tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28398679849232159712024-03-28T13:03:26.399+05:30Life With A SuperbikeHonest, Simple, Uncomplicated stories of how bikers in India buy and live with their Superbikes. The pictures posted are real pictures of the machines they own. If you're aspiring to buy a superbike in India and you're looking to find regular riders like you who have owned and lived with them, then this blog would be of great help. Ride SafeSriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-43944741964932705102014-01-13T15:02:00.001+05:302014-01-13T17:12:00.505+05:3060. How the engine works.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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So putting together everything I learned in college during the last one year of inactivity, here's a write-up with a little more technical content. Here's how the engine works:</div>
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Now as we all know, the engine is the heart of the bike. Although by function it's actually the mouth, stomach, mitochondria, neuron and the rectum of the bike as well but let's dwell further into that analogy. Now the engine is divided into 3 parts:<br />
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1. The upper part or the cylinder head.<br />
2. The middle part or the cylinder block.<br />
3. The lower part or the oil pan.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nErRJ4SQlbs/UtOuU8uOoRI/AAAAAAAAAgc/nZTIrySL9wo/s1600/kawasaki_z1000_engine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nErRJ4SQlbs/UtOuU8uOoRI/AAAAAAAAAgc/nZTIrySL9wo/s320/kawasaki_z1000_engine.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Every biker's dream!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Head:</b></span></div>
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The cylinder head contains the spark plug, valves and is attached to the manifolds. There are seperate valves and manifolds for the intake and exhaust funtions. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NbvmslVguu8/UtOlSIh1e_I/AAAAAAAAAfU/yP0P3e0V35c/s1600/YamahaR107.05Head.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NbvmslVguu8/UtOlSIh1e_I/AAAAAAAAAfU/yP0P3e0V35c/s320/YamahaR107.05Head.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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'<span style="font-size: x-small;">07 R1's cylinder head</span><br />
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The manifold is simply a singular tube or a series of tubes and chambers joined to each other that provides a path for the fuel to reach the intake port while the exhaust manifolds provide a path for the exhaust gases to move out of the exhaust ports.<br />
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The valve in layman terms is a spring actuated, one sided - mini barbell ( I am sorry there I couldn't find another way to describe that shape). The valve on it's own can't be of any use and so a camshaft is provided to actuate it. The camshaft is a cylinderical rod that has oblique protrusions palced along the length of the length of the rod in such a manner that they push against the flat end of the valve and allow space for the air-fuel mixture to move in or the exhaust gases to move out of the chamber. Once the camshaft is set into rotation, it perodically pushes the valves inwards when the oblique ends are in contact with the flat portion of the valves and once the oblique ends cease to make contact, the spring actuated mechanism pushes the valves back to the original position. The timing of the camshaft and the opening of the valves is synced with a rather complex timing mechanism which would require an M-Tech degree for proper comprehension so I can't explain it as of now. Here's an animation of valves in action-<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IFZ0EcPrOyw/UtOirM5mQDI/AAAAAAAAAe4/tJoZW-8SEz8/s1600/engine-cam.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IFZ0EcPrOyw/UtOirM5mQDI/AAAAAAAAAe4/tJoZW-8SEz8/s200/engine-cam.gif" width="200" /></a><br />
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Pushrod engines have a slightly different mechanism. They consist of a seperate rod which when pushed by the camshaft actuate the movement of the valves via a set of rocker arms. They are commonly used in Twin Cylinder engines and were made famous through American Cruisers. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0ANO4ZbCU5o/UtOuw48at7I/AAAAAAAAAgk/mClZXLWg-J4/s1600/hqdefault.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0ANO4ZbCU5o/UtOuw48at7I/AAAAAAAAAgk/mClZXLWg-J4/s320/hqdefault.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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In order to increase the performance, you can increase the number of valves such that more air-fuel mixture flows into the combustion chamber. You can install race-cams or high lift cams (high lift because they push the valves to a higher off-seat position compared to normal cams) which again perform the same function of allowing more fuel mixture into the chamber.<br />
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DESMODROMIC VALVES (<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">©Ducati)</span>: Lo Amo Italiani ( I love Italians)! These guys incorporate such wacky and unconventional ideas which are in some way or the other miles ahead of the traditional methods. The Desmodromic Valve system is one of them. Although it wasn't really developed by Ducati but they made and patented the most efficient and error-free version of this system. Now for traditional engines economy oriented engines, the standard spring actuated valve was more than adequate. However for a high performance engine the springs would suffer from stress induced fatique very quickly under high RPM's and so the Desmo system was developed to tackle this problem. A desmodromic valve system doesn't have any springs but is controlled by a set of metallic actuators that pull or push the valve ends depending on the position of the camshaft. No springs = No problems!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Technologie Italiano Maxima!</span></div>
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<b style="font-size: x-large;">The Block:</b></h2>
The engine block is home to the combustion chamber and the piston. The piston is a cylinderical block which may be made of aluminium, cast steel or many other individual metals and alloys. The piston reciprocates in up and down motion within the the space that it's provided with for movement. There are two terminal positions it can occupy within the block, one is TDC ( Top Dead Centre, uppemost position) and the other is BDC (Bottom Dead Centre, lowermost position). The piston is responsible for generating all of the usable power necessary for turning the wheels. The movement of the piston from one dead centre to the other is known as the stroke. A four stroke completes one cycle of intake, power generation and exhaust in 4 strokes while a two stroke engine does so in as you guessed it, 2 strokes. Let's have a look at the 4 stroke engine cycle first:<br />
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Stroke 1: Intake<br />
The air fuel mixture is sprayed into the the combustion chamber using a fuel injector or a carburetor. The intake valves are open while the exhaust valve are closed. The piston will move from TDC to BDC position</div>
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Stroke 2: Compression.<br />
Both valves are closed and the piston moves from BDC to TDC, thereyby compressing the air fuel mixture to high pressure as they have no escape route.<br />
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Stroke 3: Combustion<br />
Both valves are still closed and the spark plug gives out a tiny spark which is sufficient enough to ignite the super compressed air fuel mixture. As the mixture catches fire and undergoes rapid expansion. Again as there is no route for the expanded gases to escape, the force of the gases pushes the piston down from TDC to BDC. This stroke generates most of the usable power.<br />
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Stroke 4: Exhaust<br />
The exhaust valves open up. Now since the piston was pushed down with a large amount of force, the momentum it gained pushes it up again from BDC to TDC and the remaning unburnt gases are pushed out of the exhaust valve. </div>
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In a two stroke engine, usable power is generated in just two strokes and it does not contain valves, just cavities known as ports which are closed and opened by the movement of the piston itself. The cycle of the two stroke engine starts from BDC just like the 4 stroke engine. The Inlet port is open and the air-fuel mixture is filled up in the lower part of the cylinder block. As the piston moves down to TDC, it pushes the mixture into a chamber called the transfer port which leads to the upper part of the block. The piston then moves up to compress and ignite the mixture thereby producing power. When the air-fuel mixture travels through the transfer port, it pushes the exhaust gases out as it is uncovered by the piston. The process is commonly referred to as scavenging. Now compared to a 4 stroke engine, a 2 stroke engine develops much more power for the same engine capacity (theoretically twice the amount but realistically about 1.4 times), however the absence of valves and the process of scavenging are highly inefficent which leads to higher pollution and fuel consumption. But hey nothing can compare to the intoxicating whack of power and the stubby exhaust note of a 2-stroke (PURELY IMO).<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Can't touch this!</span><br />
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The end of each piston is connected to the crankshaft via a connecting rod. The crankshaft is further connected to the primary drive mechanisms (gears) and secondary drive mechanisms (belt/chain/shaft) which then move the wheel. The rotation of the piston rotates the crankshaft which rotates all the drive mechanisms and finally the wheel.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UCDvGC-Zd1c/UtOyJokSdxI/AAAAAAAAAgw/95JMsMReMEU/s1600/4StrokeEngine_Ortho_3D_Small.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UCDvGC-Zd1c/UtOyJokSdxI/AAAAAAAAAgw/95JMsMReMEU/s1600/4StrokeEngine_Ortho_3D_Small.gif" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Note- Intake valve on the left and exhaust on the right in the animation</span><br />
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The length of each stroke also determines the engine's characteristics. Long Stroke = More torque and lower peak RPM's (Cruisers), Short Stroke= More Power and higher Peak RPM's (Sportsbikes).<br />
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<span style="font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">The Oil Pan: </span><br />
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Onward to the last part but equally important part of the engine, the oil pan. The oil pan is an large and mostly flat cavity which holds all the engine oil required for lubrication. For any metallic parts moving in high speed, friction will always be a b*#ch and that is why you need lubrication. The engine oil is sprayed at the piston so that it slides against the walls of the combustion chamber sans any friction and various other parts like the crankshaft and cam bearings. This is done through a pump located in the upper section of the oil pan. The oil is passed through a filter first before being sprayed to remove any grit or physical impurities. The remaining oil that trickles down is collected in the sump again and the process is repeated. In a traditional system or wet sump system, the oil pan acts as the oil sump as well.</div>
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Dry Sump System: Unlike a conventional wet sump, the dry sump system consists of a seperate reservoir to store most of the engine oil. It consists of two pumps, one to transfer oil from the sump to the tank and the other to spray the transferred oil to the parts of the engine. There is a minimal amount of oil present in the oil pan below the crankshaft. In a wet sump system, all the oil is stored within the oil pan. So during acceleration, braking or cornering, the oil will splash around within the engine compartment leading to over-lubrication of engine parts. This affects the performance. Also since a Dry Sump doesn't need the oil pan to store the engine oil, the main components of the engine can be placed lower leading to better mass centralisation and a lower centre of gravity. Nevertheless the dry sump system is complex to maintain, more expensive and heavier than the conventional system. However considering the benefits, one can make some sacrifices considering cost and complexity. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5VVjQ65Dl40/UtOsnPyt7sI/AAAAAAAAAgU/8jW0DsYpF-E/s1600/camp-1109-01-z%25252Bdry-sump-oil-system%25252B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5VVjQ65Dl40/UtOsnPyt7sI/AAAAAAAAAgU/8jW0DsYpF-E/s400/camp-1109-01-z%25252Bdry-sump-oil-system%25252B.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">The dry sump system. The black tank is the seperate sump </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> which is connected </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">to the oil pan via metallic tubes.</span></div>
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So that's it guys! A complete walkthrough of the engine. Now I have only completed my first semester in B.Tech so my knowledge may be wrong at certain places. Feel free to correct and do leave your queries in the comments section!<br />
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Danke.</div>
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Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-51050680645935018292012-10-03T01:18:00.000+05:302012-10-03T01:21:22.516+05:3059. Samyak's Ducati 848 Evo, 2012<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Name: <b>Samyak Modi </b><br />
Age: <b>28</b><br />
Profession: <b>Indus Technologies - Partner, 7th Gear Auto Consultancy- Proprietor/Founder</b><br />
Motorcycling Club: <b>T.C.I. (Torque Club Of Indore)</b><br />
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<b>1. When did you first "Throw a leg over the saddle"?</b><br />
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A. 2 wheeler - When I was 8. Bike When I was 14.<br />
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<b>2. Which bike was it and how was the experience?</b><br />
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A. 2 wheeler - Luna . Bike was Yamaha RX 100. The first 2 wheeler's experience was quiet exhilarating as after twisting the throttle it took care of itself. Learnt the most important lesson of my life - Always be aware of everything before trying it out. In my case all I knew was accelerator and had no clue where and what are the brakes. Ended up in a neighbour's hedge with the Luna on one side and me on the other.<br />
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RX100 - :D if you really need to know (I was barely in my teens - and I was riding a RX, still gives me the same pleasure) that was the first time i understood what flying actually means. The sense of freedom, the complication in gears (rode the only other geared vehicle - hero puch) the immense surge of power (typical of the RX) and popping the first wheelie on a bike on the very first ride (though it was unintentional - but instincts told me what to do)<br />
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<b>3. Who taught you the fundamentals of motorcycling?</b><br />
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A. My stupidity initially, and then it just came naturally. then was greatly helped by reading the XBHP blogs before I bought my first bike - CBR 600 RR<br />
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<b>4. Have you had any experience with superbikes before you got the 848?</b><br />
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A. Experiences were a lot - though the only bike I ever owned prior to the evo was a 2006 Honda CBR 600 RR<br />
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<b>5. How many bikes do you own currently?</b><br />
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A. Just the Ducati 848 Evo. Have my eyes set on the MV - but that will have to wait a bit.<br />
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<b>6. Was the 848 a product of long term research or love at first sight?</b><br />
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A. IT was love at first sight, then long term research, then long term search for an MV - and then the decision of the EVO.<br />
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<b>7. What all was going through your mind during the waiting period?</b><br />
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A. Fortunately there wasn't much of the waiting period. Chandigarh dealership had the bike ready with them. Wasn't sure about the color (since I had never seen it) and fortunately they had both (Red & white) readily available with them. The moment I saw it - I knew - it had to be the white<br />
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<b>8. Were you considering any other bike(s) before zeroing in to the 848?</b><br />
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A. The MV Agusta. since budget wasn't much, and there weren't any clean papers MV on sale across the country - the choice was quiet simple. the 848 evo! 1198 did come in consideration - but then after hearing about all the over heating issues (even more than the 848) I rather stayed away. and anyway - that time the new 1199 panigale was just around the corner<br />
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<b>9. What did it feel like when you saw her for the first time?</b><br />
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A. :D that's a tricky question!! well it was the same feeling one would have - a big pit in the stomach! all kinds of butterflies flying around in the pit!! time just stopped dead in its tracks. when it was delivered to me in indore - again the same thing happened (though was a bit too jumpy this time around as I already had bought it)<br />
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<b>10. What reactions and questions does the public have when they see you and the bike?</b><br />
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A. The reactions are not as much nowadays - all thanks to the efforts of indian bike manufacturers they indeed have come up with a lot of beautiful bikes. But the reactions that I mostly get are - where did you get it modified from (the exhaust note doesn't help there), how much did it cost, what's the fuel efficiency one gets, why not the "dhoom" wala bike and so on and so forth.<br />
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<b>11. Where do you get the servicing and maintenance done from?</b><br />
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A. The basic servicing and maintenance is done by a very dear friend who understands more about bikes than any of the trained SBK mechanics I've come across. He takes care of it like a doctor would take care of a patient. Washing and pampering is my department though.<br />
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<b>12. Which fuel and oil do you use? </b><br />
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A. Just the regular "speed". add about 20 ml of Iftex system G. oil is Shell Helix 10W40 fully synthetic.<br />
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<b>13. How is the experience with the dealership?</b><br />
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A. Dealership has been nice when it comes to experience and behavior. But a bit too laid back for my liking. but then it hardly matters now.<br />
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<b>14. What are the best roads in Indore for superbikes?</b><br />
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A. The best would be the indoor bypass which follows on to the khalghat bypass. a 4 lane tarmac road which is well leveled (but can't help the idiots cutting across and driving on the wrong side)<br />
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<b>15. Have you faced any mechanical/technical issues so far?</b><br />
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A. Nope. other than the dealership reluctant to send a guy for resetting the service reminder light - absolutely nothing<br />
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<b>16. How long have you had her and many kilometres have you covered?</b><br />
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A. It came to me on the 29th March 2012. Have just managed about 2000 kms.<br />
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<b>17. Between Japs and Italians what would you choose and why?</b><br />
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A. ITALIANS ANYDAY!!. To be fair to all the gap bikes - they are flawless. they are well behaved. they are predictable. they are perfect. so perfect as to be soulless. That is where the ducati scores. it has a soul. it would bite you everytime you take it for granted. it scares you silly if you misbehave. it would have lot of over heating issues (not the best bike for low RPM city rides) it might sound like a tractor - but in the end - it has a soul which no Jap would ever be able to capture. With all the Japs that I've ri<span style="font-family: inherit;">dden - there is not much of a difference. Ok one would go faster than the other, or make more noise than the other one - but not much of a differentiating factor. change the exhaust - and they all end up sounding the same. remap the ecu - they start behaving the same (more or less). and anyone who says that he can make out a lot of difference in the same engine class bike - is either lying OR is just showing off OR is a bike god. the fact is - all the japs are more or less the same to ride - no doubt excellent - but simply boring after a while. They are are like Vodka- you enjoy them in the beginning. A Ducati is like Scotch, it's an acquired taste and once you do start enjoying it, there is nothing less that you would enjoy.</span><br />
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<b>18. How often do you ride? </b><br />
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A. As often as I can. try to take her out almost daily (if wife, work and rain gods permit)<br />
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<b>19. Narrate the most memorable ride you've been to till date?</b><br />
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A. Every ride is etched in my memory. There has been no ride till now which hasn't been memorable OR maybe I am still waiting for the most memorable one<br />
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<b>20. What do you feel is the best part of the bike?</b><br />
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A. The way it looks, the way it throws tantrums, the gorgeous curves, the single sided swingarm, drop dead gorgeous looks, quirkiness, beauty in every piece that's on the bike, the popping noise it makes when you are de-accelerating, the italian curves, the way the front comes up even when you are shifting from 3rd to 4th (though you have to ride real hard) - and did I say how great it looks?!?<br />
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On a serious note - what I most love about this bike is how it's making me re-learn how to ride. it's a different world altogether as compared to any Jap.<br />
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<b>21. Any areas where Ducati could have improved?</b><br />
<br />
A. Maybe they should consider changing there importer and distributor in India. they could have gotten someone who is not just interested in robbing the customer.<br />
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<b>22. Tell us a little about your riding gear.</b><br />
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A. Finally have managed to put it all together-<br />
<br />
1. Arai RQX helmet<br />
2. Ducati 2012 Flow Jacket<br />
3. Dainese 2 stroke gloves<br />
4. The shoes and pants have to wait as I am still not OK wearing them yet.<br />
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<b>23. What is the maximum figures you've seen on the speedo so far?</b><br />
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A. On a tricked out R1 - 190 (mph-unintentional), CBR 600 RR - 248 km/h. Ducati 848 Evo - 192 km/h<br />
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<b>24. Any advice for someone who is looking to enter the world of superbiking?</b><br />
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A. Start slow - respect your bike, respect the people on road and more importantly respect your life!! one wrong judgement and you might end up dead. Usually the only idiot on the road is the one who has a twitchy right wrist - don't be that guy and ALWAYS ride with a helmet!! Ride SAFE!!<br />
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Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-13286909315061508492012-07-09T19:37:00.004+05:302012-07-10T15:06:02.125+05:3058. Gaurav's Ducati Multistrada 1200, 2012<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Name:<b> Gaurav Sharma</b><br />
Age:<b> 32</b><br />
Profession:<b> Head - Operations - TORQUED APPAREL AND ACCESSORIES</b><br />
Motorcycling Club:<b> G.O.D.S.( Group Of Delhi Superbikers)</b><br />
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<b>1. What did the leap from a Hypersport Tourer to an Adventure Tourer feel like?</b><br />
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A. Theres a huge difference in the way both the machines perform. The busa is more of a ferocious Tiger just waiting to be unleashed. The MTS is practically everything you want it to be, from a tame animal in the urban mode to a wild beast in Sports mode - all with just a flick of a button :).<br />
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<b>2. How tortuous was the waiting period?</b><br />
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A. 2 months,18 days and 6 hours ( Why 6 ? - Because the bike was supposed to be delivered on 18th nite around 12 whereas the guy landed on 19th morn - A sun on our 5th G2G at 6am ) I am sure you can make out how torturous was the waiting period now :)<br />
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<b>3. What do feel is the best aspect of the Multistrada?</b><br />
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A. There's too many to name. The entire character of the bike changes with the mode. The modes are different in what I experienced in busa. With these modes - its not just the power delivery which changes, its the Traction control and ABS settings as well. Secondly its an AMAZING TOURER (thats the main reason I bought this bike), this was one of the star bikes on our lansdowne trips. Dont believe me?? Ask those poor fellows who were on their busas and litre bikes. I barely got a chance to ride this bike in the entire trip as no one stopped for me to hand over the bike. Thirdly, the weight - looking at the size of the bike, one would think its kinda heavy, Surprise! Surprise! - It weighs 181 kgs as compared to busa which is around 275 kgs :)<br />
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<b>4. Do feel Ducati could improve upon anything?</b><br />
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A. The ONLY drawback I would say is the seat height adjustment. Its setup at the lowest level and its still a little high for me (Unfortunately I am not that tall )<br />
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<b>5. Did the tall saddle ever create any manoeuvrability problems?</b><br />
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A. The first few rides were a little difficult for me. I've been riding supersports and sports tourer for a very long time. This is a different bike altogether. Now that I've settled, I can even lean on this bike. The weight reduction also helps in easy manoeuvrability (181kgs remember) :)<br />
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<b>6. How has your experience been with the dealership? </b><br />
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A. Its a mix bag. There were some problems which could have been avoided. Overall out of 10 I would give them a rating of 7.<br />
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<b>7. Any mechanical/technical issues so far?</b><br />
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A. None what so ever - Its just so damn perfect!<br />
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<b>8. What questions does the public have when they see the bike on the roads?</b><br />
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A. Well it takes them a while to realise what went past them(doesn't have any exhausts right now). But yes the usual questions - Kitne ki hai, kitna deti hai, ye kaun si company hai (this was new). Iske badly gadi le lete ;)<br />
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<b>9. Do they confuse your bike for a Jap bike?</b><br />
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A. Not realy Its only once when a college going guy just came in and asked which bike I said Ducati and he said Ye Yamaha walo ki hai na?? I mean - Seriously.<br />
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<b>10. What made you choose the Multistrada over the R1200GS?</b><br />
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A. The GS1200 weighs almost 100kgs more than the MTS. Secondly the ride height - there was no way I could adjust the height to my level. Then there was the GIZMOS , the MTS is loaded and the GS has - wait what Gizmos??<br />
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<b>11. Have you done or intend to do any modifications?</b><br />
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A. I have ordered exhausts. That is the first thing I wanted, also placed order for K&N. Well this is just to start with.<br />
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<b>12. How long have you had her and how many kilometres have you covered so far?</b><br />
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A. I've had this bike for 3 months 18 days 18 hours and now 35, 36, 37, 38......well you get the picture ;)<br />
As for no of kms , I have clocked 1800 kms.<br />
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<b>13. Which fuel and oil do you use?</b><br />
