364
------------------------------
End of GSTwin-digest V1 #12
***************************
GSTwin-digest Saturday, April 26 1997 Volume 01 : Number 013
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Date: Tue, 22 Apr 1997 12:25:32 -0800
From: "Michael Moore"
Subject: GSTwin Team Obsolete - Exotic Bikes and Riders
I'll make my bias clear from the start - if you ever have a chance to
see the Team Obsolete works-bikes run, DO NOT MISS IT!!!!!!!
I spoke with one person who had come up from Bakersfield to the
track specifically to see the Honda six - he wasn't interested in the
AMA races, and while he enjoyed the vintage races and the other works
bikes, the six was the big draw. I'm sure this holds for other people
too.
The star of the collection is the 250cc Honda six-cylinder bike. This
bike is definitely on my short list of the all-time coolest race bikes
built (I also like the Moto Guzzi 350/500 V8s for their complex
engines, and the Moto Guzzi mid-50s works singles for their elegant
simplicity, and the Honda 125-5 because it is so tiny and cute).
At Laguna Seca Rob Ianucci (the big kahuna at Team Obsolete) brought
the six, the ex-Renzo Pasolini 350 Benelli four cylinder, the
ex-Giacomo Agostini MV Agusta 500 triple, an MV Agusta 500 four
cylinder, the Rod Coleman AJS triple-cam 350 single, and the Dick Mann
BSA Rocket 3 (upon which Dick won Daytona). Other than updated tires
(the 80/90x18 Avon (Avon is one of the TO sponsors) on the front of
the six is noticeably wider than the fender, but it appears to be the
smallest Avon available) and some stickers of Team Obsolete sponsors
the bikes look to be quite original. The BSA does have a belt-drive
primary conversion (which I got quite familiar with when I helped Dave
Roper fix the well-toasted clutch Sunday morning), but that is pretty
much the major deviation from stock on the bikes.
David Aldana rode the MV-4 in Friday's vintage practice, but dropped
it in slow turn 2 after interfacing with some oil dropped by one of
the other exotics (which shall remain nameless, but if the assembly
error it was suffering from had happened on a "modern" four-stroke
race bike it would have puked some oil too). Luckily, the MV
experienced only cosmetic damage (as did David's brand new "bones"
leathers), but was banished to the container to hide for the rest of
the weekend.
The six makes the most wonderfully horrible noise - it is LOUD! The
350 Benelli is noticeably deeper in pitch even though it revs pretty
high (though lower in RPM than the six, which is warmed up at ~10-11K
RPM!). The MV is a typical 4 cylinder in sound, and the BSA has the
bellow characteristic of the 750 triples. The AJS doesn't sound
different from a standard 7R, and is a bit overwhelmed by the other
works bikes.
When the six is fired up people come from all over the pits to listen
to it, and I wasn't surprised to find the wide grin on my face
duplicated by many other people as we listened to the "whoop-whoop" as
the six was warmed up.
The drill on Saturday and Sunday was as follows: the bikes were
started in the pits and ridden to the hot pit where they were lined up
and stopped, and Bill Spencer did a short interview with each rider.
After this the Honda was sent out and given about a 3/4 lap lead
before each of the other bikes was sent out about 40 seconds apart.
The order was Honda, Benelli, MV, BSA and AJS. After a lap the bikes
lined up on the track and another short interview was done.
They went out for another lap, with the Honda leading off and the
other four bikes going together. They returned to the grid and staged
for a group hot start and were given two laps so that they could
traverse the front straight at speed (great fun!). After this is was
off to the victory circle for more interviews and photo ops, and then
back to the pits.
I was very pleased to be selected as an offical TO "pusher" for both
days. This involved pushing the bike/rider for starts, standing
behind the rider during the interviews (in my official Team Obsolete
hat and shirt), carrying a TO cap for the rider to wear whilst sans
helmet, and then pushing the bike back to the pits. I was quick on
the draw and snagged the Honda on Saturday, but had to let one of the
others have it for Sunday, and so ended up with the Benelli (what a
second choice!). I'm looking forward to seeing my picture in the
magazines - another minute or two of fame (such as it is).
The Team Obsolete pits were about half way between the main pit gate
and the track, and this area is slightly downhill from the track. I
suppose I should have pushed the bikes back to the pits, exhibiting
the decorum appropriate to my exalted task, but I'll have to admit to
succumbing to temptation. As soon as I had a clear shot to the TO
pits I mounted the bikes, and with a quick paddle took them for a
short test ride. Granted, the engines weren't running, but hey, I'll
take what I can get.
Test ride report:
Both bikes steered lightly but with great precision. The controls
fell readily to hand and foot, and the front brake on the Benelli was
a bit more sudden than the Honda. Surprisingly, the Honda, while
being the more compact overall of the two bikes had the more
comfortable riding position. Renzo Pasolini must have had short or
very limber legs, as the pegs are noticeably higher than on the Honda.
As you might imagine, I told Rob that I'd be glad to help out again
when next the bikes get to my area.
The riders:
My introduction to Jim Redman started with a minor case
of mistaken identity on my part. On Thursday I heard him talking
about the Honda, and with the accent figured he could only be one of
two people. I walked up and asked if he was Nobby Clark (former Honda
works mechanic, now no longer associated with TO). My 50% likelihood
of being right matched my luck in the lottery (zero) and I was
informed that I was speaking to Jim Redman. He was nice about it, and
I had a small chat with him, during which he graciously allowed me to
show him a picture of my Honda CR216 vintage racer. When I mentioned
how my Honda was also quite noisy (135dB) he told me an amusing
anecdote: he said that when they were at the GPs and time came to
start the bikes they would often line them all up with the exhausts
pointed towards the Yamaha pits, and would proceed to share the
exhaust noise with their opponents. Dirty pool, that.
I was also interested to note that Redman was a "full-size" rider,
especially when compared to many of the other GP riders of the day
(such as Luigi Taveri, Billy Ivy, etc).
