New Zongshen RX3 (ZS250GY-3) Dual Sport

[SpudRider]

Isn't it about time for an oil thread? :grr:

Motor oil? That's easy. :)

Previously, I exclusively used Easter Timber Rattlesnake Oil, harvested only from serpents employed during religious snake-handling ceremonies in Appalachia. When harvested from the free range, crotalus horridus produces unsurpassed base oil stocks. These excellent base stocks are further, miraculously enhanced during the religious ceremonies. :)

http://www.benreed.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/Snake-handling.jpg

Don't use just any snake oil! :wtf: Use Eastern Timber Rattlesnake Oil! :tup:

Unfortunately, the cost of collecting, handling, and harvesting these serpents has became prohibitive, so I switched to 15W/40 motor oil. :wtf: The commercial, diesel motor oil is doing an excellent job for me, so I intend to keep using it. :)

:lol:

[Xtyling]

Hi All.. I've been dreaming about the RX3 for months now and was so glad I came across this forum/thread with a simple Google search. I am physician and live in the Philippines and the RX3 has been released here December 2014. There was an earlier post that detailed the specs for the Philippine version but the final release did not come with the USB & 12V outlet. Anyway, I got extremely excited about the bike and when CSC posted that they would be getting their bike late January 2015 and planned a Baja trip I found myself in their Azusa Office in December and gave my deposit without even getting to test ride the bike. But I got to sit on it and felt comfortable enough to throw my money at Joe & Steve anyway.

I am a bit by bummed about the shipping delays because I do not feel I will be able to join the CSC Baja trip anymore. Which was a major factor in my decision to purchase the RX3 in the USA vs. the Philippines. My wife would not permit me to buy and ride the RX3 on the epic adventure. The fact that it would be my first adventure trip, it is reassuring that I would be going with the CSC crew. I am not a skilled mechanic (only can do change oil).

I think my $500 deposit will now go towards buying accessories and consumables (oil filters) for the RX3 that I will now purchase here in the Philippines. I'm so sad because the CSC version comes standard with 17 rear wheel, EFI, 300W alternator, upgraded side panels, awesome service and 2 year parts warranty.

I just have one question regarding optional CSC center stand. I saw some pictures of the center stand while the bike was rolling and it looked like it was hanging quite low. Wouldn't this be a problem when rididing on adventurous roads?

Last but not least, thank you to all the contributors here.. I enjoyed reading all 2000 posts!

[Wolftrax]

Motor oil? That's easy. :)

Previously, I exclusively used Easter Timber Rattlesnake Oil, harvested only from serpents employed during religious snake-handling ceremonies in Appalachia. When harvested from the free range, crotalus horridus produces unsurpassed base oil stocks. These excellent base stocks are further, miraculously enhanced during the religious ceremonies. :)

http://www.benreed.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/Snake-handling.jpg

Don't use just any snake oil! :wtf: Use Eastern Timber Rattlesnake Oil! :tup:

Unfortunately, the cost of collecting, handling, and harvesting these serpents has became prohibitive, so I switched to 15W/40 motor oil. :wtf: The commercial, diesel motor oil is doing an excellent job for me, so I intend to keep using it. :)

:lol:

Touché:lmao:

[SpudRider]

Xtyling,

Welcome; we are glad you joined us. :)

Are you referring to this photograph?

http://californiascooterco.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/DSC0295-650.jpg

If so, this is not a photograph of the CSC center stand. This is a photograph of a temporary center stand which is only used on the Zongshen assembly line. The CSC center stand is different, and I don't remember seeing a photograph of it in the retracted position. However, I would enjoy seeing such a photograph, since I am also interested in the ground clearance of the retracted, CSC center stand. :)

[Xtyling]

Yes. That is the picture I was referring to. I am glad to know that is not the CSC center stand.

[SpudRider]

This video is called Shanghai Timelapse. I hope our RX3 motorcycles move this quickly through both ports. ;)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSNtP3bqIl0

[SpudRider]

The Shanghai Maglev Train connects the city to Pudong International Airport. It is the fastest train in the world with a top operating speed of 267 mph ( 431 kph).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IT-mVT-ORww

[G19Tony]

The Shanghai Maglev Train connects the city to Pudong International Airport. It is the fastest train in the world with a top operating speed of 267 mph ( 431 kph).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IT-mVT-ORww

I rode the Maglev from Shanghai to Pudong and back, just to do it, on a trip there a few years ago. It was pretty cool. :tup:

It's a shame that we will never be able to make something like that happen here.

[G19Tony]

The Zongshen RX3 is more of an adventure bike than a dirt bike. Therefore, I think a pair of Shinko 244 tires is a good compromise for most conditions. :) The size 3.00-18 tire is very good for the 18-inch front wheel. Here is a photograph of the size 3.00-18, Shinko 244 mounted on the front wheel of my Zongshen ZS200GY-2.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/Zong%20Front%20Tires/JulyZongAdventuresTires043.jpg

A good choice for the rear time is the Shinko 244 tire in size 5.10-17.

http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com...edWBoCLoLw_wcB

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b65/BlueBuellFool/244Shinko.jpg


These tires perform pretty well in all conditions, except heavy mud. ;)

Those Shinkos look like good, all around tires. For the type of riding I want to do, they will find a home on my RX-3. :tup: They look like the Kendas I put on my KLR250. :)

[roots]

Happy Chinese New Year, everyone!:clap:

May we all have an awesome year on our new RX-3's

[Weldangrind]

100/90 x 18 is a very odd size for front tire on a DS. I prefer running a knob on the front. The only suitable tires I can find are all rear tires and generally a bit larger. I like the MT21, TKC, Michelin T63 for the front. What the consensus, run a rear up front or bite the bullet and relace with a 21" rim?


I bought a rear tire for the front wheel on my TW. That said, the stock TW tire is wider than most motocross rear tires. Several TW owners have done the same thing.

[Weldangrind]

Welcome, Xtyling! I hope you enjoy your new bike.

[thillskier]

Thanks guys, I'm liking the 244 SHinko a LOT for the type riding I plan on doing after I get the bike home. I also like this tread as well for nore adv travel (if more on road)Shinko 700 series for 3 bucks more, or the
705 but its almost 50% (30.00) more! It would have to wear very well to be a good value, and its not an exact match size wise either at 150/70/17 for the rear tire. I doubt it would work in mud, very well, if AT ALL:)! hehe Down goes Tommy (again and again I'm afraid in muddy conditions)! would be the cry:)! hehe-NOT funny after the 2 or 3rd time however!
How many miles are you getting on your TMEC rear and front as well, I guess. I might just spoon a couple these on before leaving Cali, and ship the stock ones back to sell or for use later on... The cost is well worth it, .especially if I know their life and won't be concerned about some fun off pavement riding;)..
By the way, I learned ultralighting to ship whatever isn't needed (essentials on bike, only), by mail or UPS etc, so I can take extra tools to assemble bike at CSC, install tires, add farkles and accessories I need for the ride back (GPS mount and wiring in plugs for accessories, as well as other "stuff").

[Xtyling]

Welcome, Xtyling! I hope you enjoy your new bike.

Thank you Weldangrind. I haven't bought the RX3 here in the Philippines yet because the distributor and dealers have a problem with registering the bikes they are selling. Corrupted Government Bureaucracy and greedy dealers have motorcycle buyers between a rock and a hard place. Too many "motorcycle registration check points" harassing motorcycle owners who have legally purchased motorcycles but are waiting months (some over a year) just to get their registration documents and license plates.

I'm hoping the registration mess here gets cleaned up soon so I can confidently purchase the RX3 soon.

[SpudRider]

Another nice tire for the front, 18-inch wheel is the Michelin T63 in size 110/80-18. ;)

https://www.rockymountainatvmc.com/p/743/-/989145/120-80x18-(62S)-Tube-Type-Michelin-T63-Road-Dual-Sport-Tire?v=12401?ref=gmc&gclid=CL_dou-V7cMCFVFcfgodg2gAdA

I have mounted this tire on the rear wheel of my Honda XR650L. It does a pretty good job, and is reasonably priced. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/XR650L%20Michelin%20T63%20Rear%20Tire/T63firstridetoMalad030.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/XR650L%20Michelin%20T63%20Rear%20Tire/T63firstridetoMalad033.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/XR650L%20Michelin%20T63%20Rear%20Tire/T63firstridetoMalad099.jpg

The Michelin T63 will probably clear mud from the tread better than the Shinko 244. :) One could mount the size 110/80-18 tire on the front wheel, and the size 130/80-17 on the rear wheel.

http://hightechcoonass.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/f800gs/IMG5162/776833629_bimFz-L.jpg

[Huck369]

I have the Shinko 705's on my NC700X, and the Shinko 244 on my Yamaha XT250 ...will probably run the 244's on my Cyclone when it's due tires.....depending on how the stock tires does....

[FTEY]

Hello to Everyone,

I am Man and I've been reading all of the threads in this forum weeks ago to get all related info about this bike. Actually, I'm from Malaysia and previously tried to search every information related to RX3. It is good to get every info from this forum and also others.

For your information, this bike was launched at 25th December 2014 at one of the biggest bike gathering in Malaysia. After I have been inform about this bike, I went to the sole distributor and paid just MYR300 (84.22 USD) for the deposit. The promotion price is actually MYR12,800 (3.593.59 USD) exclude insurance and others. Total will be MYR13,400 (3,762.04). So, it is a very nice price for a very nice bike!!

However, I am still waiting for sample bike to do a test ride. Should be in near time since the company still use the bike for promotion at other state as well.

Just wondering, I've been informed that this bike (KTN RS 250 in Malaysia) will get a carburetor version instead of FI system. I tried to get as many info as i could regarding the differences between these two system but in the end, I am kind of confusing. Of course there will be pro's and con's for both system, but which one is actually better in terms of maintenance and fuel consumption?

Can't wait to ride the bike!!:yay:
Hi... Im new to this forum and i've just collected my ride (KTN RS3 in Malaysia) 2 days ago and still getting used to it. Any SEA region riders here have changed their top box. I think the stock top box is a lite small...

[rjmorel]

I've liked the shinko E700 Trailmaster on my XT250 for paved road and gravely stuff. Way nicer then the stock tires that gyrated at speed. Not for snow or mud though but then I don't like to get my bikes dirty :) rj

http://www.ebay.com/itm/4-60-17-Shinko-SR700-Series-Dual-Sport-Rear-Tire-/321649125563?pt=Motorcycles_Parts_Accessories&hash=item4ae3c828bb&vxp=mtr

[SpudRider]

I rode the Maglev from Shanghai to Pudong and back, just to do it, on a trip there a few years ago. It was pretty cool. :tup:

It's a shame that we will never be able to make something like that happen here.

It's mysterious how the Chinese can build the world's fastest train, world's largest dam, et cetera, yet they can't build a single decent motorcycle. :p

:hehe:

[SpudRider]

Hi... Im new to this forum and i've just collected my ride (KTN RS3 in Malaysia) 2 days ago and still getting used to it. Any SEA region riders here have changed their top box. I think the stock top box is a lite small...

Thanks for joining us. :) If you have time, please do post photographs of your KTN RS3 from beautiful Malaysia.

I own several of the travel trunks shown in the following thread, and I like them a lot. :) I am going to install one of these large travel trunks on my personal Zongshen RX3. Check the links provided by Humanbeing to purchase one of these trunks in Malaysia. ;)

http://www.chinariders.net/showthread.php?t=14279

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/Magruder%202014/Magruder2014177_zpsaec2b9c0.jpg

[SpudRider]

I would buy a KTN RS3 from this sales person. :)

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k7SakbaKbgk/VKPMJC6c-QI/AAAAAAAACEQ/7eHc75DlI5Q/s1600/DSC_0239.jpg

[Huck369]

I would buy a KTN RS3 from this sales person. :)

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k7SakbaKbgk/VKPMJC6c-QI/AAAAAAAACEQ/7eHc75DlI5Q/s1600/DSC_0239.jpg

I want THAT option on my Cyclone!!!!

[SpudRider]

I want THAT option on my Cyclone!!!!

That is the most expensive option with the highest maintenance schedule, but I still love it. :)

[rjmorel]

Looks like only black market availability. Notice no tank badges on bike ;)

[thillskier]

highest priced and MOST maintainance, period.
However, what a joy to ride;)!! hehe

Resale suffers a bit though, and monthly maintainance AFTER "trade in", ESPECIALLY when for a newer model, the monthly maintainance is outrageously expensive...seems NEVER ENDING!!:)!! They seem to really HATE being supplanted by a newer and or a model with (apparently) lower mileage seems to make the payment go off the scale! (who ever knows the TRUE mileage, what with all the roll backs (or takebacks re miles, and rebuilding/upsizing/upgrading accessories thats going on nowdays!)

[Xtyling]

I could never trade mine in.. It would kill me first.

[thillskier]

AND THAT they do ALSO!! Murder!

[SpudRider]

Looks like only black market availability. Notice no tank badges on bike ;)

I'm betting they removed the Zongshen badge to install their KTN badge. ;)

[SpudRider]

I could never trade mine in.. It would kill me first.

:lmao:

[thillskier]

Plenty of murders by ex'es..for insurance $, or kids custody (and child support $), looks to me, all they are looking to get P A I D !!

[Louis Angel]

Holly crap I want one of those Zongshen RX3 bikes!!!
Cant AFFORD it right now, so I don't feel the least bit bad about ordering the new Lancer today. BUT, I can already see that in my Garage in 3 years!!! WOW THAT IS AWESOME LOOKING!!!!!

[Wolftrax]

Hope the bikes get here soon, chicks on bikes, we're getting desperate. :lmao:

[SpudRider]

Hope the bikes get here soon, chicks on bikes, we're getting desperate. :lmao:

:hehe:

Are you going to switch to a 21-inch front wheel? If not, which of the 18-inch front tires do you like?

[RedSpruce]

Are you going to switch to a 21-inch front wheel? If not, which of the 18-inch front tires do you like?

I know I'd like to switch to a 21" front wheel. Is it better to buy a new 21" wheel or re-lace the 18" stock wheel to 21"?

[Wolftrax]

:hehe:

Are you going to switch to a 21-inch front wheel? If not, which of the 18-inch front tires do you like?

I'm going to try my hand at relacing a 21". I had Woody's build one for my Tenere but $600 bucks is a little too much. Will more than likely follow your lead. Would be great to have another hub or wheel to work with. I'll more than likely run a T63 up front and a E07 on the rear.:tup:

[SpudRider]

I know I'd like to switch to a 21" front wheel. Is it better to buy a new 21" wheel or re-lace the 18" stock wheel to 21"?

You need to use the stock hub to build the larger wheel. The brake rotor must fit in the brake caliper on the left fork. The speedometer unit must mate with the hub, and lock to the right fork. The hub must also be the exact width to center itself between the forks. Therefore, unless the maufacturer sells a larger wheel with the same hub, you must order larger custom spokes, and lace a larger rim to the stock hub.

There is a very slight chance the hub from my Zongshen ZS200GY-2, or a standard Chinese hub will fit the RX3 forks. I own two such wheels, and I will test them after the RX3 bikes arrive. However, I'm betting I will need to order longer custom spokes, and lace a new rim to the stock hub. I have done this several times before, so I am familiar with the process. ;)

[SpudRider]

I'm going to try my hand at relacing a 21". I had Woody's build one for my Tenere but $600 bucks is a little too much. Will more than likely follow your lead. Would be great to have another hub or wheel to work with. I'll more than likely run a T63 up front and a E07 on the rear.:tup:

If you don't want to do the job yourself, I will build you a 21-inch wheel for much less than Woody's price. ;) If I sold someone a used rim, I was building custom, 18-inch rear wheels for the Zongshen ZS200GY-2 for less than $300, including shipping in both directions.