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A. 97 Octane and sometimes speed or Xtra Premium in case I don't find 97 Octane. As for Oil - I still have to get the first service done - too lazy because of the Delhi heat :)<br />
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<b>14. Narrate your best trip on the Strada so far?</b><br />
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A. Well I just had one trip on this bike or should I say half, I got a chance to ride this bike on my way back from Lansdowne. This bike was nick named, the "Ghoda" on the trip because of high seating position and comfy saddle. Also cuz of the fact that people just used to run away with the bike, literally! As mentioned I actually had to look for my machine as to who was riding it!<br />
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<b>15. Have you taken her for some off-roading?</b><br />
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A.Considering Indian roads and highways, I don't think I would ever need to get off roading with this bike. Our sbks take a lota thrashing on our roads and highways, the MTS or an adventure tourer just glides over these pot holes - Literally. I just hope the bike manufacturers get more of these in India - we just have the Impulse which is grossly underpowered.<br />
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<b>16. Do you have your eyes set on another bike?</b><br />
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A. Oh hell yeah. The list is long, starts with a Can-Am Spyder, Then there's the Speed Triple, the Ducati Monster 1100 Evo, the Diavel, the Brutale 1090RR. As Doc says, "MORE IS NEVER ENOUGH" :)<br />
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<b>17. Here's a tough one - the Busa or the Multistrada? </b><br />
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A. Hmm that's like choosing your kids - I love em both. My son n my niece have a fight though. My son is in love with the MTS and wants me to ride it every Sunday. My niece loves the busa and she wants me to ride it every Sunday. So every Saturday there is a huge argument as to which bike I will be riding on sun :D<br />
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<br /></div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-40461878383873398472012-07-05T16:13:00.001+05:302012-07-05T16:32:51.837+05:3057. Rahul's Ducati Monster 796, 2011<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Name: <b>Rahul Kallankandy</b><br />
Age: <b>32</b><br />
Profession: <b>VFX Supervisor (film/commercials)</b><br />
Motorcycling Club:<b> Ducati India Riders , B.O.M.B (Brotherhood of Mumbiker</b>s)<br />
Location: <b>Mumbai</b><br />
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<b>1.When was the first time you ever threw a leg over the saddle?</b><br />
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My first ever ride was on a LML commuter bike. I bought the bike around the time I got my first job, learnt on it.<br />
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<b>2. How was the experience?</b><br />
<br />
The learning part was thrilling. The bike..not thrilling at all. Even then, I sort of knew, this isn't the shit.<br />
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<b>3. Who taught you the fundamentals of riding a bike?</b><br />
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A friend's boyfriend who became my friend.<br />
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<b>4. How many bikes have you owned so far?</b><br />
<br />
Here's the list of vehicles I've had in my life, in the order of appearance-<br />
LML, Hyosung Comet 250, Sym GT200 (Maxi-Scooter), Ducati Monster, Honda Activa.<br />
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<b>5. How many do you own currently?</b><br />
<br />
Ducati Monster, Honda Activa<br />
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<b>6. What did the transition from the GT250 to the Monster feel like? </b><br />
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In one word, Shocking.<br />
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The 796 has so much bite, that it kinda comes across as a wild beast. Its kinda like Mumbai. Never sleeps, never rests. You can never chill out on a monster at lower RPMs. It taunts you. It pushes you, nudges you to go faster. The overall sound of the GT250 is very decent, tame, almost non-existent due to it's non attention grabbing sound design. The Monster would be an overall flip in personality. To put it in the terms of human personality, lets consider the Comet to be an introvert, and the Monster to be an out and out extrovert. I could go on and on about the differences. But it really is a case of apples and oranges.<br />
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<b>7. Was the Monster love at first sight or a product of long time research?</b><br />
<br />
I've always wanted the monster. It wouldn't really matter if its the 795, 796, or the 1100. To me the motorcycle has this character which I personally relate to. I only seem to relate to nakeds and why not ride the one naked that rules them all. The fact that it was put together as a personal commuting vehicle and then goes on to become the most popular naked in the history of Ducati adds so much more of a backstory.<br />
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<b>8. What all was going through your mind during the waiting period?</b><br />
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Honestly, I do not remember the specifics,at this point. All I remember is the first time I saw the box. I don't want to remember the wait. I'm sure it was painful. I'm sure, my expectations were far exceeded by my imagination. The 796 in turn, far exceeded my imagination. Generally, we are aware of the marketing jargon and promos and advertising strategies and product placements and what not. None of these things come close to the real thing. One twist of the throttle and one forgets the past. I still remember thinking to myself "Fuck, am I worthy. This shit is too beautiful."<br />
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<b>9. What reactions does the public have when they see you and and the bike on the road?</b><br />
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I've written a little something based on this thought.<br />
<br />
You pull up at the traffic signal...ease of the clutch, as you stop..<br />
sit back and wait for it to turn green..take a breathe of polluted air..<br />
a creeping feeling at the back of your neck..like you have a tail on you..you gently look around..almost everybody around you is watching you..almost everybody..<br />
watching your every move..<br />
you start having a conversation with the traffic signal,<br />
<br />
"Change, damn it.."<br />
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You look at the biker who pulls up right next to you..he stares..without remorse..beyond rude..invading your privacy..<br />
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You are just about to ask "What the hell are you looking at, Punk!?"<br />
But then you realize, you ride a Ducati.<br />
You resist the urge.<br />
You tell yourself "be nice"<br />
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The signal is now green..The crowd wants a show. "Entertain us." They want to hear the beast roar. You feel their piercing eyes at the back of your neck..pushing you..do it..The horns blasting away. "Do it."<br />
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You pop the clutch, click it into first gear. Gently ease of the clutch. Gentle twist of the throttle.<br />
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Not today guys..<br />
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I just don't feel like it.<br />
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A day in the life of a Ducatista.<br />
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<b>10. How do you answer milage and cost related questions?</b><br />
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I smile and say I don't know. I genuinely don't know, and genuinely believe it doesn't matter. The feeling of riding this bike cannot be simplified or quantified into numbers. Anyway, to me these questions seem to come from a place of inquisitiveness which can easily be satisfied by a quick search on google. I mostly have a totally different set of questions in my mind when I see a performance vehicle. Mostly about feelings and emotions. I'm sentimental like that.<br />
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<b><br /></b><br />
<b>11. Do people confuse the Monster for a Jap bike? </b><br />
<br />
Screw Japanese confusions. Its mostly confused with the Pulsar. Go Bajaj, Go.<br />
<br />
<b>12. Have you done or intend to do any modifications?</b><br />
<br />
Mostly aesthetic personalization type mods:<br />
CRG bar end mirrors (great crowd response on these)<br />
Evotech tail tidy kit (looks great, fucks things up in the rain)<br />
Dynamic Duo Pro Arrow short 7 LED indicators (does anybody even look at indicators!)<br />
<br />
<b>13. Who maintains the bike - servicing, cleaning etc?</b><br />
<br />
My man, Jainul from Worlo Ducati Service. Cleaning is taken care of at the local pressure wash shop.<br />
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<br />
<b>14. How has your experience been with the dealership?</b><br />
<br />
Can't complain really. All I can say, treat people the way you want to be treated. Being rude doesn't amount to speedy service/deliver.<br />
<br />
<b>15. Have you faced any mechanical/technical issues so far?</b><br />
<br />
Nope<br />
<br />
<b>16. What do you feel is the best part about the monster?</b><br />
<br />
The character. Lots of personality. It's something to be inspired by and look up to.<br />
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<br />
<b>17. And what do you feel needs to improved upon?</b><br />
<br />
I wouldn't change a thing <br />
<br />
<b>18. What are the maximum figures you have seen on the speedo?</b><br />
<br />
200 kmph<br />
<br />
<b>19. Which fuel do you use?</b><br />
<br />
Speed 97 mostly. But I have used regular fuel whenever i've forgotten to fill'er up before the ride.<br />
<br />
<b>20. Do you plan to upgrade to a bigger bike anytime soon?</b><br />
<br />
No plans so far. The monster's keeping me happy.<br />
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<br />
<b>21. Tell us a little about your riding gear?</b><br />
<br />
Helmets: Shoei Qwest Bloodflow, Studds Modular Full Face<br />
<br />
Jackets: Cramster Breezer, Alpinestars Matrix<br />
<br />
Gloves: Fox Bomber, Icon Justice<br />
<br />
Pants : Alpinestars 2012 AST-1 Water Proof<br />
<br />
Boots : RJays H20<br />
<br />
<b>22. What is your advice for young enthusiasts who plan to step in to the world of superbiking?</b><br />
<br />
Its not my place to give gyan to anybody, but if i must, i'd like to point out that motorcycling is a way of life. A pure emotional activity. Let's not cloud it with bouts of arrogance and pompous pride. Let's get away from fickle comparisons and social status type conversations. I prefer the term motorcyclist over super biker. I look forward to a world of motorcyclists with mutual respect for one another. There isn't much super about the biker if all you've ever done is purchased a super bike. A motorcyclist takes that purchase and makes it an extension of his or her body. Be inspired by your icons and aspire for their mental strength and skills. If it's attention one wants on the streets, there are other better, cheaper, safer options. Being a motorcyclist is about the thrill of fucking with gravity, but thats not all. There is this strange sense of responsibility. Towards yourself, your family, your biker bros and also the pedestrians. Its about skills, knowledge and of course the need for speed. Wear your gear, be safe, don't think we are invincible. Have fun. :-)<br />
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<br /></div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-79705873921532759652012-05-08T21:55:00.002+05:302012-06-20T10:04:24.597+05:3056. Bal's Harley Davidson XR1200X, 2011<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Name: <b>Bal Nanda</b><br />
Age : <b>46</b><br />
Profession : <b>Self Employed</b><br />
Motorcycling Club: <b>Brotherhood Riding Club</b><br />
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<br />
<b>Q-1 When did you first throw your legs over a bike? Which one was it?</b><br />
<br />
When i was 17 years old. It was a Yezdi Roadking<br />
<br />
<b>Q-2 Describe the experience</b><br />
<br />
It was my first bike and I was very proud to own it. Looking back I think I was a bit of a show -off back then.<br />
<br />
<b>Q-3 Who taught you the basics of biking?</b><br />
<br />
My elder brother. He was the one who had bought my first bike for me..<br />
<br />
<b>Q-4 How many bikes have you been through so far?</b><br />
<br />
About six to seven bikes starting with Yezdi, Yezdi Roadking, Gtx, Royal Enfield, Yamaha Rx350 and HD XR1200X<br />
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<br />
<b>Q-5 How many of them are currently with you?</b><br />
<br />
Just the XR.<br />
<br />
<b>Q-6 Was the XR a product of long time research or love at first sight?</b><br />
<br />
Definitely love at first sight. I was looking for a black matt racing stealth type of a bike with a sound of Harley Davidson. Its a bundle of joy. It gives you a fair taste of both a racing bike as well as a touring bike.It is a good melange of both the flavours.<br />
<br />
<b>Q-7 Were there any other bikes that you were also considering? </b><br />
<br />
The Night Rod Special<br />
<br />
<b>Q-8 What do feel is the best feature of it?</b><br />
<br />
Its Appearance is what caught my eye immediately. It is very muscular and sexy. In fact, when I saw it first in HD Bangkok. I immediately fell in love with it.<br />
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<br />
<b>Q-9 Do feel there is any aspect where Harley could have improved upon?</b><br />
<br />
Better Pricing and more variety. HD should also consider offering a larger variety for custom modification at a modest pricing.<br />
<br />
<b>Q-10 What all modifications have you done so far? Have they been effective?</b><br />
<br />
My bike's exhausts , filter and fuel pack have been changed. After the change its on a different level. Its got more grunt, power and resounding sound. This stage has given me extra 8 to 9 BHP!!! :-)<br />
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<br />
<b>Q-11 What all questions does the public have when they see you with the bike?</b><br />
<br />
Most of them want to know the price and the power it has. <br />
<br />
<b>Q- 12 How have your experience been with the dealership?</b><br />
<br />
Some isusses are there in terms of spare parts, but overall its great.<br />
<br />
<b>Q-13 Have you faced any mechanical/technical issues so far?</b><br />
<br />
None.<br />
<br />
<b>Q-14 Would the XR make a good daily use superbike?</b><br />
<br />
I would say yes. I've been riding everyday to the gym. Its a good daily bike with a subtle yet stealth style and power. Another good thing about XR is that you ride it, it does not ride you unlike a few other powerful Japanese machines.<br />
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<br />
<b>Q-15 What fuel and oil do you use?</b><br />
<br />
For 18 months I was using 97 octane. But now I ve switched to 93 or speed depending on availability.The oil is taken care by HD service dpt.<br />
<br />
<b>Q-16 How many Kilometers have you covered so far?</b><br />
<br />
Almost 15k.<br />
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<br />
<b>Q-17 Who maintains the bike?</b><br />
<br />
Me. Moi. Myself.<br />
<br />
<b>Q-18 What are the maximum figures you have seen on the speedo?</b><br />
<br />
197km/hr<br />
<br />
<b>Q-19 Tell us a little about your riding gear?</b><br />
<br />
I have got 1 Harley Leather Jacket, 1 Fox Racing body armour, 1 Nerve jacket and recently I got the New model of the Fox Racing Leather Jacket. 1 Arai and 1 Masei helmets. 4 pairs of gloves (including a set of Icon waterproof all weather gloves) . Alpinestars riding boots and many more accessories from HD.<br />
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<br />
<b>Q-20 What advice do have for young enthusiasts who are looking to enter the world of superbiking?</b><br />
<br />
Please do not ask your folks to buy you one. You should be minimum of 24 years old to ride. Buy one for yourself with your own money, be a mature and responisble rider. Riding a super bike is not a joke. Its fun but serious business WITH A GREAT AMOUNT OF RESPONSIBILTY!! Remember always to play safe!! With the bike and yourself!<br />
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<br /></div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-13019631539967536792012-04-19T16:33:00.001+05:302012-04-20T15:07:06.589+05:3055. Anil's Harley Davidson Heritage Classic, 2010<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Name: <b>Anil Arora</b><br />
Age : <b>39</b><br />
Profession: <b>Logistics</b><br />
Motorcycling Clubs: <b>Brotherhood Riding Club, Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.)</b><br />
Location: <b>New Delhi</b><br />
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<br />
<b>1.When did you first put your legs over a bike, which one was it and who gave you your first lessons?</b><br />
<br />
I was 14 or 15 when I first flicked my elder cousins Yezdi and as in most cases it was squeaky friend you cajoled me into taking it out, promising he would teach me.<br />
<br />
<b>2. When was it that you got hooked onto biking? </b><br />
<br />
I guess it was instantaneous<br />
<br />
<b>3. How many bikes have gone through since your first ride? </b><br />
<br />
4, yezdi then two Rx 100's and then the RD 350 and coincedently they were all hand me downs from elder brothers and cousins.<br />
Also not counting the Luna, hero puch or other mopeds I used to steal for a ride from office boys, couriers, employees etc.<br />
<br />
<b>4. How many do you own currently?</b><br />
<br />
The only one I own is my Heritage Softail Classic 2010 (First to ride India) .<br />
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<br />
<b>5. The Heritage Classic - Was it love at first sight or a prodcut of long time research?</b><br />
<br />
Love at first sight, in Singapore 2005.<br />
<br />
<b>6. What do you feel is the best feature of it?</b><br />
<br />
The ride comfort and handling is supreme, and of course the classic look.<br />
<br />
<b>7. Any negatives?</b><br />
<br />
None that worry me too much, but the rear tyre and braking could be bigger and better, at times I have fishtailed when I slammed the brakes.<br />
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<br />
<b>8. Did you consider any other options before zeroing in on the Heritage Classic?</b><br />
<br />
On the day of the booking I did try out the roadking and had ridden a Fat boy in Singapore but I guess I was meant to be on the classic!<br />
<br />
<b>9. How many Kilometers have you covered so far and in how much time?</b><br />
<br />
16000+ in 21 months<br />
<br />
<b>10. What questions does the general public have when they see you and the bike?</b><br />
<br />
How much it is for ?<br />
Kya Average Deti Hai?<br />
Kaunse Desh ki Hai?<br />
Import kari hai?<br />
<br />
<b>11. And your answers?</b><br />
<br />
How much it is for - Dont ask,too much, 20 lacs, do you want to buy<br />
<br />
Kya Average Deti Hai - Deti nahin leti hai<br />
<br />
Do Tanki Hai Kya (Does it have two tanks) - Yes, one for Diesel, one for Petrol, I start it with Petrol and switch over to diesel for economising<br />
<br />
Kaunse Desh ki Hai - America<br />
<br />
Import kari hai - No the dealer is here at Delhi<br />
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<br />
<b>12. Who maintains the bike?</b><br />
<br />
Me, My Driver (who is also an accomplished rider) and of course the HD service network.<br />
<br />
<b>13. How has your experience been with the dealership?</b><br />
<br />
Initially it was a little bitter as they had a lot of teething troubles, but for the last year or so it has been fairly good!<br />
<br />
<b>14. Narrate a memorable experience on the road.</b><br />
<br />
On the Rajathan Ride in november 2011, I had a puncture in the front tyre, tried to fill some air and move a little bit but couldnt sustain, hence we stopped at this small nonedescript village and decided to get it repaired.<br />
<br />
The hospitality, the warmth and concern of the villagers not to mention the willingness to help and provide a service in those circumstances was memorable.<br />
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<br />
<br />
<b>15. And a not so memorable experience</b><br />
<br />
Mostly with some overzealous and crazy car fellows but would rather forgive and forget those!<br />
<br />
15. Have you ever felt that the weight of the bike makes your ride cumbersome at times?<br />
<br />
Not at all, it is a very well balanced machine, with a low center of gravity hence handles very well even at low speeds.<br />
<br />
<b>16. Have you done or intend to do any modifications. </b><br />
<br />
The Heritage is a fully decked up machine so apart from some foot pegs and a leg guard I have not done any major modifications / additions.<br />
<br />
<b>17. What was your most memorable ride so far?</b><br />
<br />
All of our long rides, whether to Udaipur, kasauli, Jaisalmer,Bikaner, Jodhpur, Sambhar Lake, and lately Pong Dam have been unforgettable.<br />
<br />
But if I was to single out one then it would be riding or gliding over the Pong Dam, at 60 km, on one side is the lake which is one of the biggest in India, with the Majestic Snow capped Dhauladhars in the Backdrop and the other side is a sheer drop of the Dam which leads to the beas river flowing in to the evergreen fields of Punjab, it was a moment to die for!<br />
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<b>18. Group Riding or Solo?</b><br />
<br />
Group for sure!<br />
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<br />
<b>19. Have you faced any mechanical/electrical issues so far?</b><br />
<br />
Mostly wear and tear related like battery replacement, tyre and brake pads etc<br />
<br />
<b>20. What are the maximum figures you have seen on the speedo?</b><br />
<br />
165<br />
<br />
<b>21. Tell us a little about your riding gear. </b><br />
<br />
Starting from the footwear, I have two pairs of boots- one Caterpillar steel toes with laces and the other is Alpinestar racing boots with Velcro, I use both of them depending upon the ride timings and conditions.<br />
Knee guards are a must on rides where we intend to go 80+.<br />
<br />
3 Jackets- all harley, one all weather, one mesh jacket for the summer and of course my HOG Asst Director Jacket, all of them have Elbow and Shoulder protection.<br />
<br />
3-4 pairs of gloves-winter, summer (cut fingers), armour knuckes, lots of face masks<br />
<br />
One Arai helmet fitted with scala for long high speed rides and one Harley skull cap for short city rides.<br />
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<br />
<b>22. Have you set your eyes on any other bike(s)?</b><br />
<br />
Getting tempted with the K-1600 BMW and the Rocket 3 triumph.<br />
<br />
<b>23. Do you enjoy having a pillion? What impressions do they have of the bike?</b><br />
<br />
Not really as it restricts my freedom and i have to ride more cautiously, they love the experience as i have a very comfortable back seat with a sissy bar, you've been my pillion once so how was your experience?<br />
<br />
Sriram Sridharan: A journey on a moving couch with a V-twin music system is definitely one hell of an experience!<br />
<br />
<b>24. What is your advice to somone who wants to step in to the world of biking? </b><br />
<br />
Look yourself in the mirror and ask yourself some simple questions-<br />
<br />
Whether I can comfortably afford the bike that I Want?<br />
Whether I can put safety as prioirty no 1 when I hit the road?<br />
Whether I have the maturity to handle the power that the machine will instill in me?<br />
<br />
If any one answers is no, then dont enter this mad mad world.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-3771184989424084422012-03-31T20:48:00.004+05:302012-04-19T15:13:25.924+05:3054. Ankit's Yamaha FZ1, 2011<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
Name: <b>Ankit Sahney aka Diehard</b><br />
Age: <b>26 Years</b><br />
Motorcycling Clubs: <b>Born Riders, Xbhp, Bangalore Bikers & Superbike Higlanders</b><br />
Profession: <b>Senior Executive, Corporate Strategy & Business Development, Bosch india</b><br />
<b>Location: Bengalore</b><br />
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<br />
<b>1. When did you first throw a leg over the saddle, which bike was it?</b><br />
<br />
The first time ever on a bike was on my dad's '82 yezdi 250 classic when I was 13 years old I remember I could never start riding in 1st gear as I would always leave the clutch too fast and end up stalling . The bike is still with me and I cherish it a lot<br />
<br />
<b>2. Who taught you how to ride a bike? </b><br />
<br />
My dad taught me how to ride.<br />
<br />
<b>3. How many bikes have owned till now?</b><br />
<br />
3 of them-<br />
2003 Bajaj Pulsar 150<br />
2007 Bajaj Pulsar 220 DTSFi<br />
2011 Yamaha FZ1N<br />
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<br />
<b>4. How many do you currently own?</b><br />
<br />
I currently have 2 bikes in the stable, i.e. the 220 and the FZ<br />
<br />
<b>5. What made you go for the FZ1? Did you consider any other bike(s)?</b><br />
<br />
Firstly this is my first superbike and I have never ridden a superbike before but i always made one resolution that the first superbike I would ride would be mine and so I was basically looking for the whole package (looks, power, presence and ofcourse a head turner). Thats basically why I took the FZ1 because the bike had perfection written all over it. It had the brutish, heavy and big look. It had the power of a proper supersport and everything about the bike was simple and best part was that the riding position was upright which meant riding in city would be perfect. Fuelling was also a criteria because since the FZ runs on a lower compression ratio, it meant that we could use normal or 93 oct fuel which was great. Basically I settled for the FZ1 because I would the bike is perfectly positioned between 600s and superbred 1000cc. Although it's a "naked" bike you can still take it to the track and have a lot of fun on it.<br />
<br />
I remember about 4 months before actually getting the bike. my parents and I started visiting the showrooms we went to ducati, suzuki and yamaha.<br />
<br />
The bikes I-short listed where:<br />
<br />
Ducati Monster 796<br />
Suzuki Bandit 1250<br />
Yamaha FZ1N<br />
<br />
We went to ducati first, saw the 796 and first impressions were not so good, I didn't get the brutal feel when I saw the bike and it looked small. The bandit I felt was too subdued in its persona because its has a lot of torque 1250cc engine great bike but I just dint see myself fit perfectly on a bandit something was missing !<br />
<br />
The FZ, well I saw this in the showroom and I went crazy after the looks of it looked massive, intense, brutal and it had 150 bhp on tap ! Man it's a super deal for 10L !!<br />
<br />
<b>6. Describe what all went through your mind during the waiting period?</b><br />
<br />
The wait was agonizing because there was a lot pressure from my grandparents to not invest in something like this instead go in for a car etc. Of course ask any passionate biker he will definitely say when it comes to buying your dream, passion comes before logic that was the same case here made a lot of promises to parents and committed to hear them for whatever it is when it came to me riding this bike. Finally I went ahead and booked the FZ but there was a catch. I wanted the white colour but due to the tsunami in Japan earlier last year the production had stalled and whites would take anywhere from 6 to 8 months to get delivered. that was crazy only black in stock.<br />
<br />
I finally settled for the black, waiting period was just 20 days but man they were long 20 days. The thought of sitting on the bike and riding it for the first time, a superbike out of the showroom gave me the jitters. Trust me this was one hell of an experience since I had cancelled the booking once due to family pressure and basically reserved and dedicated the next 3 years of my hard earned money on the bike. <br />
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<b><br /></b><br />
<b>7. What do you feel is the best feature of the bike?</b><br />
<br />
I would say there are 2 best features of the bike-<br />
<br />
1. The Engine - Brilliant engine so much of low end torque starting off at 2k rpm and pin point sharp acceleration after 7k rpm give you a wide range on experiences of riding you can ride slow take it easy cruise at 100 -130 kmph or if ur having a bad day whack the throttle and there is an instant smile on your face.<br />
<br />
2. Riding position - The upright riding position means that you don't get tired easily no presure on the wrists and touring / city riding becomes even better.<br />
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<b><br /></b><br />
<b>8. Do you feel there is anything which you don't like or needs to be improved upon?</b><br />
<br />
The main problem is the wind blasts. I guess thats a drawback all naked bikes have. Windblast at the speed of 120 kmph are crazy! Left me with a neck pain a lot of times.<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>9. Have you done or intend to do any modifications?</b><br />
<br />
Yes I will be putting a Puig Flyscreen and belly pan on the bike.<br />
<br />
<b>10. How does the General public react when they see the bike on the road?</b><br />
<br />
Well the reaction is quite amazing and sometimes too much and its insanely addictive. The FZ is a head turner because its a different bike in appearance. for the general public the super bikes mean always the faired supersports like the R1 or the Gixxer but the naked bikes dont have a lot of exposure so I have noticed that a lot of people see this as a different bike and always ask me which bike is this . If you observe closely the people are always looking at the engine section of the bike which they would have never seen before and that's what makes the FZ1 a head turner I mean the big engine big tires have a profound effect on people<br />
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<br />
