Sunday ride

View Larger Map
Sunday group ride - about to start!, originally uploaded by achung_123.

Had a super fun small group ride yesterday with my riding buddies - and I took the chance to test everything too (leather, clutch... so and so). The weather was perfect, and the best was riding with friends. Everything went really well except the rear brake issue (see my earlier post). Enjoy the photos and check out the route!

Gear review - Dainese Laguna Seca Pro Suit & Under Armour under suit

Under Armor Gold Gear, originally uploaded by achung_123.

Today I finally have a chance to field test both the Dainese suit and Under Armour Cold Gear under suit. Weather was mild at upper 50s, low wind with overcast sky, and the road is dry at around 6pm... It was a perfect riding condition. After I put everything on, started the engine, and riding down the street - oh man, it was really day and night different between one piece and two pieces suit. First of all, the pressure at my belly was COMPLETELY GONE. Second, thanks to Dainese cutting, I felt like riding naked! The air moves really well inside the suit (almost too much), and I am sure I will need all air movement during the summer months.

Following are what impressed me just after a short 50 miles twisties ride:
- Felt like my suit was my second skin - Dainese cutting was fantastic.
- It was a perfect combination of the Pro suit and my Cold gear under suit - keep me warm without taking space.
- Very comfortable at aggressive riding position.
- A LOT of air movement without feeling cold - it proved the under suit works really well with the outer shell.
- My neck can move freely thanks to the low collar cutting.
- Sliding from left to right feels quicker now.
- Cooling and exhaust grills at the speed hump actually works!

Here are some minor drawbacks:
- Sleeves were a bit long - I wash they were 1/4" to 1/2" shorter.
- It was a tight fitted suit... so there wasn't much room for my man's part. Oh yeah, balls slam tank! No fun!
- No usable storage available inside the suit - so I have to hold my credit card, phone, helmet, key, and gloves... did I mention I try to hold my coffee at the same time too?
- No sitting - the speed hump took over my back! Since speed hump was hollow... I can't really rest on it.
- Forget about walking - felt like a moving condom...
- Did I mention balls slam tank?

Feels like it going to be really hard for me to go back to two pieces suit - maybe in winter months when I actually need the heated vest... Now, the real question is - what I going to do with a closet full of Dainese jackets and pants???

Posting time! New Dainese one piece suit!

Posting time!, originally uploaded by achung_123.

After all these years of thinking... finally jump into the pool of one piece leather. I really should do it much earlier! The fitment is excellent (with under suit and full size Dainese back protector), and not more pressure point at my waist. It sounds expensive (it is for me); but compare with the money that I drop on two pieces... it is actually cheaper believe it or not. Beside, it is a prefer reason to keep myself in shape. I have not try this on my Sport Classic yet - hopefully it will be a happy match. BTW, with the help of my under-suit, getting in & out is a piece of cake - I will give a detail review once hit the road.

I guess I really running out of excuse not do track day ... stay tune! =)

Bike modification update - Rizoma goodies

Rizoma pressure plate and cover, originally uploaded by achung_123.

Just like 'typical' Ducati owners; we replace parts for fun...so this time I focus on the clutch, and the finish up the 'left over' rear reservoir. My old EVR vented pressure plate and clutch cover were both in very nice working order... but then again, replacing parts are like changing cloths.... Anyway, the operation was easy, and it went well without any incident. I replaced the pressure plate bearing too - it was the original bearing and it is time to be replaced.
Rizoma by far still the market leader in motorcycle custom parts - we're talking about super high quality Italian machinery, not something that made cheap in China. Rizoma parts are expensive; but IMO they are the best. Period. And I am a very happy return customer!
Road still a bit wet from the major Easter Sunday storm - really can't wait to take her out for a spin!