If I need to order custom spokes from Buchanan's, I will have them record the specifications with the name Zongshen RX3. Then anyone who wants to build his own wheel can order the custom spokes without needing to repeat the measuring process, et cetera. :)

I really like the 18-inch, T63 tire for the front wheel. It looks as if it will clear the mud pretty well, yet still handle well on the pavement. :) However, the problem with mounting these rear tires is the weight. When you put a rear tire on the front wheel, the steering is sluggish, and the unsprung weight of the wheel is very large. A 21-inch front wheel is lighter, quicker to respond, and will definitely surmount off road obstacles much easier than a heavier, 18-inch wheel. In addition, you have a much larger selection of 21-inch tires from which to choose. ;)

[SpudRider]

If I can find the front hub for sale at Taobao, we could order extra hubs from China. Then we could lace domestic, alloy rims with Buchanan's custom spokes to the Taobao hubs. This would allow us to keep the stock, 18-inch front wheel as a spare, instead of dismantling the wheel to use the stock hub to build another custom wheel. ;)

[FTEY]

thanks for joining us. :) if you have time, please do post photographs of your ktn rs3 from beautiful malaysia.

I own several of the travel trunks shown in the following thread, and i like them a lot. :) i am going to install one of these large travel trunks on my personal zongshen rx3. Check the links provided by humanbeing to purchase one of these trunks in malaysia. ;)

http://www.chinariders.net/showthread.php?t=14279

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/magruder%202014/magruder2014177_zpsaec2b9c0.jpg
2325

2326

[Wolftrax]

If I can find the front hub for sale at Taobao, we could order extra hubs from China. Then we could lace domestic, alloy rims with Buchanan's custom spokes to the Taobao hubs. This would allow us to keep the stock, 18-inch front wheel as a spare, instead of dismantling the wheel to use the stock hub to build another custom wheel. ;)

This was what I was hoping for. Keeping the original and then build a 21" wheel from another hub. I'm tempted to do it my self but may take you up on your offer to build me one.

[SpudRider]

FTEY,

Thanks for posting the photographs of your KTN RS3. :) I see you got the stainless steel, exhaust header and the new headlight. :tup:

Did you get forks with rebound adjustment? Did you get a rear hub with a cushion drive? If you have time, please post photos of the left side of your rear wheel, and the tops of the forks.

[SpudRider]

This was what I was hoping for. Keeping the original and then build a 21" wheel from another hub. I'm tempted to do it my self but may take you up on your offer to build me one.

I have searched, but I can't find the RX3 front hub for sale. I wonder if the Zongshen ZS150GY-10 employs the same front hub? The hubs don't cost much, and the shipping weight is low. ;)

Buchanan's custom spokes cost about $110, delivered. A 21-inch alloy rim costs about $100, delivered, from Rocky Mountain ATV/MC.

[Huck369]

Holly crap I want one of those Zongshen RX3 bikes!!!
Cant AFFORD it right now, so I don't feel the least bit bad about ordering the new Lancer today. BUT, I can already see that in my Garage in 3 years!!! WOW THAT IS AWESOME LOOKING!!!!!

I see you're in TN, depending on where in TN maybe you can come check out my Cyclone sometime after I get it home....

[thillskier]

Spud, thats really good of you to post up all that work for us. Thank you!
I would definitely want to add the 21" option at some time when budget allows, but would pay for the hub now if you do a GB or order them so you aren't out the $ for mine.
Please keep me posted and let me know when/if you go forward with this.

Also, I'd really like to go tubeless so a tubeless rim would be they wat to go for me. Wouldn't that lower unsprung weight also to eleminate the tube?
Probably will add the tubliss system on rear for a while, if that system works well. (or whatever is best easiest and reliable system. I like being able to air down and still run when in some offroad situations, also. Tubeless plugs and a compressor will take up less space than tubes and tools I'm thinking when riding out.

[thillskier]

I have a friend, from 40+ yrs ago, one of the best street and off road riders I ever saw ride. He rode a 500 Kawasaki triple in HS and raced mx for the regional Yamaha and Kawasaki teams back in the day.

He is a bit skeptical but I sent him links etc so it'll be interesting to see his comments after reading the tests and blog etc. AND riding my bike when I get it here also:)..

He's one of those guys who'd wheely by at 50+ mph on the Kawasaki, and I know the story is legit cause he passed me doing it. He's stand on the back passenger pegs and just wheely for 1/2 mile or so (it seemed:)!
Unreal..unreal he never had a serious crash on road, ever:) or me!! for that matter. Hope it stays tha way;)! hehe

[FTEY]

FTEY,

Thanks for posting the photographs of your KTN RS3. :) I see you got the stainless steel, exhaust header and the new headlight. :tup:

Did you get forks with rebound adjustment? Did you get a rear hub with a cushion drive? If you have time, please post photos of the left side of your rear wheel, and the tops of the forks.
Not sure abt those. I will get more photos. Btw the malaysian version is on carb. Anyway, my cold start needs lots of time on the start button n throttle before it would get going. Is that normal or is it because the engine is still new?

[SpudRider]

Not sure abt those. I will get more photos. Btw the malaysian version is on carb. Anyway, my cold start needs lots of time on the start button n throttle before it would get going. Is that normal or is it because the engine is still new?

Please do post more photos. :)

Our bikes are fuel injected, and we haven't received them yet. Therefore, I don't know much about your carburetor. ;) However, I think it's possible the pilot jet of your carburetor is a little too small. You might want to try the next largest size of pilot jet, and see if helps. You might also want to try adjusting the pilot mixture screw on the carburetor.

[thillskier]

With a thousand or more miles on it, the rings seat and tolerances tighten up a bit (in cylinder/combustion chamber area) which will allow a bit more vacuum and also resultant compression increases. Usually that will help atomize the fuel a bit better as it will have faster air moving through carb (and over fuel jets and fuel metering needle) giving you a bit more turbulence there in the carb and intake passages, which makes a more uniform air fuel ratio, burning more completely/easier ignition, more complete burn = faster warm ups and less stumbling, etc.
I generally wait to rejet carbs until after break in due to this situation.
Spuds ideas re fuel screw adjusting and other carb fettling is a good idea anytime, because its easily changable when/if other parameters in the engine change for whatever reason. (free flow exhaust, or air cleaner, egr and or cat converter removal, etc.)

[thillskier]

Oh, what a great thing those adjustable idle screws are (elsewhere) and used to be here in USA.
Most carbs (all I've ever seen in YEARS here in USA) on any engines bigger than 50cc (exempted engines), have the covers glued or otherwise attached permanently to the carbs so one cannot adjust the low speed (or high speeds) air mixtures! Thats supposedly for EPA, ut a stumbling stalling engine HAS to be putting out unburned HC's, in larger amounts, I'd think than if it was running correctly.
Thats why most engines are efi'ed today. The multihole injectors atomize fuel very well, and can then be run extremely lean, without issue. STarts cleanly, though the ecu allows a bit extra fuel until water temps get to operational temps. Thats also why efi'ed bikes get the terriffic mpg. 70 efi'ed vs 45-50 carbed (like KLx 250 Kawasaki (carbed) vs Yamaha or Honda 250 ds.(efi'ed)

[FTEY]

With a thousand or more miles on it, the rings seat and tolerances tighten up a bit (in cylinder/combustion chamber area) which will allow a bit more vacuum and also resultant compression increases. Usually that will help atomize the fuel a bit better as it will have faster air moving through carb (and over fuel jets and fuel metering needle) giving you a bit more turbulence there in the carb and intake passages, which makes a more uniform air fuel ratio, burning more completely/easier ignition, more complete burn = faster warm ups and less stumbling, etc.
I generally wait to rejet carbs until after break in due to this situation.
Spuds ideas re fuel screw adjusting and other carb fettling is a good idea anytime, because its easily changable when/if other parameters in the engine change for whatever reason. (free flow exhaust, or air cleaner, egr and or cat converter removal, etc.)
Very informative there.... Thanks thillskier....
2331

2332

2333

[rjmorel]

FTEY,
Look at the caps to see if they have a adjusting screw in the top cap. Looking at your 2nd pic it doesn't look adjustable.
And the chain side of the rear hub, thats where the cushion hub would be so the chain and sprocket are cushioned from the rear hub to cushion the drive train from stresses. On non-cushioned rear hubs the sprocket is bolted directly to the hub. rj

[SpudRider]

....
http://www.chinariders.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=2333&d=1424448677

Thank you for posting the additional photographs. :) If you have time, can you post one more photograph of the left side of the rear wheel, showing the rear sprocket?

[thillskier]

Unscrewing (unbolting)? the top of the carb slide assy,(where the throttle cable goes into the carb) and removing the slide with the throttle cable attached (still) whole thing should simply pull up and out. Then under the spring, there will be a clip holding the needle (spring is pishing down on a washer hiding the clip/needle assy.) Pull the clip off the needle, and RAISE the needle (go ONE ring position LOWER on the needle). This should richen the mixture and make it start run, and cruise much better for now. It may be too rich once its broken with a few more miles on it. It may be perfect if you open the air up a bit, also. You can still do as Spud suggested with the idle screws air adjustments,also. This just gives you a one step more fuel range to work with, which is usually needed on smogged carbed bikes:).

If I had a manual, I could post up a carb (exploded view diagram) that would make this easy to see (and do). Its a 5 minute job, once the slide is out of the carb where you can access it and the needle.

Hope this helps. If your mmanual has a carb diagram, put the slide on a PM or here pic, and I can identify the parts and "walk through" it with you, OK.

[FTEY]

The bolts/nuts does not look adjustable. Will take another one from the rear left and post soon.

[FTEY]

Unscrewing (unbolting)? the top of the carb slide assy,(where the throttle cable goes into the carb) and removing the slide with the throttle cable attached (still) whole thing should simply pull up and out. Then under the spring, there will be a clip holding the needle (spring is pishing down on a washer hiding the clip/needle assy.) Pull the clip off the needle, and RAISE the needle (go ONE ring position LOWER on the needle). This should richen the mixture and make it start run, and cruise much better for now. It may be too rich once its broken with a few more miles on it. It may be perfect if you open the air up a bit, also. You can still do as Spud suggested with the idle screws air adjustments,also. This just gives you a one step more fuel range to work with, which is usually needed on smogged carbed bikes:).

If I had a manual, I could post up a carb (exploded view diagram) that would make this easy to see (and do). Its a 5 minute job, once the slide is out of the carb where you can access it and the needle.

Hope this helps. If your mmanual has a carb diagram, put the slide on a PM or here pic, and I can identify the parts and "walk through" it with you, OK.
I will find if theres any pics of the carb. The manual seems like way too simple. Worst case i will just ride the bike to the assembly plant some 25miles from where i live and get them to rectify if its still this way.

[SpudRider]

The bolts/nuts does not look adjustable. Will take another one from the rear left and post soon.

Your forks are the same as the ones we will receive in North America. The forks with rebound adjustment are optional equipment. ;) Thank you for taking the time to post the additional photograph. :)

[FTEY]

Your forks are the same as the ones we will receive in North America. The forks with rebound adjustment are optional equipment. ;) Thank you for taking the time to post the additional photograph. :)
Left side of the rear wheel where the sprocket is. When you guys got your bike, please help to check the gas tank capacity. I know its speced as 16l but seem to be smaller than that.
2334

2335

[SpudRider]

FTEY,

Thank you for posting the additional photographs of the rear wheel. :tup:

I believe the fuel tank does hold 16 liters, but the fuel gauge is configured to show empty when 4 liters remain in the tank. This configuration is designed to protect the fuel pump for bikes that have fuel injection. If the fuel level goes below 4 liters, the fuel pump is not cooled by immersion in fuel, and it will overheat, shortening its lifespan. ;)

[SpudRider]

Left side of the rear wheel where the sprocket is....

FTEY,

Can you obtain either a compass, or a pair of calipers?

https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/shopping?q=tbn:ANd9GcRs0yHJk6iFFeSk5RkCDddYcU9vYpU iJhjEnhtU-2lHdq_TA6ZR7ILaOLiQuWZdXveolTHkynUn&usqp=CAE


http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f6/Vernier_caliper.svg/900px-Vernier_caliper.svg.png

If so, will you please obtain and post the following measurements for the rear sprocket?

http://www.jtsprockets.com/fileadmin/code/images/large/jtr811.jpg

[FTEY]

Let me go and find...... Post soon....

[thillskier]

You MAY not have any luck with re getting factory and or dealer support re the carb issue. This is because in USA (not sure about regulations and or laws there in Maylasia of course:), they can be fined $20,000 a DAY from the time they adjusted it to an out of federally approved spec (again in USA, especially California, (as their laws are even MORE complicated than Federal EPA's) until it gets adjusted back to original spec/settings.

Thats why its hard to get the bikes running right in USA unless they are fuel injected or you install a jet kit yourself. (which will put the carb and bike out of approved specification, BUT will run like its supposed to, AND give max HP that the engine was designed to make. It also will make the bike run longer since its not on the ragged edge, temperature wise (due to it running lean, from not getting enough fuel). This is also what causes the issues you are trying to work through, ie. running crappy, stalling, bogging and not developing hp and tq when throttle is turned as more air goes into the engine but less fuel than it needs is added to the air.

Its really not hard to rectify this and I'm sure I can help you do it correctly if we can get a "exploded carb view" so I can number/label the parts I'm wanting you to adjust and change. You can then pass the knowledge and proceedures on to your fellow bikers there in your area. ALL the bikes that are sold in that specification will have the same issues, until the fuel adjustments are tweaked. Also, I should add, its not buying a pre fettled jet kit. Basically, you will be doing that, actually developing/engineering yur own (and others) jet kits. You MAY want to take some notes on what you do and settings, jets, screw settings, etc., as you can then write the info down, buy parts needed for the next bike, and ship them the parts already tested and fettled (by you) saving the purchaser a LOT of time and taking the carb apart and reassembling. Most kits sell for 69 to 99.00 here, depending on if it a multi cylinder bike, and or parts needed to get it running as designed (right:).
You WILL be an expert at carb assembly, and dissassembly before you finished figuring the exact settings out, BUT its not difficult, just time consuming, and depending on how much of a perfectionist you are, how much time is taken, also:)! You will REALLy enjoy how much better the bike runs and starts, also the POWER increase. Critically, at low speeds, when negotiating rocks, logs off road obstacles, is when you get the most benefits from this. The ability to get INSTANT response, and GOOD power and TQ to loft the front wheel, slide the back tire around, jump an obstacle, etc. can make the difference in a crash (and injury!) to you and or the bike, ve no surprises, and ride on away:)!

I can get an exploded carb diagram if you can't find one probably...it may not be the exact carb you're using (ours are EFI here, so I'd be guessing on which carb and its hook up etc. on your bike), but similar enough to allow you to get the job done, anyways. Ideally you get an exploded view of the carb on your model of cycle:), of course...

[SpudRider]

The CSC Blog reports our Zongshen RX3 motorcycles are loaded on the Hanjin container vessel Germany, which is currently taking on more cargo in Pusan, South Korea.

http://img2.fleetmon.com/thumbnails/HANJIN_GERMANY_963753.940x1000.jpg

http://img4.fleetmon.com/thumbnails/HANJIN_GERMANY_505051.940x1000.jpg

Joe reports the vessel is scheduled to "arrive in Long Beach on the 6th of March. Due to the current labor unrest roiling our coast, the berthing date is currently scheduled to be on the 23rd of March."

[SpudRider]

A tentative, 5-year contract has been negotiated with the West Coast dockworkers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hqyRc_xtWs

[SpudRider]

I found this interesting, long video of someone riding his Minski TRX 300i. :) Starting around the 11:00 mark, I'm sure the rider wished he had mounted knobby tires. ;)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hF_V8r9993Y

[SpudRider]

Let me go and find...... Post soon....

:thanks:

[thillskier]

Spud,
Does this mean we will probably be getting unloaded when the boat gets berther (and I guess, as soon as our # is called after the backlogged boats are all unloaded?). If so, woo hoo:)!
So it looks like the IDEAL time frame of late April early May:)! Perfect weather, and, I hopefully will be DONE with these treatments !!!!!!

Really GREAT news Spud! Thanks for the updates!

[SpudRider]

Spud,
Does this mean we will probably be getting unloaded when the boat gets berther (and I guess, as soon as our # is called after the backlogged boats are all unloaded?). If so, woo hoo:)!
So it looks like the IDEAL time frame of late April early May:)! Perfect weather, and, I hopefully will be DONE with these treatments !!!!!!