I had several talks with David Aldana, and found him quite an
engaging guy. We talked about riding our BSA dirt bikes, and when he
was taking notes on the different bikes and remarked on the fabricated
triple clamps on the MVs and BSA I showed him some pictures of the
sheetmetal clamps I made for my Laverda, which he seemed to find of
some interest.
Yvon duHamel was "my" rider on Sunday, and while we didn't talk much
he seemed pretty nice. As you might expect, he was quite pleased over
the showing his sons were making in the AMA races, and entertained
himself during a photo op at the TO pits by trickling water from his
cup down the back of Aldana's neck. I was amused when I tried to
collect his cap from him before he went out for more laps - he
insisted on taking it with him, zipped up inside his leathers. I think
he's had enough occasions where he's had to spend time at trackside
that he wanted to be sure to have a hat with him "just in case".
I didn't get a chance to talk with Don Vesco, but as with the others
he's basically just another racer and seemed happy to talk about
bikes, his LSR attempts etc.
Last but not least is Dave Roper. Everything I've heard about Dave
over the years has indicated that he's quite a nice chap, and I'll
have to admit that I didn't see anything to contradict this. He's
kept quite busy, as he is a working member of TO as well as their
regular rider, but he seemed to maintain his good spirits in spite of
rushing around doing stuff.
As for the rest of Team Obsolete, Jennifer and Sonia were quite nice
and helpful, running registration, doing the grids, general
administrative tasks, and Jennifer also was a pusher during the
exhibitions. Erik Green is another friendly sort, and was kept busy
with fettling the different bikes, yet still found time to ride an AJS
7R to second place in the 350GP race. Rob was a bit harried at times,
but I'm impressed by the deep feeling that he seems to have for the
bikes and vintage racing, and his desire to share these wonderful
bikes (and their riders) with their many fans.
Thanks to Rob and the rest of Team Obsolete for making it all
possible, and I'm hoping he can arrange for it to happen again next
year.
Cheers,
Michael
Michael Moore
Euro Spares, SF CA
Distributor of Lucas RITA and Powerbase products
Sole North American source of "The Racing Motorcycle: a technical guide for constructors"
http://www.eurospares.com
AFM/AHRMA #364
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 1997 13:29:50 +0100
From: JAS@Sport-Twin.com (John A. Sweeney)
Subject: Re: GSTwin The Laguna Seca Vintage races
At 10:22 AM 4/22/97, Michael Moore wrote:
>I was able to catch up and pass an unknown number of
>riders (I don't have the results sheet for Sunday) and finished 3rd in
>class (250GP).
Congratulations on a podium finish, Michael! :-)
John
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
John A. Sweeney - Sport-Twin News - 415/922-1436
JAS@Sport-Twin.com - http://www.sport-twin.com
224 Ashbury St., San Francisco, CA 94117-2025
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 1997 14:17:04 -0800
From: "Michael Moore"
Subject: Re: GSTwin The Laguna Seca Vintage races
> Congratulations on a podium finish, Michael! :-)
>
> John
Thanks John,
They've been rather few and far between these last 10 years.
Cheers,
Michael
Michael Moore
Euro Spares, SF CA
Distributor of Lucas RITA and Powerbase products
Sole North American source of "The Racing Motorcycle: a technical guide for constructors"
http://www.eurospares.com
AFM/AHRMA #364
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 1997 15:53:52 -0700 (PDT)
From: SUPERBRAT
Subject: GSTwin question about oil coolers.
hey guys/gals,
i'm curious: has anyone ever fit an oil cooler to an early '80s GS450E? i
live in an area that gets REALLY hot over the summer (consistent temps
over 100F for days) and i'm wondering if my air-cooled bike can handle
running in such hot weather for long periods of time. would an oil cooler
help the bike shed extra heat during those months? or, is it not worth the
investment... and, also, if it is a good idea, has anyone done it?
thanks for the advice! :)
- -Beth
DoD#4508, Unitrans#545, AMA#542204
Mine: 1982 GS450ES, 1980 GS450ES Projects: 1959 3TA, 1971 CL350
****************************************************************************
beffie's homepage is kaput until further notice. sorry. :(
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 1997 17:42:18 -0800
From: "Michael Moore"
Subject: Re: GSTwin question about oil coolers.
> i'm curious: has anyone ever fit an oil cooler to an early '80s GS450E? i
> live in an area that gets REALLY hot over the summer (consistent temps
> over 100F for days) and i'm wondering if my air-cooled bike can handle
> running in such hot weather for long periods of time. would an oil cooler
> help the bike shed extra heat during those months? or, is it not worth the
> investment... and, also, if it is a good idea, has anyone done it?
>
> thanks for the advice! :)
>
> -Beth
Hello Beth,
As best I can tell from my shop manual you would want to plumb a heat
exchanger into the oil system between the pump and the main oil
gallery. The oil filter sits in this area, and what with the bypass
I'd say you'd probably be best off routing oil after the oil filter
but before the gallery. This has the additional benefit of feeding
freshly filter oil to the heat exchanger.
The big problem is where to connect this baby. The oil comes from
the pump into the filter chamber via the hole that is offcenter, is
forced through the filter from the outside in, and then goes to the
main oil gallery via the central hole that the filter fits over. I
can't get enough detail from the factory manual to see how the filter
bypass works, or to identify any blocking plugs at the end of the
transverse oil gallery.
What might be necessary would be to run a line from the oil filter
input hole to an external filter (like an Oberg or a remote spin-on
filter) and then to a heat exchanger, and then back to the central
hole in the oil filter cavity. This is no big deal for a race bike,
but might be a bit much for street use.
If the engine had an external spin-on filter it would be easier to
deal with, as you could sandwich an adapter between the filter and
case that would allow oil to go to the heat exchanger first and then
to the filter (these used to be sold for some Honda 4 cylinder
engines). The internal housing of the oil filter makes all of this
more bother.
Drill (as needed) and tap the two holes for AN plumbing fittings,
and then you could run high pressure hydraulic lines to the remote
filter/cooler.
I hope someone else can come up with an easy bolt-on solution for
you.
