Passing on some sad news that I read at Keep the Rubber Side Down.
Last Thursday, Cliff Gullett was trying to set a new two stroke motorcycle land speed record on the salt flats of Bonneville. He was going 237 MPH (385 kilometers per hour) when he crashed and died.
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Monday, 8 September 2008
2008 Minnesota State Fair
This year's Minnesota State Fair was no let down. There was an enormous sea of people. This is like this each and every day the fair is open, and like this each and every year. There was good eatin, baby animals (chicks) and such, very large vegetables, nice melons, and generally a good time was had by the Mr. Motorcycle clan, Oh yeah, and don't forget, ther was some spectacular people watchin as usual.
I promised I'd post some pics, but took so many, I put together a little slide show.
There is sound, so If you are at work, or if you can't stand the song Svefn G Englar by Sigur Ros, then turn the sound off before clicking on the show.
I promised I'd post some pics, but took so many, I put together a little slide show.
There is sound, so If you are at work, or if you can't stand the song Svefn G Englar by Sigur Ros, then turn the sound off before clicking on the show.
Saturday, 6 September 2008
Suzuki VS800 Intruder
After the success of the last two incarnations (the Suzuki Intruder VS700 in 1985 and the Suzuki Intruder VS750 in 1987, to be exact) Suzuki stepped it up a notch and released the Suzuki VS800 Intruder in 1992.
Entering the 800 Class
After the 750 had a good run of five years Suzuki decided to step it up a notch. They added another 50 cubic centimeters or so to the proven 45-degree v-twin and found that they had a real contender for the mid-size cruiser class on their hands.
Like the previous models, this Intruder featured four valves per cylinder (a pair of intake valves and a pair of exhaust valves). This innovation (which may have been somewhat common in the sport bikes of the time but was virtually unheard of in any of the chopper-style v-twin motorcycles) allowed for a smaller engine to produce more power by using its fuel more efficiently, thereby utilizing all of its available power to drive the pistons, crankshaft, gears, and finally the drive shaft and rear tire.
Big deal, you might be thinking, after all, all motorcycles put their power to the rear wheel!
That's true, but not all motorcycles are able to harness as much useable power as this might VS800.
In fact, for a shaft driven and water-cooled motorcycle (the water system adds more overall weight and the drive shaft takes more power to operate than a chain) that only possess eight-hundred cc's, it packed a big punch when it came to acceleration. Indeed, given the right circumstances, it could even out perform its big brother, the Suzuki VS1400 Intruder!
A Few Changes
Aside from a few minor tweaks made to the cosmetics of the Intruder that are not worth dwelling on, the new 800 version received two significant changes. One is the aforementioned increased engine size. The other is purely cosmetic but in many riders' opinions takes the Japanese cruiser from okay to perfect. The change? Suzuki increased the diameter of the front wheel from 19" to 21". (This would change again years later when Suzuki decided to change the Intruder brand and replace the name with a letter and a number, but that's neither here nor there right now.)
This Intruder Remains the Same
As I said, other than the two big changes mentioned previously, this particular line remained largely intact with the introduction of the VS800. The engine stayed water-cooled; the narrow, clean, uncluttered profile remained unchanged; no new changes were implented to the exhaust system. Likewise, the intake system kept the traditional carburetors as opposed to going fuel injected. By and large, this new cruiser was the same motorcycle albeit with a larger engine and bigger tire.
But then, when you have something that works, why fix what's not broken? And judging by the amount of these cruisers you see on the road there are many riders who feel the Suzuki VS800 Intruder needs absolutely no fixing.
Entering the 800 Class
After the 750 had a good run of five years Suzuki decided to step it up a notch. They added another 50 cubic centimeters or so to the proven 45-degree v-twin and found that they had a real contender for the mid-size cruiser class on their hands.