Really GREAT news Spud! Thanks for the updates!

Your guess is as good as mine. ;) If I receive my RX3 in May, that is fine with me. :)

[thillskier]

I forgot you don't have your "ESP" on today;)! hehe Its easy to forget that because you do seemingly know the answers to every question!

[SpudRider]

I forgot you don't have your "ESP" on today;)! hehe Its easy to forget that because you do seemingly know the answers to every question!

:lol:

[SpudRider]

If one sticks with the 18-inch front wheel, the Pirelli MT21 is an excellent choice for a front tire. The MT21 is a perennial favorite with dual sport riders, and the size 110/80-18 tire is a good fit for the RX3 front wheel. :)

https://www.rockymountainatvmc.com/p/1093/3522/Pirelli-MT21-Dual-Sport-Rallycross?0

https://www.rockymountainatvmc.com/images/prod/400/p/pirmt21r.jpg

The size 130/90-17 tire is a also an excellent choice for the rear wheel. :)

http://www.tpimotorcycleparts.com/dr650/images/tires/TIRES.jpg

[SpudRider]

Here are some tires I have mounted on the rear wheel of my Honda XR650L. The Pirelli MT21 is the second tire from the right. ;)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/XR650L%20Countershaft%20and%20XR650R%20Sprockets/brestires079.jpg

From left to right, here is the list of tires in the photograph.

1) Mounted on the rear wheel is a K760, TrakMaster tire, size 110/100-18
2) Dunlop, D952, size 110/90-18
3) Pirelli, MT 21, size 120/80-18
4) Kenda, K760, TrakMaster, size 100/100-18

[FTEY]

You MAY not have any luck with re getting factory and or dealer support re the carb issue. This is because in USA (not sure about regulations and or laws there in Maylasia of course:), they can be fined $20,000 a DAY from the time they adjusted it to an out of federally approved spec (again in USA, especially California, (as their laws are even MORE complicated than Federal EPA's) until it gets adjusted back to original spec/settings.

Thats why its hard to get the bikes running right in USA unless they are fuel injected or you install a jet kit yourself. (which will put the carb and bike out of approved specification, BUT will run like its supposed to, AND give max HP that the engine was designed to make. It also will make the bike run longer since its not on the ragged edge, temperature wise (due to it running lean, from not getting enough fuel). This is also what causes the issues you are trying to work through, ie. running crappy, stalling, bogging and not developing hp and tq when throttle is turned as more air goes into the engine but less fuel than it needs is added to the air.

Its really not hard to rectify this and I'm sure I can help you do it correctly if we can get a "exploded carb view" so I can number/label the parts I'm wanting you to adjust and change. You can then pass the knowledge and proceedures on to your fellow bikers there in your area. ALL the bikes that are sold in that specification will have the same issues, until the fuel adjustments are tweaked. Also, I should add, its not buying a pre fettled jet kit. Basically, you will be doing that, actually developing/engineering yur own (and others) jet kits. You MAY want to take some notes on what you do and settings, jets, screw settings, etc., as you can then write the info down, buy parts needed for the next bike, and ship them the parts already tested and fettled (by you) saving the purchaser a LOT of time and taking the carb apart and reassembling. Most kits sell for 69 to 99.00 here, depending on if it a multi cylinder bike, and or parts needed to get it running as designed (right:).
You WILL be an expert at carb assembly, and dissassembly before you finished figuring the exact settings out, BUT its not difficult, just time consuming, and depending on how much of a perfectionist you are, how much time is taken, also:)! You will REALLy enjoy how much better the bike runs and starts, also the POWER increase. Critically, at low speeds, when negotiating rocks, logs off road obstacles, is when you get the most benefits from this. The ability to get INSTANT response, and GOOD power and TQ to loft the front wheel, slide the back tire around, jump an obstacle, etc. can make the difference in a crash (and injury!) to you and or the bike, ve no surprises, and ride on away:)!

I can get an exploded carb diagram if you can't find one probably...it may not be the exact carb you're using (ours are EFI here, so I'd be guessing on which carb and its hook up etc. on your bike), but similar enough to allow you to get the job done, anyways. Ideally you get an exploded view of the carb on your model of cycle:), of course...
That would be a great way to understand the bike. But still not able to get the carb diagram. Since its still so new here. I can see and understand before go on to meddle with it. Not the most familiar person with engines yet. But a good place to start. Refuelled yesterday and still getting 8L to full. But consumption is not good at all. I managed only 85km on the he last fill. Could it be because the bike is still new.

[pete]

The RX3 is a nice looking bike....
But at 175kgs it's the same weight
as my XT660R with 1/4 of the HP..
Hope the 175kgs is with all the boxes etc...

[detours]

The RX3 is a nice looking bike....
But at 175kgs it's the same weight
as my XT660R with 1/4 of the HP..
Hope the 175kgs is with all the boxes etc...

Yes, 175 kg (385 lbs) includes the 3 panniers, racks, engine guards, skid plate and windshield. I don't know if it includes fuel, oil and coolant.

Full specs here. (http://californiascooterco.com/csc_cyclone_rx-3.htm)

[thillskier]

I suspect these engines are VERY "tight" when new, and will "break in" over a fairly large amount of miles (as far as mpg increases). My Cummins powered Dodge took 20,000! mies to get within 1/2 mpg of what it gets now. Took another 30,000 after that (till about 50,000 miles) to get to 20mpg hwy (at 65mph)! So it can take a long time to wear in all components in drivetrain. The gears, bearings, and all other moving parts all contribute some portion to friction losses, and will take much longer than the main rotating engine parts, but don't affect mpg as much as ring seal, and combustion related parts.

That mpg (or rather L per km;) seems low, BUT until it gets 1000 miles or more, just drive it and it will improve, probably by a large amount.
If its still not doing what it should after 1000-2000 miles or so, I'll find a exploded view for you (or maybe someone with a ZOng 200 and a manual, can link an exploded view of their carb, and I can walk you through it. The 200's carb should be very similar to yours, only a bit larger sized, so SHOULD look the same and rejetting/adjusting/fine tuning very similar.

I know Spud has rejetted his 200, as have others who posted it on other threads on chinariders, I'm sure.
You kn0w, THATS an idea also, find the mods thread for the 200, and read the jetting/carb adjustment section to see if you feel confident to do the job. PArts should be available from the same suppliers (taobao) Id guess. Hopefully someone can chime in here for you with that helpfull info.

You'd be surprised how big a difference the miles makes, and then just using what you have on the bike, but changing adjustments, will make re economy, drivability, and tq at or right off idle to mid rpm's 5-6000 or so) (most important re riding and mpg).

I am quite sure you can do it, when if you decide you MUST :) do it;)!
Believe me, this type thing WILL be calling you and talking to you when riding the bike, guaranteed. hehe I'm sure every other rider on here will agree with that statement thats worked on their bikes...:hehe:

[thillskier]

Re not "meddling with it until you do your research, and get a comfort level with the task. Its hard to mess anything up permanently, but there are lots of very small items that need to be kept up with and replaced from whence they came also:)..

Many on here have successfully fettled their carbs, if not all. Its one of those tasks that can nearly always be improved some, however, and if you modify other things, will need to be done again after the other parts are installed (or removed, even in some cases:) hehe.

I suspect Spud has his 200 running very well by now:):tup:

[FTEY]

Re not "meddling with it until you do your research, and get a comfort level with the task. Its hard to mess anything up permanently, but there are lots of very small items that need to be kept up with and replaced from whence they came also:)..

Many on here have successfully fettled their carbs, if not all. Its one of those tasks that can nearly always be improved some, however, and if you modify other things, will need to be done again after the other parts are installed (or removed, even in some cases:) hehe.

I isuspect Spud has his 200 running very well by now:):tup:
Thanks. I suspect i will have the itch sooner or later. Talking to u guys here is already like attending classes. Great bunch of information im getting here. After yesterday and today's ride out, bike feels a little better. Cold start was not as difficult as before. It gets going in a couple of tries.

[FTEY]

Read Spud's mod on his 200 and some other modifications elsewhere. Sort of understand the basics of it. I think i need to find ot the jet size of my stck 1st. A couple of questions. Does a bigger sized jet makes it run leaner or richer? 2nd, i read about adjusting he clip up or down. What does that do?

[SpudRider]

Read Spud's mod on his 200 and some other modifications elsewhere. Sort of understand the basics of it. I think i need to find ot the jet size of my stck 1st. A couple of questions. Does a bigger sized jet makes it run leaner or richer? 2nd, i read about adjusting he clip up or down. What does that do?

Larger jets make the fuel/air mixture richer. The clip doesn't affect starting, it affects the mid-throttle fuel mixture. ;)

Please start a new thread on this topic, here, in our Dual Sport Forum. You can give your thread a title such as 'Zongshen RX3 Carburetor Problem.' Starting a new thread on this topic will give your questions more exposure, and you will get more replies. :) I suggest you include some photographs of your carburetor in the first post of your new thread.

[CSCDude]

I suspect these engines are VERY "tight" when new, and will "break in" over a fairly large amount of miles (as far as mpg increases).

Our experience on the three US test bikes has been that they break in quickly. They feel new (obviously) on the first couple of rides, but they like to rev and they are very smooth. Our blue bike now has about 1200 miles on it and the yellow one has about half that, and they both feel great. My bike returned 71.43 mpg on the ride through Joshua Tree National Park a couple of weeks ago.

http://californiascooterco.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/DSC0040-650.jpg

The Hanjin Germany has left Korea and is currently en route to Long Beach, California. The dockworkers are back at work. Things are looking good. As we learn more, we'll post it on the CSC blog.

[FTEY]

Our experience on the three US test bikes has been that they break in quickly. They feel new (obviously) on the first couple of rides, but they like to rev and they are very smooth. Our blue bike now has about 1200 miles on it and the yellow one has about half that, and they both feel great. My bike returned 71.43 mpg on the ride through Joshua Tree National Park a couple of weeks ago.

http://californiascooterco.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/DSC0040-650.jpg

The Hanjin Germany has left Korea and is currently en route to Long Beach, California. The dockworkers are back at work. Things are looking good. As we learn more, we'll post it on the CSC blog.
Hi Joe. When my bike blinked that its short on gas, I can only put in about 2.1gal of gas when the spec says it can hold abt 4.2gal (16l). Does your test bikes having the same experience.
thillskier says its made this way to protect the efi system. Did Your 71mpg record uses all the gas from the tank?

[FTEY]

Then again i hink i need to let he bike run for another few hundred km before i can really see mpg improving.

[thillskier]

Ride that thing! Thats the best you can do for it, and as you already noticed, its getting better, and I suspect rather quickly. MPG will go up as well, also rather quickly, I suspect.

[thillskier]

Thanks for the update!

[CSCDude]

Hi Joe. When my bike blinked that its short on gas, I can only put in about 2.1gal of gas when the spec says it can hold abt 4.2gal (16l). Does your test bikes having the same experience.
thillskier says its made this way to protect the efi system. Did Your 71mpg record uses all the gas from the tank?

The light starts blinking around 160-170 miles or so, and we usually put in something around 2 or 2.3 gallons when it was blinking (in other words, your bike is behaving like ours). I've had other injected bikes that behave the same way; the warning light comes on while there is still plenty of fuel in the tank.

On the RX3, the top fuel bar on the left side of the instrument cluster is twice as tall as the bars below it.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10947351_10152739949936801_1633779845325717452_n.j pg?oh=7c516bf6293d51452a1fa692c2725742&oe=555566C9&__gda__=1434917855_79d3639fb29f8b7d9c1aff7d93fa9e0 7

My experience is you can go close to 100 miles before that first bar goes out. The second bar (about in the middle of the gage) goes by pretty quickly, then it takes longer for the remaining bars to extinguish. When it gets to the last bar and then it goes out, you can go another 10 miles maybe before the orange fuel indicator starts flashing. We stopped for fuel when that happened on the Joshua Tree trip, because we knew there would be no stations for awhile and I didn't want to take a chance on running out of fuel. A big chunk of that ride was at freeway speed; I believe if we took it slower without a lot of stop and go traffic, the bike would do even better than the 71.43 mpg we recorded.

I haven't attempted to run the tank dry, nor do I think this is a good idea based on the fact that the fuel pump needs fuel in the tank to stay cool.

[katflap]

(RX3 UK version with EFI)

On a rough calculation I'm getting about 65 MPG (imperial)
using super unleaded (97 RON )

which I think is about 78 miles per US gallon.

This is from a daily 20 mile commute consisting of equal amounts of 30, 40 & 60 MPH roads. Nice ride to work :tup:

I don't think the bike would be good for a lot of below 30mph stop start city riding.

I am finding my bike does seem to prefer being warmed up before setting off in the morning ( temperature is about 3 or 4 centigrade ).

:)

[Xtyling]

In preparation to buy my RX3 (Philippine Carbureted Version) I decided to experiment on my current motorcycle - 110cc Semi automatic Kymco Visar. What a PITA. Just to get to the air filter I had to strip remove over 30 screws/bolts and most of the fairings. The screws/bolts were relatively easy but the fairings were all connected in some way that required finesse or possibly break a tab joining the pieces.

This is my first attempt to service my bike myself. I'm not a skilled wrencher so I probably took twice as long as a qualified person.

In short.. I hope that the RX3 is easier to disassemble and work on.

[CSCDude]

In preparation to buy my RX3 (Philippine Carbureted Version) I decided to experiment on my current motorcycle - 110cc Semi automatic Kymco Visar. What a PITA. Just to get to the air filter I had to strip remove over 30 screws/bolts and most of the fairings. The screws/bolts were relatively easy but the fairings were all connected in some way that required finesse or possibly break a tab joining the pieces.

This is my first attempt to service my bike myself. I'm not a skilled wrencher so I probably took twice as long as a qualified person.

In short.. I hope that the RX3 is easier to disassemble and work on.

We are finding these bikes are easy to service. We are publishing a series of maintenance tutorials. We've posted two so far (oil changes and adjusting the valves):

http://californiascooterco.com/blog/?p=13911

http://californiascooterco.com/blog/?p=14703

We have several more we will be posting in the next couple of weeks. You might want to keep an eye on the CSC blog as these emerge.

[culcune]

Cannot understand a word this guy is saying, but apparently this is a bike using the RX3's engine from a couple years back. Would be interested to know how the bike holds up overall?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P9b-ip86yD0#t=438

[detours]

Yes, 175 kg (385 lbs) includes the 3 panniers, racks, engine guards, skid plate and windshield. I don't know if it includes fuel, oil and coolant.

Full specs here. (http://californiascooterco.com/csc_cyclone_rx-3.htm)

Correction: 175 kg (385 lbs) is the wet weight, including all fluids and fuel, ready to ride. It weighs 359 lbs dry according to this article (http://www.advpulse.com/adv-bikes/chinese-built-250cc-adventure-bike-coming-to-the-us/).

[jct842]

The only specs I don't like is the wheel sizes and low seat. And it doesn't give ground clearance on that sheet either. I am not sure how most bikes get their ground clearance measured either, is it with rider or empty/ John

[SpudRider]

Somebody recently asked to see a photograph which shows the position of the CSC center stand in the retracted position. I spotted this photograph on another forum. ;)

https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/11001863_10152736790256801_3281700442888770671_n.j pg?oh=1cc462a7ca8fa64ff5d3f665bf4b426f&oe=55496E6D

[FTEY]

Anyone who had rode the bike before feels that the hot air from the right side of the radiator is blowing rapidly on your right leg. And also does the pillion feel hot on the right leg as well since the muffler is just beside the rear fot rest. Was wearing shorts the other day and i could feel the hot air blowing onto my right leg and its pretty hot.......

[jimjr21]

Regarding container unloading from the ship. It will happen in less than 1 day. The next delay will be getting the container out of the yard and onto a trailer for its trip to CSC.

I would expect 4-7 days from ship berthing to deliver to CSC.

