Hey guys,
I'm Evan. I live in San Diego, and have a pretty serious motorcycle addiction. I run RaceTech Electric (www.racetechelectric.com (http://www.racetechelectric.com)) out of Ocean Beach here in SD. We manufacturer high quality & high power motorcycle/powersports stators, voltage regulators, and other electronic components. I'm a degreed electrical engineer and used to run the R&D department for Electrosport Industries. I aim to make the best stators & regs in business! I've been in the industry for awhile, done alot of consulting work for Baja Designs, designed most of their latest dual sport kits among other things. Ok enough about me...
I sold off my last bike at the start of the year to get my business off the ground, and have been going nuts without a street bike. I've had a couple 80's sportbikes (mainly oil-cooled GSX-R's), and always had a soft spot for 80's Yamahas. My last one was a FZ750, which I absolutely loved. I recently came up on a great deal on an 85 FJ1100 in excellent condition. Bought it from the second owner, and it's been well maintained. Absolutely flawless paint, tank, plastics, and many aftermarket parts. Full SuperTrapp exhaust, stainless brake lines, K&N filters, Stage 3 jet kit, probably more I'm forgetting. About 30k on the clock. Runs perfectly, and it's a beast!
The guy I bought it from gave me a lot of spares, my favorite being a beautiful set of Tarozzi rearsets. I just swapped them on tonight after bringing the bike home, and I love it even more.
After my first spin on it this afternoon, I think I'll be hanging on to this thing for awhile. It handles well, has an absolutely insane amount of power (in a very friendly and useable powerband, which is my favorite part), and is very comfortable. I'm planning a week long road trip, camping and cruising, in January, and I think this thing is perfect for it.
Here's a couple pics:
(http://i.imgur.com/89qUk.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/W3aNK.jpg)
Evan
nice find! :good2:
Welcome to the group!
KOokaloo!
Evan.....welcome here.
Plenty of good info here for you to digest.
Your electronics will be a useful addition to the group!
Looks like you have or have had a clutch slave leak on the FJ - give away being the lack of paint on the oil filter housing. Keep an eye on that.
Cheers
Harvy
Quote from: fadingfastsd on December 13, 2011, 08:04:42 PM
The guy I bought it from gave me a lot of spares, my favorite being a beautiful set of Tarozzi rearsets. I just swapped them on tonight after bringing the bike home, and I love it even more.
Welcome Evan,
Nice looking bike mate... :good2:
I was wondering if you could post a pic of the rearsets when you get a chance, I have what another member reckons is a Tarozzi set (he's more than likely right) on my FJ and just wanted to find out for sure... Cheers mate..
Happy riding,
James
Welcome, sounds like you need to attend the West Coast FJ Rally in 2012. I might get lost in an ocean of Red & Whites with my 86'.
Welcome Evan! Kudos for a very nice find.
Before the upcoming summer West Coast Rally, we will get together for a ride thru Mt Laguna, Julian and down to Borrego....
Also..Check out some of our mods. Some light(er) weight dancing shoes with good soles will help the old girl around the dance floor.
You undoubtedly will join our select pool of experts we have here on the FJ forum.
Hey gang...Now we have a EE to guide us....cool.
For example: Intermittently our oem voltage regulators go wacky and overcharges our batteries (>15v) Boils them dry. We install the Transpo regulators to get around the issue. Check out our Files Section.
Cheers and again welcome! Pat
Welcome, I have an 87 and live in North County. Ride out to Palomar and the Borreggo all the time. Most Saturdays in fact.
Thanks for the welcome guys! I'll be glad to help out with electrical stuff, just ask.
Not trying to advertise here, but I'll offer 15% discount on parts to forum members.
(I don't currently have anything for the FJ's, but can develop if necessary). We have tons of fitments for other bikes.
Pat - what is the transpo regulator you mentioned?
What are common electrical issues with these bikes? Mine's in great shape, original harnesses and connectors are solid.
It charges strong, and has a new Yuasa battery in it, so I don't forsee any electrical issues soon.
Although, the gas gauge is pretty unreliable. Needle bounces all over the place, and the backing of the gauge cluster is cracked around the fuel gauge needle.
Is this a common spot to break?
Also, I'll go take some pics of the Tarozzi rearsets and post them soon.
I put them on last night, and I like them much more than the OEM parts.
They up and back roughly 2" each from the stock pegs I think. I can take pics of them side by side if anybody wants to see.
I went for a long ride last night, and the clutch slowly went out. After sitting overnight I had no pressure in the clutch lever whatsoever.
No leak though anywhere. I went through the bike today and flushed ALL the fluid. Clutch, front & rear brakes had chocolate milk in them haha.
Must have been really old. Flushed and bled all three, and the clutch is dialed in and brakes are firm.
I'm really stoked on this bike. It's comfortable as hell, and has power for days. I think I'm gonna like this one :)
Evan
Tarozzi rearsets:
(http://i.imgur.com/xU3Yc.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/l67z8.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/xU3Yc.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/03Bsk.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/ubyJC.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/dQf5h.jpg)
Any other angles?
more pics of the bike:
(http://i.imgur.com/QesQ7.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/bYXJM.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/aY4gf.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/Y2wRR.jpg)
Cool thanks for the rear set pics - they are similiar to what I have but not the same.. The mystery deepens.. :shok:
(http://fjowners.com/gallery/2/517_09_11_11_2_28_31.jpeg)
Don't be too surprised if your clutch problems show back up. Sounds (and looks) like your slave cylinder needs a rebuild. Very common and easily fixed up with new seals (Randy/RPM has the seal kit).
