This is the real deal Katana.
We usually see the GSX1200S variant (oil-cooled Katana), so this is a nice change.
Sorry for keeping you waiting! Let’s get started! (Already finished, though.)
First up is Bridgestone’s BT46.
Thanks to everyone—it’s the successor to the BT45.
The tread pattern is interesting… it feels like a continuation of the design.
Modern bias tires really are sharp! With the BT45, sometimes you’d get a dud…
It’s looking pretty good.
I’ll paint and cure it before changing the tires.
The axle shaft was in perfect condition. (Zero issues.)
I really can’t say enough about this manual tire changer—best purchase ever.
It’s incredibly easy to use. It folds up for storage too.
Looking back, hand-assembling with a lever is probably the riskiest way to change tires… (unless you can get it in with just your feet.)
This is an older video, but here you go! Looking at it now, I wasn’t using it very well yet…
The sealer was really stuck on there—took a lot of effort to remove.
I’m in the no-sealer camp myself. The front wheel has a slight wobble… (´；ω；`)
Is the air valve always heavy on aftermarket wheels only?
If I align the heaviest point on the wheel with the tire’s light-spot mark, the weight should be reduced.
Once assembled, you notice the position is quite different.
We can only trust the tire’s light-spot mark, so this method isn’t foolproof either.
While I had them off, I swapped in lock nuts.
The bolt length on these is really finicky.
Shims are somewhat unavoidable, but they’re scary if you don’t notice them.
Making them visible to anyone who touches the bike really boosts confidence.
There’s some runout (wobble) here. If it bothers you, peel it off after delivery.
For labels like this, it’s absolutely the Brother P-TOUCH P900W.
I used to use the King Jim Tepra PRO, but there were a few things that made me go “hmm?” so I switched.
Using it, I think “now that’s industrial-grade” (in a good way). By the way, the print doesn’t come off even with acetone.
This is a video I introduced before.
This works for all kinds of stickers.
King Jim Label Writer Trimmer RT36W. I even trim the R off inspection stickers. Customers always say “check this out!”
I’ll clean the calipers. The condition is fine.
I just realized I should write the total thickness on the pads so it’s easier to check next time.
Marker memo! ( ..)φ
Let’s get the new brake pads ready.
The plug wires have been replaced and come with terminals. Let’s swap those too.
The original is DR8EA, but the upgraded version is JR8B. (Same as the oil-cooled model—nice!)
I’m thinking we could consolidate to iridium plugs…
This is the NGK OEM NT4245. Only aluminum versions are sold now.
Stocking up on these can be a lifesaver.
The fluid is CCI Golden Cruiser DOT4.
The air filter is washable, so that’s reassuring.
Swapped in an Ariel OEM unit.
The engine oil is surprisingly clean.
Now it’s just a test ride and we’re done.