Cheers,
Michael
Michael Moore
Euro Spares, SF CA
Distributor of Lucas RITA and Powerbase products
Sole North American source of "The Racing Motorcycle: a technical guide for constructors"
http://www.eurospares.com
AFM/AHRMA #364
------------------------------
Date: Sat, 26 Apr 1997 23:02:45 +0100
From: "John A. Sweeney"
Subject: GSTwin New issue of STN; Super cool GS500e!
Hi GS fans,
I've posted a new issue of _Sport-Twin News_.
There is a photo of Jody Matsler's very, very nice GS500e racebike at:
http://www.sport-twin.com/STNjpgs/755bike.jpg
You can read a bit about Jody in the "Around the Outside" section at:
http://www.sport-twin.com
see ya at the races,
John
Editor
_Sport-Twin News_
PS: Feature of Jody's GS to follow asap [3 months, sorry!].
------------------------------
End of GSTwin-digest V1 #13
***************************
GSTwin-digest Wednesday, April 30 1997 Volume 01 : Number 014
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 05:13:03 -0800
From: "Michael Moore"
Subject: Re: GSTwin question about oil coolers.
> may i ask what you did to that GS450 motor? as i said, i have a spare one
> running around... :)
>
> -Beth
Hello Beth,
I've not been inside the motor so I can't say for dead sure.
My friend Henry had our friend Craig build the motor for him in the
late 80s and install it in a twin shock TZ250 chassis (a poor choice
as the engine is just too tall to fit properly). The bike only had
15 minutes of running time on the engine and was parked for many
years before Henry decided he really wasn't going racing again. I
bought it from him and sold off all of the TZ chassis stuff,
recouping most of my purchase price.
I bought a set of 39mm Kei'hin CR smoothbore carbs for it. The
motor has some sort of Wiseco GS1000 piston in it, so is around
500cc (no one involved remembers the exact displacement for sure).
Craig lightened the crank and rebalanced it for elimination of the
balance shaft. Big valves, cams, porting, Lucas RITA electronic
ignition (many OEM electronic ignitions from Japan have, in the
past, been "current limited" ie they won't pass very much power to
the ignition coils), alternator/starter stuff removed, etc.
I've got some Astralite wheels to use (3.5, 5.5x17) when I finally
get around to building a chassis for it to run in 500 Twins with AFM.
It isn't really high on the priority list at the moment.
Cheers,
Michael
Michael Moore
Euro Spares, SF CA
Distributor of Lucas RITA and Powerbase products
Sole North American source of "The Racing Motorcycle: a technical guide for constructors"
http://www.eurospares.com
AFM/AHRMA #364
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 29 Apr 1997 18:55:16 -0700 (PDT)
From: wussboy
Subject: GSTwin some basic questions
hi.
a month ago, i bought my first motorcycle, an '89 GS500E, and i've been
completely happy with it.
i have no mechanical knowledge of motorcycles, a vague sense of the
physics behind an internal combustion engine, and it took me 2 hours to
replace the lightbulb in my speedometer. that said, i'd like to have a
clue when it comes to my motorcycle and am willing to put some work into
it.
so... i have a few questions for those of you kind enough to offer
suggestions.
1) what is a good manual to buy? something from a suzuki dealer?
2) my motorcycle need its front brake switch replaced. it appears to me
that this is attached to the front brake lever and would be fairly simple
to replace. if that is the case, where would be a good place to buy a
front brake switch?
3) occassionally, i will hear and feel a knocking sound (about 1 per half
second) coming from the engine. i can only hear it at stop lights, but
believe it continues when the bike is in gear. despite the weak
description, does this sound familiar to anyone? at first, i thought this
happened when the bike wasn't warmed up, but i don't think that is the
case.
4) there is a dent in my gas tank, about 4 inches wide and maybe 3/4 of
an inch deep. a kind man at a gas station told me i can repair this by
simply putting an air hose (the kind at a gas station for inflating
tires), in the opening, sealing the space between hose and tank with a
rag, and *gently* adding air to the tank. of course, also closing the
petcock. this seems too easy to me, but what the hell? am i going to
damage my motorcycle trying this?
5) is there any easy way to remove the stripes and lettering (mine are
shades of blue) from the gas tank and plastic molding around the seat?
6) is there a cheap way to repaint my motorcycle a different color (gas
tank, plastic molding, mags, and front fender?) it's painted white.
many thanks for any help,
cooper
------------------------------
End of GSTwin-digest V1 #14
***************************
GSTwin-digest Tuesday, May 6 1997 Volume 01 : Number 015
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: 30 APR 97 15:38:56 EDT
From: AGabinet@dechert.com
Subject: re: GSTwin some basic questions
Hey cooper. Climer makes a good manual for this bike; i have the original
Suzuki shop manual if you need very specific info, although my bike is the
'90 version. I'm no techie either, but replacing the brake switch should
be simple, as you've described. I did the sidestand interlock switch, and
ordered the part from my local dealer.
The seller painted my bike White too! Sucks.
- -------------
Original Text
From: suzuki-gs-twin(a)list.sirius.com, on 4/30/97 3:36 PM:
hi.
a month ago, i bought my first motorcycle, an '89 GS500E, and i've been
completely happy with it.
i have no mechanical knowledge of motorcycles, a vague sense of the
physics behind an internal combustion engine, and it took me 2 hours to
replace the lightbulb in my speedometer. that said, i'd like to have a
clue when it comes to my motorcycle and am willing to put some work into
it.
so... i have a few questions for those of you kind enough to offer
suggestions.
1) what is a good manual to buy? something from a suzuki dealer?
2) my motorcycle need its front brake switch replaced. it appears to me
that this is attached to the front brake lever and would be fairly simple
to replace. if that is the case, where would be a good place to buy a
front brake switch?
3) occassionally, i will hear and feel a knocking sound (about 1 per half
second) coming from the engine. i can only hear it at stop lights, but
believe it continues when the bike is in gear. despite the weak
description, does this sound familiar to anyone? at first, i thought this
happened when the bike wasn't warmed up, but i don't think that is the
case.