Bike looks in excellent shape. If you're going to do serious mileage on it consider a Corbin seat and start planning to upgrade the front wheel to the later model 17 inch.
DavidR.
Clutch problems showed up already! After bleeding the clutch system yesterday and getting all the junk out of it, it felt great on the ride home. However, I noticed brown sludge dripping all over the left fairing above the air intake.
A short investigation when I got home showed the rubber seal around the piston is shot and leaking. There was my problem! Talking to Randy, gonna get new master/slave rebuild kits on the way. I want to keep riding in the meantime, so a rag tied around the master cylinder should suffice for now.
I would love a Corbin seat for this bike. I was also wondering, is there any aftermarket rear seat cowls for this bike? Just to cover the rear half of the seat, make it look a little sportier?
Quote from: fadingfastsd on December 15, 2011, 02:39:32 PM
I would love a Corbin seat for this bike. I was also wondering, is there any aftermarket rear seat cowls for this bike? Just to cover the rear half of the seat, make it look a little sportier?
You could get a Corbin Gunfighter instead of the Gunfighter and Lady... it has a seat cowl shape to it.
http://www.corbin.com/yamaha/8493fj.shtml (http://www.corbin.com/yamaha/8493fj.shtml)
Quote from: fadingfastsd on December 14, 2011, 06:11:52 PM
(I don't currently have anything for the FJ's, but can develop if necessary).
Evan
It's necessary
Cool, lets talk about it! What are the common electrical failures on this bike?
Quote from: fadingfastsd on December 15, 2011, 02:39:32 PM
..... I noticed brown sludge dripping all over the left fairing above the air intake.
I want to keep riding in the meantime, so a rag tied around the master cylinder should suffice for now.
Are you sure you want to do this? You know the DOT 3/4 brake fluid eats your paint and the ABS plastic...right?
regulator..... the FJ is notorius for overcharging the battery.
undersized wiring supplying power to the headlight and coils
thats about it.
KOokaloo!
Frank
Quote from: Pat Conlon on December 15, 2011, 04:40:50 PM
Quote from: fadingfastsd on December 15, 2011, 02:39:32 PM
..... I noticed brown sludge dripping all over the left fairing above the air intake.
I want to keep riding in the meantime, so a rag tied around the master cylinder should suffice for now.
Are you sure you want to do this? You know the DOT 3/4 brake fluid eats your paint and the ABS plastic...right?
Sorry I made it sound worse than it is. The leak is not that bad. I rode this morning with a rag on the MC, and no drips at all.
Quote from: racerman_27410 on December 15, 2011, 04:41:34 PM
regulator..... the FJ is notorius for overcharging the battery.
undersized wiring supplying power to the headlight and coils
thats about it.
KOokaloo!
Frank
I will build regulator replacements for sure. Already looking into this.
What about a headlight relay kit, so headlight current is not running through the switch? Power the bulbs off a relay should brighten them up a little. Thoughts?
lots of guys have already done the headlight relay mod.... its really necessity for anyone who ever rides at night.
we have a very nice writeup in our files section....
http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?board=24.0 (http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?board=24.0)
and there are several companys like Eastern beaver already selling some nice pre made kits.
however dont let this deter you from thinking outside the box and bringing something
new and or better to the table for fair money.
KOokaloo! :good2:
Welcome to the group Evan, I am up in Oceanside -- check out this post
fellow members Mike and Mark came down from LALA land and we went a riding --met member Terry K enroute
http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=5451.0 (http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=5451.0)
Stevecc
Coil relays are also a good idea. Something premade/packaged for the FJ might be worthwhile.
DavidR.
Quote from: SlowOldGuy on December 16, 2011, 08:00:09 AM
Coil relays are also a good idea. Something premade/packaged for the FJ might be worthwhile.
DavidR.
+1, David... GMTA
The only reason I don't have one is that I haven't had time to bulld one.
I guess now that I have a real garage, that could change, though.
Sorry I haven't been on here, busy weekend.
I've got components on order for my new prototype of the FJ regulator. This should be an awesome improvement, with a much more efficient and hotter regulator.
It will be priced under the Electrosport part, and much better. I'll have it built and tested next week, and hopefully available the week after (assuming all the prototyping goes well).
They'll be available through me at RaceTech Electric (www.racetechelectric.com (http://www.racetechelectric.com)), and Radeuchel Motorsports. Had a great talk last week with Randy there, great guy and he gave me good insight on electrical issues with the FJ's. I also got my clutch master & slave rebuild kits on the way from Randy! (should be here tomorrow)
I'm also going to do relay mods for the coils & headlights, probably tomorrow. I will be taking measurements for harness length, and should have a nicely priced exact fit kit for relay modding the FJ's. You guys will be the first to know when I have these parts finished.
Didn't really get any riding in this weekend, but my girlfriend got me an awesome new helmet! A new Icon Alliance Rat helmet. Great helmets if anybodys thinking about one.
Evan
Good news Evan,
I had a feeling you were a bright fella.
when my regulator went bad it went really bad..... My negative battery terminal got so hot it literally melted and my onboard voltmeter was reading super high voltages.... like in the high 20's!
someone riding without a voltmeter could have really wasted the entire wiring harness pretty quick.
Looking forward to seeing your design...even though mine is new it's not against my personal policy to replace a part with a much better part. :good2:
KOokaloo!
Good to hear Racer, cuz I'd love to get you running our new regulator! haha
I'm also planning on having the new regulator drive a charging system status LED that will be included with the regulator kit.
More details on this to follow next week as I get the prototype built....
