Would Hypermotard be my next ride?

Could this be my next ride?, originally uploaded by achung_123.

Finally after all these years I had a chance (& gut) to test ride a Hypermotard. I borrowed it from my riding buddy and took her for a spin during my weekend ride. I have been worry for test ride HM before due to two main reasons: riding height and engine power. It is obviously that I have height challenge; but what's really concern me is the engine power in relationship to the riding position.... it is truly a "wheelie machine", and the last thing I want is flipping my friend's bike!

After a short back road ride I think I finally finger out what's missing in my ride. Here is the list of things that "WOW" me at the time I rode off:
- Back and wrist pain were gone!
- Feels like I can see miles of road ahead of me.
- Riding at fully engaged first gear at 12 MPH without stalling - not sure about other bikes; but for Ducati dry clutch it is a major achievement!
- Without additional weight added to my wrist, the throttle control was like a dream - exact and precise.
- High and wide handle bar provide a lot of steering leverage.

Here are the drawbacks... at least for me on this test bike:
- Clutch-pull is typical Ducati hard - or maybe worse.
- Where is my clutch pedal? I have to look down and look for it - especially up shift...
- Kick-stand is rock-hard to kick in or out.
- Very light steering... scary light!
- So-so break; but far better than my Sport Classic.

There are many after market solutions for all the draw back factors... overall it is a very positive test ride - it is a fun, responsive, quick, and well made bike. I don't feel like it is as solid as my beloved Classic; but flexibility gave my the 'lightness' that I have been searching for. Will the Hypermotard be my next ride? Maybe the Hypermotard S; and I still can't get my eyes off the Super bike like 1198 - so many possibilities, so little budget....

The best ride so far in 2010!

Ridgecreast Road, originally uploaded by achung_123.

This was by far the best ride in 2010! Took a different route this time. It was a lot more technical and demanding especially around the Apline Lake area; but it was well worth the risk and effort. The breathtaking view almost make my ride impossible! The best part was roads were almost empty during the early morning hours, and free of an police or park ranger. See Google map for my route - unlike HW1, this route is only recommended for someone has experience in "deep twisties" in the wood - after today ride, it really makes me wonder maybe I should get a motard as my second bike!

First Spring ride to Point Reyes Station

First Spring ride over HW1, originally uploaded by achung_123.

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The weather seems to stabilized a bit lately, and I start my very first Spring 'longer' ride. Riding along HW1 was made me feel so lucky to live in California. Weather is still a bit cold especially in early morning; but I still like to start early to avoid traffic and squids. Thank to my TourMaster heated vest keeping me warm, and my Dainese Delmar perforated jacket keep me chill in the warmer afternoon sun. I know it sounds odd to have a combination of heated vest and perforated jacket (it is like turning on heater and AC at the same time); but in micro-climate area like Bay Area, it actually work quiet well without being too cold or over heated...

Check out my route for reference. Roads on this route are really smooth; but have to watch out of falling rock after the storms like today. A lot of clutch control in uphill Mill Valley residential area with slow and narrow traffic; once once you hit the top of the hill it will be smooth sailing. Ride safe and have fun!

BMW S1100RR

WOW... this is really something. Don't think my Sport Classic can ever do this... so enjoy the show!

Wonderful local back roads!

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The weather was warm and sunny, and a lot of motorcyclists like myself had a wonderful time today. It has been too long since I last visited the Wall along with some of my favorite local back roads. Today the roads was clean, and almost free of cops (at least my route)... my body was aching after the ride but it was well worth!

Check out my route above (for all the local riders who's not familiar with East Bay). Keep in mind that both Redwood and Skyline are B to C route - meaning that the road conditions are far from perfect. Roads on this route are generally bumpy, narrow, and twisted. On top of that it's alway full of cyclists, tourists, and animals. As long as keep it below B pace you will be fine! Have fun... and stay alive.

Hello new tank!

New tank!, originally uploaded by achung_123.

Today is a band new day.... sort of. My old spread tank has been replaced by DNA free of charge after 4 yrs of usage. Check out my earlier tank spread report - it has been a small but continues problem for the past few years. Some Ducati owners got replacements and some didn't since it is not really a safety issue - yet. I am one of the few lucky one got the replacement under 5yrs CA emission warranty. BTW, Ace Motorsports did an excellent job replacing my tank. Not a single gas stain on my newly wrap headers!

Still can't believe I scored a $1900 new tank plus labour... lucky me.