4) there is a dent in my gas tank, about 4 inches wide and maybe 3/4 of
an inch deep. a kind man at a gas station told me i can repair this by
simply putting an air hose (the kind at a gas station for inflating
tires), in the opening, sealing the space between hose and tank with a
rag, and *gently* adding air to the tank. of course, also closing the
petcock. this seems too easy to me, but what the hell? am i going to
damage my motorcycle trying this?
5) is there any easy way to remove the stripes and lettering (mine are
shades of blue) from the gas tank and plastic molding around the seat?
6) is there a cheap way to repaint my motorcycle a different color (gas
tank, plastic molding, mags, and front fender?) it's painted white.
many thanks for any help,
cooper
------------------------------
Date: 30 APR 97 15:44:54 EDT
From: AGabinet@dechert.com
Subject: re: GSTwin some basic questions
Cooper -- sorry, my response lacked identification of source -- I sent you
the email about the manual.
Ari Gabinet -- '90 GS500E
- -------------
Original Text
From: suzuki-gs-twin(a)list.sirius.com, on 4/30/97 3:36 PM:
hi.
a month ago, i bought my first motorcycle, an '89 GS500E, and i've been
completely happy with it.
i have no mechanical knowledge of motorcycles, a vague sense of the
physics behind an internal combustion engine, and it took me 2 hours to
replace the lightbulb in my speedometer. that said, i'd like to have a
clue when it comes to my motorcycle and am willing to put some work into
it.
so... i have a few questions for those of you kind enough to offer
suggestions.
1) what is a good manual to buy? something from a suzuki dealer?
2) my motorcycle need its front brake switch replaced. it appears to me
that this is attached to the front brake lever and would be fairly simple
to replace. if that is the case, where would be a good place to buy a
front brake switch?
3) occassionally, i will hear and feel a knocking sound (about 1 per half
second) coming from the engine. i can only hear it at stop lights, but
believe it continues when the bike is in gear. despite the weak
description, does this sound familiar to anyone? at first, i thought this
happened when the bike wasn't warmed up, but i don't think that is the
case.
4) there is a dent in my gas tank, about 4 inches wide and maybe 3/4 of
an inch deep. a kind man at a gas station told me i can repair this by
simply putting an air hose (the kind at a gas station for inflating
tires), in the opening, sealing the space between hose and tank with a
rag, and *gently* adding air to the tank. of course, also closing the
petcock. this seems too easy to me, but what the hell? am i going to
damage my motorcycle trying this?
5) is there any easy way to remove the stripes and lettering (mine are
shades of blue) from the gas tank and plastic molding around the seat?
6) is there a cheap way to repaint my motorcycle a different color (gas
tank, plastic molding, mags, and front fender?) it's painted white.
many thanks for any help,
cooper
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 09:20:50 +0100
From: JAS@Sport-Twin.com (John A. Sweeney)
Subject: GSTwin Re: Jody Matsler #755
At 12:51 PM 4/27/97, ChrisVCR@aol.com wrote:
>I just saw the new installment of Sport-Twin and again GREAT JOB!!
Hi Chris,
Thanks!
>The reason that I am writing is that I want to see if I can get some
>information on the GS500 ridden by Jody Matsler that you showed in the
>opening article.
>The bike is great looking and I would like to find out what bodywork he has
>on there... also what mods have been done..
I've not had time to speak to Jody about his bike yet, but hope to do so at
the next AFM event [5/25] at Sears Point.
>There does not seem to be too many GS500's raced in this area (central
>midwest) so any info is appreciated. Please feel free to pass on my e-mail
>address and phone number to anyone who can help with my GS or perhaps needs
>something themselves.
>Again, great job and I look forward to your next issue!!
>Chris Villasenor
>ChrisVCR@aol.com
>417-869-0943
Do you belong to the Euro Spares GS e-mail list? You can get information
about joining at:
www.eurospares.com
I'll forward your post to that list!
Thanks again for the feedback! Talk to you soon,
John
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
John A. Sweeney - Sport-Twin News - 415/922-1436
JAS@Sport-Twin.com - http://www.sport-twin.com
224 Ashbury St., San Francisco, CA 94117-2025
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 30 Apr 1997 10:16:42 -1000 (HST)
From: straubis@pixi.com (Straub Tech)
Subject: re: GSTwin some basic questions
>
>4) there is a dent in my gas tank, about 4 inches wide and maybe 3/4 of
>an inch deep. a kind man at a gas station told me i can repair this by
>simply putting an air hose (the kind at a gas station for inflating
>tires), in the opening, sealing the space between hose and tank with a
>rag, and *gently* adding air to the tank. of course, also closing the
>petcock. this seems too easy to me, but what the hell? am i going to
>damage my motorcycle trying this?
>
Well Cooper, I tried this a few years ago with an old Honda that I had.
What happened to the gas tank was that every part of it wanted to "inflate"
not just the dent. The tank started to look like a swollen fish, so I
stopped. This was with an '81 so I don't know if tank building has changed
since then.
If it does work, let me know.
Robert
------------------------------
End of GSTwin-digest V1 #15
***************************
GSTwin-digest Tuesday, May 6 1997 Volume 01 : Number 016
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 30 Apr 1997 15:47:09 -0700
From: kjohnsen@mail.island.net (Kelly Johnsen)
Subject: GSTwin Hi there
Hello..
I am a 1996 GS500e owner from BC, Canada. I am 26, female, and my name is
Kelly Johnsen. I bought my bike 3 weeks ago, and other than on the back, I
haven't ridden it yet. I start my bike course May 8th, and I decided to not
insure it until I have passed my road test May 20th. I have already
purchased a targa windshield fairing for it, but haven't had it installed yet.
Just introducing myself.. ( :
Kelly
GS500E
Eagle Talon TSi
Kelly Johnsen
NTC Post Secondary Counsellor
c/o PO Box 1383
Port Alberni, B.C.
V9Y 7M2
Phone: 724-5757
Fax: 723-0463
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 1 May 1997 09:15:23 +1000 (EST)
From: d.weiszmann@unsw.edu.au (Dorothy Weiszmann)
Subject: Re: GSTwin some basic questions
Hi Cooper,
>
>2) my motorcycle need its front brake switch replaced. it appears to me
>that this is attached to the front brake lever and would be fairly simple
>to replace. if that is the case, where would be a good place to buy a
>front brake switch?