Evan, I was thinking (after all, it is Xmas) how about a relay kit designed with expand ability in mind?
To start, the basic (2) spst relays we use for our headlights, then have the option to add a 3rd additional relay (via plug) for our coils and perhaps even a 4th relay for those God awful 120db horns....hell, maybe even a 5th relay for driving lights?
Each relay having it's own 15/20/30amp fuse adjacent to the relay....along with a master 40/50 amp fuse and disconnect at the battery.
Throw in some LEDs adjacent to the fuses, to indicate power flow would help in visually checking the fuse status and LED's adjacent to the relay to check relay status. (on secondary side of relay output)
That way we need only to route 1 home run with 2 big conductors back to our battery
A 5 relay plug base, with the relays and fuses/LEDs readily accessible, tucked up under the fairing, with the ability to add relays as we need them?
Oh yea, everything to be waterproof....
I like the way you think Pat! :good2:
KOokaloo!
Quote from: Pat Conlon on December 19, 2011, 12:47:17 AM
Evan, I was thinking (after all, it is Xmas) how about a relay kit designed with expand ability in mind?
To start, the basic (2) spst relays we use for our headlights, then have the option to add a 3rd additional relay (via plug) for our coils and perhaps even a 4th relay for those God awful 120db horns....hell, maybe even a 5th relay for driving lights?
Each relay having it's own 15/20/30amp fuse adjacent to the relay....along with a master 40/50 amp fuse and disconnect at the battery.
Throw in some LEDs adjacent to the fuses, to indicate power flow would help in visually checking the fuse status and LED's adjacent to the relay to check relay status. (on secondary side of relay output)
That way we need only to route 1 home run with 2 big conductors back to our battery
A 5 relay plug base, with the relays and fuses/LEDs readily accessible, tucked up under the fairing, with the ability to add relays as we need them?
Oh yea, everything to be waterproof....
There is a company making fuses with indicators built-in.......
http://www.designnotes.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=AFU15L&Category_Code=cfwil (http://www.designnotes.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=AFU15L&Category_Code=cfwil)
Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/Velleman-AFUL-Fuse-Indicator-Light/dp/B000TA8PLM) sells them..... But, a relay harness designed to use them is a good idea.
Quote from: RichBaker on December 22, 2011, 07:54:32 PM
There is a company making fuses with indicators built-in.......
http://www.designnotes.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=AFU15L&Category_Code=cfwil (http://www.designnotes.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=AFU15L&Category_Code=cfwil)
Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/Velleman-AFUL-Fuse-Indicator-Light/dp/B000TA8PLM) sells them..... But, a relay harness designed to use them is a good idea.
Thanks Rich, I've seen those. I'm not sure they would be visible with a w/p cover on the blade fuse. I like LED's better. Less current draw and you don't need 2 fuses on the secondary side of the relay.
No word from Evan. I think we spooked him....
Current draw is 0.038A....... not much. And, they only light when the fuse is blown.
Re-reading your post, it looks like you want the LEDs to indicate when each relay is closed and flowing current? That would make for a quick & easy troubleshooting aid....
Quote from: RichBaker on December 22, 2011, 09:02:38 PM
Current draw is 0.038A....... not much. And, they only light when the fuse is blown.
Re-reading your post, it looks like you want the LEDs to indicate when each relay is closed and flowing current? That would make for a quick & easy troubleshooting aid....
Yep. With electrically held relays in a high vibration environment a broken relay coil wire will release those contacts and can stop you dead. (if powering the coils)
A quick peek under the fairing at a visible LED will tell you quickly if the power is flowing thru the relay. No light means no power, time to plug in a new relay.
Sorry I haven't been on for a bit guys, taking a little break from the computer over the holidays!
Been doing ALOT of riding, (almost 1000 miles on the FJ so far, and I absolutely love it). After getting comfortable on the FJ, I'm starting to think this is seriously my favorite bike I've ever owned. And I've had 30+ bikes over the last 8 years or so. Anyways, you guys know what I'm talking about, I don't need to go on rambling about how awesome the FJ is.
A few updates. I rebuilt the clutch master & slave cylinders today. I had gotten the leak temporarily stopped a couple weeks ago and was riding it as is. Finally had time to install the RPM rebuild kits. Randy mentioned that the clutch master cylinder rebuild kit might not fit my 85, but he wasn't sure. Turns out he was right, it did NOT fit.
The spring, rubber/o-rings, and center bar piece(not sure what this is called, the metal bar that the seals go on, and is pushed in by the clutch lever) was way too big in the rebuild kit. I was able to use the new rubber outer boot, and c-clip. The slave cylinder rebuild kit was dead nuts on. Perfect fit. I took alot of time to clean up the bores and really do a nice job on the master & slaves, and they turned out perfect.
A few tips: getting the C-clip out of the master cylinder to release the pushrod.
I have these snapring pliers:
http://www.harborfreight.com/snap-ring-pliers-with-interchangeable-heads-3316.html (http://www.harborfreight.com/snap-ring-pliers-with-interchangeable-heads-3316.html)
(http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/370x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_18433.jpg)
It's a tight fit, but they do work. What I did was put the master cylinder in my bench vise, with the pushrod side hole facing straight up. I used a flathead screwdriver to depress the pushrod and spring all the way with my left hand, while lighting the hole with a flashlight balanced on my shoulder/cheek. Then with my right hand I finally got the snapring pliers lined up, and popped the c-clip loose. This took about 10 minutes, but I finally got it out.
For the slave cylinder, pretty simple...tighten the bleeder screw, then use an air compressor nozzle to blast comp air into the hose inlet. Pops the slave piston right out.