Like the previous models, this Intruder featured four valves per cylinder (a pair of intake valves and a pair of exhaust valves). This innovation (which may have been somewhat common in the sport bikes of the time but was virtually unheard of in any of the chopper-style v-twin motorcycles) allowed for a smaller engine to produce more power by using its fuel more efficiently, thereby utilizing all of its available power to drive the pistons, crankshaft, gears, and finally the drive shaft and rear tire.
Big deal, you might be thinking, after all, all motorcycles put their power to the rear wheel!
That's true, but not all motorcycles are able to harness as much useable power as this might VS800.
In fact, for a shaft driven and water-cooled motorcycle (the water system adds more overall weight and the drive shaft takes more power to operate than a chain) that only possess eight-hundred cc's, it packed a big punch when it came to acceleration. Indeed, given the right circumstances, it could even out perform its big brother, the Suzuki VS1400 Intruder!
A Few Changes
Aside from a few minor tweaks made to the cosmetics of the Intruder that are not worth dwelling on, the new 800 version received two significant changes. One is the aforementioned increased engine size. The other is purely cosmetic but in many riders' opinions takes the Japanese cruiser from okay to perfect. The change? Suzuki increased the diameter of the front wheel from 19" to 21". (This would change again years later when Suzuki decided to change the Intruder brand and replace the name with a letter and a number, but that's neither here nor there right now.)
This Intruder Remains the Same
As I said, other than the two big changes mentioned previously, this particular line remained largely intact with the introduction of the VS800. The engine stayed water-cooled; the narrow, clean, uncluttered profile remained unchanged; no new changes were implented to the exhaust system. Likewise, the intake system kept the traditional carburetors as opposed to going fuel injected. By and large, this new cruiser was the same motorcycle albeit with a larger engine and bigger tire.
But then, when you have something that works, why fix what's not broken? And judging by the amount of these cruisers you see on the road there are many riders who feel the Suzuki VS800 Intruder needs absolutely no fixing.
Friday, 5 September 2008
God really does care. Here is an inspirational photo as proof of God's love for us all.
This almost put a lump in my throat...
.
I seldom pass along inspirational or spiritual stuff, but this one really got to me.
.
I believe, in these difficult and mean-spirited times in which we live, there needs to be a message of hope.
.
We can all use a single image that speaks to us of love, harmony, peace, and joy.
.
I have been sent that image, and I want to share it with all of you.
.
All I ask is that you take a moment to reflect on it...
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
See,
He really does care!
.
I seldom pass along inspirational or spiritual stuff, but this one really got to me.
.
I believe, in these difficult and mean-spirited times in which we live, there needs to be a message of hope.
.
We can all use a single image that speaks to us of love, harmony, peace, and joy.
.
I have been sent that image, and I want to share it with all of you.
.
All I ask is that you take a moment to reflect on it...
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
See,
He really does care!
Thursday, 4 September 2008
Son's of Anarchy review
I watched the season premier of Son's of Anarchy last night, and boy oh boy was it good, I mean really good. I'm hooked for sure. I can only hope the rest of the show will be as good as the season premier.
I'm not going into any details about the show, just in case you missed it. If so, hopefully you'll find a way to see it if someone recorded it, or maybe they'll replay the premier and you can watch it for yourselves. If you need details, let me know via e-mail and I'll be happy to fill you in.
The show was just as good as they had built it up to be.
I'm not going into any details about the show, just in case you missed it. If so, hopefully you'll find a way to see it if someone recorded it, or maybe they'll replay the premier and you can watch it for yourselves. If you need details, let me know via e-mail and I'll be happy to fill you in.
The show was just as good as they had built it up to be.
Wednesday, 3 September 2008
What about my suzuki VS700 intruder?
I was asked a question the other day by a motorcycle rider friend of mine that I had not seen in many years. He asked me:
What about my Suzuki Intruder VS700?
Did I still ride it? Did it still look the same? Was it still a hot looking customized Japanese cruiser?
Yes, yes, and yes, I answered him.
