Every time I ride it, I think this one bike is enough. After all, “it’s light, runs decently, gets good fuel economy, has an air-cooled four-cylinder engine, is affordable, and there are plenty of used parts available.” There’s really nothing to worry about. Consumable OEM parts are reasonably priced too, so I feel confident with KAWASAKI.
It’s still January, but it’s surprisingly warm. The other day I was fine even with summer gloves. And I just bought heated gloves…
Today’s Ride & Gourmet
Vehicle: Kawasaki Zephyr 550 (ZR550)
A parallel-imported middle-weight Zephyr. Firing it up for the first time in a while to keep it in good condition.
A popular ramen shop in an open location right in front of the Isumigawa River.
Lunch: Soy Sauce Ramen (Rich) & Seared Chashu
The fragrant “seared chashu” that’s been a signature since the Nishi-Chiba days is exquisite. The sweetness of the back fat and the sharp soy sauce broth seep into your very soul.
Impressions: Even on a short ride, the air-cooled four-cylinder is just so much fun!
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Parking information is important. It’s gravel, which is standard in Chiba… Please be careful. It’s been about a year since I started eating ramen. Though I don’t eat it that often.
Ramen shops and cafes are plentiful = easy to use as destinations So I’ve been eating ramen occasionally. To be honest, when asked if I really want to eat it that much, the answer is not really (*´ω｀*)
The entrance has quite a punch to it, which makes me a bit nervous. I think… the entrance should be at that white noren curtain…
Right in front is a green river that you often see in Chiba. Truly riverside (*´ω｀*)
Soy Sauce Ramen (Large) *Miso was sold out
At first glance I thought “Hmm?” “But it’s genuinely delicious” I was quite surprised ( ﾟДﾟ) Google’s ratings don’t lie.
I visited the Ichihara 2-Rinkan.
I don’t have much experience going to mass retailers. Just places like Shinonome’s Riderand/246, 2-Rinkan, and Naps.
Compared to those, the sales floor was narrow and the product inventory seemed limited. Even though it’s in Chiba? I guess it’s difficult?
I pre-ordered my first SHOEI Gram Star helmet. Depending on the item, you can’t buy helmets online these days. I found that a bit inconvenient.
There was a lion in the back, so I took a commemorative photo.
It looks like an early model, but it’s actually quite a late B8.
The bodywork uses a used early model. The “KAWASAKI” text below the ZEPHYR logo is specific to the 550. I happened to get this one on Yahoo Auctions.
The speedometer is a combination of a GPZ550 with a ZEPHYR indicator and key box. Unless you know the details, nobody notices People say “That’s an early meter, isn’t it?” but explaining it would be awkward (*・ω・)(*-ω-)(*・ω・)(*-ω-)Yeah, yeah♪ I just nod along.
That’s how I ride it occasionally.
Maintenance Ride with Zephyr 550 to “Riverside Moritaya” Ramen.
Ride: Took out the shop’s Kawasaki Zephyr 550 (ZR550) for a short ride to keep the engine in shape. Lunch: Visited “Riverside Isumigawa Moritaya” in Isumi City. As the name suggests, it’s located right by the river with a beautiful view. Ramen: Had their signature Soy Sauce Ramen with “Roasted Chashu”. The grilled pork belly is incredibly tender and flavorful. Verdict: Great bike, great view, and great food. The perfect maintenance run.
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