Header wrap is done!

Header warp is done!, originally uploaded by achung_123.

Finally it is done! After days of work and waiting, it is finally done. Wrapping the header sound easy; but it actually needs a lot of work and skill to make it looks nice and right... Love the look! And hopefully will reduce header heat during the hot day ride!

Exhaust wrap

Wrap after thermo spray paint

Raw warp

Exhaust warp, originally uploaded by achung_123.

Like most Ducati Sport 1000 owners, I have experienced excessive heat on the left thigh during the hot day - it got much worse at the traffic light. In the beginning I thought it was the voltage regulator under my seat; but the heat problem didn't go away after I relocate the regulator. The next thing I could try is header wrap. I personally really liked the old-school look; and I may gain a few HPs if I do it right. The main goal is hopefully the additional insulation will keep the temperature down to a reasonable level during the hot months - it is not fun to slow cook my left thigh!

I have to thank Mike passing down the left-over the wrap from his project. I believe I use about 100' of 1" width Thermo-Tech Wrap for both of my headers and 2-to-1 connector, and 4 cans of Thermo-Tec Hi-Heat Coating. The project is still going on since it take time to dry between each layer of coat, and I ran out of wrap and spray can after finish the long header...

Stay tune to the final result! Two things are going on right now - first is the exhaust wrap, second is the new tank insulation. I will post both picts of the headers and video of the exhaust sound after I done!

Ducati spreading plastic tank problem

Ducati tank issue - deformed gas tank, originally uploaded by achung_123.

From 2006 onward Ducati has been using plastic tank in their models, and since then there been a lot of complains about tank spreading issues - specifically on Monster and Classic, and few cases of Superbikes. Tank problem varies case by case - from spreading as much as 2" per side, to uneven deformation and anything in between. The odd thing is it only happens in the US models. Like most riders suspect, it is the ethanol added in the fuel reacts with the plastic tank and causes the deformation. Most tanks, like mine, will 'settle' in time and it won't spread any further. In my case, the spread continues since I bought the bike used back in June 2008 with 4.2k miles on it, and finally stop some time last year. No one would notice the problem unless study it closely; but the spreading could possibly cause deadly accident if the tank comes loss from the brackets during the high speed ride.

There are few solutions out there - the cheapest way is adding washer between the frame and the tank brackets to make up the spread space (which is what I did - 1/4" added per side). Just make sure you use a longer bolts and the tank brackets are secure.

The best and the most expensive way to resolve this problem is replacing the tank. But just like another motorcycle, tank probably is the third most expensive parts beside the engine and the frame. In this case, a new Sport Classic tanks costs $1900 USD. Spread tank problem will be taken care of if your bike is under still warranty. In California, gas tank is part of the emission system, which the State requires all manufacture offers 5 years warranty - that's how I got a replacement. In fact, I have just received a call from Ace Motorsports telling me my new tank has arrived for replacement! As for other states, DNA (Ducati North America) may replace it at "good will" - meaning that it is a case by case situation depend on how bad it spread...

For general info of the tank spread issue, check out this Ducati MS forums post. For out of warranty tank issue, check out this post.

Will post picture once the new tank is installed! Can't wait!

Welcome to my world - my new baby girl

Baby Alison Chung, originally uploaded by achung_123.

Even-though this is not the first time for me (she is my second one), the feeling of holding a new born is still pretty shocking and touching.... especially I can actually find a trace of myself from her face... that feeling is wonderful. I feel like I am one the luckiest man in the world...

But of cause, I don't mind to "adopt" another kid like a new a Ducati 848 or Hypermotard S too... =)

BBQ oysters over Tomales Bay

BBQ oyster store over Tomales Bay, originally uploaded by achung_123.

Today weather is surprisingly warm and sunny. Compare with the last 3 weeks of rain, today ride is like riding in heaven. The best part is because of Superbowl Sunday, the roads are all empty!

Lunch was great - we had BBQ oyster over The Masrshall Store over Tomales bay. One of the 'most stop' along HW1. The store is small; but the BBQ oyster probably one of the best in the area! The store has all of their oysters suppled locally, and it is always fresh and tasty.

Here is the route for the bay area riders as reference - have fun and ride safe!

New chain and sprockets installed - nicely done!

All done!, originally uploaded by achung_123.

All the correct parts arrive on time and undamaged - well done JC Pak bikes! I got a super deal BTW... very good buying experience with JC!