[classix_man]

Hi... Im new to this forum and i've just collected my ride (KTN RS3 in Malaysia) 2 days ago and still getting used to it. Any SEA region riders here have changed their top box. I think the stock top box is a lite small...

Hi FTEY!!

You already received your bike? So fast :tup: I am still waiting for my bike. They said the bike should be available after CNY. Where did you buy your bike? How's the overall performance?

[jimjr21]

Google street view has the blue and yellow bikes parked out front.

https://www.google.com/maps/place/1331+W+Foothill+Blvd,+Azusa,+CA+91702/@34.133698,-117.926843,3a,52.5y,1h,90t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1st-DEJppjYrbXVeGE6_kojA!2e0!4m2!3m1!1s0x80c2d877b1151 bdd:0x5abdbebf6281255c!6m1!1e1

[Adjuster]

Whats happening with the back tire/wheel on the blue one? Is that just some sort of optical camera screw up?


/

[FTEY]

Hi FTEY!!

You already received your bike? So fast :tup: I am still waiting for my bike. They said the bike should be available after CNY. Where did you buy your bike? How's the overall performance?

Yup. Got it in time right before cny. Still breaking in. Feels better compared to the first 2 days of riding. Got mine in Penang. 1st RS3 to be registered in Penang. Where ru from classix_man? Lots of help im getting here from the members.....

[FTEY]

Whats happening with the back tire/wheel on the blue one? Is that just some sort of optical camera screw up?


/

Think is the cam. The side box is also a lil crooked...

[Weldangrind]

2325

2326

Welcome! Thanks for the pics of your terrific new bike. :D

[Weldangrind]

This was what I was hoping for. Keeping the original and then build a 21" wheel from another hub. I'm tempted to do it my self but may take you up on your offer to build me one.

If you have the time and no distractions, it can be an interesting experience. Trouble appears when you're trying to lace a used rim to a hub, and you can't work the wobble out. Ask me how I know.

A decent truing stand isn't very costly, and you can even get fancy with a HF dial indicator and magnetic base, although I haven't found that to be necessary.

[Weldangrind]

Please do post more photos. :)

Our bikes are fuel injected, and we haven't received them yet. Therefore, I don't know much about your carburetor. ;) However, I think it's possible the pilot jet of your carburetor is a little too small. You might want to try the next largest size of pilot jet, and see if helps. You might also want to try adjusting the pilot mixture screw on the carburetor.

I agree. If the slow jet is too small, you can have trouble starting a bike, especially if it is cold outside or you're near sea level. Try backing the pilot mixture screw out 1/2 turn, and see if that helps.

[Weldangrind]

The CSC Blog reports our Zongshen RX3 motorcycles are loaded on the Hanjin container vessel Germany, which is currently taking on more cargo in Pusan, South Korea.

Joe reports the vessel is scheduled to "arrive in Long Beach on the 6th of March. Due to the current labor unrest roiling our coast, the berthing date is currently scheduled to be on the 23rd of March."

Ugh, another month. I'm not even able to buy one of these bikes, and I'm getting antsy! :D

Please Lord, allow the ship to travel safely to Long Beach. Amen.

[Weldangrind]

If one sticks with the 18-inch front wheel, the Pirelli MT21 is an excellent choice for a front tire. The MT21 is a perennial favorite with dual sport riders, and the size 110/80-18 tire is a good fit for the RX3 front wheel. :)

https://www.rockymountainatvmc.com/p/1093/3522/Pirelli-MT21-Dual-Sport-Rallycross?0



Spud, do you have a concern with such an aggressive tread pattern on a front wheel? I don't have such a concern with my TW, but it's also a 5.10.

[Weldangrind]

That would be a great way to understand the bike. But still not able to get the carb diagram. Since its still so new here. I can see and understand before go on to meddle with it. Not the most familiar person with engines yet. But a good place to start. Refuelled yesterday and still getting 8L to full. But consumption is not good at all. I managed only 85km on the he last fill. Could it be because the bike is still new.

You actually pumped 8l into the tank, after riding 85km?

[Weldangrind]

I haven't attempted to run the tank dry, nor do I think this is a good idea based on the fact that the fuel pump needs fuel in the tank to stay cool.

An excellent point for the FI bikes, but I don't think there will be a pump in FTEY's bike. He could likely run the bike out of fuel without consequence.

[SpudRider]

Spud, do you have a concern with such an aggressive tread pattern on a front wheel? I don't have such a concern with my TW, but it's also a 5.10.

I don't have any concerns whatsoever in that regard. The Pirelli, MT21 front tire is a perennial favorite for many dual sport riders. :)

[Weldangrind]

I didn't word my question well. I'm thinking about the installation of an aggressive rear tire on a front rim. It doesn't worry me on my TW because it is massive, but I'm not sure how a rear tire would work in the real world on a front rim.

The front tire tread patterns seem to never be as aggressive as the rear with DS tires.

[SpudRider]

...The front tire tread patterns seem to never be as aggressive as the rear with DS tires.

I'm sure that is true for quite a few tires, but that hasn't been my experience for many dirt, and dual sport tires. :shrug: My good friend Andy bought a Yamaha TT-R225 which had Pirelli, MT21 tires mounted on both wheels. The tread for the MT21 is virtually identical for all tire sizes, both front and rear.

[Weldangrind]

That's good to know. It's something that I hadn't considered until we started these discussions.

[SpudRider]

Here is a photograph of MT21 front and rear tires.

http://www.tpimotorcycleparts.com/dr650/images/tires/TIRES.jpg

For the RX3 I recommended the smallest rear tire, which should have an intermediate width to the two tires in the photograph.

[thillskier]

Re maintainance by owners, Thisbike was intended to be serviced by owners (in USA at least). That will (as long as this was addressed in designing and engineering the bikes from the get/go) insure the mess you're dealing with re Kymco DOES NOT happen with our Zongs. This is a GREAT "test" as to how well thought out our bikes were with the maintainance by owners taken into account from the git go, and also to allow "on the trip & off road repairs, at least easy enough to make t to the next town, etc., where help and parts can be obtained if needed! I'm hoping this is the case, and really feel that may be one aspect that will make the bke the "game changer" the Chinese cycle industry really needs to get the Worlds riders attention! Small breakdowns, (until you have an issue(s) out in the boonies, especially if riding ALONE!!), will rapidly become MAJOR problems if its difficult to work on and or diagnose repairs. It also SHOULD be easy to "patch" up enough to make it back to camp or the area you plan to spend the night at, at a minimum.

I guess we will K N O W soon enough, now:))!! WOO HOOO!! Way to go, JOE (and CSC!):thanks::clap::tup::yay:

[SpudRider]

The Zongshen NC250 (ZS177MM) engine is getting rave reviews from some of the AJP PR5 owners. :)

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showpost.php?p=26219528&postcount=125

[SpudRider]

According to Hanjin, the berthing date for the Germany at Long Beach has been moved back one day, to March 24.

https://www.hanjin.com/hanjin/CUP_HOM_3005.do?sessLocale=en

[katoranger]

According to Hanjin, the berthing date for the Germany at Long Beach has been moved back one day, to March 24.

https://www.hanjin.com/hanjin/CUP_HOM_3005.do?sessLocale=en


Are you tracking it progress across the ocean?

[SpudRider]

Are you tracking it progress across the ocean?

Tracking vessels on inland waterways is done with terrestrial receivers located along the river shores. One needs to purchase satellite coverage to track vessels in the ocean far from the mainland. ;) I submitted a request for one, free position location.

[katoranger]

Says that it will arrive on the 6th, but not berth until the 24th. Departing back to China on the 31st of March.

[SpudRider]

Says that it will arrive on the 6th, but not berth until the 24th. Departing back to China on the 31st of March.

Yes, that is correct. :) Please note the schedule indicates it will only take 5 days to sail back to Pusan from Long Beach. ;)

[katoranger]

Tracking vessels on inland waterways is done with terrestrial receivers located along the river shores. One needs to purchase satellite coverage to track vessels in the ocean far from the mainland. ;) I submitted a request for one, free position location.


That would be why all those ship tracking sites want you to sign up. Where do you go to submit a free one time location?

[SpudRider]

I submitted my request to the same website I used to track the inland location of the Minben. ;)

https://www.fleetmon.com/en/vessels/Hanjin_Germany_2153773

[katoranger]

It left that last position 3 days ago. Maybe it will be about halfway to Long Beach when you get the next position.

[SpudRider]

It left that last position 3 days ago. Maybe it will be about halfway to Long Beach when you get the next position.

Yes, but that last position quoted was in Shanghai. The Germany left the port of Pusan one day ago. ;)

I submitted my request about one hour ago, but I am still waiting to be authorized. ;) I think you can purchase a single location request for about $2.40, or you can purchase a plan to track a vessel for 14 days, et cetera.

[SpudRider]

I think I was wrong. You can't get a free location update, you can purchase a single update, 14-day plan, et cetera. A single location check costs approximately $2.40 USD. ;)

[thillskier]

I'll buy an update, if we need to, Spud. OR I'll buy my share of the 14 days (or whichever we need to track it) if a better deal.

Let me know what you decide. Heck, I'll even go for two and $5.00! Get my mind off a bad day BS kidney infection...! Well worth it! hehe

[Adjuster]

This website appears to show the ships exact location.


http://www.vesselfinder.com/vessels/HANJIN-GERMANY-IMO-9484924-MMSI-241311000


/

[Adjuster]

http://www.vesselfinder.com/?imo=9484924


/

[Adjuster]

You can even upload the app to your Android phone for constant updates on ship location.


/

[Adjuster]

Curious the map shows the ship heading out into the open ocean but there are no other ships out in the ocean ahead of it. I would have imagined there would be a lot of cargo traffic heading this way. Then again it is a very big ocean.


/

[rjmorel]

Adjuster, click on the little map that only shows the Hanjin. On my computer it opens a bigger map with a pot load of ships out there. rj

[SpudRider]

I might be wrong, but I believe that is the Germany's location as on Sunday, February 22, at 10:35 a.m.

[SpudRider]

I'll buy an update, if we need to, Spud. OR I'll buy my share of the 14 days (or whichever we need to track it) if a better deal.

Let me know what you decide. Heck, I'll even go for two and $5.00! Get my mind off a bad day BS kidney infection...! Well worth it! hehe

It costs about $16.00 to track the ship for 14 days. Does anybody else want to join Thillskier and pay for part of the tracking? If several people chip in, I will start tracking the vessel. ;)

[Adjuster]

I might be wrong, but I believe that is the Germany's location as on Sunday, February 22, at 10:35 a.m.


I am assuming that is what day and time it is on the other side of the world. Or at least the last time the update to the map is made on that side of the world. I can already see that the ship has moved since I first checked this morning. I am not sure how often the map updates. I am sure it is on the website somewhere.


/

[FTEY]

You actually pumped 8l into the tank, after riding 85km?
Yup. the 85KM was running on the 1st tank. Now on my 2nd tank. looks like its going to do better.....but we'll see.......the first could be due to the cranky new engine that's hard to go by. But now it's getting better. But still some problems with starting. Sometimes the engine just died on 1st gear idling at the traffic light and it needs a few tries before it gets started. Anyway i will take your advise and twitch the pilot jet and see if it improves.

[SpudRider]

I am assuming that is what day and time it is on the other side of the world. Or at least the last time the update to the map is made on that side of the world. I can already see that the ship has moved since I first checked this morning. I am not sure how often the map updates. I am sure it is on the website somewhere.


/

I believe the time recorded is UTC (Universal Time Coordinated) time, which is Greenwich Meridian Time. The last update was Sunday, February 22, at 4:35 p.m. London time. Here in Idaho, London time is 6 hours later than Rocky Mountain Time, since the sun rises in the east. Therefore, at this moment, I believe the last update was 32 hours ago.

[SpudRider]

Yup. the 85KM was running on the 1st tank. Now on my 2nd tank. looks like its going to do better.....but we'll see.......the first could be due to the cranky new engine that's hard to go by. But now it's getting better. But still some problems with starting. Sometimes the engine just died on 1st gear idling at the traffic light and it needs a few tries before it gets started. Anyway i will take your advise and twitch the pilot jet and see if it improves.

I really think you should adjust the pilot mixture screw (PMS) before you change the carburetor jets. ;) Please do start a new thread on this topic in the Dual Sport Forum. If you post photographs of your carburetor, I will help you to identify the location of the PMS. We can also help you find suitable jets, et cetera. :) You really will get much more help, and much more exposure to your carburetor questions by starting a new thread. ;)

[FTEY]

yup.....plan to do that after work today.

[thillskier]

Spud, help him (offer?) with the thread starting . Maybe he hasn't done that before..
I will, if you want me to..
Believe it or not, A few wks ago, I was hesitant to start a new thread you may recall, re fly and ride back to BAMA.

[classix_man]

Yup. Got it in time right before cny. Still breaking in. Feels better compared to the first 2 days of riding. Got mine in Penang. 1st RS3 to be registered in Penang. Where ru from classix_man? Lots of help im getting here from the members.....

I see. I am from KL. Already booked RX3 from Chuan Cycle at Petaling Jaya. Still waiting for the bike to arrived. They have only 3 bike for display only. So I can't test ride the bike :ohno:

It's good to know you already have yours. Yes, I agree that this site helps us a lot in terms of the bike knowledge for a newbies like me. Also, I follow closely below site:

http://californiascooterco.com/blog/

Studied a lot about this bike. Can't wait to get mine :tup:

[Weldangrind]

Yup. the 85KM was running on the 1st tank. Now on my 2nd tank. looks like its going to do better.....but we'll see.......the first could be due to the cranky new engine that's hard to go by. But now it's getting better. But still some problems with starting. Sometimes the engine just died on 1st gear idling at the traffic light and it needs a few tries before it gets started. Anyway i will take your advise and twitch the pilot jet and see if it improves.

That's only 25mpg (US). Please let us know if the next tank improves.

[SpudRider]

yup.....plan to do that after work today.

If you have problems starting a new thread, please let me know. I will be glad to help you. :)

[FTEY]

:tup:

[FTEY]

An excellent point for the FI bikes, but I don't think there will be a pump in FTEY's bike. He could likely run the bike out of fuel without consequence.
i guessed so because my bike comes equipped with a spare lever.
I will take a pic of this later today. Maybe they expect the carb version to run dry..hehe

[jezzrite]

Greetings everyone. I'm Jay from Malaysia, specifically the eastern part (Borneo).

I already paid down payment for this gorgeous RS3 (yeah, Malaysia distributor KTN changed it from RX3 to RS3...but I prefer RX3). Hopefully will get the bike after 10th of March, because it will take some time for it to be shipped from Johor to Kota Kinabalu.

Apparently, I will be the first one here (Borneo) to ride it. Hehe.

Okay, here comes the questions.

I sent an email to CSC (because I'm unable to contact Malaysia distributor, which is KTN, and even their website doesn't show email address, and Joe Berk seems to be a nice dude :), asking about the swapping/change of the rear wheel from 15 to 17.

The answer that I get was from Steve (I believe Joe said it somewhere in CSC blog that he's the CEO, basically making him The Man. If it's true, thank you very much Steve!)

Steve said something about the rear hub, about it being solid or cush hub. Frankly, I have no idea about the technicality of wheels, and how to change one.

I also referred to http://www.chinariders.net/showthread.php?t=14104, and would like to summarize this wheel-changing thingie from my view (which is, very non-expert).

So people, please, bear with me, and do correct me when I'm wrong or spurring out nonsenses. :hmm:

1) In order for me to change the wheel from 15 to 17 using the stock hub, I would have to:-

a) Check the type of hub on the rear wheel (cannot check it, since haven't received the bike yet)

b) Find a sprocket that can fit the hub that still have the same numbers of tooth in order to maintain the final drive ratio.

c) Find my self a shiny new wheel.

2) Can any 17 rear wheel be fitted with any tyres? I mean, if I want to fit 130/90-17, and decided later to change to 130/70-17, I don't suppose that I have to change the wheel too, do I?

It's hard enough to find the non-existent 15 DS rear tyre in Malaysia. I'm hoping the change from 15 to 17 wheel is not that hard.

