The First Long Haul

[Oldyeller]

Just took my first long distance haul on my '03 (The Gray Cat Shaft). Several of us did the Wa. coast - down eastbound along the Gorge - up through Ellensburg and the North Cascades #20 - then back to Vancouver, BC. I did 2000km (1250mi) in the 3 days and found her to be a very easy ride.

On the upside - I could sit in the saddle for more prolonged periods (Came off a '03 ZX6R Street fighter - A very tough saddle to sit on for a long time). The overall ride position was comfy although I still want to lower the bars a little (I notice there are plenty of bar-riser kits - But I am of average size, not a 6-footer)

Does anyone know of a lowering kit for the bars?

I will be adding a throttle lock in the future. And the heat exchange mods I have done (see other posts) had no issues whil on the road. I also appreciated the heated grips when we tried to do Mt. St. Helen's.

I have from others that the front suspension on the '03's is soft. Oh contrare - I find the front fine (I am 165lb without gear), it is the rear I have issues with. Specially when loaded with 35lbs of stuff in the bags. She did fine bagless, but on a long trip how often does that happen.

All I can say is I am very happy with her. A sweet ride all round. What took me so long I don't know.

 

[jesse]

Thanks for the ride report. I put a little over 230 miles on mine Saturday up in the North Georgia mountains. Stock seat made my buttocks a little sore, but not too bad. I think I will try sheepskin before replacing altogether. It was about 88 out and no heat issues. Just great fun.

 

[twowheelnut]

Does anyone know of a lowering kit for the bars?

Ping Ramblin Man. He had a custom set made.

 

[fossilrider]

Here's a link to one already done by evil henchman.

Lowering Bars

john