Finally the sky is clear a bit, and I only have a about 4 hrs window to get it installed since the next rain storm is lining up over pacific - this is a very typical winter weather in North Cal. This is the first time I replace sprockets and chain; and there is no way I want to do it at home - so I leave to the pro to take care of it. I bought my bike to a small local shop for the installation, and only took them 1 hour to get everything done - it was a nice job. Took it to a spin - man, it was quite a difference! The bike felt alive, and I broke the speed limit while still in 2nd gear... this is not good... hahaha...

Here is what I done:

Gear ratio from Ducati factory: Front 15, Rear 38, ratio @ 2.5
Gear ration when I got my bike: Front 14, Rear 38, ration @ 2.7
Newly installed sprockets: Front 15. Rear 42, ratio @ 2.8

As you can see, it is a big jump from the factory setting - but since I got the bike with 14/38, there isn't too big of the jump for me at 15/42. However, I'm for sure can feel the different - the bike feels alive, and a lot quicker at the same amount of twist.

Can't wait to bring it to the twisties - it will be fun! :D

Perfect winter riding weather...

Perfect winter weather..., originally uploaded by achung_123.

It has been raining pretty hard for the past 2 weeks, and finally this weekend we have clear sky - may not be as clear as summer; but I am not complaining. Twisties are still a bit wet, especially in early morning hours. With my not-so-perfect chain situation, we decided doing a short local ride in Oakland hill area. It is all cool - the important part is all my riding buddies able to make it. My chain is still in one piece without falling apart, and we all had a wonderful lunch over Bo's BBQ at Lafayette. BTW, I highly recommend Bo's BBQ - weekday from time to time they have life music, and weekend lunch is always nice and quiet. It is the best BBQ place in the area IMO.

What's wrong of my chains? Gap at sprocket?

what's wrong of my chains?, originally uploaded by achung_123.

My chain has been a bit lose since I replace the rear tire 2 months back. My ride was fine, and I didn't bother it too much since I don't have right tools to deal with it anyway. So I finally got a new torque wrench and right size socket last night to work on it. It supposes to be a simple and straight forward process... but a 15 mins job turned into 1.5 hrs of nightmare...

Here is what I did: losing the axle nut a bit, and adjust the sliding shoes on both left and right and make sure the spindle align... check the chain tension - it looks good; and I re-torque the nut back....everything works as planned - simple, right? Things just start doing downhill when I spin the wheel. Normally when I spin the rear wheel I would feel a constant low resistance; but this time.... there is a spot where I feel something got caught! After close inspection, I found one small section of the chains is not 'fitting' well into the sprocket anymore. I can actually see through the gap!!! WTF?

So... after post my problem on both BARF and Ducati MS, fellow riders suggest that I need a new set of final drive - both front and rear sprockets, and new chain. I have to admit that it is about time anyway - look at how much the chain is stretched. This could be a good excuse to get a new set of nice Supersprox sprockets and RK GB525 gold color chain.

For many experience rider, replacing chain and sprockets is just part of the regular maintenance. This is new to me... and will see how this fix will go. I will post report and pictures once it is done. Stay tune.

1/2-inch Drive Torque Wrench & Breaker

1/2-inch Drive Torque Wrench & Breaker, originally uploaded by achung_123.

Finally they arrived! Mountain 1/2" drive torque wrench and 25" breaker bar. I got them from Tooltopia through Amazon. Very good price, and much better build than the crap in Sears. The entire unit is made by metal - very well build and heavy duty. It also comes with a certificate of calibration stated when the calibration been done and how well it performed. I was impressed! The only draw back is it doesn't have N/m reading - it comes with ft/lb and K/m. Can't want to see them in action. Next time when I need a new set of tiers, I can finally take out the wheels in the comfort of my own garage =D

Dainese M-21 D-Dry glovers

Dainese M-21 D-Dry glovers, originally uploaded by achung_123.

I love my Dainese full-metal racer gloves - it is strong, fitting well, and with state-of-the-art protection. But no matter how nice and strong it is, there is no match with the cold and wet weather. I freeze my hand only after 30 mins of riding in a "good dry day" (typical good winter day in San Francisco area is about mid 40s to mid 50s - rain most of the time during windter). At the end of the freeway exit, my hand actions are always slow with horrible brake and clutch control. And yes, poor clutch control is the #1 reason of low speed bike tip over - don't ask how I know...