But those three answers weren't quite the truth... You see, while my Intruder still looks the same and is still a hot looking customized Japanese cruiser, I unfortunately haven't been able to ride it lately... Why? Because the last time I tried to take it out for a spin, it wouldn't even start. I looked at the engine and discovered the rear carburetor was just spitting and overflowing with fuel. Turns out I need to replace the diaphragms and possible the needles as well. Unfortunately, this is a long, time consuming and not altogether inexpensive project.
Now, it wasn't an entire lie... I still ride, just not this particular custom Suzuki Intruder at this particular point in time!
Still, the question did get me thinking: Here I am telling all of you about these great motorcycles but I haven't told you anything at all really about mine. For all you know, I might not even have a ride, let alone a cool one!
So where were we? Oh yes, what about my suzuki VS700 intruder? I'll tell you: it's awesome.
The Suzuki Intruder Handlebars
It's a 1986 model and while it originally had the drag bar I replaced it with the ape-hangers handlebars (not true ape hangers, mind you, but styled after them--in fact, these have the look but are much more manageable) that came on other models of the same motorcycle. Many people prefer the dragbars but I myself like the look and feel of the chopper-style bars.
The Wire Wheels
It also has the true aluminum wire wheels as opposed to the mag wheels made to simulate wire wheels. While this makes for more expensive and labor intensive tire changes (because not only do you have to the tires but you need to also replace the innertube as well), I feel the trade off is much more than worth it when it comes to the aesthetics of the overall package. Afterall, you don't put mags on an old school styled chopper/cruiser!
The Custom Paintjob
The factory paintjob was black and let me tell you, when I say it was black, it was black! The gas tank (obviously); the frame; the radiator cover; the front fender; the rear fender; the side covers--all a glossy black. There's nothing wrong with this color scheme, but I wanted something a little more "me," a little more "custom." So I took it apart, sanded everything down, repainted it a nicer colored-black and then added traditional flames to the front fender, side covers, and gas tank. On the rear fender, I added my own little logo using the same color-scheme as the flames. All in all, it turned out to be a real looker!
The Chrome
Now when I bought this motorcycle it wasn't in the best of shape, but it wasn't bad, either. Like most older model motorcycles, though, the chrome left something to be desired. It was pitted and the bare parts underneath were either rusted or corroded. The chromed plastic pieces left something to be desired as well. After fixing everything else, these parts looked even worse! Unfortunately, as you all know, refinishing chrome motorcycle parts is not an inexpensive adventure by any means.
So I had a bit of a brainstorm.
Instead of refinishing them, I painted them flat-black! The engine cases, the valve covers, the triple trees, the risers... Much to my surprise, it started to look so good that I continued the theme and customized the rest of the Intruder in midnight accents whether it needed it or not. I think this more than anything made the ride stand out from the crowd!
The Extra Stuff
I got rid of the ugly back fender and replaced it with a unique fiberglas one from Highway Hawk. I don't know if they make it anymore, but instead of having one huge breaklight, it's got two nice round ones that tuck in under the fender. I also removed the sissy bar. I changed out the square mirrors for some oval mirrors. I also got rid of the two-into-two stock exhaust and threw on a two-into-one DG/Hard Krome guarnanteed never to blue slashcut system. A new seat and a set of saddlebags and a toolbag later and I was in imported hog heaven!
Until I can get my camera working and get some pictures up, from now on, whenever anyone asks me, What about my suzuki VS700 intruder? I can point them to my Suzuki Intruder Resource blog and they can compare this post with my stock Suzuki Intruder VS700 post to get an idea of jsut what can be done to a not so ordinary cruiser with just a little imagination.
What about my Suzuki Intruder VS700?
Did I still ride it? Did it still look the same? Was it still a hot looking customized Japanese cruiser?
Yes, yes, and yes, I answered him.