Thank you very much for reading, and replying.

[thillskier]

you're da man:)! This should help him get his bike and especially mpg and carb issues fixed straightaway, and in short order:)!
Let me know if I can help in anyway, also.

Thats one of the things that I'm REALLY enjoying with this bike purchase and ownership experience. Even before MY delivery, I am learning and being helped through others experiences and by helping others in other markets with their issues where I have some experience. I'm not sure why, ON THIS BIKE, it seems that people are more "old school" types, and are generous and forthcoming with offers to help fellow owners musch more than on ANY other forum I've been a part of. Also the almost TOTAL lack of negativity, internet trolls and trollers, and the general attitude of
"We're all in this together" as fellow owners, "Brothers of Zong", if you will:)! hehe

Thats VERY, VERY unusual in my experience, but also, very very refreshing, useful, and really puts a smile on my face every time I come to this thread/site!! Obviously there are others with a similar opinion/experiences, as the popularity of the thread and thus the site, is really becoming an internet sensation and HUGE "hit" re numbers involved and watching and following (reading) it! Great job, Spud, and Quadz (the owner)!
THANK YOU!!

[SpudRider]

As of one hour ago, the Hanjin Germany was sailing northeast at 13 knots, about to enter the Tsugaru Strait which separates the Japanese islands of Hokkaido and Honshu.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b1/Location_TsugaruPeninsulaJp.jpg

After passing through the strait, the Germany will leave the Japan Sea and enter the main body of the Pacific Ocean. Here is a view of the north island of Hokkaido from the ship's current position, courtesy of Google Earth. :)

http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/29471120.jpg

Here is a photograph of the main Japanese island, Honshu, from the ship's current position.

http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/29471230.jpg

http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/14051962.jpg

[FTEY]

Greetings everyone. I'm Jay from Malaysia, specifically the eastern part (Borneo).

I already paid down payment for this gorgeous RS3 (yeah, Malaysia distributor KTN changed it from RX3 to RS3...but I prefer RX3). Hopefully will get the bike after 10th of March, because it will take some time for it to be shipped from Johor to Kota Kinabalu.

Apparently, I will be the first one here (Borneo) to ride it. Hehe.

Okay, here comes the questions.

I sent an email to CSC (because I'm unable to contact Malaysia distributor, which is KTN, and even their website doesn't show email address, and Joe Berk seems to be a nice dude :), asking about the swapping/change of the rear wheel from 15 to 17.

The answer that I get was from Steve (I believe Joe said it somewhere in CSC blog that he's the CEO, basically making him The Man. If it's true, thank you very much Steve!)

Steve said something about the rear hub, about it being solid or cush hub. Frankly, I have no idea about the technicality of wheels, and how to change one.

I also referred to http://www.chinariders.net/showthread.php?t=14104, and would like to summarize this wheel-changing thingie from my view (which is, very non-expert).

So people, please, bear with me, and do correct me when I'm wrong or spurring out nonsenses. :hmm:

1) In order for me to change the wheel from 15 to 17 using the stock hub, I would have to:-

a) Check the type of hub on the rear wheel (cannot check it, since haven't received the bike yet)

b) Find a sprocket that can fit the hub that still have the same numbers of tooth in order to maintain the final drive ratio.

c) Find my self a shiny new wheel.

2) Can any 17 rear wheel be fitted with any tyres? I mean, if I want to fit 130/90-17, and decided later to change to 130/70-17, I don't suppose that I have to change the wheel too, do I?

It's hard enough to find the non-existent 15 DS rear tyre in Malaysia. I'm hoping the change from 15 to 17 wheel is not that hard.

Thank you very much for reading, and replying.

Hi Jay..... Another Malaysian here.

[SpudRider]

i guessed so because my bike comes equipped with a spare lever.
I will take a pic of this later today. Maybe they expect the carb version to run dry..hehe

As you take photographs, try to find the pilot mixture screw (PMS). The PMS of my Zongshen ZS200GY-2 carburetor is shown inside the yellow circle in the photograph below. ;)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/TK%20MV28%20Carburetor/carbpms.jpg

Also, look for any writing which will help us to identify the model of the carburetor. Try to take photographs of both left and right sides, and the bottom of the carburetor. After you post your photographs, I will start a new thread for you. This separate thread will serve as a future reference for everyone who owns a Zongshen RX3 with a carburetor.

[SpudRider]

Greetings everyone. I'm Jay from Malaysia, specifically the eastern part (Borneo).

I already paid down payment for this gorgeous RS3 (yeah, Malaysia distributor KTN changed it from RX3 to RS3...but I prefer RX3). Hopefully will get the bike after 10th of March, because it will take some time for it to be shipped from Johor to Kota Kinabalu.

Apparently, I will be the first one here (Borneo) to ride it. Hehe.

Okay, here comes the questions.

I sent an email to CSC (because I'm unable to contact Malaysia distributor, which is KTN, and even their website doesn't show email address, and Joe Berk seems to be a nice dude :), asking about the swapping/change of the rear wheel from 15 to 17.

The answer that I get was from Steve (I believe Joe said it somewhere in CSC blog that he's the CEO, basically making him The Man. If it's true, thank you very much Steve!)

Steve said something about the rear hub, about it being solid or cush hub. Frankly, I have no idea about the technicality of wheels, and how to change one.

I also referred to http://www.chinariders.net/showthread.php?t=14104, and would like to summarize this wheel-changing thingie from my view (which is, very non-expert).

So people, please, bear with me, and do correct me when I'm wrong or spurring out nonsenses. :hmm:

1) In order for me to change the wheel from 15 to 17 using the stock hub, I would have to:-

a) Check the type of hub on the rear wheel (cannot check it, since haven't received the bike yet)

b) Find a sprocket that can fit the hub that still have the same numbers of tooth in order to maintain the final drive ratio.

c) Find my self a shiny new wheel.

2) Can any 17 rear wheel be fitted with any tyres? I mean, if I want to fit 130/90-17, and decided later to change to 130/70-17, I don't suppose that I have to change the wheel too, do I?

It's hard enough to find the non-existent 15 DS rear tyre in Malaysia. I'm hoping the change from 15 to 17 wheel is not that hard.

Thank you very much for reading, and replying.

Jay,

Welcome to these forums; we are glad you joined us. :hi:

Your KTN RS3 has a cush hub, which is the same hub we will receive with our RX3 motorcycles in North America. Therefore, if you want a 17-inch rear wheel, you could purchase one from CSC motorcycles; this wheel will fit your KTN RS3. :)

The stock sprocket has 44 teeth, and it will work for you. After you receive your motorcycle, you can remove the sprocket carrier from your KTN RS3, and install it in a 17-inch wheel you purchase from CSC.

http://img04.taobaocdn.com/imgextra/i4/726919623/TB2lU3obFXXXXalXpXXXXXXXXXX_!!726919623.jpg_728x72 8.jpg

http://img02.taobaocdn.com/imgextra/i2/726919623/TB22gEobFXXXXaNXpXXXXXXXXXX_!!726919623.jpg_728x72 8.jpg

We will learn more about other sprocket options after we receive our bikes in North America.

You can fit a wide variety of tires to the 17-inch rear wheel. Indeed, you can easily switch from a size 130/90-17 tire to a size 130/70-17 tire, et cetera. :)

[FTEY]

As you take photographs, try to find the pilot mixture screw (PMS). The PMS of my Zongshen ZS200GY-2 carburetor is shown inside the yellow circle in the photograph below. ;)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/TK%20MV28%20Carburetor/carbpms.jpg

Also, look for any writing which will help us to identify the model of the carburetor. Try to take photographs of both left and right sides, and the bottom of the carburetor. After you post your photographs, I will start a new thread for you. This separate thread will serve as a future reference for everyone who owns a Zongshen RX3 with a carburetor.

Just went down to take another shot of the carb. Think i found both the screws.
2352

[SpudRider]

Just went down to take another shot of the carb. Think i found both the screws.

I answered this question on your other thread. :) Let's keep all the carburetor questions over there, so the information will be in one place for anyone who is seeking knowledge in the future. ;)

http://www.chinariders.net/showthread.php?t=14455

[Weldangrind]

Welcome, Jay!

If you had a motorcycle shop close to you that you trust, you could have them lace a 17" rim to your existing hub. Might be less money than shipping an entire wheel from the US.

[SpudRider]

Welcome, Jay!

If you had a motorcycle shop close to you that you trust, you could have them lace a 17" rim to your existing hub. Might be less money than shipping an entire wheel from the US.

I agree. :) However, either Jay or his shop will also need to acquire the longer, 17-inch custom spokes. ;)

[jezzrite]

I agree. :) However, either Jay or his shop will also need to acquire the longer, 17-inch custom spokes. ;)

Hey FTEY! Nice to meet my fellow country-dude here. :tup: I understand that you're from Penang? I studied there, back in 2001.

Weldangrind, so basically I can grab any 17in wheel off-the-shelf and lace it to my existing rim, and, like SpudRider said, I have to find myself custom spokes to fit the extra 2 inches in circumference. Am I correct?

Or, just purchase the 17in wheel straight from US. The good guys at CSC quoted me USD 250.00 for the wheel. So, add in some import tax, shipping cost, and other taxes, I think I'm looking at the price of almost double the original purchase price.

I'll compare the price difference after I go back to KL (hometown), though I'm leaning towards the first option, which I think is cheaper.

But, who knows, maybe the 2nd option will save me a lot of headaches, because I work at a rural tiny stolport, some 200km from Kota Kinabalu, and I'm not sure I can find the time to travel 400km to n fro just to lace the wheel.

Or maybe it's a blessing in disguise, to try the new toy up and down the windy roads of Crocker Mountain Range.

Can't wait for it to arrive! Thanks for the replies guys! :thanks::tup:

[SpudRider]

...so basically I can grab any 17in wheel off-the-shelf and lace it to my existing rim, and, like SpudRider said, I have to find myself custom spokes to fit the extra 2 inches in circumference. Am I correct?

Or, just purchase the 17in wheel straight from US. The good guys at CSC quoted me USD 250.00 for the wheel. So, add in some import tax, shipping cost, and other taxes, I think I'm looking at the price of almost double the original purchase price.

I'll compare the price difference after I go back to KL (hometown), though I'm leaning towards the first option, which I think is cheaper...

Yes, you are basically correct. However, here is some more information. ;)

Your rear wheel is composed of four parts: hub, sprocket carrier, spokes, and rim. The hub is the central component to which all other parts attach. Your RS3 bike has the same hub as our RX3 motorcycles in North America.

The sprocket carrier inserts into the left side of the hub, and connects the drive chain to the rear wheel. Your RS3 bike also has the same sprocket carrier as our RX3 motorcycles in North America.

The rim is the outer portion of the wheel which holds the inner tube and supports the tire. Your RS3 bike has a 15-inch rim, and our RX3 bikes have a 17-inch rim.

The spokes connect the rim to the hub. Your RS3 bike has shorter spokes than our RX3 motorcycles, since your 15-inch rim is smaller in diameter.

If you decide to build your own wheel, you need to buy a larger, 17-inch rim, and custom 17-inch spokes. Not every rim will fit; you need to select a rim which has the same number of spoke holes as your hub. Rims cost at least $100 USD, plus the cost of shipping. Custom spokes cost at least $110, plus the cost of shipping.

After you purchase the 17-inch rim and custom spokes, you will need to pay someone to disassemble your stock 15-inch wheel, and lace the larger rim to your stock hub. Therefore, if you exclude shipping charges, the cost of building your own wheel will probably exceed the cost of buying a new wheel from CSC.

It will cost more to ship an entire wheel from California to Malaysia. However, if you decide to build your own wheel, you will still need to pay shipping charges for the custom spokes and rim. In addition, you will also need to spend time, and pay travel expenses, to visit the other city where the custom wheel will be built. ;)

If you have further questions about building a custom rear wheel, please do start a new thread on this topic. :)

[jezzrite]

Yes, you are basically correct. However, here is some more information. ;)

Your rear wheel is composed of four parts: hub, sprocket carrier, spokes, and rim. The hub is the central component to which all other parts attach. Your RS3 bike has the same hub as our RX3 motorcycles in North America.

The sprocket carrier inserts into the left side of the hub, and connects the drive chain to the rear wheel. Your RS3 bike also has the same sprocket carrier as our RX3 motorcycles in North America.

The rim is the outer portion of the wheel which holds the inner tube and supports the tire. Your RS3 bike has a 15-inch rim, and our RX3 bikes have a 17-inch rim.

The spokes connect the rim to the hub. Your RS3 bike has shorter spokes than our RX3 motorcycles, since your 15-inch rim is smaller in diameter.

If you decide to build your own wheel, you need to buy a larger, 17-inch rim, and custom 17-inch spokes. Not every rim will fit; you need to select a rim which has the same number of spoke holes as your hub. Rims cost at least $100 USD, plus the cost of shipping. Custom spokes cost at least $110, plus the cost of shipping.

After you purchase the 17-inch rim and custom spokes, you will need to pay someone to disassemble your stock 15-inch wheel, and lace the larger rim to your stock hub. Therefore, if you exclude shipping charges, the cost of building your own wheel will probably exceed the cost of buying a new wheel from CSC.

It will cost more to ship an entire wheel from California to Malaysia. However, if you decide to build your own wheel, you will still need to pay shipping charges for the custom spokes and rim. In addition, you will also need to spend time, and pay travel expenses, to visit the other city where the custom wheel will be built. ;)

If you have further questions about building a custom rear wheel, please do start a new thread on this topic. :)

Wow..thank you very much for the detailed explanation SpudRider!

Now I have much clearer direction of where am I going with my rear wheel dilemma.

From what I could count based on a photo of Honley Adventurer, the 15in rear wheel has 36 spokes. So, I'm gonna search for the rim, and spokesman too (haa!).

Thanks again dude! You the man!:thanks::thanks:

[CSCDude]

Another beauty shot...out playing with the new Nikon and the RX3. Snow up in the San Gabriels today...

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10985255_10152745036231801_3735091120164628667_n.j pg?oh=a59ea795e5fe6f18aef9f1e6800234ae&oe=55524C11&__gda__=1431429486_8be5bf4eab824c6dc954026dd68a25d 7

[Weldangrind]

So, I'm gonna search for the rim, and spokesman too (haa!).

Not bad. :hehe:

Another option is to buy the complete rim on www.taobao.com (http://www.taobao.com). Not sure if they're available yet, but they will be. That's likely to be the lowest cost option.

[Weldangrind]

Another beauty shot...out playing with the new Nikon and the RX3. Snow up in the San Gabriels today...

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10985255_10152745036231801_3735091120164628667_n.j pg?oh=a59ea795e5fe6f18aef9f1e6800234ae&oe=55524C11&__gda__=1431429486_8be5bf4eab824c6dc954026dd68a25d 7

Great shot, Joe. Thanks.

[SpudRider]

Great shot, Joe. Thanks.

X2. The blue bike does favor the camera. :)

[CSCDude]

X2. The blue bike does favor the camera. :)

So I started this contest on the CSC blog a few hours ago. Lots of entries so far, but no winner yet.

I thought you guys noticed everything.

[SpudRider]

One hour ago the Germany was on the high seas of the North Pacific Ocean, sailing northeast at 12.5 knots. The vessel recently passed the Cape of Erimo, which is on the southeast corner of the island of Hokkaido. Here is an aerial photograph of the Cape of Erimo. :) The Germany last transmitted its position at:

LAT: 41° 55' N LONG: 143° 54' E.

http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/104856143.jpg

[SpudRider]

Planet Earth is a sphere. The shortest distance between two points on Earth can be determined by stretching a string between the two points on a globe. This path is called the 'great circle route.' When drawing this route on a two-dimensional map, it appears as an arc. ;)

The shortest path from the current position of the Hanjin Germany to Long Beach, California, is very close to the flight path taken from Tokyo to Los Angeles.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/79/Greatcircle_Jetstream_routes.svg/815px-Greatcircle_Jetstream_routes.svg.png

Therefore, it appears the Hanjin Germany will probably sail along the island chain which stretches from Japan to the Kamchatka Peninsula of Russia. Then the vessel will skirt the Aleutian Island chain before it sails in a general southeasterly direction toward Long Beach, California. ;)

[Weldangrind]

Spud, I learn something from you every week.