I got one from the wreckers. I used one off a gsx 250 I think it was.
Probably could take the old one along & see if they are the same shape.
Otherwise from suzuki dealer.
>
>3) occassionally, i will hear and feel a knocking sound (about 1 per half
>second) coming from the engine. i can only hear it at stop lights, but
>believe it continues when the bike is in gear. despite the weak
>description, does this sound familiar to anyone? at first, i thought this
>happened when the bike wasn't warmed up, but i don't think that is the
>case.
Mine makes clacking noises, has done for the 5 years I've had it. Sounds
horrible sometimes, can be particularly bad on hot days in traffic, but I no
longer worry about it as nothing has ever come of it. Did replace the
camchain when it needed to be done & it didn't change the noise. Read
somewhere it is the camshaft endfloat, & that later models had shims in
there to stop the noise. I am told however that the camchain tensioner is a
weak point on the bike.
>
>5) is there any easy way to remove the stripes and lettering (mine are
>shades of blue) from the gas tank and plastic molding around the seat?
>
Some people say a hairdryer helps to get stickers off but I have never tried
it myself.
cath.
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 30 Apr 1997 18:05:07 -0800
From: "Michael Moore"
Subject: GSTwin ISP difficulties for the lists
My ISP (Sirius) had the mail server crash and out of service all last
night, so that is why some of you didn't see any traffic on the lists
for awhile. They say that no mail was lost - only delayed.
Sorry for the interruption in service.
Cheers,
Michael
Michael Moore
Euro Spares, SF CA
Distributor of Lucas RITA and Powerbase products
Sole North American source of "The Racing Motorcycle: a technical guide for constructors"
http://www.eurospares.com
AFM/AHRMA #364
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 6 May 1997 21:51:30 GMT
From: harvey.woien@cabin.com (Harvey Woien)
Subject: GSTwin new bike!
Well, gang.. in my intro post I said that I was considering buying a
GS500. After reading the "Bargain Blasters" piece in the June Rider
mag, I made my decision. A new GS500 has taken its place along side my
classic Brit bikes in the garage. One of the influential parts of the
article was the photo of the frontal profile of the five test bikes.
The GS low-bar, back-straight, lower legs tucked profile is what I
like.
With about 600 break-in miles so far, I ventured up the Angeles Crest
highway this morning and actually started using larger throttle
openings, but not exceeding 6 krpm. Wheee... who would ever need any
more power than this? hahahaha.. well.. maybe, but my aspirations are
modest. Freeway cruising at 65-70 was silky smooth and rock steady,
moreso than I expected. The suspension is just right for my 125 pounds
(not counting my combat boots).
So far I feel I made the right choice. This is my first new bike in 23
years and my first J brand since then, that one being a sand-cast
CB750 bought new in 1969.
I couldn't wait to start the mods, so I whipped off the OEM mirrors
and bar-weights and installed a bar-end mirror and blanking plugs. My
first question: has anyone drilled holes in the plate that necks down
the exhaust outlet to the pitiful little hole? If so, how does it
sound, and is it necessary to re-jet?
Harvey Woien
------------------------------
End of GSTwin-digest V1 #16
***************************
GSTwin-digest Monday, May 12 1997 Volume 01 : Number 017
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 6 May 1997 19:24:42 -0700 (PDT)
From: SUPERBRAT
Subject: Re: GSTwin new bike!
glad you're happy w/ your new bike! you might want to look into
aftermarket systems for that bike instead of messing around w/ the
stocker. if you NEED to change back, then you can, as some cities/counties
REALLY crack down on noise violations... also, you know what you're
getting into w/ a slip-on or system as compared to trying to modify you
existing system.
btw, the GS450E is the same engine group as the 500E. GOOD CHOICE! i
regularly take my beastie out for long romps in berryessa and napa. fun
li'l bike.
- -Beth
DoD#4508, Unitrans#545, AMA#542204
Mine: 1982 GS450ES, 1980 GS450ES Projects: 1959 3TA, 1971 CL350
****************************************************************************
beffie's homepage is kaput until further notice. sorry. :(
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 6 May 1997 20:00:16 -0800
From: "Michael Moore"
Subject: Re: GSTwin new bike!
> mag, I made my decision. A new GS500 has taken its place along side my
> classic Brit bikes in the garage. One of the influential parts of the
Hello Harvey,
Congrats on the new bike. Just a bit of a change from the Ducklings
that used to populate your shop, eh?
A new motorcycle - sounds like fun! I guess my last new bike was my
Yamaha TT500D I bought in late 1976. Maybe I should get one every 20
years or so.
Keep us posted on the fun you are having on the GS.
Cheers,
Michael
Michael Moore
Euro Spares, SF CA
Distributor of Lucas RITA and Powerbase products
Sole North American source of "The Racing Motorcycle: a technical guide for constructors"
http://www.eurospares.com
AFM/AHRMA #364
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 12 May 1997 11:40:56 -1000 (HST)
From: straubis@pixi.com (Straub Tech)
Subject: GSTwin Tire Choices?
I picked up a '91 GS500e and I'm trying to see what my tire choices are.
I'm currently running the stock rims *until I get a 17x3.5 front rim!*
Are my only choices bias-ply or are sticky radials an option?
Thanks!!
Robert
------------------------------
End of GSTwin-digest V1 #17
***************************
GSTwin-digest Tuesday, May 13 1997 Volume 01 : Number 018
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 12 May 1997 16:56:48 -0800
From: "Michael Moore"
Subject: Re: GSTwin Tire Choices?
> I picked up a '91 GS500e and I'm trying to see what my tire choices are.
> I'm currently running the stock rims *until I get a 17x3.5 front rim!*
> Are my only choices bias-ply or are sticky radials an option?