So now the bikes not leaking a drop and shifting like a dream. Next order of business is brakes. All the pads are worn, as are the discs. The rear squeaks horribly. I think I'm gonna go ahead and do all new rotors and pads front and back. Might look into caliper upgrades too? What is swap-able from later model bikes? What are the popular brake upgrades on these bikes? I know, I know, use the search button. I'll do some research too.
And on to the electronics....
I got a new shipment of parts in and have been super busy approving and inventorying new parts for RaceTech Electric.
I did build the relay box, and the heat-sinked regulator chip. I haven't finished testing my new replacement voltage regulator, but I hope to finish that by the end of next week. The relay box I'm building is very nice, in a small sealed package. I think I will add status LED's like you guys were talking about, to indicate status of the relays.
I'll post more info on this hopefully next week as I have time to do more work on it.
And one more thing. Were any of you guys riding a very clean Red/White(might have been silver?) FJ1200 last week in the Inland Empire, CA? It was Monday 12/26, somewhere around 3:45-4:00PM. I was in San Dimas, CA on Route 66/Baseline Rd. waiting at the left turn to the onramp for the 210 East freeway. I was on my Red/White 85 FJ1100, riding 2-up with my girlfriend on the back. Wearing black boots, jeans, black leather jacket, grey/black/red helmet. The dude on the FJ1200 took his left turn and I honked a couple times, he waved. Anyways, just wondering if any of you are in that area.
I was visiting the parents for Christmas, and took the bike up with me from San Diego. Was just heading back to Upland after ripping up Glendora Ridge Road from Mt. Baldy Village to the Glendora side with my girlfriend. Absolutely amazing ride, perfect weather, and pretty girl on the back. Can't beat that for Christmas!
Talk to you guys soon, and have great New Year! I'm headed out of town for NYE til Sunday, so I'll be updating next week.
Evan
Hello Evan,
a big wellcome here from germany :hi:
Your bike looks very nice. Drive and have fun.
greets ottmar
Quote from: fadingfastsd on December 30, 2011, 03:32:23 AM
Might look into caliper upgrades too? What is swap-able from later model bikes? What are the popular brake upgrades on these bikes? I know, I know, use the search button. I'll do some research too.
Well done Evan......you'll find that most jobs on the FJ are just as easy.
With regard to your brakes.....there is only one upgrade to the front callipers that is a bolt on......I believe it was called an FZR400RR - they were not sold in the USA however.
A better solution (depending on the depth of your pockets) is to buy a pair of late model fork lowers, a 17" later model wheel, and a pair of early - 2002 R1 blue dot callipers or 2003 R1 gold dots.
The reason being that the mounting bolt holes for your fork leg lowers are centred at around 90mm, while the later legs were centred at 100mm - common for many later model bikes.
Maybe someone will be doing a front end upgrade soon and will have a set of fork leg lowers to get you going.
Do a search as you have suggested....you will find plenty of the info you require right here on FJowners.
Cheers
Harvy
Quote from: fadingfastsd on December 30, 2011, 03:32:23 AM
And one more thing. Were any of you guys riding a very clean Red/White(might have been silver?) FJ1200 last week in the Inland Empire, CA? It was Monday 12/26, somewhere around 3:45-4:00PM. I was in San Dimas, CA on Route 66/Baseline Rd. waiting at the left turn to the onramp for the 210 East freeway. I was on my Red/White 85 FJ1100, riding 2-up with my girlfriend on the back. Wearing black boots, jeans, black leather jacket, grey/black/red helmet. The dude on the FJ1200 took his left turn and I honked a couple times, he waved. Anyways, just wondering if any of you are in that area.
I was visiting the parents for Christmas, and took the bike up with me from San Diego. Was just heading back to Upland after ripping up Glendora Ridge Road from Mt. Baldy Village to the Glendora side with my girlfriend. Absolutely amazing ride, perfect weather, and pretty girl on the back. Can't beat that for Christmas!
Welcome Evan!
http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=5600.0 (http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=5600.0)
Quote from: fadingfastsd on December 30, 2011, 03:32:23 AMMight look into caliper upgrades too? What is swap-able from later model bikes? What are the popular brake upgrades on these bikes? I know, I know, use the search button. I'll do some research too.
There is this guy, http://www.customvmaxservices.co.uk/ (http://www.customvmaxservices.co.uk/) he makes a very nice set of brackets that let you use bluespots on early year FJ's without changing anything else.
I also found that the clutch M/C rebuild kit didn't fit my 84 FJ11 but the brake M/C kit from Yamaha does.
Same units really just reversed.
Quote from: fadingfastsd on December 30, 2011, 03:32:23 AM
...And one more thing. Were any of you guys riding a very clean Red/White(might have been silver?) FJ1200 last week in the Inland Empire, CA? It was Monday 12/26, somewhere around 3:45-4:00PM. I was in San Dimas, CA on Route 66/Baseline Rd. waiting at the left turn to the onramp for the 210 East freeway. I was on my Red/White 85 FJ1100, riding 2-up with my girlfriend on the back. Wearing black boots, jeans, black leather jacket, grey/black/red helmet. The dude on the FJ1200 took his left turn and I honked a couple times, he waved. Anyways, just wondering if any of you are in that area.....
Yep, that was San Dimas Mike, and he already dropped a dime on you: http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=5600.0 (http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=5600.0)
Evan, here's the thing about FJ's. We are everywhere. We can recognize and hear a FJ 200 yards away riding in a pack of bikes.
