Short after-work ride

Short after-work ride, originally uploaded by Speedy Chung.

Been a long while since I took her out - I took my time to research on the rear brake lock up situation and micro adjust the rear brake. Thanks for all the suggestions on Ducati MS - it works fine now. The engine reached 200F with no sign of lock up or pressure build-up on the rear brake master cylinder. Yeah, I rode her pretty hard today     : )

I have been riding my Street Fighter S for the past 2 months; and I have to admit I am a bit out of shape for the Sport 1000 riding position (man, compare with Sport 1000, the Street Fighter rides like dream!). But... I do miss the roughness of the Sport 1000! For sure I will take her out more...

Double Ducs!

Double Duc!, originally uploaded by achung_123.

Finally have time to take some picts of both of my beloved Ducs - I was waiting the Streetfighter complete some basic upgrade too; so both bikes are somewhat comparable in terms of modifications.
Which one I like it more? I love both... seriously!

Broken boot - Puma 1000 V1

Broken boot, originally uploaded by achung_123.

It has been a while since I update my Sport Classic blog. Not only I have been busy at work, I have been busy on the new Streetfighter S also - especially on choosing new parts and modifications. To make it worse, I can't ride in past 2 weeks - my beloved Puma 1000 V1 has failed! It broke apart a lot sooner than I expected (weekend usage for 9 months only), and I am waiting for replacement or refund from DNA (very slow process BTW). That's really too bad. But believe it or not, I have just ordered the Puma boot again (but newer and improved - Puma 1000 v3). I have to say Puma has probably the best riding boots out there - it fits me well, and there is no zipper, no pressure point, and it never gets hot inside. The broken backing piece is a common problem of the older design... hopeful the new one won't have the same problem.

Can't wait the new one arrive!

New Blog - Ducati Streetfighter S

The new blog is up and running! All the Streetfighter related issues will be post on the new blog - hope you guys will find it informative and useful. Enjoy!

Blog for 2010 Ducati Streetfighter S

My new garage addition - 2010 Streetfighter S

My new girl... 2010 Streetfighter S, originally uploaded by achung_123.

Still couldn't believe it comes true - I finally have a Streetfighter S sitting in my garage! It is one gorgeous motorcycle! Loaded with Ohlins front and rear, Marchesini wheels, DTC, DDA, & Brembo monobloc. 155hp... it is far more than I need!

Just added the new SpeedyMoto frame slider just for cheap insurance... and I am ready to ride! Will take her out for a spin tomorrow!

New set of tires - Michelin Pilot Power 2CT

New tset of tires - Michelin Pilot Power 2CT, originally uploaded by achung_123.

The last set of tires lasted for about 3K mile before the replacement mark showed up. I had a pair of Pirelli Diablo Corsa 3 - in fact, the last set was my third set of Corsa 3. Excellent summer tire, and it never fail me. But the major complain was the soft compound - too soft for road use. I can basically break in a new set as short as 30 mile of normal street riding, and it won't last more than 3K of spirited riding. Corsa 3 are expensive too - average $350 a set. So... maybe it is time for a change.

Based on excellent reviews from both online and riding buddies, I decided to give Michelin PP2ct a try. It is not exactly so call the 'latest technology" (Power Pure is the latest); but that's also the reason why PP2ct has long history of good reviews at a very reasonable price. So far I love mine - and I actually almost able to get rip of all my chicken strips with confidence. Comparing with Corsa 3, the PP2ct is quicker at turns; but it is harder and take longer to warm up - and less road feels. So far I love it, and can't wait to push hard on the rubber!

Ace Motorsports open house - test ride report

Ace Motorsports open house, originally uploaded by achung_123.

First of all big thanks to Ace Motorsports and Ducati North America putting this wonderful two days event together. A lot of local riders showed up, and I took this chance seriously for testing out two of the possible 'what's next' bikes - 2010 Ducati Streetfighter and 848. The test route was mixed with city streets with stop and go traffic, suburb neighborhood, and some basic level one twisties. It was a sunny dry day at 72 degree - perfect day for test ride!

2010 Streetfighter base model:

- The Engine
One word - SWEET! The engine was strong, responsive, and sharp. It just pull and pull - felt like I never able to find the end of it. It is so strong that almost a bit scary for the more upright riding ergo (will take a bit more in ergo section).

- The Clutch:
It came with a dry clutch unit, and the clutch pull was typical ducati hard. Just unfortunate that the test bike that I had has a sticky non-adjustable lever, and it didn't have enough room to fit two of fingers in between while still maintain good control. I have to use all 4 fingers on the lever to keep the engine alive - not really a big deal, and I got used to it in no time. But still, I feel like the friction zone is a bit short, and it zone ended at about a bit sooner than I expected.

- The riding ergo
Both the sale and the DNA resp told me the Streetfighter had a very aggressive riding ergo. But compare with my Sport 1000, the SF actually fitted me perfectly. The bar was high enough but not too high, and my cone of vision was wide open - I don't even see the gauge! The best part is, unlike the Hypermotra, I felt like I was sitting inside the bike. I felt secure and able to ride it all day long. The only complain I have was the right peg - the heat shield was hitting my boot. Sitting height was just right - similar to my Sport 1000.

- The chassis
The bike was light! I felt it even when the bike was standing still. Suspension was descent (test bike was the Base model without Ohlins); and it was responsive and linear. The wide handle bar gave me a lot leverage to push the bike from left to right. Combine with the strong engine light weight chassis, the bike was so alive on the twisties.

2010 848 base model:

- The engine
The engine was a bit of the let down, especially after riding the SF. It was too soft and too lazy. The pull just simply can't compare with the Streetfrighter - felt like it was only a bit stronger than my Sport 1000. I would expect more since after all it is a higher HP and newer engine on a much lighter chassis compare with Sport 1000.

- The clutch:
I wasn't feeling too hot about wet clutch until I actually using it. The friction zone was wider than Streetfrighter, and the clutch respond was liner and predictable. But believe it or not, the clutch pull was harder than most Ducati bikes including the Streetfrighter. It was really pain in the butt when I was stuck in traffic...

- The riding ergo
The best of 848 offered me was the bump at the fairings - my knees were able to rest on it, and it provided an anchor point when I wanted to tuck-in. Thanks to the supersport design, my legs able to easily 'grab' the tank while I hung off the bike. It was a bit relax riding position compare with my old bike; but it is for sure still not a ideal ergo for everyday use. The sitting height was nice - felt like it was half an inch lower.

- The chassis
In contrast to the Streetfighter, the 848 was lazy in twisties. It needed a bit of the effort to push due to the shorter and lower handle bars (which is similar to my Sport 1000). It is just the nature of the supersport bike and I think I could suck it up. But what really surprised me was the heat issue. Yesterday wasn't a hot day to ride; but somehow both of my knees were cooking. It was almost as bad as my Sport 1000... on both knees!

I think I am pretty sure the 848 won't be on my list any longer while I was lusting all over the new Streetfighter :D~

BTW, I fianlly able to sit on the new legendary Multistrada 1200. It was a very nice bike in real life without the fat - it actually a lot smaller than what I was expected. Can't wait to test ride (or own) it!

Sunday ride

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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!

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!