> Robert
Hello Robert,
I'd guess that your rims are a bit small to have many radials
available to choose from. If you buy a premium bias ply tire (I've
run both the Dunlop 591 and Avon AM22/23 bias tires on my twins
racers) you'll have plenty of tire. I'd suggest no bigger than a 140
on the rear 3.5" rim. I run a 130 on the 3.0" rim on the back of my
750 Laverda, and it does OK with 74 bhp on the race track.
Cheers,
Michael
Michael Moore
Euro Spares, SF CA
Distributor of Lucas RITA and Powerbase products
Sole North American source of "The Racing Motorcycle: a technical guide for constructors"
http://www.eurospares.com
AFM/AHRMA #364
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 12 May 1997 14:16:27 -1000 (HST)
From: straubis@pixi.com (Straub Tech)
Subject: Re: GSTwin Tire Choices?
>I'd guess that your rims are a bit small to have many radials
>available to choose from. If you buy a premium bias ply tire (I've
>run both the Dunlop 591 and Avon AM22/23 bias tires on my twins
>racers) you'll have plenty of tire. I'd suggest no bigger than a 140
>on the rear 3.5" rim. I run a 130 on the 3.0" rim on the back of my
>750 Laverda, and it does OK with 74 bhp on the race track.
Yep,
Looks like I'll have to see if people recommend the Dunlop over the Avon (or
does Metzler still has a good compound in the bias ply 17" tires??)
BTW, I took off the stock GS rim and removed a plastic ring from the left
side of the rim and found the holes for the second disc, cool... So, that's
how Rich Munn runs dual disks on the stock rim..
Robert
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 12 May 1997 17:49:46 -0700 (PDT)
From: SUPERBRAT
Subject: Re: GSTwin Tire Choices?
on a similar vein: how about an old 1982 GS450ES? the rims take tube
tires, of course. :) i was wondering who makes good tube type tires
that'll fit this bike... i gather the tire size would be about 90/90 and
110/90. i've seen metzlers and dunlops in this size, both supposed to be
good tires, but i don't know who to pick. anyone w/ personal experience?
- -Beth
DoD#4508, Unitrans#545, AMA#542204
Mine: 1982 GS450ES, 1980 GS450ES Projects: 1974 TX650, 1971 CL350
****************************************************************************
beffie's homepage is kaput until further notice. sorry. :(
------------------------------
Date: 12 May 1997 17:55:50 -0700
From: "Jonathan Forman"
Subject: Re: GSTwin Tire Choices?
Reply to: RE>>GSTwin Tire Choices?
Robert wrote:
>BTW, I took off the stock GS rim and removed a plastic ring from the left
>side of the rim and found the holes for the second disc, cool... So, that's
>how Rich Munn runs dual disks on the stock rim..
Actually, Rich Munn fit a GSXR 750 front end on his GS500. Even if you fit a second disk on the stock wheel, the left fork doesn't have mountings for a second caliper.
Jon Forman
AFM/WSMC #654
jonathan_forman@affymetrix.com
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 12 May 1997 15:04:04 -1000 (HST)
From: straubis@pixi.com (Straub Tech)
Subject: Re: GSTwin Tire Choices?
>
>Actually, Rich Munn fit a GSXR 750 front end on his GS500. Even if you fit
a second disk on the stock wheel, the left fork doesn't have mountings for a
second caliper.
>
Yeah, but he is still running the stock GS rim. I now have a GSXR front
end, and was going to run the stock rim, his recommedation. Thats why I'm
interested in the second disk...
Robert
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 12 May 1997 16:02:27 -1000 (HST)
From: straubis@pixi.com (Straub Tech)
Subject: Re: GSTwin Tire Choices?
>
>Actually, Rich Munn fit a GSXR 750 front end on his GS500. Even if you fit
a second disk on the stock wheel, the left fork doesn't have mountings for a
second caliper.
>
Yeah, but he is still running the stock GS rim. From what I've read, and
what he said on the phone last week. It appears that he is still running the
stock rims.
I now have a GSXR front end, and was going to run the stock rim, his
recommedation. Thats why I'm interested in the second disk...
Robert "I'm not flame proof, so I'll re-send the email w/corrections"
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 12 May 1997 22:08:51 -0700 (PDT)
From: SUPERBRAT
Subject: Re: GSTwin Tire Choices?
On Mon, 12 May 1997, SUPERBRAT wrote:
> on a similar vein: how about an old 1982 GS450ES? the rims take tube
> tires, of course. :) i was wondering who makes good tube type tires
> that'll fit this bike... i gather the tire size would be about 90/90 and
> 110/90. i've seen metzlers and dunlops in this size, both supposed to be
> good tires, but i don't know who to pick. anyone w/ personal experience?
oups! my bad. forgot: 90/90-18 and 110/90-18. :)
- -Beth
DoD#4508, Unitrans#545, AMA#542204
Mine: 1982 GS450ES, 1980 GS450ES Projects: 1974 TX650, 1971 CL350
****************************************************************************
beffie's homepage is kaput until further notice. sorry. :(
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 13 May 1997 07:50:14 -0400
From: Brad Babcock
Subject: Re: GSTwin Tire Choices?
I have a 1983 GS450E, and it's on the second set of Avon Roadrunners, AM 20
and 21. They aren't the stickiest tires in the world, but they're much
better than the OEM Bridgestones, Continental Twins, and Continental
Blitz's I've had on the same bike. They warm up fast, are sticky enough
for 80% riding, are good in the rain, and last for reasonable mileage
(8-10k miles). Also, they're in the middle range, pricewise. As needed,
I'll be replacing the tires on all my other street bikes with these same
Avons. Hope this helps.
Brad
------------------------------
End of GSTwin-digest V1 #18
***************************
GSTwin-digest Wednesday, May 14 1997 Volume 01 : Number 019
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 13 May 1997 05:10:41 -0800
From: "Michael Moore"
Subject: Re: GSTwin Tire Choices?
> I have a 1983 GS450E, and it's on the second set of Avon Roadrunners, AM 20
> and 21. They aren't the stickiest tires in the world, but they're much
I just put a set of these on my street EX250, and also have a set on
my V50 Guzzi. Alas, neither bike has been rideable yet, so I can't
report first hand, but a friend has a set on one of his bikes and
likes them OK.