[detours]

Check out the CSC blog ... there's a new 19-inch front wheel option (http://californiascooterco.com/blog/?p=15142) with stainless spokes. The Trailwings look good too.

I was lucky enough to see it first and won myself a tshirt :)

Hey, doesn't the speedo run off the front wheel? I wonder how hard it is to recalibrate for the new wheel and tire?

[rjmorel]

congrates detours on the sharp eyes and T-shirt. I looked and looked but didn't get all 5 of the items. rj

[SpudRider]

Thirty-four minutes ago, the Hanjin Germany was sailing at 13.2 knots in a northeasterly direction offshore from Kushiro, the most populous city on the east coast of Hokkaido.

http://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/cruise/jp/detail/006/images/main.jpg

[SpudRider]

Check out the CSC blog ... there's a new 19-inch front wheel option (http://californiascooterco.com/blog/?p=15142) with stainless spokes. The Trailwings look good too.

I was lucky enough to see it first and won myself a tshirt :)

Hey, doesn't the speedo run off the front wheel? I wonder how hard it is to recalibrate for the new wheel and tire?

congrates detours on the sharp eyes and T-shirt. I looked and looked but didn't get all 5 of the items. rj

Congratulations, Detours. :clap: Indeed, you have an eagle eye. :) If I may ask, what tipped you off? ;)

The speedometer pickup does connect to the front wheel. However, since the speedometer is about 15 percent 'optimistic' with the stock wheel, the larger wheel will only improve the accuracy somewhat. ;)

P.S. I knew a China Rider would win. ;)

[SpudRider]

The Hanjin Germany certainly travels the globe. :) Here is a short video of the Hanjin Germany being towed by tugboat up the Elbe River to the port of Hamburg, Germany.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghcoZjdMDx8

[SpudRider]

The Hanjin Germany is now sailing offshore Nemuro, the easternmost city in Japan.

http://jto.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/nn20130916a3a-870x579.jpg

Very shortly the vessel will be offshore the Southern Kuril Islands, and leaving the vicinity of Japanese waters. The Southern Kuril Islands are disputed territory controlled by Russia since 1945.

Russia actually shares a border with North Korea, and the port of Vladivostock is as far south as the Japanese city of Sapporo. :wtf: The Hanjin Germany will be sailing outside Russian waters for quite a while, until it approaches the Aleutian Islands of Alaska. ;) The last reported location of the vessel is:

LAT: 42° 40' N LONG: 145° 52' E

[Wolftrax]

Another beauty shot...out playing with the new Nikon and the RX3. Snow up in the San Gabriels today...

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10985255_10152745036231801_3735091120164628667_n.j pg?oh=a59ea795e5fe6f18aef9f1e6800234ae&oe=55524C11&__gda__=1431429486_8be5bf4eab824c6dc954026dd68a25d 7

The 19" wheel is the size that should have been installed at the factory for the US market. If the price is right I may bite on this option. If not I'll lace a 21".
This bike is really starting to come together. Great motor, acceptable wheel sizes, adequate stator, "good ergos".
The only limiting factor for me is the luggage but thats's easy, ditch the hard bags and throw on some my 60L soft bags.
If the bike proves to be rugged and reliable this may be the perfect turn key world crosser adventure bike!

[Wolftrax]

Another beauty shot...out playing with the new Nikon and the RX3. Snow up in the San Gabriels today...

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10985255_10152745036231801_3735091120164628667_n.j pg?oh=a59ea795e5fe6f18aef9f1e6800234ae&oe=55524C11&__gda__=1431429486_8be5bf4eab824c6dc954026dd68a25d 7

I am not a fan of hard bags, but I have to say this bike looks amazing with the Tourfella panniers and top box.:tup:

[Wolftrax]

What an odd winter, temps here in Ga should be in the 50's by now. Instead we have 4" of snow on the ground with a foreceast of another 5" to 8" by tomorrow. Oh and the temps will stuggle to make it above freezing. I normally ride all winter long, but not this year. Just as well the RX3 wasn't delivered earlier.>:(>:(

[Wolftrax]

Check out the CSC blog ... there's a new 19-inch front wheel option (http://californiascooterco.com/blog/?p=15142) with stainless spokes. The Trailwings look good too.

I was lucky enough to see it first and won myself a tshirt :)

Hey, doesn't the speedo run off the front wheel? I wonder how hard it is to recalibrate for the new wheel and tire?

Congrats Detours. My last complaint about the RX3 was the front wheel size and I never would have caught it in a million years.:hmm:

[Wolftrax]

This tire looks promising, with the 19" rim we now have it as a choice!
http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/73252/i/shinko-804-series-dual-sport-front-tire

[G19Tony]

So I started this contest on the CSC blog a few hours ago. Lots of entries so far, but no winner yet.

I thought you guys noticed everything.

Has there been any more discussion on BMW type, tubeless wheels? :)

[detours]

Congratulations, Detours. :clap: Indeed, you have an eagle eye. :) If I may ask, what tipped you off? ;)

The speedometer pickup does connect to the front wheel. However, since the speedometer is about 15 percent 'optimistic' with the stock wheel, the larger wheel will only improve the accuracy somewhat. ;)

P.S. I knew a China Rider would win. ;)

What fooled me at first was the wheel proportions. The 17/19 wheels in the new pic look about the same together as the old 15/18 wheels.

Comparing with an old pic of the blue RX3, I knew the rear had to be a 17 (too much space around the rotor). The front should have looked smaller in proportion, but it didn't, so I knew they must have bumped the size.

I do QA for a living so I love this kind of puzzle :tup:

[Weldangrind]

What an odd winter, temps here in Ga should be in the 50's by now. Instead we have 4" of snow on the ground with a foreceast of another 5" to 8" by tomorrow. Oh and the temps will stuggle to make it above freezing. I normally ride all winter long, but not this year. Just as well the RX3 wasn't delivered earlier.>:(>:(

It has been odd here also, but in reverse. We've already seen temps near 70F, and the blossoms are out in force. Very mild winter here.

[Weldangrind]

The 19" wheel is the size that should have been installed at the factory for the US market.

To me, that's the answer. A 21" would be nice, but a 19" likely means no messing with the fender. There is an adequate selection of 19" front tires.

[CSCDude]

Has there been any more discussion on BMW type, tubeless wheels? :)

Tony:

Good question and thanks for asking it.

I spoke with the engineers at Zongshen when I was there a few weeks ago, and the short answer is yes, there was more discussion, but no, we are not going to pursue it.

The Zongshen engineers convinced me that this is not a good way to go. There are more than a few issues associated with the BMW concept of lacing the spokes on an outer lip to run tubeless tires, and we both decided we did not want to pursue this approach. The issues include increased cost, increased difficulty in mounting/dismounting tires (not a good idea for the kind of riding that may require fixing flats in the middle of nowhere), challenges in keeping the wheels trued, and more. For the foreseeable future, we're going to run wire wheels and tubes.

Joe

[CSCDude]

To me, that's the answer. A 21" would be nice, but a 19" likely means no messing with the fender. There is an adequate selection of 19" front tires.

You are right; the 19-inch bolts right in and doesn't require fooling around with the fender. It does change the handling, the bike's stance, and responsiveness a bit. It works with the stock sidestand, but the bike leans a few more degrees to the left with the 19-inch wheel on the sidestand. A 21-inch wheel would not fit with the stock fender, and it would require sidestand modification.

[thillskier]

Does it 19" wheel slow handling and responsivness or?
Also, Do you recommend any of the tubless methods in aftermarket for our ue? ie: tubliss, etc?

[CSCDude]

Does it 19" wheel slow handling and responsivness or?
Also, Do you recommend any of the tubless methods in aftermarket for our ue? ie: tubliss, etc?

The bike obviously sits higher, which was intensified by the Bridgestone Trail Wing tires and the sheepskin seat cover. I didn't ride the bike in the twisties, so I can't really comment on the overall handling impact. My ride yesterday was in heavy traffic and I only went a few miles (see the CSC blog for more info). The bike felt different to me, as I expected it to. In general, smaller diameter wheels and tires provide more responsive steering and quicker handling; larger diameter wheels and tires work better on rough terrain and in the soft stuff. There is no perfect wheel and tire size that does everything in an ideal manner or every motorcycle would have that size wheel and tire. The principal advantages of the larger front wheel are that the bike will work better in the rough stuff, and it opens up a larger menu of tires. It looks kind of cool, too.

I personally do not recommend any of the gimmicks for making a spoked wheel run tubeless. A few of my friends have tried it with mixed results. A guy I know who makes wheels for a living advised against it. Me, I just look at all of those spoke nipples in the wheel and recognize that every one of them is an opportunity for a leak if you attempt to seal the wheel so you can run tubeless. Other people will have different opinions and that's what makes the world go around, I guess. Converting a spoked wheel to tubeless is not something I would ever do, especially on a motorcycle that takes me to some "out there" destinations. It's solving a problem that doesn't exist (in my opinion).

As we have pointed out here and elsewhere, our three test bikes (the first RX3s to enter the US) have optimistic speedos. The larger front wheel and the larger Trail Wing tire corrected most of that error on the one bike we tested yesterday (i.e., the one shown in the photo). We have specified improved speedometer accuracy on the production bikes and Zongshen committed to providing that, so I don't see it as an issue on the bikes currently en route to the US.

[SpudRider]

What fooled me at first was the wheel proportions. The 17/19 wheels in the new pic look about the same together as the old 15/18 wheels.

Comparing with an old pic of the blue RX3, I knew the rear had to be a 17 (too much space around the rotor). The front should have looked smaller in proportion, but it didn't, so I knew they must have bumped the size.

I do QA for a living so I love this kind of puzzle :tup:

That was excellent problem solving, Mr. Holmes. :tup:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCOLTzk9Bk8

[thillskier]

Thanks. I kind of suspected that it would slow responsiveness down from increased gyro effects and more unsprung weight also. Makes sense to me now. I also think I know why you went 19" instead of 21, also, re % on road vs offroad expected use of the RX-3 average owners rides.

The biggest issue was the rear 15" situation re tires when not home or shipping address is available or known. Glad you fixed that. Probably the #1 best thing (excepting importing the bike, that is, you've done re the RX-3 for USA buyers. Apparently everyone else agrees with that, as I have seen NO comments for the 15" wheel/tire combo.

Guess if it ain't broke, I'll just ride, for now:) re tubeless issues... I need some tire tools (proper ones) though. I remember changing tires/fixing flats, especially in the field! it being a HUGE PITA when I used to ride as a teenager... (screwdrivers are NOT proper tools to change tube or tires:)!! hehe

[thillskier]

Joe, I called you Steve my bad:), sorry.

[SpudRider]

What an odd winter, temps here in Ga should be in the 50's by now. Instead we have 4" of snow on the ground with a foreceast of another 5" to 8" by tomorrow. Oh and the temps will stuggle to make it above freezing. I normally ride all winter long, but not this year. Just as well the RX3 wasn't delivered earlier.>:(>:(

Today the high temperature will push 50 degrees Fahrenheit in East Idaho. Last week the temperature reached 60 degrees for three days in a row. :tup: This fellow in Kentucky is probably not accustomed to shoveling so much snow. ;)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x84GKqcpY4E

[detours]

Based on the latest blog pics of the new 17/19 wheels, the tires look like Bridgestone Trailwings TW39 (front) and TW42 (Rear) (http://www.bridgestone.com/products/motorcycle_tires/products/trailwing/index2.html#anc01). They seems like a good 60/40 (hwy biased) tire. If they wear anything like the TW101 & TW152 on my V-strom, they should last a long time, except a lot better offroad.

I like the idea of buying the 19" wheel/tire and switching back and forth from stock depending on the ride. But I wonder how much difference changing the front will make offroad if I keep using the stock rear till it wears out.

[SpudRider]

CSC just posted a tutorial on adjusting the drive chain. :) I have added a link to this tutorial under the Maintenance subheading in the RX3 Sticky thread. ;)

http://chinariders.net/showthread.php?t=14228

[CSCDude]

Joe, I called you Steve my bad:), sorry.

That's okay. I want to be like Steve when I grow up, so it was kind of a rush for me...

That's Steve on the left. I'm the good looking one in the maroon jacket on the right.

http://californiascooterco.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/0DSC0049-650A.jpg

[3banger]

You could regain someone of the sharper handeling by dropping the forks in the triple clamps a bit. Will the 19" wheels be availbe to order and be delivered a long with the stock 18" wheels?

I guessed 4 of the 5 last night and was thinking bigger front wheel but just kept thinking a 21" would look lot bigger. Never occured to think 19", but thanks for the entertaining back and fourth Joe!

The owner ship experience for the RX-3 is proving to quite unique in all good ways and we don't even have the bike yet! Joe once this bike starts getting high visabulity with a bunch of us early adopters running around the back roads I hope CSC is prepared to grow!

[CSCDude]

You could regain someone of the sharper handeling by dropping the forks in the triple clamps a bit. Will the 19" wheels be availbe to order and be delivered a long with the stock 18" wheels?

I guessed 4 of the 5 last night and was thinking bigger front wheel but just kept thinking a 21" would look lot bigger. Never occured to think 19", but thanks for the entertaining back and fourth Joe!

The owner ship experience for the RX-3 is proving to quite unique in all good ways and we don't even have the bike yet! Joe once this bike starts getting high visabulity with a bunch of us early adopters running around the back roads I hope CSC is prepared to grow!

Thanks for your kind words. Lots of emails last night. It was fun.

The 19-inch wheel kits will be available to order with the bike. We'll post a price shortly.

We are prepared to grow and we are very excited about this motorcycle. It's one of the coolest projects I've ever been involved with.

[G19Tony]

Tony:

Good question and thanks for asking it.

I spoke with the engineers at Zongshen when I was there a few weeks ago, and the short answer is yes, there was more discussion, but no, we are not going to pursue it.

The Zongshen engineers convinced me that this is not a good way to go. There are more than a few issues associated with the BMW concept of lacing the spokes on an outer lip to run tubeless tires, and we both decided we did not want to pursue this approach. The issues include increased cost, increased difficulty in mounting/dismounting tires (not a good idea for the kind of riding that may require fixing flats in the middle of nowhere), challenges in keeping the wheels trued, and more. For the foreseeable future, we're going to run wire wheels and tubes.

Joe

Thanks for the quick reply Joe. I appreciate it. Those all sound like good reasons not to pursue that project. :)

[thillskier]

I mean, for example, look at this THREAD!! WOW!!
There is a LOT of interest in this bike for sure! My feeling, honestly, is there are a WHOLE LOT of fence sitters out there that as soon as we take delivery, ride some distances, and post up in here the bikes area "as advertised", the dam will break on sales, Joe. I seriously believe that, and thatmmanaging the groth will be your biggest obstacle long run, for success. If I knew the "whole story" I might not be concerned at all. Rapid growth can be very difficult to grow with, IMHO (and in my businesses I('ve) own(ed).

The honesty re everyone and everything to do with the bike (and ownership, maintainance w/o dealers, etc, ALL are very refreshing, to me. Thanks a LOT, Joe, and everyone at CSC.
Also, Thank you also, Quadz and Spud, for an excellent forum, and "voice" for all things RX-3. GREAT job, guys. Seriously.

[SpudRider]

...Thank you also, Quadz and Spud, for an excellent forum, and "voice" for all things RX-3. GREAT job, guys. Seriously.

