Collected my 'new' GTS yesterday afternoon. It had been a week since I'd
road tested it and the days had dragged by.
Rode her home and then she had to pass the 'acid test'. I'd bought it with
the main purpose as a 'two-up' tourer and the FJR that I had been
contemplating just did not have the pillion legroom. Anyhow duly 'installed'
the missus on the back and got the big thumbs up. At a pinch an inch or so
further legroom forward would be nice, but I'd already determined that
unlike the FJR, there is room to shift the pegs forward a tad quite easily.
For the FJR to be viable the pegs would have, to been moved nearly 3".
I know she got the seal of approval as she was instantly Christened
'Berlinda' by the wife and became one of the family.
That done obviously a ride out was in order. Unfortunately I had a prior
engagement in London's West End which meant taking into the heart of London
in heavy traffic. Never mind. Anyhow I found no difficulty in picking my way
thru the traffic. No different to my FJ or Ace. The fella I bought her from
said that he found that a front pressure of 38psi gave a lighter feel to the
front, with no detriment to handling. It's also got a 120/70 BT57.
On the way home from collecting her yesterday, I did have the ABS warning
light blinking after about 10 miles. I've since done about 60 miles with no
re-occurrence of this. She's not been used very much since last summer and
I'm hoping I'm just blasting a few cobwebs out.
This morning's run out was a little more interesting, though couldn't get to
any real clear roads. All I can say is 'SHE'LL DO VERY NICELY THANK YOU'
Initially I had all sorts of plans (remember I'm a natural born fiddler) and
was lining up a Thunderace engine transplant straight away. But I've been
amazed just how torquey the GTS is. The Ace engine, with the Exup, is
torquey, but not like this, not in the range where you really need a touring
bike to be. At a later date, if the EFI goes into terminal decline then
perhaps, but until then I'm leaving well alone.
I will be installing another of Hawke's excellent chain oilers. I've fitted
them to the FJ and Ace and reckon they're great. I'm not saying the
ScotOiler isn't good either, just that I didn't get along with it myself. A
top box is needed for additional luggage (she came with the OEM Krauser's)
and to give the wife a back rest. I'm used to a more solid feel to the front
brake too, so a set of stainless lines may well follow shortly.
I've cast a dubious eye over that rather odd looking rear 'hugger' mudguard.
I'm told by the ex-owner that it works superbly, but not sure about the
looks !
Once again thanks to all for the advice and especially Hawke, who took the
trouble to get the tape measure out when I was struggling on the rear
legroom front !
Feel like a 'real' member of the list now !
Barry Edwards
GTS1000 '95 (Goes to the top of the list :>)
FJ1200 '90
YZR1000R(Ace) 98
http://www.fjmods.btinternet.co.uk/