So be forewarned: Do not do anything on your FJ that you want kept secret.... We will fiiiiind you...(roll eyes)
Welcome Evan, quite a community of helpful FJ owners here indeed. Pat, That is a nice relay setup you tossed out there, I'm guessing it was not a hip shot. I've been looking into doing something comparable but had not thought of the tattle tale LED inclusion. My connectors from the alternator were fried when I stripped the 84 for the upgrades last month. I found replacements on Flea Bay, I hope they are good quality, guess I need those regulators for both of my bikes.
Hey Evan,
Guess I should welcome you to the club. I am out in Lakeside off of Los Coches. Weekdays are better for me than weekends if you want to get out of the shop sometime.
See ya in the mountains,
CraigO
Evan- Your bike is awesome. I have an 86 FJ100 in perfect condition with only 8.000 miles. I had know idea there were others out there who appreciate this bike as much as I do. I did some mods to the clutch, carbs and exhuast and that's all it needed.
It's not the fast bike I have ever owned, but it is fast enough and very comfortable to ride.
I am trying to get some idea what it's worth to make sure I insure it properly. Any clues would be aprreciated.
Cordially, Geof from Indy.
Insurance is a contract and as such is an agreement between two parties with known duties and responsibilities.
There is no ambigutiy on value as defined in the policy. The trick is finding the right contract for insurance that meets your needs. It is amazing how few people actually read the policy they purchase and become surprised, shocker here, when the clain is submitted and not paid to their expectations.The valuation clause generally allows the settlement based upon market or cash value. KBB or something equivalent. You can challenge the settlement offer to compensate you for your bikes specific value in terms of condition and add ons and have a moderate chance of some compensation being allowed for those factors. But you will need clear documentation. Insurance is a regualted business and the insurers do not want complaints made with the State authorities so you have some leverage and the ability to arbitrate through the State if necessary or the small claims couts as well. Most people do not feel comfortable pursing this on their own which is a pity as the squeaky wheel gets the grease in matters like this.
Classic motorcycle insurance can allow the parties to agree upon vlaue up front. It will cost a littel more, but that is the price paid to have peace of mind if that is desired.
Classic Motorcycle Insurance Coverage
Classic motorcycle insurance protects a bike in the same way that a standard policy does, but there is a difference in the amount of coverage that the owner gets when buying this type of policy. A standard car or motorcycle policy pays for physical damage to the vehicle based on its market or cash value.
If the vehicle is damaged in an accident and is considered totaled, the insurance company will write a check based on how much it's worth at the time, not what the owner originally paid for it or its replacement value.
A classic motorcycle policy pays out based on the bike's agreed value. The policyholder and the insurance company agree from the outset how much the bike is worth and the company writes a policy based on that level of coverage.
Finding the Right Coverage
An insurance company will likely consider a motorcycle to be a classic if it is at least 30 years old. If the one that you own is rare, it may also be put in this category.
To find the right coverage for a vintage bike, be prepared to shop around. Rates and coverage terms will vary depending on the insurance company involved. When you are looking at your options, be prepared to answer the following types of questions from the insurance companies you are considering:
How much did you pay for the bike?
Is it part of a limited collection?
How often do you ride your classic motorcycle and how many miles do you put on it each year?
Has the bike been restored?
Low annual mileage can help keep premiums lower than if you spend a lot of time on the road. If you own a restored motorcycle, the insurer may wish to bring in a specialist to examine it and provide an estimated value before you buy a policy. If you are not planning to ride the bike, you still need to have insurance in place for it. Ask the company for a quote on a storage policy to protect you from losses from fire and theft.
Before you choose an insurance company, compare the quotes you have received carefully. You want to make sure that all the policies are for the same type and level of protection before you look at pricing.
The following are examples of companies providing vintage motorbike insurance coverage:
American Collectors Insurance
Hagerty Insurance
Classic Auto Insurance
Nationwide Insurance
Just posted on Mike's thread about the sighting. Jeez small world! haha
Welcome Evan! Yeah that was me in San Dimas. I regretted not hanging a U to introduce myself that day. Nice bike you got there. I see you are off and running with your FJ and looks like you are catching full blown MOD FEVER. These guys are a bad influnece for mod junkie, watch out! Look forward to seeing your posts and getting a ride in sometime.
Mike
Thanks Mike! I'll keep in touch on here, we'll meet up for a ride up there sometime soon. I'm in the IE every couple months visiting.
Hey Evan-
I saw you have a Supertrapp on that bike and was wondering how you like the sound. I am looking for a muffler that sounds nice but is not too loud. Have you played with the number of discs to modify the sound/performance? I don't like it when a bike is 3-4 blocks away and i can still hear it. Just too loud. [Can you say Harley?]
I have a Yoshimira on the bike I bought and I have not ridden it enough to know about it yet, but it is on the louder side. Saw a 2" slip-on Supertrapp on Craigslist and was wondering about it. The Yoshi i have though is riveted on with 3 rivets, not a problem to get off really, just harder than a slip-on. I guess I would just drill and rivet on the Supertrapp like the Yoshi. What do you think?
I purchased a Carbon Fiber exhaust from Delevic for my TDM850 www.delkevic.us/ (http://www.delkevic.us/) and I see they offer mufflers for the FJ as well.. I love the sound, quiet but has a removable baffle if desired. Superb fit-n-finish, highly recommended!
(http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb37/campsimonette/TDM/SDC10354.jpg)
(http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb37/campsimonette/TDM/SDC10353.jpg)
Yoshi is bolted on, not riveted. It is a 4 into 1 exhaust. Just curious on the sound output of a Supertrapp
can.
hey guys, i'm back! Sorry I haven't been on here in awhile, just been super busy at RaceTech Electric!