<b>11. How do you answer the following questions -</b><br />
<b> (a) How much does it cost?</b><br />
<b> (b) What mileage do you get?</b><br />
<b> (c) Are you going for a race?</b><br />
<b> (d) Wanna race? </b><br />
<br />
(a) I usually quote the price. Don't want to be a wise guy, just be honest<br />
(b)Honestly tell them what I am getting<br />
(c) It's actually funny because one of my close friends father had asked me this and all I could do was laugh it off :)<br />
(d) LOL I don't get this question at all. But I would say hell no on public roads. Get me a drag strip.<br />
<br />
<b>12. Which fuel and oil do you use?</b><br />
<br />
Currently using Yamalube Semi Synthetic. Will shift to full synthetic after 10k kms. Fuel, Usually Shell Super but sometimes normal petrol from HP or BP bunks<br />
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<br />
<b>13. How many kilometres have you covered so far? </b><br />
<br />
Around 4,500 as of now.<br />
<br />
<b>14. How often do you ride? </b><br />
<br />
Riding is limited to weekends but I also have a family restriction of 2 rides a month. Otherwise I would be riding it all day everyday<br />
<br />
<b>15. How are Bangalore's roads for superbikes?</b><br />
<br />
I have a mixed opinion about this. City roads a big no no during traffic hours but early mornings is ok.<br />
<br />
Highways: Again mixed opinion some roads are bumpy and some are brilliant but keeping 100-120 cruise speed its no problem at all bike is very stable and planted.<br />
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<br />
<b>16. Would the FZ make a good daily use superbike? </b><br />
<br />
Yes, definitely if you ignore the crazy inner thigh burning heat produced by the engine and of course the frequent visits to the bunk. In city the riding is manageable but the heat will get to you, brakes are amazing so no problem in sudden stops etc.<br />
<br />
<b>17. Who maintains the bike?</b><br />
<br />
I maintain it have all the oils, wax, plastic polishes etc. Wash both the bikes 2 times a month.<br />
<br />
<b>18. How has your experience been with the dealership?</b><br />
<br />
Got the bike from Perfect Riders on Lal Bagh road in Bangalore. The owner Mr. Gurudeep is a very nice person and SBK owners are treated very well. If you book the service in advance there are absolutely no glitches and they also explain what they are doing, take all precautions and go by the book<br />
<br />
<b>19. Have you faced any mechanical/electrical issues so far?</b><br />
<br />
Touch wood None at all<br />
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<br />
<b>20. What are the maximum figures you have seen on the speedo?</b><br />
<br />
Never seen beyond 150 on the speedo. I am a slow rider always last in the pack keep speeds of 100-130 kmph band on highways, nothing more<br />
<br />
<b>21. Tell us a little about your riding gear.</b><br />
<br />
Well currently I have a DSG jacket, LS2 helmet, DSG gloves<br />
<br />
I have ordered few items-<br />
Sidi ST Air boots, A-stars GP Pro 2 PC suit and still deciding on the helmet between Shoei X-12 Tony Elias replica or the Normal Matte black one.<br />
<br />
<b>22. if you were to add another bike to your stable which one would it be?</b><br />
<br />
I have 2 bikes on my mind<br />
<br />
1. My favourite: Ducati 848 Evo - It got away from me because of the price tag but will own one someday for sure.<br />
2. Triumph Daytona 675R: This bike is a keeper. An amazing all round performer. If I would have waited a little longer, would have got this for sure :)<br />
<br />
<b>23. What is your advice to young and budding enthusiasts who are looking to enter the world of superbiking?</b><br />
<br />
The main fact that I have learned is that you have to earn your dream / bike otherwise you wont have the respect for it. Work hard, be focused and trust me its feeling out of this world when you see the mechs removing the Box packaging to reveal the bike ! Truly amazing!<br />
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<br /></div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-10423243143370242872012-03-15T21:29:00.001+05:302012-04-19T15:13:42.306+05:3053. Roopak's Kawasaki Ninja 650R, 2011<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Name: <b>Roopak Jakhmola</b><br />
Profession: <b>CEO & Partner Radiant Limousine Services Pvt. Ltd. and Radiant Car Care Plus Pvt. Ltd.</b><br />
Motorcycling Club: <b>G.O.D.S.</b><br />
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<br />
<br />
<b>1.What got you hooked on to biking?</b><br />
<br />
:-) Was the only real form of personal transport available.<br />
<br />
<b>2.When did you first throw a leg over the saddle?</b><br />
<br />
Which bike was it? 1987. Honda CB125 twin, electric start, mag wheels. Small bike with big bike styling. The second one was the Suzuki RGF 250 Gamma, a real crochet rocket. Very very quick.<br />
<br />
<b>3.Describe the how it felt during the first ride. It was awesome</b>.<br />
<br />
The wind.. The freedom.. And the empty roads of Delhi in those days.. That was the life!<br />
<br />
<b>4.What made you choose the Ninja 650R?</b><br />
<br />
Wanted a Sports Tourer and a bike I could use everyday. Easy riding stance.<br />
<br />
<b>5.Was it a product of long-time research or love at first sight?</b><br />
<br />
Some research, since basically it met my requirements.<br />
<br />
<b>6.Did you consider any other bike?</b><br />
<br />
Actually wanted an inline 4 600cc, but nothing good was available. 2nd hand unless the owner is known, was not a good option.<br />
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<br />
<br />
<b>7.What is the best feature of the Ninja?</b><br />
<br />
Riding stance and linear power delivery.<br />
<br />
<b>8.Which aspect do you feel could be improved?</b><br />
<br />
Brakes and the sound? :-)<br />
<br />
<b>9.What all modifications have you done?</b><br />
<br />
Mostly cosmetic. Luimoto Seat, Harris grips, bar ends, rear spools, Top-Block Crash Pad, radiator guard, fender extender, rear hugger, Puig racing screen, Puig tidy tail, Ninja Wheel rim decals. On the engine side Leo Vince GP exhaust and in some time Power Commander 5 and Auto tune.<br />
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<br />
<br />
<b>10.What questions and doubts does the general public have when they you and the bike?</b><br />
<br />
Kitne ki hai? And Kitna deti hai? The second most asked question is about the Top Speed.<br />
<br />
<b>11.What are your responses? </b><br />
<br />
Try not to answer :-) the first one. The other two are not a problem.<br />
<br />
<b>12.Who maintaians the bike?</b><br />
<br />
Me myself and the workshop at the moment. Once out of warranty will do the whole thing myself.<br />
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<br />
<br />
<b>13.Have you faced any technical/electrical issue so far?</b><br />
<br />
Nope. All Ok.<br />
<br />
<b>14.Narrate a memorable experience on the road. </b><br />
<br />
I was stopped at a red light and a guy in the car next to me wanted me to do a burn out<br />
<br />
<b>15.And a not so memorable experience. </b><br />
<br />
A guy was egging me to race him and I was not interested. When we stopped at a red light some distance away, he is telling his friend " This guy doesn't know how to ride. Looks like he has is just learning." :-)<br />
<br />
<b>16.Which Fuel and oil do you use?</b><br />
<br />
Regular Fuel. Synthetic Oil 20W40<br />
<br />
<b>17.Are you looking to upgrade anytime soon?</b><br />
<br />
Will definitely buy an Inline Four<br />
<br />
<b>18.Tell us a little about your riding gear.</b><br />
<br />
AlpineStar Street Boots, Fox racing gloves, Komine Jacket, Airoh GP Helmet<br />
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<b>19.What is the top speed you have touched?</b><br />
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220 Kmph<br />
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<b>20.What is your advice to young enthusiasts who dream of stepping into the world of super biking?</b><br />
<br />
Respect the power that these machines have. Look after your machine, like you would a baby. They can be very unforgiving if you don't take care of the basics on a daily basis. Learn safe driving and always drive with good quality protective gear.</div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-45618072024001177632012-01-25T12:49:00.000+05:302012-04-19T15:13:52.405+05:3052. Keertan's Harley-Davidson 883 Iron, 2011<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Name: Keertan Adyanthaya a.k.a "Kee"<br />
Motorcycling Club: Brotherhood Riding Club<br />
Profession : Managing Director, NGC Networks India<br />
Age: 39<br />
Location: New Delhi<br />
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1.When did you first put your legs over a bike, which one was it and who gave you your first lessons?<br />
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I rode a bike for the first time when i was 13. It was a Jawa 250 cc. My neighbour owned the bike and he was the one who taught me how to ride. (My family had the only telephone in the neighbourhood and it was a reward / bribe to be double quick in calling him to the phone when he got a call.) Riding it wasn't tough, but starting it could be a real bitch... we would mostly do a running start on 2nd gear.<br />
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2. How many bikes have you gone through since then?<br />
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Hmmm... lets see.. the first bike i owned was an RX 100, then a Kawasaki Bajaj, then an RD 350 and then a long lull and now an Iron 883<br />
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3.What was the reason behind going for the Iron 883?<br />
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I always used to have a soft spot for Harley Davidson. And in the last few years, i would go on the internet and this is the bike that really caught my eye for its blacked out looks. The denim black paint, the wrinkle black engine casing and the minimal look. The dealer gave me a test ride and i just loved the ease of riding this bike. I was riding a bike after a decade & a half... this was the perfect bike for me.<br />
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4.Did you consider any other bike before zeroing in on the Iron?<br />
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I did consider the FZ1 as well. But the dealer did not have a bike available for a test ride.<br />
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5.What do you feel is the best feature of it?<br />
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The best feature of the bike is its manuevrability in traffic in spite of being a superbike.<br />
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6.Do you feel there is any aspect which could be better?<br />
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The ground clearance & ride quality could be better<br />
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7.What all questions does the general public have when they see you on the bike?<br />
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a. Mileage kya hai ?<br />
b. Kitne ki hai ?<br />
c. Racing ke liye jaa rahe hai ?<br />
d. Yeh Bullet ka naya model hai kya ?<br />
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8.Does the questioning session get irritating sometimes?<br />
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Not really, my patience levels are quite high.<br />
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9.What all modifications have you done?<br />
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Screaming Eagle Air Filter & Exhausts, Diamond Cut Grips & a rear seat for the wife – which hasn’t been used much.<br />
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10.Narrate an interesting experience on the road.<br />
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We were riding in Rajasthan, when we passed by 2 guys carrying a bullock calf on a hero Honda, as i passed by, i gave a small tap on the head of the calf and it went nuts and started quivering all over the place. The 2 guys had a real hard time controlling the calf & the bike, but they managed to and they were also laughing hysterically. It was hilarious at the time, but I felt very bad later.<br />
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11.Solo Riding or Group Riding?<br />
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I enjoy both. But group riding has enabled me to acquire a set of brothers that I never had.<br />
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12.Have you face any mechanical/electrical issues so far?<br />
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No issues at all, the bike is hardy & absorbs a lot of punishment<br />
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13.Tell us about your riding gear.<br />
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Icon Airframe Helmet, Scala Rider G4 Bluetooth headset, Harley Davidson Switchback Jacket, Thor Elbow Guards, Alpinestars Gloves, R-Jay’s 3 season riding pants, Thor Knee Guards, Icon Riding Boots.<br />
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<br />
14.Do you have your eyes set on any other bike?<br />
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Well, the eye’s are set on two actually – The BMW K1300R & the Harley Davidson Fat Bob. But the wallet can only afford one of them...<br />
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15.What is your advice for young enthusiasts who want to step in to the world of biking?<br />
<br />
Wear the necessary protection & ride safe on the streets. Stay alert when on the bike and do not<br />
ride when intoxicated. If you have to, then perform stunts in a controlled area or racetrack.</div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-21507701320203172452012-01-02T22:03:00.000+05:302012-04-19T15:14:10.380+05:3051. The Royal Rajasthan Ride: The Ride of A Lifetime<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"> by Keertan Adyanthaya </span></b><br />
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The alarm rang at 4 am on Tuesday morning and woke me from a fitful slumber. Woke up,</div>
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took a quick cold shower to jolt me fully awake, put on my leg guards, my riding jeans, 2</div>
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layers of T-shirts, bandanna around the neck, balaclava around the noggin and riding leather</div>
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jacket. My bag had been packed and double checked the previous night itself. Picked up the</div>
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trusty old helmet & gloves and was ready to hit the road at 4.30 am.</div>
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First stop at HUDA metro station in Gurgaon to join another HOG - Ashwani Singla</div>
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(patch) and then the two of us were on our way to the rendezvous point - Anatomy Lifestyle</div>
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in Delhi. A few jokes and Coffee's later, all the riders were there except for Ravinder Singh</div>
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(Montu). He turned up in the nick of time. We were now 10 riders embarking on a fun</div>
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journey, but even we didn't know how much fun it was gonna be.</div>
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Asis Mandal (Dada) had mapped out the roads for this expedition and was leading the way,</div>
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behind him was Hemanth Paul (Doc) and then the rest of us. Sharad Sharma (Sheru) took up</div>
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the tail / sweep position, Bal Nanda & Pawan Chohan shared the marshalling duties. Rahul -</div>
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the service engineer from Capital HD was trailing us in the support car.</div>
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Our initial destination was Surajgarh where we were to have a late breakfast. We took the</div>
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country roads and went past the small sleepy towns of Bahadurgarh & Jhajjar to get there.</div>
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The roads were mostly single carriageway, but were in good condition. Along the way, Dada</div>
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had a brief encounter with a mangy black dog, but the dog got away with life & limb intact.</div>
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We stopped for chai just after we passed Jhajjar and caused a minor commotion in the</div>
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town.</div>
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We were riding the roads at speeds between 60 & 80 kmph, our first mishap was when 2</div>
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dogs decided to cross the road just as we were thundering past. Patch was the unlucky rider</div>
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who caught up with them; he successfully avoided the first one, but got entangled with the</div>
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second. He crashed into the dog at 60 kmph and slid on the road, but sprang up from the</div>
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tarmac at a speed of 120 kmph. He had a couple of scratches, his jacket & pants a few rips,</div>
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the bike a scratch, the engine guard had taken the brunt of the slide. The scoreline read</div>
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Patch 1: Dogs : 0</div>
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We all decided that Patch needed to take a short chill break and Rahul got onto the fat boy,</div>
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while patch rode shotgun in the car. We were extra careful for the next hour and reached</div>
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Surajgarh without any further incidents. The engine guard had been dismounted from the</div>
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bike and was dispatched for welding.</div>
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Our scheduled stop was at Surajgarh for breakfast. We had assumed that we were going to</div>
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a restaurant there. But when we arrived, we were pleasantly surprised to see a small palace</div>
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which had been exquisitely restored with ethnic materials & ornamentation. The staff was</div>
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extremely courteous and made us feel at home. Our host was Anil Arora’s pal - Maharaj</div>
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Aishwarya Katoch and he greeted us with effusive warmth. We spent a lot of time over</div>
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breakfast admiring the view and exploring the nooks & crannies of the palace. Soon, it was</div>
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time to leave because we had many miles to go to reach our destination for day 1. After a</div>
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quick medical all clear, Patch was back on the bike and we were ready to roar.</div>
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Onward we went past small villages and towns, passing a lot of cattle & livestock. I think the</div>
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state “doggy grapevine” had passed the message to fellow dogs, so they pretty much kept</div>
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out of our way. We passed through some very narrow village roads where there was barely</div>
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space for a single lane of traffic to pass through. Oncoming traffic of trucks & tractors made</div>
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way for the 2 wheeled monsters and we made good progress. But like they say, you've got</div>
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to pass through the worst before it gets better. There was a stretch just before we reached</div>
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the highway where a water pipeline had leaked and there was ankle deep water on the</div>
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road, we didn't know if there were any ditches underfoot, but we drove through this patch</div>
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of road with a prayer on our lips.</div>
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We then hit the highway and decided to take a refreshment break. It was at a small highway</div>
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dhaba, we were served the most divine Masala chai & spicy chili laden Maggi noodles. We</div>
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liked the noodles so much that we kept ordering multiple rounds. The rest of the journey on</div>
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day one passed without incident and we reached the beautiful city of Bikaner just past</div>
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sunset.</div>
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We stayed at the Laxmi Niwas palace in Bikaner. After a quick shower, we all met for drinks</div>
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and dinner. We were quite ravenous and cheerful about the day. Bal not only entertained</div>
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the group with his quick wit & irrepressible one liners, but also took the responsibility of</div>
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organising our meals. He invited the chef over to our table and ordered a delectable spread</div>
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of Kebabs, Lal Maas & Maa-Ki-Dal and some absolutely scrumptious desserts. We gorged on</div>
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this and there was still a task left for the day. The truck with the bikes had already reached</div>
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there and the bikes needed to be unloaded so we didn't waste any time the next morning.</div>
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There were two 350 kilo monsters parked inside the truck and all of us struggled with them,</div>
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but unloaded them safely after a few tense moments.</div>
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All in all, it had been a pretty eventful day. We crashed into bed and slept sound while 2 of</div>
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the brothers were driving down to Bikaner from Jaipur in a taxicab.</div>
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We woke up the next morning and had a late breakfast and spent half an hour cleaning our</div>
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bikes which was totally un-necessary given the fact that we were going to be on the road all</div>
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day and the bikes would just gather road grime once again. But, we love the shine of</div>
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chrome and the feel of clean paintwork. I spent another 15-20 minutes hooking everybody</div>
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up on the Scala headsets that we were using to communicate with each other on the road.</div>
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We got onto the highway and the roads were pretty devoid of traffic. We now had our</div>
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regular Sweep / Tail gunner – Titus Koshy shepherding us. Long stretches of highway, arrow</div>
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straight with only the cattle to say hello to as we thunder past. We encountered cows,</div>
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buffalo, sheep, goats & camels on this road. There were also multiple convoy’s of army</div>
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supply trucks, Howitzers, troop carriers & border security equipment that we passed by.</div>
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Even though we had planned to skip lunch, so we could reach our destination before</div>
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nightfall, we were famished by 2 pm and decided to stop for a quick bite. The quick bite</div>
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turned into a long leisurely lunch. This was a purely vegetarian spread with some bajre ki</div>
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roti, gobi ki sabzi and some lasan ki chatni that was sent down from heaven.</div>
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Post lunch, a small hurdle came our way. The Greatest (i know it sounds like the name of a</div>
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WWE wrestler, but he isn’t one) Anil Arora had a valve leak in his tyre. We had just passed</div>
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Pokhran then. We had to stop at a small roadside puncture repair shop to get this fixed. It</div>
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was a very quaint place and was the abode of a Bishnoi community. We spent about 90</div>
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minutes getting the wheel repaired, but the sun was almost below the horizon.</div>
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We got on our way, but just 30 km later, Sheru had a blowout of his rear tyre. This couldn’t</div>
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be repaired and needed a replacement. We loaded the bike onto the recovery truck and got</div>
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onto the highway once again. It was dark and dangerous to drive. We stationed the Road</div>
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king with its blazing headlights and uber-confident rider – Pawan, right up at the head of our</div>
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convoy to guide us along our way. 2 Marshals – Bal & Samir Malhotra (Sammy) patrolled the</div>
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line and kept the riders in a tight formation. In the meanwhile, our logistics experts – Titus &</div>
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Anil were burning the mobile airwaves with frantic calls to Delhi to transport a replacement</div>
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tyre to Jodhpur, so that we could fix the bike. We reached Jaisalmer in pretty good time, but</div>
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the desert camp we were staying in was 45 km beyond. It took us a little longer than an</div>
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hour on a treacherous half paved road to reach the camp.</div>
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We were exhausted and promising each other that we would not make the mistake of riding</div>
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in the night a third time. The evening made up for the arduous day that we’d had. Vikram</div>
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Bhaduria (Vicks) whipped out some divine single malt & his Bose portable and played some</div>
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spiritual sufi music which put us in the right mood. Then Sheru brought out his guitar and</div>
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played some classic rock songs that we all sang along to. Bal & Anil kept us in splits with</div>
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their sit-down comedy, jokes & anecdotes. At 1 am, a few of us decided that it was an early</div>
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Christmas and we went carol singing to wake up our friends who had decided to call it an</div>
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early night. Of course our carols were quite bawdy & ribald and hence not worthy of being</div>
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printed. Sammy who was staying alone in the tent was quite aghast when the merry carol</div>
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singers barged in and was ready to defend himself from being molested or harmed in any</div>
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way.</div>
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It was a beautiful desert sunrise the next day and we all woke up to catch it on our cameras</div>
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for posterity. Some of the riders went dune bashing in a jeep. We then packed our bags and</div>
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left on time. Our destination was Jodhpur and we were riding via Pokhran. This stretch had</div>
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some of the best roads of our journey so far. Good twisty sections perfectly banked. We</div>
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stopped at a beautiful resort called Manvar;</div>
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It was like an oasis in a desert. It had an open air courtyard with a decades old tree that</div>
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provided shelter from the blazing sun. We had a wonderful meal with some spicy rajasthani</div>
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chicken curry, ker sangri, jodhpuri kadhi & some choorma with ghee to lull us to sleep and</div>
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we were back on the road again.</div>
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We reached Jodhpur just an hour behind schedule and the tyre had already reached from<br />
Delhi. Maharaj Katoch was also here to welcome us once again and extended his courtesy<br />
and invited us to see the Maharaja of Jodhpur’s collection of vintage cars at the Umaid<br />
Bhavan. The cars were a sight to behold – masterpieces in Metal, lovingly restored and all of<br />
them in perfect running condition. We just couldn’t bear to leave this place but we had to<br />
be on our way to ride another 60 km to reach our night halt.<br />
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Sheru’s bike’s wheel got fixed with a some heavy lifting by Bal & the boys. Sheru had a head</div>
