My soul is mobile again! If being without my motorcycle for two weeks is anything like death, I want to be riding in this life for a good LONG time!
I was like a concerned parent, taking her out for her first ride with the new friction plates. Mentally noting every nuance of vibration or utterance of noise for later analysis. Every jerk and stall and shifting difference inked into my brain. The cool air and blazing desert sun served as superb riding partners.
I may have been without my bike for a few weeks but I did learn a few things.
- When getting aftermarket parts or tools, ALWAYS doublecheck what is being ordered or purchased.
- Factory service manuals are not always correct in a clear, easy to understand fashion. Perhaps correct to the author, but maybe not so to the reader.
- Patience is a virtue. Wait... I knew that already...
- High pain tolerance is a virtue. I learned that after my oily hand slipped off a wrench and I smashed my pinkie finger nail.
- Don't assume a mechanic knows his or her stuff. A good mechanic doesn't know everything; they figure it out as they go along.
- Perseverance and trust in ones' self is always a winning combination.
3 comments:
Congratulations on the mechanical accomplishment! It's nice to have the confidence to be able to fix something, isn't it?
Very glad to hear of your success in motorcycle mechanics. Gives the rest of us non-wrenchheads hope!
Doug C
Yes, it does feel good to do my own work. I did the valves early this year and if I said I was completely confident, that would be a lie. But I did it better than the shop guys did and increased my power, mileage and speed.
The clutch was definitely a different critter. BUT, I did it and now I wouldn't be hesitant to do it again. Heck, I am even looking around for project bikes for after my ride!
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