Cheers,
Michael
Michael Moore
Euro Spares, SF CA
Distributor of Lucas RITA and Powerbase products
Sole North American source of "The Racing Motorcycle: a technical guide for constructors"
http://www.eurospares.com
AFM/AHRMA #364
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 13 May 1997 14:42:50 -0700
From: hwoien@juno.com (Harvey M Woien)
Subject: GSTwin new bike
>Date: Tue, 6 May 1997 19:24:42 -0700 (PDT)
>From: SUPERBRAT
>Subject: Re: GSTwin new bike!
>glad you're happy w/ your new bike! you might want to look into
>aftermarket systems for that bike instead of messing around w/ the
>stocker. if you NEED to change back, then you can, as some cities/co
>REALLY crack down on noise violations... also, you know what you're
>getting into w/ a slip-on or system as compared to trying to modify
>existing system.
Hello Beth,
I tend to agree. Another list member suggested an after-market muffler
also. I am hesitating only because sawing off the OEM muffler might
be a flag to the dealer, should I need warranty service. But I will
only be able to hold back for so long. ;)
No problem with noise in the L.A. area. Many bikes here are quite loud
and fix-it tickets are all but unknown. Out at the Rock Store, I have
seen Harleys running straight pipes emblazoned with "Loud Pipes
Save Lives". I used to run open megaphones (occasionally) on my Ducatis
on the street and never had a problem. I don't want a lot of noise,
but I would like to hear the exhaust note.
Also virtually unkown in L.A. are speeding tickets. Occasionally you
see a CHP giving a speeding ticket on a freeway, but not until the
80 mph barrier is exceeded. Here, you get run over from behind at
anything under 70, with 75 being the norm - traffic permitting.
Harvey Woien
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 14 May 1997 04:49:14 -0800
From: "Michael Moore"
Subject: Re: GSTwin new bike
> I tend to agree. Another list member suggested an after-market muffler
> also. I am hesitating only because sawing off the OEM muffler might
> be a flag to the dealer, should I need warranty service. But I will
> only be able to hold back for so long. ;)
Hello Harvey,
A nice set of Contis would make the GS a bit(!) louder. I've adapted
some V50 Guzzi mufflers on to my EX250 street bike, and though I
haven't had a chance to see how they sound, they certainly look nicer
than the stock quasi-race can mufflers.
Cheers,
Michael
Michael Moore
Euro Spares, SF CA
Distributor of Lucas RITA and Powerbase products
Sole North American source of "The Racing Motorcycle: a technical guide for constructors"
http://www.eurospares.com
AFM/AHRMA #364
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 14 May 1997 07:58:18 -0400 (EDT)
From: fshixon@muskie.lerc.nasa.gov (D Hixon)
Subject: GSTwin Megacycle cams
Hi folks,
Cleaning off the GS shelves, and decided to sell an unused set of Megacycle
cams. Not sure of the exact part number, but they're the highest lift/
longest duration cams Megacycle makes for the GS.
Email me if interested. I'm looking for $200 from them.
Have fun,
Ray Hixon
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
R Hixon | phone: (216) 962-3146
ICOMP, Ohio Aerospace Institute | NASB #623
22800 Cedar Point RD | 1995 Triumph Speed Triple for sale...
Brook Park, Ohio 44142 | email: fshixon@muskie.lerc.nasa.gov
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 14 May 1997 05:04:14 -0800
From: "Michael Moore"
Subject: Re: GSTwin Megacycle cams
> Email me if interested. I'm looking for $200 from them.
> Ray Hixon
If you buy Ray's cams you'll save $38 over the retail price, which
strikes me as pretty worthwhile, so someone give his race budget a
boost.
After you've gotten the cams I'll be glad to set you up with a set of
Kei'hin CR smoothbore carbs, as I've got for my GS450 race engine.
I've been selling the 37/39mm carb sets to the EX500 racers for $340,
which is quite a good price (just delivered another set last night).
Then, you'll want to contact my friend Craig about porting,
lightening the crank and rebalancing it to get rid of the balance
shaft, valve springs, big valves, . . . .
Cheers,
Michael
Michael Moore
Euro Spares, SF CA
Distributor of Lucas RITA and Powerbase products
Sole North American source of "The Racing Motorcycle: a technical guide for constructors"
http://www.eurospares.com
AFM/AHRMA #364
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 14 May 1997 15:13:51 -0400
From: nigh@intrepid.net
Subject: Re: GSTwin Megacycle cams (long)
>If you buy Ray's cams you'll save $38 over the retail price, which
>strikes me as pretty worthwhile, so someone give his race budget a
>boost.
>
>After you've gotten the cams I'll be glad to set you up with a set of
>Kei'hin CR smoothbore carbs...
>Then, you'll want to contact my friend Craig about porting,
>lightening the crank and rebalancing it to get rid of the balance
>shaft, valve springs, big valves, . . . .
Sooner or later I'll need cams, but not quite yet. I bought my '95 GS new in
early '96, put 500 street miles on it to break it in, and have raced it
since, about 4 race weekends and 2 practice days. (I don't have time to
travel to remote tracks).
I change the oil after each weekend, which includes 1 or 2 practice sessions
and 2 races. I retorque the head and adjust the valves every other weekend.
I have noticed some pitting on a couple of the cam lobes, which surprised me
because I did not think the bike had been used enough to warrant that degree
of wear. Maybe there has been a lubrication breakdown during hard use. I use
Golden Spectro 10W-40.
Perhaps this degree of wear is normal on race bikes since they are ridden
flat out on the straights. I know I overrevved the bike a few times partly
because I couldn't hear my own exhaust with the stock pipes. This problem
was solved with a Yoshimura pipe.
I'm planning a valve job at the end of this season or before if I notice
smoke. At that time I'll replace the cams if they are shot. It would be fun
to build a race engine with hot cams, carbs, and the like, but I can't
afford the expense or time required. I enjoy reading about other racers'
adventures, but a typical race weekend for us involves unloading the bike
from the truck, teching it, and riding it. Mechanical work is limited to
checking tire pressures and fuel level in the tank. At the end of the day we
load the bike back in the truck and drive home.