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mounted LED torch which immediately earned him the nickname of Shesh-Nag. The lifting</div>
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and straining had some of us clutching our backs, but doc pulled out his trusty medical kit</div>
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and sprayed us with some pain relievers and we were back on the saddle again. We got</div>
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word that two more riders from Delhi, Praveer & Priyansh had already arrived and were</div>
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waiting for us at the resort – In short order, we set out on the last leg of the journey for the</div>
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day. Maharaj Katoch led the way in his SUV.</div>
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We reached the Sardar Samand Lake Palace late into the night, an over a century old</div>
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hunting lodge converted into a palace hotel and lovingly restored to its former glory. The</div>
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furniture & furnishings were exquisite and suited the surroundings perfectly. Every room</div>
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had a fireplace and was cozy & warm. Maharaj Katoch hosted a reception for us by the</div>
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poolside and his staff catered to our every need with affection & care. We felt like we were</div>
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royal dignitaries who had arrived at the King’s palace. The royal care made sure that some</div>
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of the reserved riders like Montu & Vicks opened up and were relating anecdotes too.</div>
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We woke up early the next morning to a stunning view. The palace overlooked a beautiful</div>
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lake with a variety of birds of different plumage on its banks. The palace itself was built in</div>
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the art deco style and had a very large collection of hunting trophies & watercolour</div>
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paintings. The sunrise that we viewed here cannot be described, it was so beautiful. We just</div>
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could not bring ourselves to leave this palace and had to be practically dragged away.</div>
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This was the penultimate day of our trip and our destination was the salt lake in Sambar.</div>
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According to biker lore, this lake was a dry lake and had a hard packed bed on which we</div>
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could ride. Since the radius of the lake was 35 km, it was a lot of riding we could do. Our ride</div>
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towards Sambar was pretty uneventful, we encountered some heavy traffic on this road and</div>
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a couple of long stretches where they were re-building the roads and we had to take bumpy</div>
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detours. Our last stop was at Dudu which was 35 km from Sambar, where we refueled</div>
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before heading to the salt lake.</div>
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We started riding toward the lake and with the setting sun it grew progressively dark. It was</div>
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at this point that we made a wrong turn and stopped to ask one of the locals for directions.</div>
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He turned out to be extremely helpful and promised to lead us to our destination. We</div>
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followed him; however the road deteriorated until we weren’t on road anymore, but on a</div>
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bumpy, uneven mud track.</div>
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We then reached the home of the local and he wanted to show us how hospitable he could</div>
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be and invited us to break our journey and have dinner with his family. We were grateful for</div>
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his offer but needed to get going. He then continued to lead us along the path and pretty</div>
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soon we weren’t even on the mud track, but on a sandy path. The bikes were weaving</div>
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around beneath us on the unsure footing. The local (at this point, I’ll start referring to him as</div>
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Loco) told us that it’s just another half of a km more of this sand and we would be on a</div>
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paved road. So we continued, we were riding on loose, deep sand drifts and the bikes were</div>
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just uncontrollable. Every few minutes, some bike would have a tailspin and throw up</div>
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plumes of sand. Sheru dropped his bike a couple of time, Bal & Doc dropped theirs too. The</div>
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riders on the bigger bikes like the fat-boys & softails & road kings had the worst time of all.</div>
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They were in high risk of breaking a bone or getting crushed under the bikes. We continued</div>
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like this for the next 2-3 km.</div>
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Finally, my bike stalled and refused to go any further. The bike was starting, but the gears</div>
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refused to engage. All the riders dismounted and came to my aid. We took turns and started</div>
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pushing the bike. It was terribly hard going because of the loose sand. There were a couple</div>
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of other bikes which stalled, but started again after a few minutes of cooling down the</div>
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engine. Loco told us once again that it was just 300m to the paved road, but by now</div>
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realization had dawned on us that he could not be trusted. Tempers were frayed, but we</div>
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somehow kept our cool. We kept pushing the bike for about a kilometre, no road in sight.</div>
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Loco offered to push the bike himself, since we were exhausted, I handed it to him, but he</div>
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almost got crushed when the bike began to lean on him. Sammy, Vikram, Pawan & I took</div>
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turns for the last km and gave it a huge push and reached the road. This was one of the</div>
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longest & most arduous evenings of our lives.</div>
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Once there, Rahul the HD service engineer arrived and got down to business, he opened a</div>
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couple of nuts, tightened a few cables, and loosened a few others. He then turned the key</div>
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on, we all held our breath, he started the engine, I still hadn’t exhaled, he engaged the bike</div>
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in gear and it started moving. I let out a huge whoop of joy. All of us bedraggled and</div>
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exhausted riders then made our way to the Lalit Mahal. This was the worst leg of our ride.</div>
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Even dirt track bikes would have had difficulty in negotiating this, but we had gone through</div>
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it all.</div>
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In the meanwhile, 2 more riders from Delhi had turned up to join us – Rishab & Laju. 10 had</div>
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started out from Delhi & we were now 16. It was an early night for all of us. We woke up</div>
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early the next morning to check out the salt lake. It was rugged & beautiful. But it’s more of</div>
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an acquired taste. I don’t think I would come back here again.</div>
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This was the day that we were going to ride back home. We set back on the road with some</div>
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trepidation. I had been warned not to rev my bike too much and not to cross 100 kmph on</div>
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the ride back. We rode at a constant speed and made good time on our return journey back.</div>
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We stopped at a Cafe Coffee Day on the highway and bought up all the food there because</div>
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we were quite hungry. The other customers visiting the Cafe were quite put out by this.</div>
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We took a halt just after the Manesar toll gate to congratulate each other on completing</div>
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this 2000 km ride and to bid au revoir to each other. We all reached home before sun-down,</div>
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the first time we had reached our destination before dark during the entire trip.</div>
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It truly had been the journey of a lifetime.</div>
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<br /></div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-44680576732227115772011-12-21T20:45:00.000+05:302012-04-19T15:14:23.767+05:3050. Saddlesore on an R1 !<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am sure most of you must know about the IBA or Iron Butt Association but for those who don't let me tell you what it is. The IBA is an association that is dedicated to safe, long-distance riding on motorcycles. It is a US based association with members from all over the world<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 14px;">.</span> In order to become a member, one must complete a record breaking ride from the list of rides they have mentioned on their website, the most popular being the Saddle Sore 1600 in which one must complete 1600 km's of riding within 24 hours abiding to the rules they have mentioned.<br />
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To do the same on a tourer ( A motorcycle built for touring) is relatively easy but on a sportbike it's an entirely different ball game. A similar thought crossed the mind of a hardcore enthusiast from Bangalore, Ajay Ananth. He is the proud owner of a 2008 Yamaha YZF-R1. Now a 998cc, track-bred, supersport monster should most probably your last choice for completing a saddle sore ride but believe it or not Ajay(on his R1) along with his friend Manjunath M.R.(on his R15) successfully completed the SS1600 ride and became the first Indian to do so on a superbike.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> From here on I am posting his trip's log as narrated by him -</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jan 8th was the chosen day for the ride since the 2 of us Manjunath and yours truly couldn’t take 2 days (1 ride and 1 rest day) off on a weekday. Our ride agenda was simple, cover the maximum distance in the first 12 hours and to get through the bad section between Haveri and Rannebennur in daylight.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We got our start witness forms signed and left Girinagar, Bangalore at 1pm in the noon to hit NH4 via the NECE Road, being an afternoon we encountered sparse traffic but the sun was breathing down on us. I stopped for fuel at Sira about 100kms from the start point since this BPCL provided an electronic fuel receipt, gulped some Gatorade, took pictures of the odometer and headed to Chitradurga.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This stretch is planted with windmills every where and I could think of an analogy between the 3 spoke alloy wheels of my R1 and the 3 blades of these monster fans. I was constantly clocking 120kmph + on these roads and had found that sweet posture which is the thin line between fatigue and pleasure riding.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My next fuel stop was at an IOC bunk at Davangere, a company owned 24 hours fuel station offering premium fuel. They were curious about 2 guys decked up like straight out a Star Trek movie on two similar looking motorcycles (The R15s have always acted as an decoy for the R1 which is good; saves me from answering the usual questions ) they were shocked to hear about our 24 hour challenge and wished us luck.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We rode on to encounter the bad patch between Haveri and Rannebennur which is under construction due to a railway track, got through this section to find some roads which can give an expressway a run for the money.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We met our beloved friend Avinash at the toll gate near Hubli , he rode along till Dharwad which was my next fuel stop.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We then stopped to tank up at Nipani, again a 24 hours station offering IOC Xtra premium throughout, having clocked about 570 odd kms we had just left ventured into the MH territory. Border cities or towns have always caught my eye since you can observe the change in the way people talk, their dress sense, food and the way they look.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Our routine while filling fuel involved munching on energy bars and Gatorade, but this time they didn’t suffice our hunger and we took our first major break of about 20 minutes at the Kolhapur McDonald for a quick bite.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;">We then proceeded towards our halfway point Kothrud (on the outskirts of Pune), the odo showed 869 kms, we stopped at an Axis Bank to take a time stamp since an ATM gives a precise date & location stamp.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;">We stopped for fuel at Varve on the way back just after the Katraj bypass at the BPCL bunk who provide an electronic bill which was about 1:30am. At this point we 12 hrs into the ride and slowly the symptoms of fatigue started to creep in.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;">Most of the time the R15 was ahead of R1 due to the lesser fuel stops and the late braking as compared to the R1.But on the way back we decided to stick together to take full advantage of the enormous headlights of the R1 which lit up every inch of the road giving us better visibility; the cars and trucks gave way even without me asking for it thinking that it must be a 4 wheeler.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;">The empty stretches of road with nothing to look around due to the darkness made me concentrate on the black ribbon of tarmac with the reflectors on the ends, which took me to a trance and a chance to look at all my past experiences, my decisions and my actions; suddenly I was no longer on a motorcycle but in a theater running the movie of everything I had seen and felt for as long as I remember.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;">I was woken up from this when Manjunath honked at me to indicate that the Ghat section was about to begin .I usually look forward to ride in the ghats, but this time I cursed on traversing this kind of terrain since I had to reposition every single time to tackle a corner of the ghats which meant more stain on my overall body and the wrists.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;">Adding to this pain was an MH State transport bus and a 6 wheeler truck trying to outrun each other like maniacs on the ghats and a BMW 320 behind me who was honking consistently at the bus to give way. The R15 sneaked between them and passed on indicating that he would wait for me at the end of the ghat section.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;">The truck fellow finally gave in, me and the BMW passed them and the next corner is what I can never forget in my lifetime. It was a right hander without barricades, no reflective pods or what so ever to indicate how deep the apex of the corner was, I was doing about 60-65kmph and thinking that I am yet to hit the apex I throttled a bit to reach 90kmph to realize that the apex is gone and I am heading towards the gravel and then into a drop into a valley , for the first time I being a bit sleepy helped in not panicking since my responses were delayed and I got a moment to think of what has to be done rather than just grabbing the brakes and locking the wheel which would have increased my chances of going into the valley, instead I down shifted and feathered the rear brake to straighten the bike as soon as I hit the gravel and missed the valley drop by an inch. The BMW behind signaled at me to ask if I was fine and I gave him thumbs up and we went our ways. I was happy to see Manjunath waiting for me at the end of the ghats and I told him about his incident and his response was ‘ Me too maga, what a f*****g corner it was, Sakaath (super) biscuit’ and both of us started laughing.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;">This for a while took my attention away from the odo reading and after a couple more kms my fuel light came on and so started my frenzy about looking for a fuel station in spite of having emergency fuel(which I had forgotten altogether, lack sleep was playing all the cards) and most of them offered only diesel, finally tanked up at Nerla(easily the worst quality of fuel I had ever come across), after about 5 kms the R1 started complaining; reduced throttle response, knocking above 7000 rpm and lots of misfires greeted Manjunath at the next toll.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The cold winds made me pray to god to advance the sunrise to 4am. Sleep was playing all tricks on me, I could see people sleeping on a nice cot in the middle of the road and imaginary bystanders inviting me to their houses to get some sleep.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The next 50kms I rode half asleep with my rear tyre all over the road. We decided that it was high time we get some sleep or find some chai to wake us up, so half asleep we wound up at a chai shop and had chai, it was after this we realized how dirty the place was and the water he used to make chai cannot be described, this awareness confirmed that we were back to our normal senses and we decided to step up the pace since we had to reach Bangalore before 1pm.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I stopped at the next bunk just to fill fuel for a fuel receipt (since it is easy for IBA to track our route) filled up for 100 bucks, but was surprised to see that they gave an electronic receipt.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">About 7am the sun finally came out I was shouting inside my helmet with joy which lasted only a few kilometers since I was riding facing the sun with clear visor, the radiance of the sun made me to close my eyes and soon the instinct of sleeping took over which was a constant battle I fought till the end of the ride.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Some respite from this offered by a Tata Safari Dicor who mistook me for an R15 and signaled at me to race, I usually switch the left indicator and tell them to overtake me since I am very much against racing on public roads endangering the lives of other motorists and pedestrians, also I was too tired to accept it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Suddenly I decided that I am going to show this idiot what an R1 is and overtook him at about 160kmph(any day a dumb decision, but the adrenalin woke me up), the Safari took it on and revved till kingdom come to catch me and for about 2-3 seconds we were racing side by side at 160+ kmph, I still had another gear to go whereas the Dicor had already peaked, next moment I am clocking 260kmph on my odo and could see the Safari disappear into the horizon.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My next fuel stop was the IOC bunk at Dharwad and the guys at the petrol station were thrilled to see me again and congratulated me assuming that I would reach Bangalore before the 24hr deadline. The tires needed air, the bunk had the air compressor but there was no power, the owner was courteous enough to fix a generator for the air compressor to fill up my tires and wished me luck; such instances of unadulterated goodness made me realize what makes touring in my country so special :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">From here on it was a smooth and boring sail (blame the monotonous NH4) to the end point via the NECE road to the ATM in Girinagar from where it all started. Manjunath had reached about 30 minutes before me and when I finally took the end receipt I was exhausted.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I had difficulty doing precision movements involving my hands such as inserting the ATM card or buckling the helmet; my wrists were shivering due to the beating and were begging me to slash them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">In the end he completed the the ride in 22 hours and 45 minutes while his friend Manjunath was half an hour earlier than him at 22 hours and 15 minutes. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So what does it take to complete a Saddle Sore? Answer - Some careful planning and truckloads of endurance and will power. I wish to congratulate Ajay and his friend Manjunath on this outstanding achievement and hope they continue to perform many more record breaking feats, making us fellow bikers proud. All the best guys!</span></div>
</div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-18684275693769573442011-10-13T14:00:00.000+05:302012-04-19T15:14:34.848+05:3049. The DIAVEL<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Name: DucatiFanBoy<br />
Age: 36<br />
Profession: Finance <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1pU8Z4l_tJ0/TpakdvMCrfI/AAAAAAAAAzI/WZH8f8g5kvo/s1600/diavel-1474.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662894412255112690" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1pU8Z4l_tJ0/TpakdvMCrfI/AAAAAAAAAzI/WZH8f8g5kvo/s400/diavel-1474.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>1. When did your passion for bikes begin?</strong><br />
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At about 10 yrs of age, when i rode a friends Luna for the first time ... it felt like magic, from cycling where you often concentrate more on doing the work (pedaling) ... you could now just look around and enjoy the breeze!<br />
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<strong>2. You've got a love for race tracks and cars too, tell us about it?</strong><br />
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I have done a lot of amateur and competitive racing, though all on 4 wheels -- from the national karting races in India to driving supercars on numerous f1 and other racetracks around the world, including the old nurburgring with its 180 corners (unfortunately i had a dull and boring SLK350 with an autobox that day as my drive)<br />
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So here is my conclusion .. if you like automobiles (and love your life), a race track is a place to ride / drive them fast ... thats where you explore the limits - your own, the machine's and enjoy the feedback from the tyres and grip levels ... you learn so much in every corner ... the tyre tempratures change, tarmac grip levels change and you adapt your technique! What you experience on the road is a 10% of the excitement .. most of it from just going fast enough to scare yourself / risk your life! Of course riding with a mature group like GODS is an altogether different experience, where you are enjoying the ride within a disciplined controlled set of protocols rather than doing anything stupid like overspeeding / stunting. Its great to be out with a set of riding buddies and it doesnt matter that you dont use even 10% of your bike's power, cos you are on the public road. <br />
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And from all that driving/riding I can tell you, that steering a professional rotax go kart with a topspeed of barely 160kmph through fast chicanes and long sweeping corners with the rear suspension fully loaded is by far the biggest adrenaline rush in my automotive life .. way ahead of thrashing ferraris, porsches and lambos on race tracks .. driving supercars and bikes on the road is of course a distant third. <br />
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I cannot tell you how excited I am about the F1 track coming up in Delhi .. and I wish a lot of youngsters take to karting and open wheel racing (formula ford and formula maruti open wheel cars) and 250cc race bikes on the track (I will for sure!). <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Un1lP_Q21hs/Tpakdnmu9dI/AAAAAAAAAy4/Udwl8mhI9H4/s1600/diavel_bathed-3743.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662894410219582930" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Un1lP_Q21hs/Tpakdnmu9dI/AAAAAAAAAy4/Udwl8mhI9H4/s400/diavel_bathed-3743.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 266px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>3. What bikes were in your consideration set before you closed on the Diavel?</strong><br />
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It was a long 2 year period of jumping through options, from mt01, cb1000r, but pretty quickly through the process I got to a point where I knew it had to be a ducati. Just loved the 848 / 1198 and even booked an 1198 and then decided to cancel it. Current generation 848 / 1198 are just the most amazing looking bikes to me and and some day i'd love to own one of them as a piece of art (till then a scale model would do!). I also briefly considered an SF-S<br />
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4. What makes the Diavel so Special?</strong><br />
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To be honest, #1 - that it is a bike .. i hadn't been riding actively for many years, so it was just great to be on a bike, any bike! <br />
#2 Looks amazing .. now it isn't a sculpted beauty like the 848 / 1198, but it is one of a type and pretty darn mean looking bike <br />
#3 You have to ride it appreciate how it makes the impossible possible w.r.t. how much easier to ride it is compared to even cruisers, how much faster on the throttle it is compared to superbikes and how stable it is in corners. Don't get me wrong .. a cbr600rr will take the pants off of it in terms of corner speeds and an 1198 will blow it in a high speed run ... and while you can take a diavel to the track, its not meant for it. But it has so far been impossible for 1 bike to do so much. And what that translates to is that it is a near perfect bike for the street (even handles a pillion really well) -- till you get to maintenance that is ;)<br />
#4 It has all technology you have ever heard of, which also enhances the safety - 8 level traction control, abs, slipper clutch, riding modes, keyless ignition, the works.<br />
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<strong>5. Whats about the Diavel would you improve?</strong><br />
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Besides wishing for a maintenance network nearby, i'd say ground clearence, a slightly more aggressive riding posture would go better with the bike's persona (maybe i should try a higher seat), maybe add some rocket launchers on either side ;)<br />
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<strong>6. Head to head between a race/supercar and the Diavel who would win?</strong><br />
On the road, the diavel anyday .. its much more fun to ride than to drive in general. On a track since I have a lot more experience on 4 wheels, I would prefer a supercar (though i'd prefer an open wheel race car over a supercar). But hopefully in next 2-3 yrs now I'd also get some level of proficiency on 2 wheels on the F1 track and then I suspect this answer will reverse too. <br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-QyhWdoEi8/TpakdQtJbhI/AAAAAAAAAyw/Qmxldlja34o/s1600/319284_201151699952796_151930158208284_528390_1825875475_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662894404072467986" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-QyhWdoEi8/TpakdQtJbhI/AAAAAAAAAyw/Qmxldlja34o/s400/319284_201151699952796_151930158208284_528390_1825875475_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 267px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>7. Any plans to accessorise the bike?</strong><br />
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Well yes .. gradually, the bike comes really kitted out to start with .. but will keep adding nice bits as and when i find them. Exhaust is on top of my mind, but even the stocks are so loud that I am kind of unsure<br />
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<strong>8. Have you done any performance mods on it? do you have any plans to?</strong><br />
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Not yet, just a sportster windscreen, which also does not reduce the wind blast much .. but looks cool!<br />
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<strong>9. The Diavel is a quantum leap from the traditional Ducati design, whats your take on it?</strong><br />
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Thats the fun part .. it is and it is not. It looks so different, but is bloody light, sounds the same, goes the same, has same trellis frame. If you ask me they have managed to pull off a coup .. people on the ducati forums love it now (btw lot of them hated it before it was actually launched and available for test rides) and even the non ducati even non biking guys love it. I was quite nervous about the fact that I might really hate it if it ends up feeling like a cruiser - which I didn't want, but it worked out pretty well! This one is for keeps...<br />