But those three answers weren't quite the truth... You see, while my Intruder still looks the same and is still a hot looking customized Japanese cruiser, I unfortunately haven't been able to ride it lately... Why? Because the last time I tried to take it out for a spin, it wouldn't even start. I looked at the engine and discovered the rear carburetor was just spitting and overflowing with fuel. Turns out I need to replace the diaphragms and possible the needles as well. Unfortunately, this is a long, time consuming and not altogether inexpensive project.
Now, it wasn't an entire lie... I still ride, just not this particular custom Suzuki Intruder at this particular point in time!
Still, the question did get me thinking: Here I am telling all of you about these great motorcycles but I haven't told you anything at all really about mine. For all you know, I might not even have a ride, let alone a cool one!
So where were we? Oh yes, what about my suzuki VS700 intruder? I'll tell you: it's awesome.
The Suzuki Intruder Handlebars
It's a 1986 model and while it originally had the drag bar I replaced it with the ape-hangers handlebars (not true ape hangers, mind you, but styled after them--in fact, these have the look but are much more manageable) that came on other models of the same motorcycle. Many people prefer the dragbars but I myself like the look and feel of the chopper-style bars.
The Wire Wheels
It also has the true aluminum wire wheels as opposed to the mag wheels made to simulate wire wheels. While this makes for more expensive and labor intensive tire changes (because not only do you have to the tires but you need to also replace the innertube as well), I feel the trade off is much more than worth it when it comes to the aesthetics of the overall package. Afterall, you don't put mags on an old school styled chopper/cruiser!
The Custom Paintjob
The factory paintjob was black and let me tell you, when I say it was black, it was black! The gas tank (obviously); the frame; the radiator cover; the front fender; the rear fender; the side covers--all a glossy black. There's nothing wrong with this color scheme, but I wanted something a little more "me," a little more "custom." So I took it apart, sanded everything down, repainted it a nicer colored-black and then added traditional flames to the front fender, side covers, and gas tank. On the rear fender, I added my own little logo using the same color-scheme as the flames. All in all, it turned out to be a real looker!
The Chrome
Now when I bought this motorcycle it wasn't in the best of shape, but it wasn't bad, either. Like most older model motorcycles, though, the chrome left something to be desired. It was pitted and the bare parts underneath were either rusted or corroded. The chromed plastic pieces left something to be desired as well. After fixing everything else, these parts looked even worse! Unfortunately, as you all know, refinishing chrome motorcycle parts is not an inexpensive adventure by any means.
So I had a bit of a brainstorm.
Instead of refinishing them, I painted them flat-black! The engine cases, the valve covers, the triple trees, the risers... Much to my surprise, it started to look so good that I continued the theme and customized the rest of the Intruder in midnight accents whether it needed it or not. I think this more than anything made the ride stand out from the crowd!
The Extra Stuff
I got rid of the ugly back fender and replaced it with a unique fiberglas one from Highway Hawk. I don't know if they make it anymore, but instead of having one huge breaklight, it's got two nice round ones that tuck in under the fender. I also removed the sissy bar. I changed out the square mirrors for some oval mirrors. I also got rid of the two-into-two stock exhaust and threw on a two-into-one DG/Hard Krome guarnanteed never to blue slashcut system. A new seat and a set of saddlebags and a toolbag later and I was in imported hog heaven!
Until I can get my camera working and get some pictures up, from now on, whenever anyone asks me, What about my suzuki VS700 intruder? I can point them to my Suzuki Intruder Resource blog and they can compare this post with my stock Suzuki Intruder VS700 post to get an idea of jsut what can be done to a not so ordinary cruiser with just a little imagination.
2008 Minnesota Renaissance Festival
This year Just before going to the Minnesota State Fair, I took my wife and kids to the 2008 Renaissance Festival.
I went once as a child, and went again once as a teenager, and waited untill this year to go again.
My wife and kids had never been. My wife and 13 year old daughter had fun. (Lots of shopping). Even my 16 yr old Son had a good time.