Thank you for your kind words. :)

[SpudRider]

CSCDude,

I like your avatar. :)

[SpudRider]

Thanks for the quick reply Joe. I appreciate it. Those all sound like good reasons not to pursue that project. :)

Indeed, the only option I might consider for spoked motorcycle wheels is the Nuetech TuBliss system.

http://nuetech.com/tubliss/#sthash.VG4xZUWd.dpbs

http://nuetech.com/wp-content/themes/tubliss/assets/img/product/tubliss/how-it-works/dual-air-chambers.jpg

However, I much prefer using inner tubes, so I am not going to switch to the TuBliss system. ;)

[SpudRider]

Three hours ago the Hanjin Germany was sailing northeast at 14.5 knots. The vessel was offshore the Kuril island of Urup.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/50/Demis-kurils-russian_names.png

Yesterday, a 4.6 magnitude earthquake occurred in this area.

http://www.emsc-csem.org/Earthquake/earthquake.php?id=429118

The Germany is sailing along the Kurile Trench of the Pacific Ring of Fire, and is heading next for the Aleutian Trench.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/52/Pacific_Ring_of_Fire.svg/942px-Pacific_Ring_of_Fire.svg.png

Here are some photographs of Urup, courtesy of Google Earth. :)

http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/1125202.jpg

http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/18454245.jpg

[SpudRider]

A few people have complained about the size and shape of the right side pannier. I think this pannier will make an excellent, large tool box. It can hold a spare inner tube and a nice, large tool kit. In addition, it's a good place to stash snacks and your rain gear. :D

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/25/b97e232ba908d86379da1fa1dc87dd70.jpg

[FTEY]

A few people have complained about the size and shape of the right side pannier. I think this pannier will make an excellent, large tool box. It can hold a spare inner tube and a nice, large tool kit. In addition, it's a good place to stash snacks and your rain gear. :D

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/25/b97e232ba908d86379da1fa1dc87dd70.jpg

Yup. Ma rain gear is sitting nicely in there.

[NoVa Rider]

Now that I can see the inside of the right pannier, its less going to be much than the 18.5 liters I guesstimated based on Joe's exterior measurements. And I see why Joe did not attempt to figure the interior volume of the stock luggage: too many bends and indentations.

I should wait until I get my RX-3 and see how I use it before making a luggage purchase. Still, presuming I will stick with the stock hard luggage, I am surfing options for a duffle to strap on the seat, and use for light camping trips.

Right now the medium Nelson Rigg Survivor tail bag looks possible. About 40 liters, waterproof, about $60 with shipping, and its available in an orange color that might/might go with the RX-3 orange/yellow color option.

[Xtyling]

I plan on keeping both side plastic side boxes. I will change the top box to the Givi Trekker 52L box (if compatible).

[katflap]

perhaps this gives an idea of space . Size 9 (US) boot I can get the other one in upside down and shut the lid.

With the pannier next to the exhaust it might keep your fish & chips warm on the way home :hehe:

http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k70/morco46/boot_zpsbaxkl4qu.jpg (http://s85.photobucket.com/user/morco46/media/boot_zpsbaxkl4qu.jpg.html)


Have been trying to get the torque settings together in one place but the different manuals quite often have different torques for the same thing.This is what I've got so far.

************************************************** ****************** RX3 INFO AND TORQUE SETTINGS 1a ************************************************** ***********************
************************************************** ****************** NO GUARANTEE OF ACCURACY, USE AT OWN RISK !! ************************************************** ***

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Some sources stated different torque values so an alternative torque is given
------------------------------katflap--------------------------------------------------

Headlight bulb HS1 35/35w

Tyres
------
Front 100/90-18 225 kpa (32.6 psi)
Rear 130/90-15 250 kpa (36.2 psi)

Chain slack 10mm - 25mm (alternative slack 15mm-25mm)

Coolant level The level of coolant is correct when it is at the bottom of the filler neck (alternative, 5mm below the top)


Engine ZS177MM-P

Idle 1500 ± 100 RPM

Valve clearance INLET – 0,05mm / EXHAUST – 0,08mm (alternative 0.04mm to 0.06mm inlet & exhaust)

Engine oil SJ 5W/40 (alternative 10w/40)

Spark plug CHAMPION RG6YC or NGK CR8E 0.6 - 0.7 mm Torque 11Nm (8.1 ftlbs)




Engine oil drain plug (M14) 25Nm (18.4 ftlbs) (alternative 15Nm , 11 ftlbs)
Main oil filter cover bolts (M5) 8 Nm (5.9 ftlbs) (alternative 10.8Nm 8 ftlbs / 12Nm , 8.8 ftlbs / 17.5Nm , 12.9 ftlbs)
Oil strainer plug left crankcase (M20) 13.5Nm (10 lbsft) (alternative 10nm , 7.3 ftlbs)
Oil strainer plug right crankcase (M20) 13.5Nm (10 lbsft) (alternative 10nm , 7.3 ftlbs)


sprocket cover bolts 16.2Nm (12 ftlbs)
sprocket bolt 48.6Nm (36 ftlbs) (alternative 55Nm , 40.5 ftlbs)

Ignition (generator) cover bolt (M6) 10Nm (7.4 ftlbs)
clutch cover bolts (M6) 10.8Nm (8 ftlbs)
water pump bolts 9.4Nm (7 ftlbs)
Inlet duct (manifold) (M6) 10Nm (7.4 ftlbs)
Exhaust nut (m8) 20.2Nm (15 ftlbs) (alternative 13Nm , 9.6 ftlbs)
Crankcase bolt (M6) 10Nm (7.4 ftlbs)
Gearshift pedal bolt (M6) 10Nm (7.4 ftlbs)

Cylinder head bolt 38Nm (28 ftlbs)
Cylinder head bolt (M6) 10Nm (7.4 ftlbs)
Cylinder bolt (M10) 50nm (36.9 ftlbs)
Rotor nut (M14) 80-90Nm (59-66.3 ftlbs)
Primary nut (M18) 110 Nm (81 ftlbs)
Clutch spring bolts (M5) 8Nm (5.9 ftlbs)
Balance shaft nut (M16) 80-90Nm (59-66.3 ftlbs)
Crankshaft nut (M24) 80-90Nm (59-66.3 ftlbs)

Locknut of main pipe (M24) 25~35Nm (18.4-25.8 ftlbs)
Fixed bolt of handlebar (M10) 50~60Nm (36.9-44.2 ftlbs)
handle bar clamp bolts (hex head M8) 28~32Nm (20.6-23.6 ftlbs)
Front axle nut (M14) 70~80Nm (51.6-59.0 ftlbs)
Front axle flange bolts (clamp) (M8) 18~25Nm (13.3-18.4 ftlbs)
Rear axle nut (M14) 70~80Nm (51.6-59.0 ftlbs)
Engine suspension bolt (M10) 45~55Nm (33.2-40.5 ftlbs)
Fixed nut of rear shock absorber (M10) 45~55Nm (33.2-40.5 ftlbs)
Locknut of chain wheel (M8) 28~32Nm (20.6-23.6 ftlbs)
Nut of rear rocker arm (M12) 50~60Nm (36.9-44.2 ftlbs)
fork shaft nut (M12) 55~65Nm (40.5-47.9 ftlbs)
fork shaft nut (M10) 45~55Nm (33.2-40.5 ftlbs)

Engine mount (top) 35Nm (26 ftlbs)
engine mount (middle) 40.5Nm (30 ftlbs)
engine mount (low ) 40.5Nm (30 ftlbs)



Pannier & top box frame and pannier boxes
M8×85
M8x80
M8x60
M8x40
M8x35
M8×20
M6×35
M6×20

18~25Nm (13.3-18.4 ftlbs)

Front protection bars

M8×50
M8×45
M8×16

18~25Nm (13.3-18.4 ftlbs)

[thillskier]

Nelson Rigg bag, Nova? Seems like a bargain for that size at $60.00, also:)! Thanks for sharing about it. I have been looking for one (and options for a tank bag as well). Have signed up for the CSC one, but am still looking, as I have never had one on any of my bikes in the past.

[Weldangrind]

With the pannier next to the exhaust it might keep your fish & chips warm on the way home :hehe:

So, fish and chips in the right pannier, your favourite pint in the left pannier. Got it.

:D

[Weldangrind]

I might be interested in pannier take-offs, in case someone out there chooses to upgrade to something else. I'll continue to use my JC Whitney trunk.

[SpudRider]

I plan on keeping both side plastic side boxes. I will change the top box to the Givi Trekker 52L box (if compatible).

I might be interested in pannier take-offs, in case someone out there chooses to upgrade to something else. I'll continue to use my JC Whitney trunk.

I'm also keeping my stock panniers, and installing a J.C. Whitney/Garage Pro trunk on the luggage rack. :) I think the stock panniers are great for short trips and running errands around town, especially when combined with a large travel trunk. ;) One can remove the panniers and employ large soft luggage for longer trips, or add smaller soft luggage to supplement the stock panniers. :tup:

[SpudRider]

...I should wait until I get my RX-3 and see how I use it before making a luggage purchase. Still, presuming I will stick with the stock hard luggage, I am surfing options for a duffle to strap on the seat, and use for light camping trips.

Right now the medium Nelson Rigg Survivor tail bag looks possible. About 40 liters, waterproof, about $60 with shipping, and its available in an orange color that might/might go with the RX-3 orange/yellow color option.

I agree with you on all points. :) It is always best to ride a bike for a while before you begin to modify/accessorize it. ;) The Nelson Rigg Survivor bags seem like a very nice way to supplement the stock luggage at a reasonable price. :tup:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fS0fYcF6JSQ

[SpudRider]

perhaps this gives an idea of space . Size 9 (US) boot I can get the other one in upside down and shut the lid.

With the pannier next to the exhaust it might keep your fish & chips warm on the way home :hehe:

http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k70/morco46/boot_zpsbaxkl4qu.jpg (http://s85.photobucket.com/user/morco46/media/boot_zpsbaxkl4qu.jpg.html)


Have been trying to get the torque settings together in one place but the different manuals quite often have different torques for the same thing.This is what I've got so far.

************************************************** ****************** RX3 INFO AND TORQUE SETTINGS 1a ************************************************** ***********************
************************************************** ****************** NO GUARANTEE OF ACCURACY, USE AT OWN RISK !! ************************************************** ***

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Some sources stated different torque values so an alternative torque is given
------------------------------katflap--------------------------------------------------

Headlight bulb HS1 35/35w

Tyres
------
Front 100/90-18 225 kpa (32.6 psi)
Rear 130/90-15 250 kpa (36.2 psi)

Chain slack 10mm - 25mm (alternative slack 15mm-25mm)

Coolant level The level of coolant is correct when it is at the bottom of the filler neck (alternative, 5mm below the top)


Engine ZS177MM-P

Idle 1500 ± 100 RPM

Valve clearance INLET – 0,05mm / EXHAUST – 0,08mm (alternative 0.04mm to 0.06mm inlet & exhaust)

Engine oil SJ 5W/40 (alternative 10w/40)

Spark plug CHAMPION RG6YC or NGK CR8E 0.6 - 0.7 mm Torque 11Nm (8.1 ftlbs)




Engine oil drain plug (M14) 25Nm (18.4 ftlbs) (alternative 15Nm , 11 ftlbs)
Main oil filter cover bolts (M5) 8 Nm (5.9 ftlbs) (alternative 10.8Nm 8 ftlbs / 12Nm , 8.8 ftlbs / 17.5Nm , 12.9 ftlbs)
Oil strainer plug left crankcase (M20) 13.5Nm (10 lbsft) (alternative 10nm , 7.3 ftlbs)
Oil strainer plug right crankcase (M20) 13.5Nm (10 lbsft) (alternative 10nm , 7.3 ftlbs)


sprocket cover bolts 16.2Nm (12 ftlbs)
sprocket bolt 48.6Nm (36 ftlbs) (alternative 55Nm , 40.5 ftlbs)

Ignition (generator) cover bolt (M6) 10Nm (7.4 ftlbs)
clutch cover bolts (M6) 10.8Nm (8 ftlbs)
water pump bolts 9.4Nm (7 ftlbs)
Inlet duct (manifold) (M6) 10Nm (7.4 ftlbs)
Exhaust nut (m8) 20.2Nm (15 ftlbs) (alternative 13Nm , 9.6 ftlbs)
Crankcase bolt (M6) 10Nm (7.4 ftlbs)
Gearshift pedal bolt (M6) 10Nm (7.4 ftlbs)

Cylinder head bolt 38Nm (28 ftlbs)
Cylinder head bolt (M6) 10Nm (7.4 ftlbs)
Cylinder bolt (M10) 50nm (36.9 ftlbs)
Rotor nut (M14) 80-90Nm (59-66.3 ftlbs)
Primary nut (M18) 110 Nm (81 ftlbs)
Clutch spring bolts (M5) 8Nm (5.9 ftlbs)
Balance shaft nut (M16) 80-90Nm (59-66.3 ftlbs)
Crankshaft nut (M24) 80-90Nm (59-66.3 ftlbs)

Locknut of main pipe (M24) 25~35Nm (18.4-25.8 ftlbs)
Fixed bolt of handlebar (M10) 50~60Nm (36.9-44.2 ftlbs)
handle bar clamp bolts (hex head M8) 28~32Nm (20.6-23.6 ftlbs)
Front axle nut (M14) 70~80Nm (51.6-59.0 ftlbs)
Front axle flange bolts (clamp) (M8) 18~25Nm (13.3-18.4 ftlbs)
Rear axle nut (M14) 70~80Nm (51.6-59.0 ftlbs)
Engine suspension bolt (M10) 45~55Nm (33.2-40.5 ftlbs)
Fixed nut of rear shock absorber (M10) 45~55Nm (33.2-40.5 ftlbs)
Locknut of chain wheel (M8) 28~32Nm (20.6-23.6 ftlbs)
Nut of rear rocker arm (M12) 50~60Nm (36.9-44.2 ftlbs)
fork shaft nut (M12) 55~65Nm (40.5-47.9 ftlbs)
fork shaft nut (M10) 45~55Nm (33.2-40.5 ftlbs)

Engine mount (top) 35Nm (26 ftlbs)
engine mount (middle) 40.5Nm (30 ftlbs)
engine mount (low ) 40.5Nm (30 ftlbs)



Pannier & top box frame and pannier boxes
M8×85
M8x80
M8x60
M8x40
M8x35
M8×20
M6×35
M6×20

18~25Nm (13.3-18.4 ftlbs)

Front protection bars

M8×50
M8×45
M8×16

18~25Nm (13.3-18.4 ftlbs)






As always, thanks for posting the superb photograph, Katflap. Also, thanks for sharing the torque information you have collected. :tup: I appreciate your excellent contributions to these forums. :)

Our CSC bikes will include an English translation of the official Chinglish service manual. :tup: CSC is finishing this 'translation' at this moment as we wait for the slow boat to arrive from China. ;) Needless to say, we will be happy to share torque specifications with you as needed. :)

[SpudRider]

As of one hour ago, the Hanjin Germany had sailed approximately halfway up the Kuril Island chain from Hokkaido to the Kamchatka Peninsula. The Germany was sailing north at 13.5 knots along the Kurile Trench. The last recorded position of the vessel was:

LAT: 45° 46' N LONG: 154° 06' E

Here are some photographs from the islands which are currently off the port side of the ship, courtesy of Google Earth.

http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/37343481.jpg

http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/97255419.jpg

http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/97255396.jpg

http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/97255445.jpg

[thillskier]

How would this attach? Its for a sissy bar. Would it mount on the top box somehow?

Thanks! (this was from Bike Bandit site).


Nelson Rigg SVT-750 All Weather Survivor

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Specifications and Options
Brand Nelson Rigg Design Black Luggage Capacity 20.98L

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$71.99
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[SpudRider]

Thillskier,

Check out the Nelson Rigg Survivor Dry Bags shown in post #2207 of this page. ;) They are less expensive than the bags you mentioned. ;) All of the Survivor series bags probably attach in the same manner, as shown in the video I posted. :)

[SpudRider]

You too can cross the Pacific Ocean as a passenger on a container ship. ;)

http://www.yearofnoflying.com/2009/10/crossing-the-pacific-by-container-ship.html

Check out the awesome slide show at the following link! :tup:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/barnali/sets/72157622494244768/show/

If you aren't in a hurry, I'm sure the slow ocean voyage would be much more enjoyable than flying. ;) The accommodations and food look pretty good also. :tup:

http://www.yearofnoflying.com/2009/10/01/Fancy%20digs%20onboard.JPG

http://www.yearofnoflying.com/2009/10/01/First%20lunch%20on%20board.JPG

http://www.yearofnoflying.com/2009/10/01/Approaching%20the%20Hanjin%20Madridd.JPG

http://www.yearofnoflying.com/2009/10/01/Cargo%20at%20sea.JPGhttp://www.yearofnoflying.com/2009/10/01/Cargo%20at%20sea.JPG

http://www.yearofnoflying.com/2009/10/01/Views%20from%20the%20porthole.jpg

[thillskier]

And a bit pricey as well. For some reason the dry bags didn't list up on the site, but I didn't type dry and will this time:). Again, Thx.