Some recent upgrades to the FJ recently which I'll expand on in a minute, and just got back from an awesome 120 mile ride today. For any of you guys in San Diego, we did 8 east to Sunrise Highway, up to Julian. Then took 78 out of Julian, to the 67, to the 52 east on back to Mission Bay. Was a great trip, except for the last stretch on the 52. My brother (01 Kawi ZX-9R) were doing about 85 on the 52, just before heading up the hill over Mission Trails Summit. A cop was shooting radar at the bottom of the hill, and gunned us. He radioed ahead. I was tucked in and flying, and never noticed the cop! My brother slowed down the 65, and I blazed on past him. I look in my mirror just before reaching the 15 fwy, to see 2 Highway Patrol pacing both of us. Luckily, they split off on the 15 and didn't pull us over. I'm not really sure why...we were definitely speeding when the first guy got us with the speed gun. However, by the time the 2 new cars were pacing us we had both slowed to 65. We think the first guy either didn't get a good reading on us, or it might have been due to my brother having his GoPro camera on his helmet (which should've been recording, but had actually ran out battery and died a couple minutes before). I've also got San Diego Fire Department member stickers on the rear fender of my bike (from the previous owner). For whatever reason, we live to see another day, without speeding tickets. haha
Anyways, details on the FJ. I've put over 2000 miles on her myself now, and I love the bike. The old tires and brakes were shot. I got one good 300 mile weekend riding trip at the start of February, and new it was time to upgrade.
About 2 weeks ago I mounted a set of Pirelli Sport Demons in the stock sizes. They are absolutely amazing. The bike has tons of grip. It falls into turns so much quicker, but very easy and stable. The difference in turning alone was major.
I also put a new set of brake pads on the FJ. Front & back. They were $40 ebay specials for all 3 calipers. Sintered metallic pads. They are ok, nothing special, but an improvement.
I'll answer some more questions tomorrow too, sorry for the delay. I'm currently in production with a full production run of my new Regulators for the FJ1100 & FJ1200 Nippon Denso Alternators. More info on that coming soon.
Evan
Evan,
Should have hooked up with us on Saturday. Missed a great ride. However, I take the route you mentioned often on solo rides. Only difference is I usually do 94 to Buckman Springs then up the Sunrise. Beautiful up there.
CraigO
Quote from: bigbore2 on January 12, 2012, 12:12:18 PM
Hey Evan-
I saw you have a Supertrapp on that bike and was wondering how you like the sound. I am looking for a muffler that sounds nice but is not too loud. Have you played with the number of discs to modify the sound/performance? I don't like it when a bike is 3-4 blocks away and i can still hear it. Just too loud. [Can you say Harley?]
I have a Yoshimira on the bike I bought and I have not ridden it enough to know about it yet, but it is on the louder side. Saw a 2" slip-on Supertrapp on Craigslist and was wondering about it. The Yoshi i have though is riveted on with 3 rivets, not a problem to get off really, just harder than a slip-on. I guess I would just drill and rivet on the Supertrapp like the Yoshi. What do you think?
I really like the Supertrapp overall. It sounds really nice. Mine has about 13 discs on it, and about 7 of the discs are spaced out with washers, which helps it flow more, acts like more discs. I like the sound on top of the bike, but it's also not too loud at freeway cruising speeds. It still has a nice sharp bark to it too when you gun it. No clue on the Yoshi, I've never heard them on an FJ. I'm thinking about getting a Vance & Hines Supersport kit for this bike, but not sure yet.
Quote from: craigo on February 27, 2012, 07:52:08 AM
Evan,
Should have hooked up with us on Saturday. Missed a great ride. However, I take the route you mentioned often on solo rides. Only difference is I usually do 94 to Buckman Springs then up the Sunrise. Beautiful up there.
CraigO
I've gone that way quite a few times, I used to live right by San Diego State, and that was our weekly trip.
Since I've moved out by the beach I don't ride Sunrise as much. This was my first trip on this loop in about 4 years. It was a blast though.
Where did you guys ride Saturday? Who do you ride with? I'd love to join up.
http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=6013.0 (http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=6013.0)
Evan,
I met Steve (moparman), Mark (FJ Monkey) and San Dimas Mike in Escondido. From there we went up the South Grade on Palomar, down the East Grade to Mesa Grande, over to Santa Ysabel, Julian, down Banner Grade then over to Borrego Springs. Had lunch and back up Montezuma Grade, over to Lake Henshaw, down to Santa Ysabel over to Ramona via the Old Julian Hwy where we parted company. I went home via Wildcat Canyon home to Lakeside. All in all around 240 miles.
Was a great ride and one of the few times I was able to get away on a weekend. It's always better for me on a weekday and I usually keep it south of 8. Thru Alpine, down Japatul to Honey Springs over to 94 and east. If I feel especially frisky, I'll go down Lyon's Valley Road over to 94.
But Lyon's Valley is made for smaller bikes and is now cluttered with houses. Back in the day, there was no one out there and was perfect to scream around on the 600s
Let's all hook up sometime,
CraigO
Damn that's a good ride. We were in alot of the same places, that's my favorite route in San Diego. I read your report, sounds like a lot of fun. We definitely have to meet up for a ride soon!
Quote from: fadingfastsd on February 27, 2012, 02:08:27 PM
Damn that's a good ride. We were in alot of the same places, that's my favorite route in San Diego. I read your report, sounds like a lot of fun. We definitely have to meet up for a ride soon!