A week or two later, I change the oil, inspect the brake pads, clean the
bike, adjust the chain, safety wire, and give the bike a general looking
over. It runs well and has been completely dependable to date.
There seems to be a type of racer who enjoys the excitement of working on
the bike at the track. Why else would I see bikes brought to the track that
aren't near raceworthy, and are usually half disassembled. I've seen young
men bring such bikes to the track and work on them feverishly through their
practice sessions. They appeared lucky to be able to participate in their races.
Joyce Nigh
CCS Am#909 WERA Novice#909
Suzuki GS500
Prell Concentrate Shampoo
Polyester Socks
UNIX
ksh: signature too long
------------------------------
End of GSTwin-digest V1 #19
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GSTwin-digest Thursday, May 15 1997 Volume 01 : Number 020
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 14 May 1997 15:16:57 -0700 (PDT)
From: SUPERBRAT
Subject: Re: GSTwin new bike
> I tend to agree. Another list member suggested an after-market muffler
> also. I am hesitating only because sawing off the OEM muffler might
> be a flag to the dealer, should I need warranty service. But I will
> only be able to hold back for so long. ;)
ahhh.. that's right. you have to cut off the old muffler. well...i'm not
sure what to say then. maybe a whole new system? maybe just leave well
enough alone? :)
> No problem with noise in the L.A. area. Many bikes here are quite loud
> and fix-it tickets are all but unknown. Out at the Rock Store, I have
> seen Harleys running straight pipes emblazoned with "Loud Pipes
> Save Lives". I used to run open megaphones (occasionally) on my Ducatis
> on the street and never had a problem. I don't want a lot of noise,
> but I would like to hear the exhaust note.
dunno what to say here. :)
> Also virtually unkown in L.A. are speeding tickets. Occasionally you
> see a CHP giving a speeding ticket on a freeway, but not until the
> 80 mph barrier is exceeded. Here, you get run over from behind at
> anything under 70, with 75 being the norm - traffic permitting.
i know. i used to live in Orange County and Ventura County. went though LA
a lot. CHP is more interested in until you make triple digits. :)
- -Beth
DoD#4508, Unitrans#545, AMA#542204
Mine: 1982 GS450ES, 1980 GS450ES Projects: 1974 TX650, 1971 CL350
****************************************************************************
beffie's homepage is kaput until further notice. sorry. :(
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 14 May 1997 15:22:49 -0700 (PDT)
From: SUPERBRAT
Subject: Re: GSTwin Megacycle cams
i wish! don't have that type of cash to make my GS hotter. :(
- -Beth
DoD#4508, Unitrans#545, AMA#542204
Mine: 1982 GS450ES, 1980 GS450ES Projects: 1974 TX650, 1971 CL350
****************************************************************************
beffie's homepage is kaput until further notice. sorry. :(
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 14 May 1997 17:41:58 -0800
From: "Michael Moore"
Subject: Re: GSTwin Megacycle cams (long)
> I have noticed some pitting on a couple of the cam lobes, which surprised me
> Perhaps this degree of wear is normal on race bikes since they are ridden
> flat out on the straights. I know I overrevved the bike a few times partly
Hello Joyce,
I think that the over-rev may have resulted in valve float, a
condition that is pretty hard on the cams. Your Golden Spectro
should be fine for race use. I use Kendall in my race bikes, as that
has been recommended to me (for a dead dinosaur oil) by Megacycle.
I'm thinking about trying one of the synthetics in my CR216 Honda
vintage bike because it turns high rpm and runs very hot.
> adventures, but a typical race weekend for us involves unloading the bike
> from the truck, teching it, and riding it. Mechanical work is limited to
> checking tire pressures and fuel level in the tank. At the end of the day we
> load the bike back in the truck and drive home.
A built race engine doesn't need to be real labor intensive at the
track. My four-stroke racers generally run a whole season with
nothing but valve adjustments, oil changes, and the occasional spark
plug.
> A week or two later, I change the oil, inspect the brake pads, clean the
> bike, adjust the chain, safety wire, and give the bike a general looking
> over. It runs well and has been completely dependable to date.
Take care of your bike (which it appears you do) and it'll take care
of you!
> There seems to be a type of racer who enjoys the excitement of working on
> the bike at the track. Why else would I see bikes brought to the track that
> aren't near raceworthy, and are usually half disassembled. I've seen young
> men bring such bikes to the track and work on them feverishly through their
> practice sessions. They appeared lucky to be able to participate in their races.
Having pulled some all-nighters (or all weekers) before a race I can
sympathize with them, but if you've got more than about 15 minutes
worth of stuff to do at the track you might as well stay home. That
way you don't go all the way to the track and still end up missing
your race. Chalk it up to incurable optimism (and not getting
started soon enough).
I tend to miss races because I'm building something trick, so I
encourage people to make the trick bike the extra bike, and keep
working on it while you take the un-trick bike to the races and get
some more track time. I think Ray told me that he can buy GS500
motors for $200 pretty readily, so this makes having two bikes a
little more reasonable proposition.
Cheers,
Michael
Michael Moore
Euro Spares, SF CA
Distributor of Lucas RITA and Powerbase products
Sole North American source of "The Racing Motorcycle: a technical guide for constructors"
http://www.eurospares.com
AFM/AHRMA #364
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 15 May 1997 16:35:37 -0800 (PST)
From: Dan Wang
Subject: Re: GSTwin Megacycle cams
On Wed, 14 May 1997, Michael Moore wrote:
> some more track time. I think Ray told me that he can buy GS500
> motors for $200 pretty readily, so this makes having two bikes a
> little more reasonable proposition.
Can someone tell me where to find these $200 GS500 engines? I have a
GS500E with a cam bearing bolt broken off in the head and an ez-out broken
off in the bolt. :-( I'll have to fix it up one of these days.
Anyplace in California would be fine. I'm in LA.
Dan
------------------------------
End of GSTwin-digest V1 #20
***************************
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