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<strong>10. The dealer in Gurgaon is no more, who maintains the bike?</strong><br />
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The ex-dealer in gurgaon and ducati mumbai sends someone. But it is a pain and this should be getting fixed soon by ducati setting up something in Delhi soon.<br />
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<strong>11. How has that experience been?</strong><br />
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These guys are trying their best to help within the existing setup - they send somebody over from Mumbai regularly, the older workshoop guys are kind enough to let us use the facility / tools .. but overall it is not ideal and if this is not fixed then people will actually opt out of ducatis for just this reason (I already know people who did)<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G-to-W5cn-U/Tpakcsq0cNI/AAAAAAAAAyo/iIqGI0hqa24/s1600/298138_201151569952809_151930158208284_528387_81182303_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662894394399027410" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G-to-W5cn-U/Tpakcsq0cNI/AAAAAAAAAyo/iIqGI0hqa24/s400/298138_201151569952809_151930158208284_528387_81182303_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 267px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>12. How serious is Ducati about the Indian market?</strong><br />
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I think they are pretty serious. Remember its a small firm still .. but I have known some of the guys involved and been in touch with others who are getting involved .. it does seem like they are quite keen to do well here. And I think they will do well ... we often joke around that the market share of ducatis in GODS is higher than their market share globally! So see .. they have takers here .. just need to set up a stronger sales and service network (learn from Harley!)<br />
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<strong>13. Does Ducati plan to have a riding club? tell us about it?</strong><br />
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Yes they are trying to set up India's first official ducati rider's club... though even before they set up an official club, there is an unofficial ducati riders india club which seems to be gaining traction, especially in Mumbai. I don't care too much about riding every Sunday with a Ducati riding club since you go out riding with your mates and not with just anyone who owns the same brand of bike as you! But if they do organize real events (again on track especially!) then they would gain serious popularity and publicity even amongst ducati and non-ducati owners<br />
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<strong>14. Whats your riding gear like?</strong><br />
<br />
Dainese full armour with back, neck, chest, shoulder and elbow protectors, ducati and joe rocket riding jackets and pants (leather for winters and mesh for summers). Dainese Boots and gloves, Arai corsair V matt black helmet.<br />
More importantly I wear it all the time .. If i think it's too hot or too near to wear the gear, i take the car instead. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_y8vBFQww1g/TpakcnhsfaI/AAAAAAAAAyY/KMWMeAcgfm8/s1600/295720_201151816619451_151930158208284_528394_1687293115_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662894393018580386" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_y8vBFQww1g/TpakcnhsfaI/AAAAAAAAAyY/KMWMeAcgfm8/s400/295720_201151816619451_151930158208284_528394_1687293115_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<strong><br />
15. If you could buy another bike what would that be?</strong><br />
<br />
Now since everyone has a license to dream ... It has to be an 848/1098/1198 ... they look amazing and I could use it as a track bike! I just hope I don't fall cos any damage to the lovely fairing will give me an instant heart attack! <br />
So in reality it might be whatever is the smallest track bike I can lay my hands on (200cc perhaps) ... and probably keep it on the track itself ideally (slick tyres etc)<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>16. Where do you park you bike? is it safe there?</strong><br />
<br />
In the basement parking, but always covered .. once it is covered people are less curious and so its generally fine. At the end of the day in India you have learn to accept that someone will scratch your car / bike with a key and it doesn't take away from how much fun you have riding it! Also that is a perfect excuse to buy a new accessory! <br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>17. Whats your advice to young riders?</strong><br />
<br />
Never ride on the public road to go fast ... NEVER! Go to a racetrack .. On a public road enjoy the sunrise, the breeze, wear full gear all the time, use mirrors, look back often, expect the unexpected!</div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-5987859604872926592011-10-12T10:56:00.000+05:302012-04-19T15:14:45.254+05:3048. Will the Doctor rise up like the Phoenix?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Rossi burst into the world of MotGP in 1996. There has not been a single year since then that he has not won a race. 2011 has proven to be the hardest in his illustrious career, the legend is yet to be on the top step of the podium. Had it not been for a lucky race where he finished third thanks to other top riders crashing out, Rossi would never have seen the podium this year. <br />
<br />
For a man who has tasted so much success all his life, getting comfortable with failure is an almost impossible task. At the end of each failed race you see the man’s spirit taking a beating. As much as he still tried to be the media friendly, crowd loving, larger than life rider the real story is now visible on his face. As a huge fan of the Doctor, I feel his pain too. I still hope and pray during each race that I’ll get to see the glimpse of the man who began on the 4th row of the grid chasing down one rider at a time to finally claim the race. However this season there has been none of that.<br />
<br />
The internet is filled with articles on what went wrong. I’m no expert and I can’t really comment on what the engineers did right or wrong. I can only bring out the obvious. It just shows that the Japs build better rider friendly bikes that like to win on the track. Rossi and JB have done everything they knew to get the bike to behave like the M1 that Rossi loved to ride. They have gone through 4 chassis changes already and yet Rossi still thinks the bike isn’t ideal for him. As far as im concerned this year proved that Rossi is no superhero. I used to brag that put Rossi on a Pulsar and yet he will still win the race as no one has that kind of talent. I was truly wrong. Rossi is after all just a good rider. He isn’t GOD<br />
<br />
What this year truly means for me is how under rated Mr Casey Stoner was all throughout his stint at Ducati. If he can get the supposedly un rideable bike to win the championship then it could only be with some seriously talented skills. I don’t ever remember Stoner making so many changes to the bike. He did mention more often than once that the front end does not stick too well but despite that he went on to win plenty of times. I think Its time we gave the man a bow.<br />
<br />
Another entity that will be under a lot of pressure is of course Ducati. They were hoping that Rossi would help change the image of the company and the wins on the track would lead to increase in sales on the field. The amount of money they have invested in MotoGP is way too large for a company that sells only 40,000 bikes a year. They really need results and they need it fast. Everyone is hoping that the next season would turn things around, but one must realize that MotoGP rules don’t permit you to test the bike outside the season. There are only two occasions when you can test the bikes, one at the end of this season and one right before it. A lot of the next years bike will have to be ready before this season ends but going by what’s been happening to the bike I’m not very optimistic.<br />
<br />
Having said that I’ll be a Doctor fan for life. I’d like to believe that the Doctor would rise again from the ashes and make the next year his swan song. I hope we get to see him in the budh circuit next year. I hope he wins and I hope he retires after next season with the quintessential smile on his face.</div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-46663525133090845472011-10-07T12:23:00.000+05:302012-04-19T15:16:52.078+05:3047. All About Engine Oils<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
One thing I can say with a lot of conviction is that not many mechanics nor riders know much about engine oils in India. I learnt it the hard way when I went to get my bike serviced for the first time.The best way to learn is to learn from ones mistakes and this is an attempt to help you guys not make the mistake I made.<br />
<br />
The engine oil is the blood that flows though the engine. The role it plays in an engines life is very very important. To explain how an engine oil works I'll have to first explain some simple facts about the engine. <br />
<br />
All engines contains hundreds of moving parts and these engines are designed to rotate at 10K plus rotations per minute.This means every second your engine is rotating close to 200 times. This is an incredibly high number. As with all moving parts, we know from our physics teachers that a force is working to stop the movement. this force is called friction and this is the number one enemy of the engines.<br />
<br />
The most common way to reduce friction is to lubricate the moving parts and this is why fundamentally oils were created for. A few things one should know about oils is that there is something called viscosity. This is a measure of how thick an oil can be. Ill have to give you a simple example to explain this. On a winter day in Delhi if you ever tried to fry an egg, you ll realise that the oil feels very thick when you pour it into the pan. However once the pan heats up the oil begins to flow very freely. the same happens to engine oil. when cold the oil is very thick and when hot its very loose. this is the most important rule that applies. heat makes the oil lose its viscosity and the less viscous the oil is the less lubricating it will be.<br />
<br />
Since all engines work on high temperatures the oil needs to retain its viscosity while at those temperatures without losing its lubricating qualities. Hence they invented multi grade oils. An additive is used in the oil that make the oil remain thick even at high temperature. now this is where I explain what the grading on the oil means<br />
<br />
a 10 W 40 oil means that when cold the oil has a viscosity of 10 and when very hot an oil will have the viscosity of an oil which would be 40. this does not mean that the oil gets thicker when its hot. it means that if the additives were not used then the oil will have a viscosity of 10 when cold and say 2 or 3 when hot. but since the additives make the oil more viscous when its hot the oil now behaves like an oil that will have an viscosity of 40 when cold and 10 to 15 when hot.<br />
<br />
<strong>Other benefits of oils</strong><br />
<br />
Keeping the engine well lubed is not the the only job that's expected out of the oil. It also does three other important tasks<br />
1. keeping the engine cool by circulating oil throughout the engine<br />
2. remove dirt/metal components that chip off from the engine<br />
3. keep harmful acids at bay that get formed due to chemicals in the fuel.<br />
<br />
<strong>Whats the difference between wet clutch and dry clutch</strong><br />
<br />
There are basically two types of bike engines, one where the clutch is wet, that means engine oil flows through the clutch plates. you will find this in almost all bikes today. the advantage is that the clutch remains cooler and its less noisier. <br />
<br />
bikes that comes with dry clutches don't have any oils going through it. you will find a few Ducatis with this set up. the clutch would be noisier but they perform with far greater urgency that wet clutches.<br />
<br />
The big question now is do both wet clutch engines and dry clutch engines use the same oil. This is where I made my mistake. The entire net is filled with articles On the same and most are divided on the actual truth. I for one would like to believe that both wet and dry require two different oils. most oils today come with something called moly which are friction busters that offer very high lubricating properties. These oils don't work for wet clutches as they make the clutch slip. as far as dry clutches go, you can go and use them without any worry.<br />
<br />
On every oil container there would be statement called " energy conserving" in case they contain friction buster. look out for them. I for one believe in using Motul as they make oils only for bikes and there is no confusion<br />
<br />
<strong>Synthetic Vs Mineral</strong><br />
Synthetic oils are designed for engines that have large amounts of stresses and the additive used to make the viscosity of oils increase dont break down in synthetic unlike mineral. hence synthetic oils have a longer life. In India many superbikes change their oil every 2k to 3K kms and for them it would not really matter what type of oil you use. However Id like to change my oil every 4000+ km and hence I use only synthetic oils<br />
<br />
<strong>Whats the best oil for India</strong><br />
<br />
people are extremely divided on this one. however pls dont go by 10W 40 as temperature grades. they are not. hence I would say its best to use what your manual says.<br />
<br />
Hope this would help...</div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-11861814541178563572011-09-26T16:27:00.000+05:302012-04-19T15:17:02.957+05:3046. The Riding Pledge<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Rishab Gulshan, A very experienced rider has been kind enough to let me share this on the blog. Thank you Rishab.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>With great power comes greater responsibility!</strong><br />
<br />
A lot has been written about the recent super-bike crash in Hyderabad that claimed the lives of two young fellow bikers. I have been reading about the incident, listening to the different news channels and browsing the general discussions on Facebook and BBM around this incident. One part of the media (the majority) has again used this incident to portray superbikes (or big bikes in general) as the dark force that is out to consume every rider. A different part of the media (clearly the minority) has been more objective and has used the opportunity to once again bring to light the risks of dealing with these machines in our context and highlight the importance of safety. Riders all over Facebook and BBM have expressed their sincere condolences for the departed souls and vociferously expressed their anguish at the former section of the media that has made the machines the "evil force". <br />
<br />
Anywhere in the world, riding a big bike is inherently risky. That is the reason that in the western world, one has to undertake special training to be able to even procure a license to ride a large capacity motor-bike. Further, the insurance rates on big bikes there are significantly higher due to the inherent underlying risks. In India, our poor road infrastructure and general indifference to obeying traffic rules significantly amplifies this risk. Further there are no systemic practices in place to manage the underlying risk like there are in other countries. <br />
<br />
Hence for our safety and for a promising future of big bikes in India, I suggest we take a simple 4 point pledge – <br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>1. I will never ride a big-bike if I am not in the right physical and mental state !</strong><br />
<br />
Riding a super-bike requires you to be 100% alert and in your senses. The riding speeds are so high that one usually has a very short reaction time if there is some impending danger – so being mentally and physically in the right state is absolutely critical. Anytime you are not at your 100%, you are taking a grave risk. <br />
<br />
<strong>2. I will never ride a big-bike if I am not in proper gear !</strong><br />
<br />
Proper gear means – <br />
• Proper gear means a good quality helmet<br />
• Padded jacket with back, shoulder and elbow protection<br />
• Riding pants with in-built knee protection or external knee guards on top of jeans<br />
• Riding boots with reinforced ankle protection <br />
• Riding gloves with reinforced knuckle and wrist protection <br />
<br />
<strong>3. I will always adhere to the riding code of conduct followed by my group !</strong><br />
<br />
We all ride with our fellow bikers in our groups. Each group has a certain code of conduct. To me the essential elements of this code are – <br />
• There is a "leader" who sets the pace depending on road & traffic conditions <br />
• There is a "sweeper" who rides at the back and ensures that no one is left behind. In case someone has a break-down the sweeper is there to notice and inform the rest of the group. <br />
• There are 1-2 "marshals" who keep the whole group riding together<br />
• There are specific warning and communication signals comprising hand gestures that everyone understands and follows<br />
• You don’t overtake a fellow rider at close range (less than 5 feet radius)<br />
• You don’t go zig-zagging from one side of the road to the other side of the road. You stick to your line and in case you need to change it, do it gently and with adequate signaling and not suddenly<br />
<br />
If your group has a code of conduct, then follow it. If not, then make one immediately and then follow it<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>4. I will not perform stunts on my big-bike </strong><br />
<br />
Stunting (wheelies, stoppies, burnouts etc) put an even greater risk to an already risky passion. So please avoid these unless you are a trained professional and are doing these in a safe and controlled environment. <br />
<br />
<br />
***<br />
<br />
<br />
Some of you already follow this pledge as a part of your riding regimen….to you I offer my sincerest thanks !<br />
<br />
Most of you might agree with the principles of this pledge, but don’t necessarily follow it rigorously….to you I appeal to imbibe it fully (100% every time) into your riding habits !<br />
<br />
Some of you might feel this is a stupid idea and who cares….for you I can only pray !<br />
<br />
<br />
A very seasoned and respected rider once said to me "if you are truly passionate about biking, then discipline yourself to ride long and not fast". This one statement has stayed with me and has become the underpinning of my riding passion. I hope you all see the wisdom in that statement and take to this pledge as a way to achieving it. This is the only way we as a brother-hood will make big biking safe and ensure it has a promising future in India. <br />
<br />
<strong>Rishab Gulshan</strong><br />
A concerned Superbiker</div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-4140165069563952852011-09-22T11:01:00.000+05:302012-04-19T15:17:13.764+05:3045. Capt Wheelie King and his Gixxer<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Name: Wheelie King AKA Capt Vineet<br />
Profession: Airline Pilot<br />
Age: 40<br />
Club: G.O.D.S<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2bO2fIcMHtA/TnrJV6bYgRI/AAAAAAAAAxw/Yw9VFtCWGNM/s1600/311856_251559048215568_100000844254601_663124_646363004_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5655053660415623442" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2bO2fIcMHtA/TnrJV6bYgRI/AAAAAAAAAxw/Yw9VFtCWGNM/s400/311856_251559048215568_100000844254601_663124_646363004_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 267px;" /></a><br />
<strong>1. When was the first time you ever “threw a leg over the saddle”? </strong><br />
a. 1985 and this was on a hero Honda.. I knew that very moment that my life was going to be all about speed<br />
<br />
<strong>2. What was your first bike? </strong><br />
a. Hero Honda cd100<br />
<br />
<strong>3. Was it your choice or just what you could afford?</strong><br />
a. My dad was kind enough to gift it<br />
<br />
<strong>4. What bike(s) do you ride now? </strong><br />
a. Suzuki gsxr 1000 and an MT 01<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xeWX0sZkcDE/TnrLE_bIcaI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/vBO5ZpiE93Y/s1600/185303_244746092214948_100000386787107_801302_1569927_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5655055568722227618" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xeWX0sZkcDE/TnrLE_bIcaI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/vBO5ZpiE93Y/s400/185303_244746092214948_100000386787107_801302_1569927_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<strong>5. Was it love at first sight or a product of long term research?</strong>a. Long time research is what I would say. I’ve had a 600RR and a 1000RR before this. They were very cultured machines. I thought it was time to get myself a hooligan and the gixxer just fit the bill.<br />
<br />
<strong>6. How many bikes have you gone through till the present one?</strong><br />
a. 9<br />
<br />
<strong>7. What modifications have you made to your stock bike? </strong><br />
a. Yoshi Full system exhaust 4 to 1<br />
b. Alstare body kit<br />
c. Puig double bubble and frame sliders<br />
d. Harris grips<br />
<br />
<strong>8. Have these modifications helped/improved ride and handling of your bike? </strong><br />
a. The exhaust has given it an unmatchable initial response, the mad bike just got madder<br />
<br />
9.<strong> How long have you had the bike for and how many kilometers have you clocked.?</strong><br />
a. one yr and more than 8000km<br />
<br />
<strong>10. How often do you ride – daily, fortnightly, monthly or just occasionally? </strong><br />
a. I fly with an airline company so Sundays are not necessarily free. Whenever I’m in town you’ll usually find me on the bike<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wbjfIo6I2Eo/TnrJWHBpAcI/AAAAAAAAAyA/ArEB188QBNo/s1600/284840_243524609003763_100000386787107_797459_8158291_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5655053663797313986" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wbjfIo6I2Eo/TnrJWHBpAcI/AAAAAAAAAyA/ArEB188QBNo/s400/284840_243524609003763_100000386787107_797459_8158291_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<strong>11. What do you like most about your bike?</strong><br />
a. Undoubtedly the instant throttle response. <br />
<br />
<strong>12. What don’t you like about your bike? </strong><br />
a. Well Id say that after being on the Honda for so long the gixxer feels a little less refined and the Honda just refuses to give up. I had to change the clutch pads on this bike after 5000Km while the Honda lasted 25000Km. <br />
<br />
<strong>13. What has been your most memorable ride till date?</strong><br />
a. The trip with GODS on the Bikaner highway<br />
<br />
<strong>14. What’s the maximum three digit figure you’ve seen on your speedo?</strong><br />
a. only 299 the bikes dont go faster. I would not advice anyone to do that kind of speeds ever. I had a chance to do it on a closed circuit and that’s the place one should try to push these machines. Not on the road.<br />
<strong><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4E4_OXEBHqI/TnrJV2Py5bI/AAAAAAAAAx4/IngX90L3k7c/s1600/262964_185114011556565_151930158208284_475829_6813094_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5655053659293279666" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4E4_OXEBHqI/TnrJV2Py5bI/AAAAAAAAAx4/IngX90L3k7c/s400/262964_185114011556565_151930158208284_475829_6813094_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<br />
15. Who maintains your bike – cleaning, servicing, etc?</strong>a. I prefer to do it myself. Its fairly simple<br />
<br />
<strong>16. What fuel/oil do you use and why?</strong><br />
a. 97 OCT and MOTUL synthetic oil. no compromise<br />
<br />
<strong>17. Tell us about your riding gear (helmet, gloves and suits/jackets/pants and other protective gear)? </strong><br />
a. XLITE- x802 and full leather riding suit with alpine star boots and gloves <br />
<br />
<strong>18. What tips do you have for aspiring riders looking to pick up a super sports bike? </strong><br />
a. Grow slowly steadily on 200 cc and maturely ride on unforgivable superbike…DON’T COMPROMISE ON RIDING GEAR…..it cost less than 9% ok the bike cost but protects u 99.9%.......</div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-30934319437185165522011-09-19T12:12:00.000+05:302012-04-19T15:17:23.303+05:3044. Dont Stereotype the Super Biker<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Dear Media,<br />
<br />
Much has been written and spoken in the last week on the dark side of Super-Biking and the riders who own the machines. Barring a few articles here and there, most were blows below the belt. I'd like to point out that No, We are not the bad-boys you so love to portray us as!<br />
<br />
I've been riding a superbike for the last whole year and I've been riding Indian bikes for the last ten years. With much conviction I can state that I've become a more safer, saner and mature rider ever since the time I bought my superbike.This is not an one off case, Id safely say the same for all the Super Bikers I know.<br />
<br />
Its unfortunate that a young boys life was lost and you wake up to point fingers at everyone from the manufacturer, to the rider and the riders parents. I agree there was a fault, but its not fair to zero in on one person. Yes, 19 is too early to be mature enough to ride but great riders have started their careers as early as 12 yrs.<br />
Yes, the manufacturer makes bikes that go blazingly fast but they expect you to respect that power. Yes, parents buy you a bike out of sheer love for you but they dont expect to get you killed on it. <br />
<br />
I would strongly urge people to not gift a superbike to anyone. These machines should be earned and bought with your own money. We as humans have it in our nature to not respect anything that comes for free. Once you spend over 10 Lakhs of your money on a machine, you'll go a good distance to ensure that it remains in good shape. A tiny scratch on it would hurt.<br />
<br />
An accident is always waiting to happen, the question is how prepared are you to face it or avoid it. Every rider I know is geared from head to toe and has many thousands of kilometers of superbiking experience. There is absolutely no question of being on a superbike and not being in protective gear. You'll never see a cricketer ever facing a fast bowler without the helmet and pads, you'll never see a doctor treating an infected patient without proper gloves but strangely you'll a few bikers without any gear but that certainly is an anomaly. I personally know so many bikers in India and each has invested a lot of money to ensure they have protected themselves.<br />
<br />
We know that its easy to use the words like rash,reckless,crazy,immature,speed demon etc to stereotype us without realising that we are the same people who treat patients, fly your airplanes, manage your money, fight your law suits etc. If you see us in our regular office clothes you'll realise that we're just another face in the crowd who works hard for a living. So I urge you, before putting that pen to paper and begin to write another sensational story, do realise that its not a crime to own and ride a superbike in India. We might ride a little faster when the roads permit to do so and thats usually when you're fast asleep on a sunday morning. Dont believe me?Ask yourself how many bikers have you spotted on the road despite the fact that there are over 5000 of active riders in India. We go great lengths to live our passion because thats what we live for. That is our life!<br />
<br />
Yours<br />
<br />
A superbiker.</div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-84555593929840412952011-09-13T20:21:00.000+05:302012-04-19T15:17:40.322+05:3043. The AngaBUSA!!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LmF1kTaPpvo/Tm9yFtTkG-I/AAAAAAAAAxY/Pbss33X-T-c/s1600/DSC_0015.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651861499759827938" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LmF1kTaPpvo/Tm9yFtTkG-I/AAAAAAAAAxY/Pbss33X-T-c/s400/DSC_0015.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 390px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<strong>1. What made you give up the Bandit?</strong><br />
A. Bandit was always meant to be a stepping stone. Always did have my eyes set on the Busa J <br />
<br />
<strong>2. Was Busa the obvious next bike or did you have any other bike in mind?</strong><br />
A. Obviously, Yes ;)<br />
<br />
<strong>3. How was the experience of waiting for the bike to be delivered?</strong><br />
A. Excruciating yet exhilarating. The level of excitement was close to what a guy would feel just before getting laid for the first time.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tBJYL7BL7ic/Tm9yGL51c4I/AAAAAAAAAxo/PzqzHqiFXfs/s1600/326272_197976053603694_151930158208284_517621_1995685_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651861507973411714" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tBJYL7BL7ic/Tm9yGL51c4I/AAAAAAAAAxo/PzqzHqiFXfs/s400/326272_197976053603694_151930158208284_517621_1995685_o.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 267px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<strong>4. Before you got it made into the AngaBusa, you had some accessories on it. tell us about it.</strong><br />
A. Within the first week of purchasing the Busa, I got D&D Slip on Exhausts, Fender Eliminator, Red Sport Levers, Red Bar ends, LED body light kit, HID Xenon Kit for Low & High Beam and my very own signature decaling.<br />
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<strong>5. What inspired you to make it India's baddest Busa?</strong><br />
A. From the very beginning, I’ve always wanted my machines to look as different as possible from the others, hence the blingy/loud customisation. But wait for it….in time, there’s more to come :D<br />
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<strong>6. Tell us all that has gone into making it the AngaBusa.</strong><br />
A. A lot of effort, patience, time & MONEY. The list is extensive, but here goes – <br />