+1 :good: Name a time and a place.
CraigO
Quote from: craigo on February 27, 2012, 07:43:09 PM
Quote from: fadingfastsd on February 27, 2012, 02:08:27 PM
Damn that's a good ride. We were in alot of the same places, that's my favorite route in San Diego. I read your report, sounds like a lot of fun. We definitely have to meet up for a ride soon!
+1 :good: Name a time and a place.
CraigO
Well you said you prefer weekday rides right? Running my own moto business gives me a pretty flexible schedule :good2:
So let's do a weekday rip soon! Any day this week good?
Evan
Any day it ain't raining :good2:
CraigO
just saw your PM, I'll hit you up on there. I totally agree with the rain, I didn't realize it's supposed to go all week. We'll wait for a good day. I'm pretty scared of gravel and bad spots on the road after a big rain, so fine with me to wait.
Any other guys in San Diego area want to make a weekday ride sometime soon!?
Had a good ride last weekene. Out to Palm Springs friday night. Headed back sunday afternoon. Got caught in a huge storm with none of my rain gear. That wasnt fun. Also had my speedo drive hub blow out. It had been squeaking for the last 500 hundred miles and of course i didnt fix it before the trip. Anybody have a good working used speedo drive?
-- In Oceanside Fadingfst...
I have a parts bike -- its an 86 --- guessing the speedo part the same. Also up for a ride this weekend ... Saturday. If the San Diego area riders interested. I was thinking of doing something local if the LA team didn't have anything going up there. Last time they came down here so I owe them a visit.
If we do SD area it is open for the LA boys if they want.
Maybe end at the OAW again.... but plan to spend the night maybe... and I could ride the next day to LA. ( but will need to back home by 2pm)
stevecc
Hey Moparman, thanks for the heads up. I think the 86 will be the same speedo drive. How much do you want for the hub drive and the cable? Also, does that have a good working fuel gauge in the dash? My fuel gauge is pretty flaky. I'd be interested in those parts if you've got them available.
I'm up for a ride this weekend, I could do Saturday.
Quote from: fadingfastsd on March 28, 2012, 04:55:26 PM
Hey Moparman, thanks for the heads up. I think the 86 will be the same speedo drive. How much do you want for the hub drive and the cable? Also, does that have a good working fuel gauge in the dash? My fuel gauge is pretty flaky. I'd be interested in those parts if you've got them available.
I think the 84/85 speedo is the same, I used an 84 to fix my 86 but had to swap some parts over, so they are different.
Quote from: fadingfastsd on March 28, 2012, 04:55:26 PM
I'm up for a ride this weekend, I could do Saturday.
Me too, where and when.
CraigO
lets hope from some good weather ...
Where and when - I am not sure where fadingfst is from to try and get a central meeting place. Craig and usually meet in Ramona --- if this ok. If so there is a coffee shop ( Packard Coffee shop ) .. south corner of Main and Seventh. 10am
If you have a better ideer just let us know -- I am open to meeting anywhere. Craig lives close to Lakeside and me in Oceanside.
for the speedo assy and cable -- how 20 bones sound. I don't think the fuel gauge works as the needle has swung all the way to the other side of the pin. There are some posts about how to fix .... seek them out if you still think you want it first. I also may want to keep it ...for a potential clock replacement if necessary in the future.
Hey Steve,
I'm all in for a ride on Sat morning. Where do you want to meet and what time? PM or respond here.
CraigO
Craig -- see previous post --
FJmonkey --- come on don't be coy .... is it the same or not
"I think the 84/85 speedo is the same, I used an 84 to fix my 86 but had to swap some parts over, so they are different."
:dash1: :dash1:
Quote from: moparman70 on March 30, 2012, 06:45:22 PM
Craig -- see previous post --
FJmonkey --- come on don't be coy .... is it the same or not
"I think the 84/85 speedo is the same, I used an 84 to fix my 86 but had to swap some parts over, so they are different."
:dash1: :dash1:
The 84 being the same as the 85, but different from my 86'. If have to explaing everything to you I am gonna start charging by the word.... No Canadian discounts either...
ok ok,,,,, now it makes sense but if you read it fast ....and you have my brain well it confuussed me.
For our new member fadingfast -- an 86 is different but can work if you change some parts do you still want the part
FJmonkey -- you coming down tomorrow ... if so plan to overnight -- leave morning...OAW is calling you
stevecc
I'll see you at 10am at Packards.
CraigO
Really,
What could be different than the speedo drive, seal and the speedo-hub? If the wheel hub is the same diameter, should be a simple matter of just swapping out those part, yes? :pardon:
CraigO
Quote from: moparman70 on March 30, 2012, 08:43:29 PM
FJmonkey -- you coming down tomorrow ... if so plan to overnight -- leave morning...OAW is calling you
stevecc
I have work tomorrow and Sunday. (http://www.smileyhut.com/angry/cursing.gif) (http://www.smileyhut.com)
Major ERP/MRP conversion, the software that runs the entire company is going live on 4/2 and I am on the Core Team. Just another name for Team we can over work and abuse... The week end after that I am Las Vegas lo0king through the bottom of many glasses of whatever adult beverage is handy. After that I am Illinois to visit a supplier and see my kids. The 21st I will be at work again because we have to repair 3000 Amp switchgear. Maybe the week after that. I will need some time to upgrade my front end before the WCR, I ordered many of the parts I will need from Randy two days ago. :yahoo:
Quote from: craigo on March 30, 2012, 09:26:32 PM
Really,
What could be different than the speedo drive, seal and the speedo-hub? If the wheel hub is the same diameter, should be a simple matter of just swapping out those part, yes? :pardon:
CraigO
If I remember correctly the speedo face is different and won't fit the 86' dash. This requires pulling the indicator needle off the speedo to swap the faceplate. And the Odometer is different but with two screws mounting it the swap is easy. Every thing else is the same. No hub or cable swaps required.