So... after few weeks or back and forth, I finally came to my senses and pulled the trigger - got a pair of Dainese D-dry M-21. I got a super deal from the local Dainese D-store (super helpful and freindly sales BTW - highly recommended!), and I believe it is a 2008 or earlier model. It doesn't bother me a bit... it is still a nice pair of gloves even after 2 yrs sitting on the shelf. I was originally eyeing on the more aggressive design like the Dainese M-25. But for close to 40% off... I picked M-21 without second thought. Just like any Dainese leather goods, it runs one size smaller. But what amazes me is the fitting. All of my fingers are fit well - not too long, not too short, even with D-dry interior and insulation - it feels just right. Compare with Full-Metal, it is a lot "beefier" due to the insulation; but it is still within a reasonable level without my fingers feeling like short bananas. The cuff is a lot bigger than Full-Metal - I can easily put my leather sleeve under it with room for nice hand movements. So... it is time to do field test!

After a short 30 miles local ride in low 50s... oh man... my fingers love it! It felt warm during the ride, and it stays warm even over 100mph. The fitting is super so there is no extra glove material flipping between my fingers and levers - which keeps my fingers actions quick and precise. Just like any other glove - it needs time to brake-in... even though Dainese has been well known of short break-in time; a well insulated size small gloves need some addition love... which I will gladly provide... Looking forward to the upcoming longer ride with this pair of nice glove!

Finally got a pair of gauge brackets installed!

Bracket installed along with steering damper by WASP Works

Before installation at stock position

After brackets installation - Gauge lowered!


Gauge bracket before & after, originally uploaded by achung_123.

Finally got a pair of gauge bracket after long search and wait. The parts are home made by one of the fellow member on Ducati MS. Unlike 99% of the parts available on the market; the brackets weren't intended to sale for profit - it is made by someone who truly loves his motorcycles. It is a very simple bracket - all it does is changing the viewing angle of the stock gauge. It improves the visibility of the gauge during aggressive riding position, and the best part is, the lower gauge cleans up the front and make the bike looks a lot cleaner and nicer.

Unfortunately, the quantity of this little mighty brackets are very limited. It wasn't meant to sale for profit, and it wasn't meant for mess production either. Currently it is no longer in production - hopefully someone able to pick it up from where it left off, and continuously contributes and benefits to all Sport Classic riders!

I will provide user review soon! Stay tune!

Sunday solo ride

Sunday solo ride, originally uploaded by achung_123.

It has been relatively dry with over 90% humidity, and the outside temp is somewhere around 45F. With my heated gear I still able to do some short riding... The cold and wet weather keeps out a lot of younger riders off the road - which means more road surface for me :P

It was a very cold but nice ride. Without riding for 2 weeks, my Sport Classic 2 valve desmo engine couldn't be happier! Feels like a happy dog running around in my backyard :D

Cop on my ass again!

Cop on my a$$ again!, originally uploaded by achung_123.

This happened back in Nov 09 - and yes, the police was actually looking at my ass for the SECOND TIME. My custom tail light blocked my license plate (which located all the way under the seat), and the license number can only be seen at certain angles. Oh well, another 'fix-it' ticket; another $18...

I have been looking for a long term solution; but there isn't much offered out there with a reasonable price and design. Here is the list of after-market part I can think of...

- Ducati Sport Classic License Plate Bracket by Palatov Motorsport
- WASP's Tail Chop Kit by WASP WORKS in Australia
- FLEDA system by Pak Bikes

The plate bracket by Palotoy is the cheapest amount all the options since you need reuse the existing part (the lighting unit). But the license plate holder is getting too close to the rear tire, and I really don't think it is a good idea. WASP PUK1 has very nice finish; and it is a completed unit with plug&play. But as usual, nice thing never comes cheap - with shipping it is almost $450 USD.... It is really out of my budget rang. But I still highly recommend it if you can afford it. In face, FLEDA system shares the same 'problem' like WASP - it was really expensive when they first came out - at about $480 range. Just like WASP system, price was the major factor to stop me from purchasing it. The good news is recently they introduced the new "FLEDA-SR-Lite" system cut the cost down to acceptable level; and yet still keeps the same nice low profile design with plug & play. It sounds like a winner to me, and I am sure it will be the next upgrade item on my bike.

Transparent truck!

This is probably one of the best concept out there to protect the users on the road - especially anyone with 2 wheels. Motorcycle basically is transparent to other road users regardless how loud the pipes are - and the more information available the better for the riders. More info after the jump... Engadget