Yoshimura R55 Limited Hayabusa Edition 4 into 1 Full System Exhaust,<br />
Power Commander 5,<br />
K&N Race Specific Air Filter,<br />
Red Hayabusa Engraved Swingarm Extensions,<br />
Red Chrome all round panelling,<br />
Red Chrome Wheel Rims,<br />
Red Chrome Front & Rear Foot Peg Hangers,<br />
Analog Clock & Analog Temperature Gauge mounted on the Tank,<br />
Hayabusa Engraved Tank Mount between the triple tree and tank,<br />
Carbon Fibre Side Tank Protectors,<br />
Triple Tree Nut Cover Kianji engraved,<br />
Hayabusa Engraved Red Hand Grips,<br />
Left Side Number Plate Mount,<br />
Carbon Fibre Frame Sliders,<br />
Red Sport Levers,<br />
Red Bar ends,<br />
LED body light kit, <br />
HID Xenon Kit for Low & High Beam, and<br />
My very own signature decaling<br />
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I hope I haven’t missed anything :p<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JDHb5VGN4aI/Tm9yF4dCFOI/AAAAAAAAAxg/Jt3F7gTpojg/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651861502752330978" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JDHb5VGN4aI/Tm9yF4dCFOI/AAAAAAAAAxg/Jt3F7gTpojg/s400/DSC_0003.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 266px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>7. Many of the work done on it was a "first" in India. Did you trust your mechanic enough for it?</strong><br />
A. I have blind faith in my mechanics.<br />
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<strong>8. What mod according to you is the coolest of them all?</strong><br />
A. To be honest, cosmetic mods are a personal choice and may be cool for some and not so cool for others. But technically speaking, I love the Yoshi full system with the PC5, it makes Angabusa sing like a Nightingale J <br />
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<strong>9. Has the longer wheelbase affected the handling?</strong><br />
A. Yes it has positively as well as negatively.<br />
Positive – Straight line stability and ride quality has improved majorly. It feels a lot more planted during sudden acceleration rather than the earlier “oh damn not another wheelie” feeling.<br />
Negative – Swingarm Extensions - The Steering feels a bit stiffer and I certainly have lost some confidence around corners. The usual knee down attempts around bends & corners are a thing of past. Cornering is a lot slower now. But, I take that as a positive, the slower the safer.<br />
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10.How much have you spent on it in aftermarket products?</strong><br />
A. Depends who’s asking and reading this. It’ll always be a closely guarded secret ;)<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XE9Do76WvAI/Tm9yFPPOBYI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/GrLuKe2-eYg/s1600/334285_197944426940190_151930158208284_517442_2080193_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651861491688539522" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XE9Do76WvAI/Tm9yFPPOBYI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/GrLuKe2-eYg/s400/334285_197944426940190_151930158208284_517442_2080193_o.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>11. Where did you manage to procure everything from?</strong><br />
A. Except the Chroming, everything else was picked up online – eBay International<br />
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12. What made you freeze on the Yoshi 4 to 1</strong>A. Yoshimura is one of the only official certified/authorised by Suzuki aftermarket component manufacturing company. They’re one of the only Exhausts brand which are officially tested by Suzuki and then co branded as a Suzuki official product. Plus the fact that the finish, fit & quality of Yoshimura is one of the best in the market. But more specifically, I picked up the R55, as they are Hayabusa limited edition and they are the only exhaust that make the busa sound a lot like a litre superbike (somehow the roar of litre bike has always impressed me more than the deep growl of the busa, yet again a personal preference).<br />
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<strong>13. Is there anything more on the cards say like a turbo?</strong><br />
A. Would’ve loved to put a Turbo on, only if I was living in Germany and had the Autobahn to ride on, so that’s a negative. There are a few more things in the pipeline, but shall maintain my silence for the time being.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ajwkTfC7mm4/Tm9yE4vwlII/AAAAAAAAAxI/IvCLNb6RcgE/s1600/330392_197975960270370_151930158208284_517618_5619237_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651861485651006594" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ajwkTfC7mm4/Tm9yE4vwlII/AAAAAAAAAxI/IvCLNb6RcgE/s400/330392_197975960270370_151930158208284_517618_5619237_o.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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14. How has Suzuki reacted to the bike?</strong><br />
A. Suzuki’s (more specifically the dealer’s) response has been in a way overwhelming and yet worrisome. They like what has now become Angabusa and want me to part with it on non-riding days which is most of the week except Sundays, as they want to display it in their showroom as a show bike. And of course, as all would think correctly, I refused J</div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-79864185301253819622011-09-10T11:52:00.000+05:302012-04-19T15:17:52.117+05:3042. Why is MotoGP not popular in India?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It was almost ten years ago when I got hooked on to MotoGP. All credit for that went to one of Kerala's most obsessive rallyst, Binu John. He categorically told me that<br />
watching F1 was a waste of time. I ,like many my age was an F1 glory supporter. When the race day was on, I pretended to be truly engrossed in the sport. When you're all of 20 years old,you do have a right to be a little bit of a poser. I exercised that right to perfection. Those were the days of the mighty Shumi. Usually the race was fought for second place as it was a no brainer that Shumi would end up on the topmost step of the podium. I never knew a sport called MotoGP existed.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-li3zwHoZuUM/TmsWUNfyaBI/AAAAAAAAAxA/xmTi4w7sXKo/s1600/MotoGp-Logo-300x211.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650634693942601746" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-li3zwHoZuUM/TmsWUNfyaBI/AAAAAAAAAxA/xmTi4w7sXKo/s400/MotoGp-Logo-300x211.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 211px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></a><br />
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I can clearly recollect the race that made me a Moto GP believer. It was another epic battle between the Doctor and his arch rival Max Biaggi. Suzuka GP in 2001. Rossi was close on the heels of Biaggi and he tried to make a opening, while Rossi was completing the overtake, Biaggi elbowed him off the track and pushed in straight into the dirt. Watching a man control a bike on dirt at over 200KM was a sight for sore eyes. Rossi got back on the track despite losing many precious seconds he still fought to get behind Biaggi and finally over took him not before giving him a one finger salute. He went on to win the race. I knew i'll never see this ever in an F1 race. MotoGP makes you see heroes, not some heavily paid entertainers.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-riMS5SO7_7U/TmsU-ZwPj6I/AAAAAAAAAww/5Eq1QOSIWvg/s1600/Le_bras_de_Biaggi.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650633219764096930" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-riMS5SO7_7U/TmsU-ZwPj6I/AAAAAAAAAww/5Eq1QOSIWvg/s400/Le_bras_de_Biaggi.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 290px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ipUezBf2oNk/TmsU6bHrILI/AAAAAAAAAwo/fNC09_FhEIk/s1600/Le_doigt_de_Rossi.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650633151411331250" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ipUezBf2oNk/TmsU6bHrILI/AAAAAAAAAwo/fNC09_FhEIk/s400/Le_doigt_de_Rossi.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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There have always been some great rivalry in the sport.It always involved the Doctor.It began with Biaggi, then went on the Sete Gibernau who fell under the Rossi Curse. After a losail race Sete complained that Rossi won under unfair terms. Rossi, visibly upset, claimed that Sete will never win a race ever in his life. believe it or not Sete never ever got on the podium aftet that. The one time he almost did, his bike ran out of gas 200 meter before the finish line. He quit the sport a year later.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QTA4pGs25oc/TmsWFd2pSuI/AAAAAAAAAw4/3pq-GS9RwSw/s1600/054NOV05_MIKE_SCOTT.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650634440635402978" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QTA4pGs25oc/TmsWFd2pSuI/AAAAAAAAAw4/3pq-GS9RwSw/s400/054NOV05_MIKE_SCOTT.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 289px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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Today Rossi is fighting to find his place amongst younger talented riders. I hope the next season would be different. What makes me sad is that so few people in our country know anything about such an incredible sport and a great rider.<br />
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I've always failed to understand why a sport with so much excitement failed to take off in India. If I have to list a set of reasons why MotoGP is a failure in India the following would be it.<br />
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1. We dont have a robust superbiking culture.What ever we have is still in a stage of infancy<br />
2. Biking companies see India as a great commuter market. Honda and Yamaha, companies with such great racing pedigree refuses to share that part of them with us.<br />
3. The automotive magazines dedicate far too little time to truly bring out the beauty of MotoGP. I agree a page or two is dedicated to the sport but F1 is on the cover page.<br />
4. None of the brands in India have biking enthusiasts as marketing heads. They simply dont have the drive and belief that MotoGP will have takers. I remember getting a call from Barcelona seeking sponsorship for a motoGP team. I did my best to convince my management to take this ahead. they did not budge.<br />
5. MotoGP does not have a Vijay Mallya<br />
6. F1 has a great PR machinery at work. MotoGP has a relatively poorer machinery<br />
7. ESPN/Star don't promote the sport<br />
8. MotoGP is dominated by Japanese.And Japanese are very matter of fact people. They believe in making the product good. they are hopeless at marketing it. F1 is dominated by Europeans who bring in all the glamour to the sport. An Indian is always enamoured by a Ferrari than an equally good if not better Nissan GTR<br />
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A lot also has to do with the Indian Rider. Many superbikers in India dont follow MotoGP at all, I know just one rider who bought his bike because of his loyalty to a team. In the west you'll find them to be hardcore fans. A Yamaha fan will only support his team and what ever happens buy a Yamaha only. We are years away from such a culture but eventually we should be there. However unless the big guys in the motorcycle industry sit up and take notice of this fact nothing would happen in the worlds largest bike market. Pity.<br />
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I've been fortunate to be connected with a few people who work with certain teams at the MotoGP. They have all confirmed that India is soon on the cards. I suggest that they get their act together real soon else they are in for a huge disappointment.<br />
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I keep saying this throughout the blog, We are living in very interesting times.Who knows what the future might hold.</div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-76284191342565348982011-09-05T16:48:00.000+05:302012-04-19T15:18:06.256+05:3041.Doc's Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Name: Arun Thareja AKA Dr Speed<br />
Profession: Doctor and founder of GODS<br />
Age:50<br />
City: Delhi<br />
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<strong>1) What do you call your bike?</strong><br />
This bike in question is known as fireblade but I call it blade bcoz the first time I saw her ,she cut me thru like a blade & all my emotions spilled over mainly- lust, Got to have her!<br />
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2) How many Super Bikes have you had before this one?</strong><br />
This is not my first bike,had many & the list is very long but I will name a few- ninja 600 gpx; honda vf 750 interceptor; honda cbr xx blackbird; ninja zx 9r; yamaha thundercat; ducati 916 & the ninja zx12r.<br />
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<strong>3) Was it love at first sight or a product of long term research?</strong><br />
Thankfully im aware of bikes & before picking this one I knew all about it so as such no research was required,it was pure love like it had happened before also & I have never been monogamous when it came to bikes<br />
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<strong>4) how was the waiting period?</strong><br />
Like I said one look & I was floored & the only feeling was- gotta have it & it was a tough waiting period,the usual sleepless nights & the bike 24 hrs in the back of my mind.it was exactly like falling in love with a person,maybe more in my case.all the time thinking of sprucing up the bike with all the accessories I could think of & I even managed to procure some before the bike actually landed in my garage.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FW72RvKEKWY/TmSvjN9RjDI/AAAAAAAAAv4/clP_XHnrCwM/s1600/2.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FW72RvKEKWY/TmSvjN9RjDI/AAAAAAAAAv4/clP_XHnrCwM/s400/2.bmp" width="400" /></a><br />
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5) how was it when you finally saw it in the flesh?</strong><br />
First look was lethal,the bike of my dreams right in front of my eyes seducing me with her lines.it was drool drool all the way,had a tough time wiping my saliva off her<br />
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<strong>6)How long have you had it and how many KM clocked?</strong><br />
Its been with me for 6 months now & I have done about 4000 kms<br />
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<strong>7) Whats the best attribute of the Blade?</strong><br />
The best attribute has to be the power in a small package,it weighs just 180 kilos & makes around 150bhp.with this combo it just slices thru the traffic & flies on the highway<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kFt5rBQUe8c/TmSzIPvyULI/AAAAAAAAAwg/mCbcOh1RJEU/s1600/4.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648836786876731570" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kFt5rBQUe8c/TmSzIPvyULI/AAAAAAAAAwg/mCbcOh1RJEU/s400/4.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>8) Anything irritable about it?</strong><br />
Thers nothing irritable about the bike but if I have to really point out something then it has to be the wrist & back strain on longer rides because of its hunched over riding posture<br />
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<strong>9)What Mods do you plan to do on it?</strong><br />
Like to change the stock sprocketing of the bike, 1 tooth down on the front & 2 teeth up at the rear.amazing initial & mid response though i lose out on top speed but the initial acceleration really tranforms the bike into a ferocious monster. The other thing I would like to change is raising the clip ons by 1 to 1 ½ inch for a more comfortable riding posture.<br />
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<strong>10)Tell us about your riding gear?</strong><br />
I have lots of riding gear mainly the padded jackets, riding pants,leather pants,riding boots-both ankle length & long ones,elbow & knee guards & tons of helmets of almost every makeim very comfortable in my icon,speed&strength & alpine stars riding jackets.all have protection. Im comfortable in my Answer riding pants & my icon riding boots though in winters I prefer my leather pants & full length nitro vega riding boots. One of my fav helmets is the arai quantum 2 & in open face I love my vr-1 helmet.<br />
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<strong>11)If you would ever cheat on her, with which bike would it be?</strong><br />
If I wud ever cheat then I wud elope with the ducati diavel<br />
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<strong>12) what accessories are on it?</strong><br />
O yes I believe in cosmetic customization & I have done the following mods- installed a mra double bubble smoked windscreen;removed the rear tail section plastics for a cleaner look & relocated the turn signals.installed the yoshiura rs3 exhaust,it improves the power,the sound & looks good. Have done minimal stickering without going over the top & have put a color matched rear seat cowl to make it look more sportier.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dms0D4GrLdA/TmSzHzgHxvI/AAAAAAAAAwY/fD-k4-uJSms/s1600/3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648836779294836466" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dms0D4GrLdA/TmSzHzgHxvI/AAAAAAAAAwY/fD-k4-uJSms/s400/3.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>13) whats the best way to extract more power from the bike?</strong><br />
The best bang for ur buck mod to extract power is the sprocketing,I have dropped 1 tooth in front & gone up 2 teeth at the rear.amazing difference & for around 8000 bucks it’s a must mod. I have installed yoshimura rs3 exhaust, k & n air filters & a power commander3 for perfecting the air fuel ratio & the ignition timing.if somebody doesn’t want to spend on power commander then he can adjust the throttle position sensor(tps) after doing a proper research for his particular model on the net.readjustment to how many volts can be found out on various forums on the net. I have also installed the frame sliders(crash protectors) & the swing arm spools.<br />
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14) How expensive is she to maintain?<br />
Shes not particularly high maintenance except that when she wud require the tyres I wud be considerably poorer but that’s true for every superbike bcoz the cost of the tyres is very high irrespective of the make, rest shes doing fine not troubling me at all with her outrageous demands,lets see how long this lovey dovey phase lasts<br />
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15)What fuel/oil do you use?</strong>Food wise she gets the best,oils from all the reputed companies are good but one has to choose between the normal & the synthetic & I feed her synthetic.right now I have put agip but I have also used motul which is equally good. Fuel wise I prefer 97 octane but due to its scarcity I go in for 91 octane to which I add octane booster.i have used plain 91 octane also & the bike runs well but its always better to achieve 95 octane as recommended by all the manufacturers<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aq1X5v4g2UQ/TmSvkJDjXOI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/Y5K-crlB2jo/s1600/162693_151627141556478_100001275789785_293679_4396530_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aq1X5v4g2UQ/TmSvkJDjXOI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/Y5K-crlB2jo/s400/162693_151627141556478_100001275789785_293679_4396530_n.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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16)Who does all the servicing?<br />
I do all the service on my own & I don’t trust the dealer coz I know more about bikes than him; being with bikes for more than 25years & having all the tools, thankfully I can tackle all what it takes to maintain a bike & some more.<br />
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17) Whats the max you've seen on the speedo?</strong>I have touched 280kmph on my kawasaki ninja zx12r,though its capable of touching 330kmph coz its an unrestricted model.</div>
</div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-55169932601379707532011-08-29T19:01:00.000+05:302012-04-19T15:19:21.800+05:3040. Maintaining your Superbike<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
When you spend all your hard earned money to buy a superbike, the thought of it not performing at 100% is a painful one. Today’s bikes are so well engineered that it requires very little maintenance for it to keep going. Having said that its a crime to neglect the bike. Truth be told you give it a little love it would serve you loyally for years to come, ignore it for more than it likes then you're in for a real hard time.<br />
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Maintaining a superbike in India comes with a few special challenges that our counterparts in the west don’t face. Firstly, We are severely short on good knowledgeable mechanics. The ones who are good are so short of time. It’s often hard to get a good second opinion also. Secondly, Our riding conditions are hardly ideal. I don’t even think the big companies ever test their bikes in conditions such as ours. Badly laid, pothole filled roads, Incredible amount of dust and grime are that of our roads. The weather is wet and humid and finally the traffic. These are exactly the conditions a superbike is not made for. However since we don’t have a choice but to live with these conditions its very important that the bikes are looked after very well. <br />
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Based on inputs from mechanics, owners and my personal experience the following are the issues to look out for.<br />
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<strong>Trouble due to poor fuel.</strong><br />
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All superbike engines have high compression ratios. For such an engine to work optimally, it needs fuel that is designed for it. All bikes that are now sold in India require 95 octane or higher. In my experience I have not come across any brand but BP who makes premium fuel. Speed 97 is however not available in many pumps and often one needs to take a detour to just fill gas. Using regular fuel tends to make the engine knock. Certain engines have a knock sensors and will adjust automatically. The main issue with regular fuel is that usually its contaminated. This would lead to the injectors getting clogged, throttle bodies getting dirty. Bikes will refuse to start, sometimes they will start and immediately shut down and sometimes the idling gets erratic.If you leave the bike standing for more than a month, ensure that it’s topped up with fuel. Empty spaces in the tank can lead to rusting. <br />
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<strong>Tips to solve this</strong><br />
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1.Use premium fuel as far as possible<br />
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2.Use an injector cleaner(STP etc) The will keep you injectors clean<br />
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3.Ensure the entire throttle body gets cleaned every time you service the bike. <br />
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<strong>Trouble cause due to dusty/dirty roads</strong><br />
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Our roads are usually too dusty, dirty and filled with small pebbles. These will bother the bike in various ways.<br />
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Airfilter: The fundamental job of the filter is to keep the dust from entering the combustion chamber. They are usually made of high grade paper, Each filter is designed to last around 10000KM. But when it comes to our conditions they usually clog up in half the time.<br />
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<strong>Tips to solve this</strong><br />
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Ensure your filter gets replaced every service and not just cleaned. Sometimes they spray a jet of compressed air to remove the dust. This does not work for the bikes. Else use a free flow filter like K&N. they let more air pass and can be re used. Its been argued that free flow filters don’t filter very efficiently. I have been using on for a 5000km. its been good so far.<br />
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<strong>Chain</strong><br />
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A much ignored component on the bike is the chain. All chains come with lubrication on it. While it keeps the sprocket assembly in good running condition its also a dirt magnet. <br />
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<strong>Tips to solve this</strong><br />
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Motul has a product called chain lube and another called chain cleaner. After every 1000 KM the chain must be compulsorily cleaned and lubed. In case the chain is running dry without any lube, soon it would start to rust and can damage your sprockets. Constant use of the bike will make the chain run loose. At every service ensure you get your mechanic to tighten the chain. Else this will lead to the chain wearing out too soon.<br />
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<strong>Radiator/Fairing Chipping</strong><br />
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Small pebbles and other matter can prove to be vicious to the bike while travelling at high speeds. They usually begin to chip the fine grooves of the radiator and you’ll find loss of paint on the front fairings. While this is not completely avoidable there are minor solutions to it<br />
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<strong>Tips to solve this</strong><br />
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Buy a pebble guard for the radiator. This is available as an aftermarket accessory. On the faring you can paste a 3M anti scratch clear vinyl coating. This will take the brunt of most of the damage.<br />
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<strong>Trouble Caused due to bumpy/uneven/pot holed roads </strong><br />
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One major issue that crops up is the oil seal failure on the front suspension. This can be a painful sight to see and getting the oil seal is also not an easy procedure. One needs a trained mechanic to set it right also. Often the reason the oilseals gives up is not just the roads. It could be because of the suspension not being set up properly. Bad roads could take a toll on the tires and wear them out faster. In extreme cases this would impact the steering bearings and that is an expensive affair. As far as possible keep the bike on good tarmac or ride as slowly as you can on bad roads.<br />
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<strong>Troubles caused by traffic</strong><br />
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These machines hate traffic, ideally they need to be ridden fast and the bike would thank you for that. Traffic leads to the engine heating up and its not uncommon for the engine to shut down completely for a while till the coolant temperature reaches normal limits. Most bikes have a tolerance of upto 125 degrees beyond that it would give up. However a lesser known issue thanks to traffic is the fact that the machine is always in low revs and the battery tends to not get enough charge. There is huge pressure on the regulator and alternator. Stories of bikes having a busted regulator is commonplace. Fixing this is an ordeal as any electrical issue can turn out to be a nightmare. Once a bike has electrical issues then the chances are that it would keep cropping up again.<br />
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<strong>Tips to solve this</strong><br />
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Ensure you ride the bike for distance at decent speeds if you have spent a lot of time in traffic this will cool your engine as well as help charge your battery. Replace your battery if its showing sigs of ageing.<br />
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I’m sure there are other issues that I might have overlooked. If you have faced any such issues and know the solution to it, kindly post them in the comments. I read a line somewhere that goes like this… “Keep your bike well maintained.. riding shoes are not very comfortable to walk in”<br />
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With Inputs from Kaulson Racing(KRP).<br />
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you can contact them on <span style="font-weight: bold;">kaulson@vsnl.com</span>, else if your're in Delhi you could drop into their workshop in Naraina.<br />
<br /></div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-84545679895863335152011-08-26T18:38:00.000+05:302012-04-19T15:19:35.028+05:3039. All about Riding Gear<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
If you are a superbiker the chances are high that you have not gifted yourself anything that does not have to do with biking. Invariable all you money is spent on two things. 1, customizing your bike and 2, collecting riding gear. Most of us believe that buying the bike is the most involving process, however once the bike is bought, one soon realizes that the desire to collect gear and accessories become an addiction.Hence like a kid getting lost in the candy store, a biker gets lost within Performance Racing Store, the place to be to satisfy all your biking needs<br />
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Almost every superbiker has been to this shop around the corner in Tardeo, Mumbai.Started in 2004 by Vivek Jaisingh and Prasad Divadkar purely because they realized that India is seeing a growth in the number of superbikers and no one had any access to riding gear and accessories. Being bikers themselves they labored to convince major brands to look towards India and the hard work has certainly paid off. This post is to educate riders on what components constitute good riding gear and what are the good to have accessories that your bike requires.<br />