Oh, do not clean the faceplate with rubbing alcohol, don't ask....
Just don't do it!
I think he keeps asking about the speedo DRIVE. They are all the same.
If you're going to quote EVERY post in reply, at least read it
DavidR
Quote from: SlowOldGuy on March 30, 2012, 10:36:18 PM
I think he keeps asking about the speedo DRIVE
If you're going to quote EVERY post in reply, at least read it
DavidR
Right you are... I stand corrected, I was stuck on the speedo...(http://www.smileyhut.com/confused/doh.gif) (http://www.smileyhut.com) Thanks... The forest was blocking the view of the trees...
trees what trees -- now that it is all cleared up --- sorry you can't make the ride FJmonkey.... we"ll keep the light on for ya.
Fadingfast -- craig O and I will be at ( Packard Coffee shop ) .. south corner of Main and Seventh. 10am at Ramona
I will PM you my cell if you want to text to confirm
Quote from: moparman70 on March 30, 2012, 10:57:18 PM
trees what trees -- now that it is all cleared up --- sorry you can't make the ride FJmonkey.... we"ll keep the light on for ya.
Fadingfast -- craig O and I will be at ( Packard Coffee shop ) .. south corner of Main and Seventh. 10am at Ramona
I will PM you my cell if you want to text to confirm
Nice to know that Motel 6 is covering my ass..... Thanks...
I'm there already (in my mind). :good: The last ride I was on is when we all went to Palomar. I am biting at the bit here.
Cya at 10am.
CraigO
Awww CRAP!!!!
It's raining here. :ireful: :negative: :diablo: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad:
1 hour till blast off and my diveway is soaked!!!
Craigo-fading -- light rain here as of 830 -- maybe still a chance for a ride but might have to see if it clears up a bit
texted you -- as I am not sure now of the time or the ride
we may have to put off the ride -- sucks but rain is no fun
Game called on account of rain. :ireful: :mad:
(http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/8426/rainp.jpg)
CraigO
Sorry to be out of the loop guys. Been super busy! The bike's been down for a couple weeks on account of me being an idiot. haha.
When I did tires on the bike over a month ago, I ended up not reinstalling the speedo hub gear drive unit correctly. I did not mesh the ring with the teeth that drive the hub w/ the hub gear right.
It was squeaking on me quite a bit, and of course, I did not fix it. It was just turning from pure friction of the teeth against the hub gear. The drive ring finally disintegrated, taking out the wheel bearings with it.
So I've got it all back together now w/ new All Balls bearings & seals. Been trying to find a good used speedo drive hub on here w/ no luck. (lots of help though, thanks!).
I'm gonna make a run down to Stockers in Chula Vista and pick one up. I know the owner there, he's giving me the unit and ring for $45. Could do cheaper on ebay, but oh well. I'll support my local moto biz's.
Anyways, another reason for my post. I have my new voltage regulators for the Nippon-Denso alternators used on the FJ's in stock at RaceTech Electric. They're a great, reliable, solid state unit that I think everybody will be very happy with. I've worked out a deal with the awesome Randy @ RPM Performance, and they will be stocking them at a killer price. We're aiming to make these regulators a very cost effective Preventative Maintenance item on these bikes, rather than a super expensive, replace it when it fails on you in the middle of nowhere item. So just wanted to give you guys a heads up. Pricing will set soon, and please talk to and order from Randy @ RPM. He should have them from my by next week it looks like.
They will be available for sale at retail price through my website, but I definitely wanted you guys to know RPM will be carrying them, and I'd much prefer we all help support RPM with purchases since Randy is such an awesome guy and has done alot for the FJ community.
Anyways, the bike will be back together by tomorrow afternoon. I'm thinking about doing a good rip this weekend if the weather holds. Any San Diego guys have riding plans this weekend?
fadingfast -- you probably should start a new post for example if you are looking for parts -- put something in the parts wanted..etc
If something already there I apologize.
I have seen some posts for offers of a speedo hub -- FJmonkey offered and I did as well that you may have missed. I believe mine is part of this one.
I have the gear and cable if you want ... If I recall I think I put a price of 20 on it. It is still on the bike and I would have to remove the front wheel etc etc.
I am in Oceanside as well.
PM me if interested
steve
Hi Steve,
I did put a post for the speedo hub in the 'Parts Wanted' section. I didn't mean for my update here to be trying to look for one. I just try and post stuff related to my bike here in my thread.
I'll PM you right now!
Evan
np... I covered my As__s just in case you did leave it in the parts wanted with the plan ahead apology ... to lazy to really check myself ...reply sent
Thanks MoparMan, the help is much appreciated. I just sent you a PM with more details.
Thanks! -Evan
Just wanted to publicly thanks Steve -MoparMan for all his help. He hooked up me up with a perfectly working speedo hub & washer assembly, and good new speedo drive cable. Got the bike all back together on Saturday, and took her for a shakedown run today. Was going to meetup with my parents in San Clemente for lunch, so my bro and I (on his 03 Kawi ZX-9R) ripped up the 5 to SC for the day, then back this afternoon. Great ride, and everythings working killer. Now onto doing another voltage regulator install tomorrow to document high resolution pictures for the installation instructions for our new FJ voltage regulator.