New Toys. Feels Like Christmas!

 

Benny went all out and got me an Ohlins Shock for my 40th Birthday! What a good dog. And maybe something else...

Ok, he might've had some help from my awesome husband. There's nothing wrong with the stock suspension on my Street Triple R. Actually it's quite good allowing me to adjust compression and rebound, which I've done thanks to the folks at Markbilt Racebikes in NJ.

So although I didn't really *need* an Ohlins, I have a feeling I'm going to be VERY happy with it! And it just so happens Benny got a really really really good deal on this gently used shock from a Daytona, which is clean as a whistle. It looks as if it was barely used, or ridden on the street.  The reason he was able to get such a good deal is because 2013+ models can't use my shock because they changed something on the subframe, so this one won't fit. Sorry!

My other little gift to myself was an upgrade to the old Zumo with the new 390LM. Well, okay a replacement because my 690LM fell off while I was riding home last month. :=(

Although this upgrade was a little more than the last one I decided it was worth the extra $100. The Garmin Zumo 390LM is a new improved version of the 690. The main difference is a faster processor. This one responds quicker to menu prompts (not iPhone speedy), and is a little smaller and less bulky. The screen is the same size, and is a tad brighter. I haven't ridden with it yet, but hope to in the Spring.

The last new toy I got was this Cortech Super 2.0 Low TankBag. I love how slim it is, it's the perfect size at 5L when closed, 10L when fully expanded. Perfect!

Unfortunately my riding season has ended much sooner than I wanted to, due to a small back injury I gave myself a few weeks ago :-(. I guess turning 40 means really feeling it!

Tankbag Alternative, Giant Loop Zigzag Handlebar Bag

To prepare for our first ride across PA, the man wanted something smaller than a tank bag, but not a tank bag. He found this on Revzilla.com (there's always SO much stuff on that website :P) by Giant Loop, the Zigzag handlebar bag. I love their description at the bottom: FITS THESE MOTORCYCLE MAKES & MODELS
• BMW, KTM, Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Ducati, Husqvarna, Triumph
• JUST ABOUT ANY MOTORBIKE

Indeed, it fit his S3 perfectly. It doesn't take up much space, you can barely see it here on his bike (right):

Sportbike Touring on an SV650S

I'll admit, it's not that comfortable. But here are 3 inexpensive ways to instantly improve your sanity while riding over 350 miles/day.  

1) Tech Spec Gripster Tank Grips

I have a fully stock set up on my 2003 Suzuki SV650S, as far as bars/seats go. One of the best $40 investments (I got a special price at the Tahoe Adventure Rally) I spent last summer was on a set of Tech Spec Gripster Tank Grips. You can see all 3 pads on my tank above. They're an absolute necessity on ANY sportbike. Not only do they help you grip the tank better but they just make longer rides a little easier. The more you can grip your tank, the better you can hold your position squeezing the tank. And if you've used your body position to lean harder, you know how important it is to have a solid place for your opposite knee. :D

They make grip pads for many makes/models of bikes and even sell the material in sheets so you can make your own if necessary. They come in two different compounds and the one I have is the "C3 Grip" ($51.95). They aren't just pads, to protect your tank, but they provide so much more comfort on a long distance ride. I have a much easier time holding my body in place.  

If you ride a sportbike, why don't you have these???

Where to Buy: Tech Spec (online), Scuderia West (San Francisco)

Cost: Starts at ~$45 depending on the compound you choose.  They're having a daily contest to get yours free, but it's not clear on their website or Facebook page as to how you can win.....

 

2) Seat Pad / Custom Seat

I forgot to bring my trusty sheepskin seat pad. How did I forget something so crucial??

A few years ago I bought a sheepskin pad from Alaska Leather Online. I didn't start using it until last summer when I went on a ton of long weekend trips, riding over 250 miles/day. I don't kno why I forgot about it this time! I just know that it would've brought me much comfort on this 990 mile weekend. For $65 your butt will thank you! At least, that was the cost for my bike. Since they don't make one specifically for the SV, the Pillion seat worked perfectly. 

Where to Buy: Alaska Leather Online

Cost: ~$65 (for an SV, other bikes may vary)

3) Tank Bag

It seems obvious but having something right there for you to lean on is such a huge relief. Especially if it's magnetic. I can reposition the tank bag by shifting the magnets forward or back. Since I've only ever had magnetic tank bags, I'm not sure how else this would work with a strap mount tank bag since you have to preposition the straps.  (this photo is pre TechSpec)

I usually stuff mine pretty full (not extended) but full enough for me to push forward so I can lean in. Here's another shot of the pic above so you can see how perfectly placed my tankbag is. 

Givi T470 Tank Bag - I believe this is discontinued but there appear to be some other versions on Givi's website. Also check TourandRide.com

Also, if you're wondering about the vest I'm wearing it's from Spectrum Ultra Sports.