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Let me start with Riding Gear and will do a post on accessories another time as it would be a huge post otherwise. When I began riding, I was of the opinion that riding gear meant just a Helmet. However owning a superbike and riding with a larger group exposes you to more mature riders who inspire you to be fully geared at all times. The picture below gives you a snap shot on what all components together make up a good riding gear.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-44S4aGtZTSA/TlebkzyQomI/AAAAAAAAAug/youq6QmihuE/s1600/motorcycle-injuries.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645151714610815586" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-44S4aGtZTSA/TlebkzyQomI/AAAAAAAAAug/youq6QmihuE/s400/motorcycle-injuries.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 343px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>HELMET</strong><br />
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Lets begin with the Helmet. I bought a brand called BEON from Chopra Automobiles in Karol Bagh. It costed me around Rs 3500. Being a bulleteer all my life this was a princely sum for a Helmet. I presumed that it would do the job amazingly well. When I tried it on, it fit snuggly and the overall feel was brilliant. I was happy with my purchase till I tested it on my bike. The minute the speedo crossed 120 the entire helmet began to wobble and was unbearably noisy. I thought this was acceptable and all helmets will behave in a similar manner. I was wrong. <br />
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I had the chance to try on a friends ARAI and the difference was immediate. It was incredibly stable and ultra silent. Over and above, it was actually comfortable to wear for a long time. Helmets for superbikes are designed to perform at high speeds, they have to pass stringent tests to be sold on the streets. It might be five times as expensive as the one I bought from Karol bagh but trust me, it’s the first investment one needs to make. There are plenty of great brands in the market. A good way to judge if the helmet is great or not is to check if they are connected with MotoGP or WSB. If any of those riders can wear it then id say its perfectly good for you to use. Else look for the rating, if its made in the USA then it would be certified by DOT(department of transportation), In Europe it would be certified by ECE 22.05 Some of the brands you choose from SHOEI, ARAI, SOUMY,NOLAN, XLITE,SPARX,HJC,KBC,SHARK,AGV,JOE ROCKET,ICON, RJAYS and a few other equally good brands. The range of helmets begin at around Rs 10,000 and go all the way to Rs 40,000. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SB2ZQTQNw90/Tlege6qV41I/AAAAAAAAAuo/2h4xf7tbrps/s1600/8.jpeg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645157110935577426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SB2ZQTQNw90/Tlege6qV41I/AAAAAAAAAuo/2h4xf7tbrps/s400/8.jpeg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>Few tips to keep in mind when choosing your helmet are the following</strong><br />
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1. Ensure its a little on the tighter side when you try it on for the first time. It might be a bit uncomfortable for the first few rides but it would loosen up and become a good snug fit.The last thing you want is a helmet that hangs loose over your head.It could get very uneasy while at higher speeds<br />
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2. Never choose an open face helmet if you plan to ride a bike that capable of doing great speeds. I can understand that on a Harley they look cool but still, it wont really save your face in a crash.<br />
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3. Buy an extra visor, in our conditions they tend to get scratched too quickly and getting a new visor can be a pain.<br />
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4. By clear visors. Tinted visors are great in the sun but usually superbikers are up early and in the dark they can be of no use.<br />
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5. Straps. they usually come in two types. one is the quick release type and the other is the double D. the former is easier and more user friendly but most good helmets come with double D as they give a tigher hold to your helmet.<br />
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<strong>JACKET</strong><br />
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The second most important part of your gear is the Riding Jacket. A good riding jacket is an armored jacket.This means that it comes with protective padding usually made of high quality plastic polymer. The shoulder/elbows and Spine are protected. The outer skin of the jacket is either leather or mesh depending on the climate. Leather jackets are heavier and offer a little more protection in case of a fall, however for daily riding in warm weather this could be task which will sap the joy out of biking. Mesh jackets are preferred by riders in India and they come with a removable warm liner inside that can keep the chill out if need be. The brands that make good Jackets are DAINESE, ALPINE STARS, JOE ROCKET, KOMINE, SPEED & STRENGTH, SCOTT, FOX, AXO,RJAYS and a few others. Couple of Indian brands that make very decent Jackets are CRAMSTER and PLANET DSG. The cost of the Indian Jackets would in the range of Rs 5000 and the international ones begin from Rs 7500 and can go all the way to Rs 20,000 if its leather.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UjV8ZCva8Q8/TlehcDGni8I/AAAAAAAAAuw/Bnt7IwEnSwI/s1600/551-7004.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645158161173679042" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UjV8ZCva8Q8/TlehcDGni8I/AAAAAAAAAuw/Bnt7IwEnSwI/s400/551-7004.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>tips to look out for in a jacket</strong><br />
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1.look for your size, you rather buy a less cooler looking jacket that fits you perfectly than a pretty one thats one size larger. the paddings will fit snuggly only if the jacket is your size. <br />
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2.Leather is strictly for the track or if you are in Delhi in the winters.Else it would suck all your energy out and in no time begin to stink like mad<br />
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3.look for jackets which come with reflectors on them. In India that little strip can save your life.Most good jackets come with it as standard<br />
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<strong>GLOVES</strong><br />
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The Third in the list would be a good glove. Riding gloves come with knuckle protectors that are made of either Kevlar, Carbon Fibre or Steel. Usually the first point of impact in a crash are your fingers so its extremely important to have a good pair of gloves. All the companies who make the Jackets make gloves too. The Indian gloves begin at Rs 1300 and the International brand start from around Rs 2500 and go upto Rs 7500. They come ventilated for summer and you’ll find the leather full gauntlets for riding in winters.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pUakVutRlo8/Tleh-BmjoNI/AAAAAAAAAu4/v0VDk9hkM-s/s1600/Joe_Rocket_Sonic_Gloves_Black_detail.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645158744886321362" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pUakVutRlo8/Tleh-BmjoNI/AAAAAAAAAu4/v0VDk9hkM-s/s400/Joe_Rocket_Sonic_Gloves_Black_detail.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 310px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 310px;" /></a><br />
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Tips to look out for in a good glove<br />
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1.Ensure they are well padded. As far as possible look for good quality padding like kevlar or carbon fibre. Rubber padding wont really help<br />
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2. gloves should be well ventilated,they can be leather as long as they are ventilated. Sweaty palms can make your ride most uncomfortable<br />
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3. Get your size right. Else the knuckle protectors wont sit over your knuckle and it will not do the job its meant to do.<br />
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4. A full gauntlet( one that has extentions over the jacket) is best when the weather is chilly else it would not let any air enter your jacket.<br />
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<strong>KNEE& SHIN Protectors</strong><br />
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The next in your list should be a good pair of knee and shin protectors. This is an often ignored part of the gear. One reason being that its not a very comfortable accessory to have and second it tends to scratch the tank as its worn over the jeans. I usually wear them under the jeans. As far as Brands go, you will find them with AXO,FOX, CRAMSTER,ALPINE STARS and a few others. This again begins from Rs 1000 onwards.What makes this very important to have is that your knees are extremely exposed while riding and it could result in permanent injury unless protected.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SzVYA_jABQg/TlejnLlvmpI/AAAAAAAAAvA/Mku6WrozFGo/s1600/2010-Fieldsheer-Armadillo-Knee-Protector---.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645160551453530770" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SzVYA_jABQg/TlejnLlvmpI/AAAAAAAAAvA/Mku6WrozFGo/s400/2010-Fieldsheer-Armadillo-Knee-Protector---.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>RIDING BOOTS</strong><br />
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Riding Boots come next and they are perhaps the most stylish of all the above mentioned accessories. A good boot today is so well engineered that it would take an extremely terrible crash to injure your foot. They are made from leather and specially researched polymers. Most good boots come with a toe slider. Not only do the boots protect your feet they also help in shifting gears accurately. The good brands are SIDI, ALPINE STARS, JOE ROCKET, AXO, KOMINE,RJAYS and a few others. A decent boot will start at around Rs 8000 and go all the way to Rs 25000.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RwzTez2ocKA/Tlem3z5Hl_I/AAAAAAAAAvo/y8usne2IKMU/s1600/sidi-boots.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645164135685003250" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RwzTez2ocKA/Tlem3z5Hl_I/AAAAAAAAAvo/y8usne2IKMU/s400/sidi-boots.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 380px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>Points to keep in mind while choosing a good boot</strong><br />
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1.Never buy a boot that one size smaller, its better to have one that right fit or maybe a little bigger<br />
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2.Get ventilated Boots if your riding in warm weather.<br />
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3.Go for comfortable Boots, Style should follow comfort and not the other way around.<br />
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4.If you plan to tuck your jeans into your Boot then ensure the boot is big enough else you'll stress you ankle out and limit the blood flow to your feet.<br />
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<strong>RIDING PANTS</strong><br />
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The other lesser used items in India are Riding Pants . While a good pair of denims and knee guards will do the job just fine, the riding pants is a more complete deal it comes with hip protection also. The only down side to Riding Pants are that the fit may not to be everyone’s taste .All brands that make Jackets usually make Riding Pants also. They begin from Rs 7500 <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jScqn-uq3jo/Tlek9sogU3I/AAAAAAAAAvQ/Xg621jI4xaI/s1600/jr-speedmaster-5-pant.gif"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645162037792232306" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jScqn-uq3jo/Tlek9sogU3I/AAAAAAAAAvQ/Xg621jI4xaI/s400/jr-speedmaster-5-pant.gif" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 392px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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A full riding suit is not advisable for everyday riding as its heavy and can be a pain in traffic for they are made of high quality leather and it could get extremely hot. However if you plan to ride on a track, A full suit is a must.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EGUVVvv51qI/Tlelmm_m2qI/AAAAAAAAAvg/ddqnR8eCEKM/s1600/03122008063.jpeg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645162740653152930" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EGUVVvv51qI/Tlelmm_m2qI/AAAAAAAAAvg/ddqnR8eCEKM/s400/03122008063.jpeg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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Performance Racing Store is the sole Indian distributor for JOE ROCKET apparel, ARAI and SPARX helmets and SIDI boots. All these brands make extremely high quality products. They have a fair amount of stock and choice with them at all times. If there is any product you don’t find in their store they will be more than happy to order them for you. As far as pricing goes they may be on the higher side but one needs to always keep the rule of 10% in mind. Spend at least 10% of your bikes value in Riding Gear for that would ensure you remain riding for all your life.<br />
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Vivek Jaising can be contacted on Vickyj@performanceracingstore.net<br />
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You could also check out their site www.performanceracing.in<br />
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<br /></div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-25900358264277468192011-08-24T16:53:00.000+05:302012-04-19T15:21:23.320+05:3038. Ali's Yamaha R1, 2010<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Name: Ali Tejani<br />
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Age: 32<br />
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Occupation: Merchant Trader <br />
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City: Pune<br />
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Riding Club(if any):None <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y40QjvpxNvk/TlTm58IOoII/AAAAAAAAAuA/zG_WPR-1Qp0/s1600/DSC02807.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644390116069646466" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y40QjvpxNvk/TlTm58IOoII/AAAAAAAAAuA/zG_WPR-1Qp0/s400/DSC02807.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>1. When did your love for superbiking begin?</strong><br />
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Love for motorcycles goes back during my childhood years, when my father had a Red Rajdoot. However it really became an "obsessive compulsive disorder" & kicked in back in school ,when I use to see this elderly parsi gentlemen riding around pune on his Red & White Honda CB1000. In my opinion its still one the the best looking naked bike.<br />
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<strong>2.Who taught you the first rules of biking? </strong><br />
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Self taught & experiences did the teaching really , I was always keen to improve by riding technique, did a lots of reading on various sites on the net, watched a lot of clips online about body positioning, cornering, breaking. After which I use to do lots of practicing late nights on the back streets of Pune.<br />
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<strong>3.Which was your first superbike and how did you get it?</strong><br />
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Well i would not call it superbike really, but my first real "sports bike" was the Yamaha FZR400. It was the most thrilling fun I have had. I was in my 12th Grade .<br />
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My first true superbike would be my current 2010 R1. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FYqiPcaG5jE/TlTm6wZ6GcI/AAAAAAAAAuY/j3ZDOS12Kz8/s1600/DSC02849.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644390130102442434" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FYqiPcaG5jE/TlTm6wZ6GcI/AAAAAAAAAuY/j3ZDOS12Kz8/s400/DSC02849.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>4. Tell us the story of how you got your hands on the R1?</strong><br />
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The interesting story about the R1 is that I've been chasing it since 1998, the year it was introduced . I would take photo's along side it, since 1998 every place that i saw it or where every I traveled on vacations. At the mall or on the street or even if i had to take cab, bus or train to the showroons in Singapore, Malaysia, South Africa, USA, Australia !...I mean every where..( like I said its an Obsessive complusive disorder " LOL ! )<br />
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Well moving on..During my 2 years at university in Australia, I made promise to myself to buy the R1 when i got back to india. After completing my uni..on the last day of leaving Australia, just 3 hrs before I took the cab for the airport to leave Australia for good...I took the bus to the closest Yamaha Dealer (at the gabba for those who've been to Brisbane) to buy a Helmet. It was a Bright Blue & White color HJC ( the same as the R1's flag ship colors) since i knew some day OR some how....I was getting a blue R1. This was in the year 2002....after 8 years of suffering, waiting and find ways earn the money and find ways out to import the bike, to my delight the news was announced that superbikes are now in INDIA. The yamaha R1 was " Officially " available !!<br />
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I had bought my Blue & White HJC Helmet 8 years in advance for my 2010 YZF R1.. ( Blue & White In Color...offcourse !)....<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WPfEJ8Wy6ns/TlTm6u540II/AAAAAAAAAuQ/bG17fspfjJk/s1600/DSC02824.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644390129699704962" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WPfEJ8Wy6ns/TlTm6u540II/AAAAAAAAAuQ/bG17fspfjJk/s400/DSC02824.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>5. Whats the best attribute of the R1?</strong><br />
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- very agile<br />
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- amazing to corner <br />
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- Looks sharp. <br />
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- Slipper Clutch<br />
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- not tiring to ride. ( ergonomics suit me well, being 6'' tall) <br />
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6.Whats about the R1 can be improved?</strong><br />
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-More Power..Less weight.<br />
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-Brembo Brakes would complement the above..!<br />
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-Zenon Headlights / Bright Headlights for Night Riding.<br />
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-the motor pours out excessive levels of heat. Effective cooling for street/city riding need to be addressed. <br />
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-the map modes STD, A & B could be revised for better throttler response<br />
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<strong>7.Narrate an interesting experience on the road?</strong><br />
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Well there have been several gr8 rides & experiences, however one was particularity strange and hilarious experience. It happen at the traffic stop, when a really thin man with a little white beard on his chin riding a Luna (in terrible condition) stops by my side, points at me with and asked me English " what is horse power CC" ? so I answer .. its 1000 cc. After which we pauses and replies " respect mann..respect to you "..! and rides off..<br />
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<strong>8.Where do you get the bike serviced</strong>?<br />
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Fortunately, the yamaha factory outlet is just 5 mins ride from my place, I get it serviced at the dealership itself. However getting is done by oneself is not rocket science ! you just need the right set tools. I'd love to do it my self if I had whole setup. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VJtfK7d_Rh8/TlTm6WD0xkI/AAAAAAAAAuI/3o7YxTpa4ug/s1600/DSC02813.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644390123030496834" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VJtfK7d_Rh8/TlTm6WD0xkI/AAAAAAAAAuI/3o7YxTpa4ug/s400/DSC02813.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>9.What Fuel/Oil do you use?</strong><br />
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Initially Shell Premium, currently 97 Octane<br />
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However I felt the bike was smoother running with Shell Premium.<br />
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10.Whats the highest speed you've seen on the speedo</strong><br />
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I'm not really into touching High Speeds, its not the way I ride. I prefer to ride with smoothness and technique and how I enjoy the riding. Having said that, I have done 225Kms on my VFR.<br />
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On my R1...i don't intent to find out how fast it will go. I know what it can go and wish to leave it at that.<br />
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<strong>11.Tell us about your riding gear?</strong><br />
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Nothing very fancy, the std requirements.<br />
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- Speed & Strength Vented Textile Jacket with the STD body armor for the shoulders, Spine, Elbow<br />
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- Speed & Strength Vented Full Grain Leather Gloves with Kevlar Protection<br />
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- TCX Torsion Control Vented Boots.<br />
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- Alpinestar Knee Protection.<br />
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- And OffCouse my beloved HJC Helmet ( Blue, White with flames )<br />
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- Recently Bought a Nolan N-Com Moduler Helmet ( Hi Gloss Black Metallic ) Looks Gr8 at night when the lights shines off it.<br />
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<strong>12.What is the next bike on your mind?</strong><br />
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-- Mostly Likely a Red Ducati Monster 1100 and a Harley 48 or the new Dark Custom Fatboy<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jxTle5AhXfg/TlTm5Vyk02I/AAAAAAAAAt4/AujzbDfAkT0/s1600/DSC02770.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644390105778279266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jxTle5AhXfg/TlTm5Vyk02I/AAAAAAAAAt4/AujzbDfAkT0/s400/DSC02770.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>13.what is your thoughts on the new cross plane technology?</strong><br />
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Gr8 motor the cross plane..but I think its overrated. There is lots of room for improvement.Does not have the "pop" like the inline motor.<br />
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<strong>14.where do you park your bike?</strong><br />
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Fortunately I have a basement car park, the bike remains fairly cool and away from dusty environment. ( always covered )<br />
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<strong>15.Whats your advice to aspiring riders?</strong><br />
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Any Mature rider would give similar advice. Start of on Smaller Sports bikes 400's, then move up 600's before you take the pluge into superbikes . This will give to opportunity get the experience necessary and to hone skills to master superbikes. <br />
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You must be in control of your bike at all times NOT the other way around ! Its not important how fast you can go,..its how fast you can stop the bike and and get in control.</div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-1951091005170400562011-08-21T15:02:00.000+05:302012-04-19T15:21:35.483+05:3037. Living with a superbiker<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The post below was sent to me by a wife of an extremely obsessive superbiker....<br />
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The wife of a veteran superbiker once said to me" there is a thin line between passion and obsession". For most superbikers this is the dilemma they live, breathe and struggle with daily. But they are not the only ones to face it. Having read most of the articles on vijay's blog I found the superbike and the superbiker but an important element was missing – the family! The L Twin and V Twin engines may create the spark in a rider but it's the real flesh and blood type engines (aka superbikers family) that has to live with a petro head's madness day in and day out. The make and models may differ but they all have clear views and opinions on the subject and will not shy away from expressing it to the world. So here I am the wife of a superbiker unequivocally sharing my view on how it is and what it takes to live with a superbiker.<br />
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In short you have to be a nut! Not the mad kind (though you need a bit of madness to live with a crazy biker) but the one that holds together all the components that make a superbikers family work. Balancing family life with bike time! <br />
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We could make ourselves sound extremely important and call ourselves the skeleton or the body frame on which the rest of the parts rest or even better call ourselves the engine --the heart that pumps life into the bike and its owner but that would be like blowing our own trumpet. In truth we are happy to be the little people who live in the shadows of a superbiker. Like the pit crew of an F1 rally driver we silently support, protect, pray and share the triumphs and sorrows of a good ride vs. a bad one.<br />
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We make sacrifices everyday – from cutting our saturday night dinner short to ensure the superbiker is well rested for the morning ride the next day, to choosing our family holiday destination from places that support good bike stores, or spending the extra cash saved on a good Alpine protective riding gear vs putting it aside for a rainy day. We even help clean and polish the bike to get the perfect gleam and shine on both the bike and the biker. Yes, we do all this and ask for nothing in return. Okay, the last bit was a bit exaggerated but you get the point.<br />
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To keep peace in the house, one has to constantly negotiate and balance the two key elements required to run a happy family – time and money. Sometimes the balance is achieved by smoothly purring like an engine and at times it takes a roar like a termignoni exhaust just to be heard!<br />
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So why do we do what we do? For me personally the answer is simple. The sparkle in the eye after a exhilarating fun ride and the million dollar smile of an exhausted but happy rider (my husband) which he attributes to the rush of the ride, the bond of riding with like minded superbikers and the opportunity of letting his hair down after a tough week at work. It's like watching an excited three year old after he has finished playing with his favourite toy – tired yet content!<br />
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But like the lady Said "there is a thin line between passion and obsession" it is always good to support the passion but when the fine line is crossed well that's another story <br />
<br /></div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2839867984923215971.post-62552859364628947402011-08-17T15:44:00.000+05:302012-04-19T15:22:12.049+05:3036.The Gixxer Vs The Street Fighter Vs The HD 48- Rishab Gulshan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
As some of you might have picked up from my previous entry, I'm super fortunate to own three awesome super-bikes – a HD 48 (2011), a Suzuki GSXR 1000 (2011) and a Ducati Streetfighter S (2010). Each of these bikes is unique in its own way and when people ask me which is the best among them, I am truly at a loss of words. <br />
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Since I mostly get to ride on Sunday mornings, I rotate among the three bikes. But a couple of weeks ago I had the rare opportunity to ride all three of them back to back over three consecutive days. And each of these was a good 100 km+ run. When I talked about this with Vijay (the creator of this wonderful blog), his immediate question was "bro which one is the best?" Now as I said before, that question is a very difficult one for me answer as I truly believe that each of these bikes is special in its own way. I did promise Vijay that I will write my honest opinion about each of them for the blog….so here it goes. This is going to be a long post, so get your coke and pop corn ready <br />
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I am an analytical sort of guy, so I like to put a structure to most things. I will attempt to do the same here as well. I will try to describe each of these bikes using the following 10 criteria – <br />
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1. Looks<br />
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2. Sound<br />
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3. Acceleration<br />
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4. Handling<br />
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5. Braking<br />
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6. Comfort <br />
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7. Features<br />
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8. Reliability (and ease of maintenance)<br />
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9. Overall riding experience<br />
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10. The X factor<br />
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Before I get into the details, let me briefly introduce my bikes to you. I will not get into their tech specs here (as that is easily available from the company websites), but will describe the modifications I have done to them, so you have a better idea about them. <br />
