Updating the blog isn’t something I’m used to yet… (basically it’s a hassle.)
There are times when it hits you all of a sudden…
a sudden urge to not want to do anything at all. Most of the time I slack off, and when it piles up, I hate it.
Well, homework is always a drag no matter when, right?
So let me get into the work report.
I check the front and rear tire size, brand, rim size, and manufacturing date.
Week 31, 2018—pretty decent.
I check the wheel runout and tire runout.
Bias tires generally have pretty poor balance.
If you switch to radial tires of the same size, the weight is lighter and the rotational balance improves.
That’s why the handling becomes more nimble too. Your wallet might get a little lighter as a result, though…
The wheel bearings and distance collar look good. Safe and sound.
Let me check the axle shaft. Well, nobody’s going to say this is bad, but just to be sure.
There’s a tendency that when you look at things in numbers, you feel more at ease, right?
The caliper area was overhauled recently, so it’s in great shape.
The caliper pistons push back so easily—it’s in really nice condition.
Places the owner can’t reach are where the technician comes in, and I figure it’ll come back to me somehow, so I polish away diligently.
Back in this era, both the axle and fork are pretty thin, so the fender really gets in the way.
If you loosen it, stroke the fork, and then lock it at the end, it should sit better.
Let me check the brake disc thickness too. Still good.
Let me clean and lubricate the chain area.
Taking the lever area apart, cleaning it, and greasing it makes a real difference in how long it lasts.
Both the lever and holder wear much more slowly.
The pedal area is a hassle to take apart, but this is exactly the time to look at it—when else would you?
It engages smoothly and returns without a hitch. That’s how I want the control systems to be.
I replaced the spark plugs and trimmed and re-threaded the plug wires.
I reused the air filter and cleaned out the liquid that had pooled in the box.
I lubricated the throttle and clutch cables.
I replaced the brake fluid with Golden Cruiser DOT4.
It had turned a subtle color, you know.
I cleaned the fuel cap and key.
I replaced the engine oil with Newtech NC50 10W-50 (98.5-17.4) and the oil filter.
I cleaned the fuses and the fork.
When I took the muffler off, I dug out some pebbles.
While I’m working, I always think about it.
Things I’d do if it were my own bike—regardless of performance, I think it’s better to do them so I feel satisfied.
After that, a test ride and we’re done.