There was lots to do and see.
See for yourself.
You know how at a Star Trek Convention, the Trekies dress up like Characters form the show?
Well, It's can be like that here too. This Gal did not work here, but got in on the spirit of renaissace. Many more folks dressed the part as well.
Comedian jugglers and knife throwers
A comedian and magician all rolled up into one.
"A pirate goes into a bar and the bartender says to the pirate... Excuse me mate, but did you know you have a steerin wheel in yer trousers? Yes, I did, and it's been drivin me nuts all day!"
Great shops
A bit of archery for the young lad Mr. Motorcycle Jr.
Awesome weapons, all hand crafted. These are REAL!
Not only are all of these weapons real, hand crafted, originals, and duplicates of originals,
they will sell them to the general public, and will let any oldMr. Motorcycle Joe handle them.
Great costumes. These remind me of Mardi Gras!
Jousting took place.
Look at the dents in this guys armor. These guys really whack the sh*t out of each other!
Cool artwork, fitting for the Renaissance, and for motorcycle blog, and motorcycle lovers.
The artist who had done the painting started freaking out on me while I was trying to take this picture. Artist: "Excuse me, what the Hell do you think you're doing taking a picture of my artwork?" Me: kinda dumbfounded say... "Um, I'm not going to try to duplicate it or sell it or anything. I just thought it was really cool., I have a motorcycle blog, and thought I'd share it." Artist: "Cool. go right ahead. " Whew! Me: "Thanks!"
See what I go through for you folks!
A guy with a twisted sense of humor like me.
Water bottle shoved up a stuffed animals Ass.
My son and daughter (Micky Mouse looking characters) having a sword fight duel.
First one to pop the others two ballons wins.
It was a close battle but the victor was the boy.
My daughter did an excellent job bleeding and twitching for the crowd though!
Finally, on the way out, I spotted this t-shirt. Way funny!
I went once as a child, and went again once as a teenager, and waited untill this year to go again.
My wife and kids had never been. My wife and 13 year old daughter had fun. (Lots of shopping). Even my 16 yr old Son had a good time.
There was lots to do and see.
See for yourself.
You know how at a Star Trek Convention, the Trekies dress up like Characters form the show?
Well, It's can be like that here too. This Gal did not work here, but got in on the spirit of renaissace. Many more folks dressed the part as well.
Comedian jugglers and knife throwers
A comedian and magician all rolled up into one.
"A pirate goes into a bar and the bartender says to the pirate... Excuse me mate, but did you know you have a steerin wheel in yer trousers? Yes, I did, and it's been drivin me nuts all day!"
Great shops
A bit of archery for the young lad Mr. Motorcycle Jr.
Awesome weapons, all hand crafted. These are REAL!
Not only are all of these weapons real, hand crafted, originals, and duplicates of originals,
they will sell them to the general public, and will let any old
Great costumes. These remind me of Mardi Gras!
Jousting took place.
Look at the dents in this guys armor. These guys really whack the sh*t out of each other!
Cool artwork, fitting for the Renaissance, and for motorcycle blog, and motorcycle lovers.
The artist who had done the painting started freaking out on me while I was trying to take this picture. Artist: "Excuse me, what the Hell do you think you're doing taking a picture of my artwork?" Me: kinda dumbfounded say... "Um, I'm not going to try to duplicate it or sell it or anything. I just thought it was really cool., I have a motorcycle blog, and thought I'd share it." Artist: "Cool. go right ahead. " Whew! Me: "Thanks!"
See what I go through for you folks!
A guy with a twisted sense of humor like me.
Water bottle shoved up a stuffed animals Ass.
My son and daughter (Micky Mouse looking characters) having a sword fight duel.
First one to pop the others two ballons wins.
It was a close battle but the victor was the boy.
My daughter did an excellent job bleeding and twitching for the crowd though!
Finally, on the way out, I spotted this t-shirt. Way funny!
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