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<strong>1. HD 48 (2011)</strong><br />
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The 48 is an iconic HD world-famous for its "stripped down bobber looks". I believe this is a HD that has been in production in some form or shape for over 50 years. Mine is a 2011 black on black. The modifications I have done include a Screaming Eagles exhaust, air intake and spark plugs. Other than that the bike is bone stock. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V8-2gr2_ib0/TkuVwiyA1II/AAAAAAAAArI/utPbhSFlodM/s1600/271019_139542279457458_100002050614817_265882_18200_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641767619414512770" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V8-2gr2_ib0/TkuVwiyA1II/AAAAAAAAArI/utPbhSFlodM/s400/271019_139542279457458_100002050614817_265882_18200_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 299px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>2. Suzuki GSXR 1000 (2011)</strong><br />
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"The litre bike that feels like a 600"…is the best way I can describe the Gixxer. Mine is a 2011 white on blue. The modifications I have done include an Akrapovic full system exhaust with a K&N air filter. There are a few other cosmetic modifications I have done to enhance the look of the bike. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kvSywYP0eMQ/TkuVw2ulYLI/AAAAAAAAArQ/F18zMOuebKw/s1600/The%2Bgood%252C%2Bbetter%2Band%2Bbest%2B063.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641767624768839858" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kvSywYP0eMQ/TkuVw2ulYLI/AAAAAAAAArQ/F18zMOuebKw/s400/The%2Bgood%252C%2Bbetter%2Band%2Bbest%2B063.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>3. The Ducati Streetfighter S (2010)</strong><br />
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"A naked 1098" is how the Streetfighter was introduced to the world back in 2009 (the first year it was produced). Rumor has it that Ducati had moved its super-bike engine to the 1198 and had a bunch of 1098 engines lying around. A junior designer came up with the idea of producing a naked 1098 to utilize those engines and the rest as they say is history. Mine is a 2010 black on gold, S model (I will explain in more detail later about the S). The modifications I have done include a Termignoni exhaust, with a Ducati performance air filter and racing ECU. Like, the Gixxer, there are some cosmetic modifications I have done to customize it to my taste. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NVDLLbs-ZRA/TkuaLp7fQGI/AAAAAAAAArY/98Aesfcb1go/s1600/180090_10150183003591562_624521561_8640741_8073391_n.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641772483236282466" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NVDLLbs-ZRA/TkuaLp7fQGI/AAAAAAAAArY/98Aesfcb1go/s400/180090_10150183003591562_624521561_8640741_8073391_n.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 267px;" /></a><br />
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Enough about the bikes….lets start with the comparison<br />
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1. Looks <br />
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They say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. As clichéd as this sounds, it is actually very much true. Looks are definitely subjective. <br />
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The HD 48 is a no nonsense street bike in terms of looks. It has a beautiful low profile that is accentuated by the small peanut shaped tank and the fat front tyre (the font tyre is almost as fat as the rear one). The circular headlight further adds to that street bike look. I love how HD have kept most of the bike black (to add to that mean look), yet given it just the right amount of chrome accents in a few places (engine rocker panels, wheel spokes etc). I also love the old school spoke wheels on the bike. All in all it’s a beautiful retro looking bike. I just simply love its low slung profile. <br />
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The Gixxer is your typical litre bike. What stands out about its looks to me is that gorgeous front-end that looks like Optimus Prime from the Transformers and the beautiful while on blue color scheme. Though you can't see this very clearly in the pictures, the frame of the Gixxer is painted a deep blue that looks simply stunning in daylight and really enhances the overall look of the bike. <br />
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The Streetfighter S looks like an alien has descended on earth. It looks stunning from each and every angle and there are way too many beautifu physical attributes of this bike to list out. The few key ones that stand out are – the front end with the crazy led lights, the single sided swing arm, the exposed L-twin engine and the super lean overall profile of the bike. The other thing super cool about the "S" version is that it comes with a few panels (front bumper & engine covers) in carbon fibre. That really is a nice touch and adds to this already extreme looking machine. The Italians certainly know how their design. Every time I lay eyes on the Streetfighter S, I am mesmerized….and I discover a new feature about its design. If looks could kill…I'd die every time I lay my eyes on this bike. <br />
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So this one is easy…to me the Streetfighter S is the best looking bike in the whole world, let along my small collection. <br />
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2. Sound<br />
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Now this is going to be a tough one !<br />
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The HD 48 has the characteristic Harley V-twin sound. With the Screaming Eagle exhausts, the bike really roars. It's loud enough to scare most fellow two-wheeler commuters on the road when you are putting it through its paces. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R-kgQBGSpc8/TkujZtunOnI/AAAAAAAAArg/3gqfU5HznpM/s1600/exhaust.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641782620378839666" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R-kgQBGSpc8/TkujZtunOnI/AAAAAAAAArg/3gqfU5HznpM/s400/exhaust.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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The Gixxer with the Akrapovic exhausts sounds almost like a F1 race car. The combination of an inline 4 engine and the Akra carbon fiber can is just incredible. The best part is that the more you rev the bike, the louder it gets. And if that was not enough, the Akras have a deep bass that simply sounds amazing. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dZ8SHQG4mOI/TkujaBZkgOI/AAAAAAAAArw/B5NMxU6F8vk/s1600/akra.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641782625659289826" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dZ8SHQG4mOI/TkujaBZkgOI/AAAAAAAAArw/B5NMxU6F8vk/s400/akra.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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The Streetfighter S has an L-twin engine (similar to V-twin, but the cylinders are at about a 90 degree angle) with a dry clutch. When idling, it sounds like a bunch of skeletons trapped in a tin can and trying to break free…but when you start to rev it, that cacophony of noises transforms into a powerful symphony that symbolizes raw aggression. I really can't do justice to how the SF sounds in words. You have to hear it in person. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2o3UFdOCLng/TkujZ5IaTzI/AAAAAAAAAro/T80_RTgNb0o/s1600/termi.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641782623439834930" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2o3UFdOCLng/TkujZ5IaTzI/AAAAAAAAAro/T80_RTgNb0o/s400/termi.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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So which one comes up trumps here….well like I said, this one is really tough. Each of them has a very distinctive sound due to the combination of the engine and the after-market exhaust system and honestly I love them all….but if I really had to choose one it would have to the Gixxer…this is closest I am ever going to get to owning something that sounds like an F1 car. <br />
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3. Acceleration<br />
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The HD 48 has oodles of torque given its V-twin engine. Further since the 48 is relatively light (by HD standards) weighing in at about 260 kgs, it is a reasonably fast bike. Twist the throttle and the bike plunges ahead with aggression. Since it has a cruiser type riding posture, your arms get pulled out of the shoulder sockets when then bike plunges forward. However, given the heavy weight of the bike and the cruiser style seating position, one does not feel very comfortable ripping this bike. <br />
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The Gixxer is really incredible on this dimension. Twist the throttle and the bike rewards you with unbelievable acceleration….in 1st gear, before you hit 6k on the tacho, you're already touching 120 kmph…and it has 5 more gears and another 7k rpm before you hit redline…so you get the picture. It is incredibly fast. Since my bike is new and the engine is still not fully broken-in, I have been relatively careful with how much I push it. But every time, I twist the throttle..it goes like a bullet. The light weight and aerodynamics of the bike further add to the sense of speed. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gXYhuDp2Ra4/TkunJD1HwEI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/HghJyFmkEi4/s1600/The%2Bgood%252C%2Bbetter%2Band%2Bbest%2B011.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641786732300451906" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gXYhuDp2Ra4/TkunJD1HwEI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/HghJyFmkEi4/s400/The%2Bgood%252C%2Bbetter%2Band%2Bbest%2B011.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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The Streetfighter S is the rowdiest bike on this dimension. It has loads of torque across the entire rev band and because of its light weight, it pulls like a freight train. Every time I look down at the speedo I see that I'm going faster than what I think I am. There is just something about the Ducati that masks speed. This is the only bike that I have red-lined on a number of occasions due to its phenomenal acceleration. Because the Streetfighter S is a naked bike, it does not offer a lot of wind protection. It is therefore tough to go beyond 170-180 on this bike as the body really begins to hurt beyond that. <br />
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On this dimension, it would have to be the Streetfighter S….it is just phenomenal the way it goes !<br />
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4. Handling<br />
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The 48 is a cruiser and therefore not really the best in this department. Its weight, longer wheelbase, fat front tyre and relaxed sitting position all contribute to its relatively poorer handling (compared with the other two)….this is not a bike you can lean…or cut through zig-zag traffic. It's meant to be ridden in a straight line and that's where it is at its best. <br />
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The Gixxer I would argue is among the best handling litre bikes of the current crop. Suzuki have spent thousands of hours and millions of dollars in perfecting the chassis of this bike. It has Showa big piston forks upfront and an electronic steering damper that make it incredibly well balanced even on our bumpy roads. The engine is extremely compact so as to reduce the wheelbase. Plus there is the advantage of it being light. All of these make it a great handling bike and something you can rip through in traffic or enjoy leaning on a twisty road. It truly has the handling of a 600 with the power of a litre bike. I remember Doc (Dr Arun) once telling me that he managed to go from GK to Punjabi Bagh (about 40+ Kms) in peak Delhi traffic on the Gixxer in about 45 min flat. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mD68YhHw8QM/Tkuj-5L_kxI/AAAAAAAAAr4/5H_3S040aFk/s1600/showa.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641783259110019858" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mD68YhHw8QM/Tkuj-5L_kxI/AAAAAAAAAr4/5H_3S040aFk/s400/showa.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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The Streetfighter S is also an incredible handler. It is lightest of my 3 bikes, has the shortest wheelbase and Ducati has loaded it with the best suspension money can buy (Ohlins – both front and rear)…the combination of all this is lethal and give the Streetfigher S razor sharp handling. The steering is even more direct than the Gixxer and bike gives you incredible levels of feedback….it's almost as if you were sitting on the front wheel of the bike….it's incredible. Another thing which makes the Streetfigher S shine on this dimension is the Ducati Traction Control system. It has 8 levels (which you can choose depending on how much you would like the system to intervene)….it works really well…e.g., once I accidentally pulled the throttle right as I was getting onto a speed breaker….the bike would likely have lifted on the front wheel and I might not have been able to control it, but the TC system sensed the front wheel going up and cut power to the rear wheel thereby stabilizing the bike…worked really well. Now I am told that if you set the TC system to its lowest setting, you can pull wheelies etc…but I am not into that kind of stuff and am more than happy keeping TC on the highest setting. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fsw6zgQCTJY/Tkuj_BPetLI/AAAAAAAAAsA/hquo9v5rczs/s1600/fendor.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641783261272126642" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fsw6zgQCTJY/Tkuj_BPetLI/AAAAAAAAAsA/hquo9v5rczs/s400/fendor.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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So in this criteria, it would have to be a tie between the Gixxer and the Streetfighter S. The former is a fully faired litre bike…it is supposed to be a good handling machine…and it is. The latter is a naked bike…it is not supposed to be the best handling machine…but trust me, it's as good if not better than most fully faired litre bikes. <br />
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5. Braking<br />
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The HD 48 has decent braking. It has a single disc upfront and a single disc at the rear. The brakes are good but a bit spongy. So once again they are great if you are riding at 100 or 120 and need to stop immediately. I am not sure they would be as good if you were on faster speeds….but I guess that is consistent with that type of bike the 48 is. <br />
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Braking is probably the Achilles heels of the Gixxer. It has the regular 2 disc up-front with 4 pot calipers and 1 disc in the rear with a 2 pot caliper. Having ridden most of the other litre class bikes (R1, CBR etc), I must say the braking of the Gixxer is just about acceptable. It also does not have ABS, which most of the litre class bikes are now offering. Maybe a brake system upgrade is on the cards in the future. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9QIv9IYEOQQ/TkukiqvXU3I/AAAAAAAAAsQ/lVD72-3D4TQ/s1600/The%2Bgood%252C%2Bbetter%2Band%2Bbest%2B050.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641783873707135858" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9QIv9IYEOQQ/TkukiqvXU3I/AAAAAAAAAsQ/lVD72-3D4TQ/s400/The%2Bgood%252C%2Bbetter%2Band%2Bbest%2B050.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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The Streetfighter S is again simply incredible on this dimension. It has Brembo brakes where the caliper is machined out of a single block of aluminum (as opposed to two pieces that fit together). These brakes have planet stopping powers…..it is very easy to pull a stopple or fishtail the Ducati if you are not careful with the brakes. But they also inspire so much confidence, that even a conservative rider like me feels comfortable ripping the bike when I see an empty stretch of road. Again, like the Gixxer, an ABS system is sorely missed on the Streetfighter. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DEn2W1xnjPg/TkukiQKywgI/AAAAAAAAAsI/nw6dv4YiHWM/s1600/brembo.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641783866574422530" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DEn2W1xnjPg/TkukiQKywgI/AAAAAAAAAsI/nw6dv4YiHWM/s400/brembo.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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I guess it's obvious…on this one it’s the Streetfigher S. <br />
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6. Comfort<br />
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Now this one will be interesting as all three bikes have completely different riding postures. <br />
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The HD is the most relaxed of them all. You sit upright with both your feet and hands ahead of your torso. That is how we naturally sit, when we are at work on in a social setting. So it’s a very comfortable position. The handle bars and foot pegs are well designed and extremely comfortable for someone like me (I'm about 6 feet tall). Perhaps the only thing uncomfortable about the 48 would be its seat..it has very limited cushioning and given the slammed bare bones suspension of the bike, your backside really starts to suffer after about 100 Kms. I believe HD makes a spring seat to address this issue. I'm looking to get that soon.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M6I7cuyBvKM/TkulF50n9uI/AAAAAAAAAsY/z6bMVA8W1Ew/s1600/Harley2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641784479051151074" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M6I7cuyBvKM/TkulF50n9uI/AAAAAAAAAsY/z6bMVA8W1Ew/s400/Harley2.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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For a litre bike, the Gixxer is extremely comfortable. Litre bikes (or super-sport as they are technically referred to) have a pretty aggressive seating position. You sit in a crouched up posture, with your hands in front of your torso and your feet behind it (kind of like you're climbing up a tree or riding a horse). That position puts a lot of strain on your wrists as the wrists are pretty much supporting the weight of your upper body. So if the seating position is extreme then the ride can become really painful. The other critical part is the seat. A broad, well cushioned seat makes a hell of a lot of difference to the comfort of riding a super-sport (ask all the Busa owners !). The Gixxer optimizes both of these quite well and the result is a riding position that is not too extreme on the wrists (like the R1) or too hard on the buttocks (like the Ducati 848/1198). I can easily see myself doing 2000+ Km trips on the Gixxer. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r8zKF5G8pCM/TkulFxmMVyI/AAAAAAAAAsg/CPPnfPpBYlk/s1600/222956_184569234928935_100001275789785_511934_481315_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641784476843136802" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r8zKF5G8pCM/TkulFxmMVyI/AAAAAAAAAsg/CPPnfPpBYlk/s400/222956_184569234928935_100001275789785_511934_481315_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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The Streetfigher S belongs to the category of naked bikes and it sort of mid-way between a super-sport like the Gixxer and a cruiser like the 48. So its seating position is also sort of mid-way. You sit quite like you would on a super-sport but for the fact that the body is more upright (it has a proper handle-bar and not clip-ons like the super-sports). That makes the seating position significantly more comfortable that a super-sport. Ducati is quite miserly with the cushioning they provide on the stock seat, so I have replaced that with the Ducati Performance touring seat and it has made a huge difference. So the way my Streetfigher S is set up…it is super comfortable. What goes against the Streetfigher S is that it is a naked and beyond a certain speed, the wind drag makes you really uncomfortable. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-blqRYfdoRvU/TkulGCKiGrI/AAAAAAAAAso/pGxXV5dmqsw/s1600/9.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641784481290525362" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-blqRYfdoRvU/TkulGCKiGrI/AAAAAAAAAso/pGxXV5dmqsw/s400/9.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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It's tough to pick a winner in this category as they really are all reasonably comfortable. But again if I had to pick one, it would be the Gixxer. <br />
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7. Features<br />
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The 48 is a pretty basic bike and as such does not come loaded with too many features. The one thing I really like about it (and I guess this applies for all HDs) is that it had separate switches to activate the indicators with an auto-cancelling feature…its really intuitive and easy to use. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4ED9zefLT9g/TkumFKxPBmI/AAAAAAAAAsw/BJDW1bRXakc/s1600/speedo.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641785565932095074" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4ED9zefLT9g/TkumFKxPBmI/AAAAAAAAAsw/BJDW1bRXakc/s400/speedo.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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The Gixxer has a few noteworthy features. First are the ride modes – it has 3 ride modes A, B and C that alter how much power the engine makes and also the throttle response. A is the most aggressive with C being the most docile. This is a pretty nifty feature and you can toggle between the different modes at the press of a button (even if you are riding). I find this a useful feature as when I'm starting up in the morning I keep the bike in C mode (as the tires are cold) and then slowly move to B and by the time I reach the highway I'm in A mode. Similarly if I get stuck in heavy traffic, I switch to B or C modes. It has a few other features such as a lap-timer and sequential rev shift indicators (a string of lights and not just one light…that looks pretty cool…kind of like a F1 car). Another great feature of the Gixxer are the Showa big piston forks and an electronically controlled steering damper. Both of these really improve the handling of the bike on bumpy Indian roads. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pYKY5XEbmgU/Tkumjv_5kCI/AAAAAAAAAtI/gEG4Los4iyQ/s1600/The%2Bgood%252C%2Bbetter%2Band%2Bbest%2B057.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641786091321790498" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pYKY5XEbmgU/Tkumjv_5kCI/AAAAAAAAAtI/gEG4Los4iyQ/s400/The%2Bgood%252C%2Bbetter%2Band%2Bbest%2B057.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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The Ducati is just loaded with all sorts of features and technology. As I have mentioned before, it has Ohlins suspension and Brembo brakes. It has neat carbon fibre panels all over. It has traction control with 8 settings. It has a lap-timer and the coolest ignition switch (like that of a fighter plane ready to launch a missile). Another cool gadget it has is the DDA (Ducati Data Analyzer). It is basically a USB based device that plugs into a contraption at under the tail cowl and can extract all sorts of data about the bike. It's something you can use to alter the set up of the bike to get better performance out of it. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8xppNN98wRs/TkumHpVJVfI/AAAAAAAAAtA/f5-4INHhUcg/s1600/speedo.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641785608495519218" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8xppNN98wRs/TkumHpVJVfI/AAAAAAAAAtA/f5-4INHhUcg/s400/speedo.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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So I guess this one will also have to be shared by the Gixxer and the Streetfigher S. <br />
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8. Reliability <br />
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All three bike are relatively new and have not given me any trouble thus far (touchwood !). Am hoping things stay that way. <br />
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In terms of maintenance, the regular servicing for all three is roughly similar in terms of cost. My sense is that spares are similarly priced. If you need any major parts then they will be more expensive and will take longer to get. <br />
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The one thing that really worries me is the fact that Ducati have shut down their dealership in Gurgaon and do not have any facility to service the bikes in NCR – it’s a real let down by them and I hope they rectify this issue soon. <br />
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9. Overall riding experience<br />
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The HD is the least stressful big bike I have owned and ridden. It is adequately powered, super comfortable to ride and has decent braking. It’s the bike I can take anywhere and everywhere. It allows me to take in more of the surrounding ambience when I am riding because I am a lot more relaxed. I remember the first time I rode the 48 back from the showroom to my house, with an open face helmet….I could see more, hear more, smell more….so in a way it has opened up another dimension of the joy of motorcycling for me. I can't wait to take it out in the winters. <br />
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The Gixxer is a whole different ball game. The joy of the Gixxer is in pulling it though its gears and hearing those Akras scream and of leaning it at a twisty corner and smirking at oneself when you look at the speedo and see the speed at which you just took that turn. I can't wait to take this one up to the mountains and see how she does there. But like with every super-sport, you have to be extremely focused and alert while riding this….you simply cannot get distracted as it only take a fraction of a second for something to go wrong and you have even lesser time to respond. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zww_gaYZzqg/Tkup3X6C4EI/AAAAAAAAAtw/4U_jvRCRbis/s1600/The%2Bgood%252C%2Bbetter%2Band%2Bbest%2B073.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641789726987051074" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zww_gaYZzqg/Tkup3X6C4EI/AAAAAAAAAtw/4U_jvRCRbis/s400/The%2Bgood%252C%2Bbetter%2Band%2Bbest%2B073.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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The Streetfigher S is simply a hooligan. It is so wicked and wild that if you don’t treat it with respect, it will slap you so hard that you won't know what hit you. But if you play to its tune, it will reward you with an adrenalin rush that I have not experienced on any other super-bike. If the HD 48 is the most relaxed bike I have owned, the Streetfigher S is the most involved bike I have owned. You need to keep it in the right gear…you need to be careful with the brakes….you need to be aware of the ingress and egress speeds at a sharp turn…you need to be careful with how much throttle you twist….you have to be one with the bike to get the most fun out of it..and boy is it worth it. This is the bike has really taught me the nuances of riding a super-bike. <br />
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10. The X factor<br />
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I found this part of the post most challenging to write. I can't really describe what this "X factor" is, but there is something beyond the looks & features of these bikes that make them who they are and contribute to the overall experience of owning and riding them. Maybe for the lack of a better term, let me call it their personality.<br />
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• The HD 48 is a macho machine….relaxed & with an old school charm. If I were to think of a movie character, I would describe it as Client Eastwood playing one of his cowboy roles. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ouBCE_mjTbw/TkunimFV0ZI/AAAAAAAAAtY/zJPle5-_JEk/s1600/Tank.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641787170992017810" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ouBCE_mjTbw/TkunimFV0ZI/AAAAAAAAAtY/zJPle5-_JEk/s400/Tank.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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• The Gixxer is a lean machine…agile to the core. It reminds me of Jackie Chan doing his mind boggling stunts in any of his action flicks. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zoLqd3qgUDk/Tkuni_nOCTI/AAAAAAAAAto/aT9Jj0x-Ra0/s1600/tank.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641787177845000498" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zoLqd3qgUDk/Tkuni_nOCTI/AAAAAAAAAto/aT9Jj0x-Ra0/s400/tank.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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• The Streetfigher is a mean machine….sexy yet aggressive. Batman in his Dark Knight avatar would probably best describe it. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AD1vpfQ3tX8/TkunilhBzMI/AAAAAAAAAtg/cNvpGkqzgIA/s1600/engine.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641787170839710914" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AD1vpfQ3tX8/TkunilhBzMI/AAAAAAAAAtg/cNvpGkqzgIA/s400/engine.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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All three are different ! They have their pros and they have their cons. But I feel incredibly lucky to own them. Every time I ride them…I feel I've on top of the world. Every time I clean them…I feel a deep sense of joy. Every time I work on them…I feel I have accomplished something big. Every time something goes wrong with them….I feel sick. Every time I get them fixed….I have a grin from ear to ear. <br />
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These three bikes are part of my family and I hope we continue to be a happy family !!<br />
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<br /></div>Sriram Sridharanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16532605271133889482noreply@blogger.com13