[Wolftrax]

Now that I can see the inside of the right pannier, its less going to be much than the 18.5 liters I guesstimated based on Joe's exterior measurements. And I see why Joe did not attempt to figure the interior volume of the stock luggage: too many bends and indentations.

I should wait until I get my RX-3 and see how I use it before making a luggage purchase. Still, presuming I will stick with the stock hard luggage, I am surfing options for a duffle to strap on the seat, and use for light camping trips.

Right now the medium Nelson Rigg Survivor tail bag looks possible. About 40 liters, waterproof, about $60 with shipping, and its available in an orange color that might/might go with the RX-3 orange/yellow color option.

It s a very good price but my experience with this product is you get what you pay for. After a month in the Kalahari desert on a F650GS the bags base was completly roached. The conditions were pretty exteme, gravel,sand and corrugated roads so others experience with this bag may be different. I find that the cordura bags with waterproof liners are the most durable, if they rip you can sew them on the trail, even with a leaky outer bag the goodies say dry and dustproof in the inner bag. I really like the looks of this one, granted its a bit on the small size but I'm going to run 60L capacity soft panniers.

http://wolfmanluggage.com/products/enduro-dry-duffel

[SpudRider]

It s a very good price but my experience with this product is you get what you pay for. After a month in the Kalahari desert on a F650GS the bags base was completly roached. The conditions were pretty exteme, gravel,sand and corrugated roads so others experience with this bag may be different. I find that the cordura bags with waterproof liners are the most durable, if they rip you can sew them on the trail, even with a leaky outer bag the goodies say dry and dustproof in the inner bag. I really like the looks of this one, granted its a bit on the small size but I'm going to run 60L capacity soft panniers.

http://wolfmanluggage.com/products/enduro-dry-duffel

Thanks for sharing the wealth of your experience. :)

[Wolftrax]

Shot of the NR Survivior tail bag on the C35 between Henties Bay and Uis, Namibia

[recracer]

https://www.facebook.com/groups/412630818887109/permalink/455909147892609/ facebook RX3 owners

[katflap]

So, fish and chips in the right pannier, your favourite pint in the left pannier. Got it.

That's spooky , how did you know ! :D:D





As always, thanks for posting the superb photograph, Katflap. Also, thanks for sharing the torque information you have collected. :tup: I appreciate your excellent contributions to these forums. :)

Our CSC bikes will include an English translation of the official Chinglish service manual. :tup: CSC is finishing this 'translation' at this moment as we wait for the slow boat to arrive from China. ;) Needless to say, we will be happy to share torque specifications with you as needed. :)

Always happy to provide a good "boot in a pannier photo" :D

I'm sure the CRC service manual will be good , thanks for the offer of sharing the odd specification when needed :thanks:
As its been close to constantly raining here for the past week or more I can confirm that the panniers are water tight :tup:

[Wolftrax]

Well with 12" of snow on the ground I guess I'm getting a little bored.:doh: Until the RX3 was announced coming to the US I toyed with idea of heading to Mexico and buying a Yamaha XT250Z. I have a cousin who lives in Cabo, no problem register the bike in his name and ride it south. I also saw the RX3 on the radar but was convinced this is one bike that will never seen the shores of the good ole USA.
http://www.advpulse.com/adv-bikes/10-adventure-motorcycles-you-cant-buy-in-the-usa/
Now that I'll be a proud owner of one of the "you can't buy in the usa" bikes I thought it would be fun to see how it stacks up against the other bike I "could only buy in Mexico"
The highlighted cells show what I consider an advantage for overlanding south of the border, it's a subjective opinion.

[G19Tony]

It s a very good price but my experience with this product is you get what you pay for. After a month in the Kalahari desert on a F650GS the bags base was completly roached. The conditions were pretty exteme, gravel,sand and corrugated roads so others experience with this bag may be different. I find that the cordura bags with waterproof liners are the most durable, if they rip you can sew them on the trail, even with a leaky outer bag the goodies say dry and dustproof in the inner bag. I really like the looks of this one, granted its a bit on the small size but I'm going to run 60L capacity soft panniers.

http://wolfmanluggage.com/products/enduro-dry-duffel

I'm a big fan of Wolfman. I have almost everything they make. The mini beta will be going on the pillion seat of my RX3. I have a couple different models of saddlebags. I'll try them both out too. :)

[SpudRider]

CSC posted a tutorial for fixing a flat tire by the trailside. I have added a link to this tutorial under the Maintenance subheading in the Zongshen RX3 Sticky thread. :)

http://www.chinariders.net/showthread.php?t=14228

http://californiascooterco.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/ServMan24Feb_0063-650.jpg

I hope CSC got some measurements from the rear sprocket while they had the wheel removed. ;)

http://www.jtsprockets.com/fileadmin/code/images/large/jtr811.jpg

[Wolftrax]

I'm a big fan of Wolfman. I have almost everything they make. The mini beta will be going on the pillion seat of my RX3. I have a couple different models of saddlebags. I'll try them both out too. :)

Wolfman is pretty tough to beat, durable, functional, and made in the USA.:tup:

[SpudRider]

...Now that I'll be a proud owner of one of the "you can't buy in the usa" bikes I thought it would be fun to see how it stacks up against the other bike I "could only buy in Mexico"
The highlighted cells show what I consider an advantage for overlanding south of the border, it's a subjective opinion.

Thanks for posting the side-by-side comparison of features, Mark. :) I agree with all of your subjective opinions. ;)

[SpudRider]

I'm a big fan of Wolfman. I have almost everything they make. The mini beta will be going on the pillion seat of my RX3. I have a couple different models of saddlebags. I'll try them both out too. :)

Wolfman is pretty tough to beat, durable, functional, and made in the USA.:tup:

I have heard nothing but good things about the Wolfman products. ;)

[Wolftrax]

Just got my shipping quote from CSC, approx $300.00 to Georgia. My break even on a fly and ride was $476. Looks like I'm going to have a shipping crate as well as a new bike in my front yard:D

[NoVa Rider]

I'm a big fan of Wolfman. I have almost everything they make. The mini beta will be going on the pillion seat of my RX3. I have a couple different models of saddlebags. I'll try them both out too. :)

I was also looking at the Wolfman Beta. Not sure whether the mini or the regular would fit best. Once you get your RX3, I'd like to hear how your mini fits.

[Weldangrind]

Looks like I'm going to have a shipping crate as well as a new bike in my front yard:D

I've built lots of stuff using motorcycle crate steel, including a trailer. Time for a welder. :D

[SpudRider]

Just got my shipping quote from CSC, approx $300.00 to Georgia. My break even on a fly and ride was $476. Looks like I'm going to have a shipping crate as well as a new bike in my front yard:D

Mark,

Did you request the shipping quote, or was it sent to you unsolicited? Are you getting tailgate residential delivery?

P.S. I have only received a 'quesstimate' shipping quote.

[Wolftrax]

Mark,

Did you request the shipping quote, or was it sent to you unsolicited? Are you getting tailgate residential delivery?

P.S. I have only received a 'quesstimate' shipping quote.

I got an email from Sara at CSC requesting my driver lic. # and delivery address. I live way back in the sticks, so I normally go to the carrers terminal
to pick up my frieght. I was planning on a fly and ride and asked Sara for a shipping quote and she fired right back with $300.

[SpudRider]

I got an email from Sara at CSC requesting my driver lic. # and delivery address. I live way back in the sticks, so I normally go to the carrers terminal
to pick up my frieght. I was planning on a fly and ride and asked Sara for a shipping quote and she fired right back with $300.

I have several freight terminals in my town. I also got an email from Sara asking for my delivery address, but I stipulated a residential delivery. I could probably get a much lower shipping 'guesstimate' if I said I would pick up the bike at one of the local freight terminals. ;)

When you pick up your freight, do they load the crate into your pickup/trailer with a forklift for you?

[culcune]

Are there any of you picking up your bike in L.A.? I will be there on March 27, 28, and 29 attending Monsterpalooza. I have actually contemplated riding my TMEC to L.A. from Yuma, but then thought rental car might be best. Would like to meet up with anyone and can show you around, or tell you where to go. Let me know!

[SpudRider]

About 2 hours ago the Hanjin Germany had sailed about three-quarters of the way up the Kuril Island chain stretching from Hokkaido to the Kamchatka Peninsula. Still sailing along the Kurile Trench, the island of Shiashkotan was off the port side of the vessel. The last recorded position of the ship was:

48° 07' N LONG: 155° 37' E

Here are some photographs of the island and its wildlife.

http://static.panoramio.com/photos/large/98738729.jpg

http://photos.wikimapia.org/p/00/01/84/70/59_big.jpg

http://static.panoramio.com/photos/large/98738198.jpg

http://static.panoramio.com/photos/large/98989626.jpg

[SpudRider]

About one hour ago the Hanjin Germany sailed abreast of Onekotan Island, home of Krenitsyn Volcano, which resembles the volcanic caldera of Crater Lake National Park in Oregon.

http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/815295.jpg

http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/815290.jpg

http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/815305.jpg

http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/57637680.jpg

http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/815460.jpg

The vessel was sailing northeast toward the Kamchatka Peninsula at 13.1 knots from its last reported position:

LAT: 48° 51' N LONG: 156° 08' E

Here is a video taken by several Russians who climbed the summit of Krenitsyn Volcano.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22QPovN4jGQ

[Wolftrax]

I have several freight terminals in my town. I also got an email from Sara asking for my delivery address, but I stipulated a residential delivery. I could probably get a much lower shipping 'guesstimate' if I said I would pick up the bike at one of the local freight terminals. ;)

When you pick up your freight, do they load the crate into your pickup/trailer with a forklift for you?
It depends on the dock attendent, some dont have a problem helping you get it in the trailer and others just drop it on the dock and it's a struggle to get it on the trailer.

[jimjr21]

Found handlebar mittens on sale. Already ordered a set for myself.

http://tools.woot.com/offers/quadgear-black-atv-mitts-2?utm_source=woot&utm_medium=share&utm_campaign=wootapp

[jimjr21]

Sounds like Sara is getting good rates for shipping. Quite through my freight company is $241 to MO.
I have my own forklift and commercial address to ship to.

I can quote anyone wanting a second estimate. Just PM me.

[Huck369]

I'm having mine, and a buddys shipped together to my work place, which has forklifts, and is set up to offload trucks, to get the shipping costs per unit down....but haven't gotten a quote yet.

[thillskier]

Yes, Spud. The terminals will only load your trailer or pickup truck with a forklift from the warehouse, usually, but occasionally a ship crate.
You need to call them and make an appointment to pick it up.
Piece of cake.
I used a trailer (lower and easier to unload) until I got forks for my Backhoe.

[thillskier]

If you simply park at an open space at the dock, backed up ready to be loaded, they have always loaded me. That way they can go another couple feet and drop it then, rather than wait on you to get back from office (sometimes). By the way, your freight cost INCLUDES them loading your truck. I found its easier to simply back up to the bay so its obvious what they need to do.. If they for some reason are an asshole, and still dropped it on the dock, I'd be an equal asshole, walk back into office and request to have what I paid for done, loaded into my truck:).
I've never had to do this though, as only once I had any issue with a forklift driver. He didn't want to wait on me, I realized (jeez, the coffe break room was calling him or something:)! hehe After that time, I did the park before going in thing.

[Wolftrax]

If you simply park at an open space at the dock, backed up ready to be loaded, they have always loaded me. That way they can go another couple feet and drop it then, rather than wait on you to get back from office (sometimes). By the way, your freight cost INCLUDES them loading your truck. I found its easier to simply back up to the bay so its obvious what they need to do.. If they for some reason are an asshole, and still dropped it on the dock, I'd be an equal asshole, walk back into office and request to have what I paid for done, loaded into my truck:).
I've never had to do this though, as only once I had any issue with a forklift driver. He didn't want to wait on me, I realized (jeez, the coffe break room was calling him or something:)! hehe After that time, I did the park before going in thing.
The issue is my trailer doesn't come anywhere close to dock height, they have to come out of the building to load my trailer. Like I said most of them do it no problem some of them, not so much. If the product is loaded loose and not on a pallet, forget it. Teamsters!

[Veteran]

Maybe this has been addressed earlier but if it has, I cannot locate it; what will the seat height be with the 17 inch rear tire? I suspect the standard published specifications reflect the seat height of the bike with the standard 15 inch tire. One of the big selling points and appeal of this bike for me, (actually for my wife who currently rides a TW200), was the relatively low seat height.) Now it appears that must have changed. I don't want to get embroiled in the "one foot down/two feet down" controversy. I have the same inseam as her (30 inches), but I can ride anything because I've been riding for more than 40 years. She's only been riding for 3 and I don't want her to have a bad experience that'll put her off ever getting on a bike again because of seat height on a relatively heavy bike. I may still buy two so we have the same bikes, hoping there'll never be a problem but.....lower would be better for her. On the other hand, it is an excuse to sell the 3 TW's, 3 honda XL500's, a Suzuki 185 and various smaller Yamaha's cluttering up my shop. I'll keep my BMW F for my longer trips though.

[SpudRider]

It depends on the dock attendent, some dont have a problem helping you get it in the trailer and others just drop it on the dock and it's a struggle to get it on the trailer.

Thanks for the information, Mark. :)

P.S. Congratulations on getting such a sweet deal on cross-country shipping. :tup:

[SpudRider]

Maybe this has been addressed earlier but if it has, I cannot locate it; what will the seat height be with the 17 inch rear tire? I suspect the standard published specifications reflect the seat height of the bike with the standard 15 inch tire. One of the big selling points and appeal of this bike for me, (actually for my wife who currently rides a TW200), was the relatively low seat height.) Now it appears that must have changed. I don't want to get embroiled in the "one foot down/two feet down" controversy. I have the same inseam as her (30 inches), but I can ride anything because I've been riding for more than 40 years. She's only been riding for 3 and I don't want her to have a bad experience that'll put her off ever getting on a bike again because of seat height on a relatively heavy bike. I may still buy two so we have the same bikes, hoping there'll never be a problem but.....lower would be better for her. On the other hand, it is an excuse to sell the 3 TW's, 3 honda XL500's, a Suzuki 185 and various smaller Yamaha's cluttering up my shop. I'll keep my BMW F for my longer trips though.

Welcome; we are glad you joined us. :hi:

If he doesn't reply on this forum, call Joe Berk at CSC Motorcycles. I believe he has a 17-inch rear tire mounted on his blue RX3. He can measure the saddle height for you. Also, he has stated the 17-inch tire supplied with the bikes will actually be smaller than the stock 15-inch tire.

[SpudRider]

Found handlebar mittens on sale. Already ordered a set for myself.

http://tools.woot.com/offers/quadgear-black-atv-mitts-2?utm_source=woot&utm_medium=share&utm_campaign=wootapp

That's a good deal. :)

[thillskier]

Backing a trailer up is not going to help, as the forklifts don't go below deck level, of course.

I asked for a quote as well, (just in case) and mine was a good deal more even to a business with a lift, and closer to Cali. Maybe I should pick it up and see if its cheaper.

Amen re loose and getting help. The bikes (and 4 wheelers) I had shipped that were loose we all small and light, even crated.
That crate steel has been handy,and I still have a decent supply of it still. I had to get some very small rods and needed (well I do anyway) a dc welder. hehe Splurged on a gas powered DC that also is a A/C generator I'd wanted for a while...

Works great, and they supported it when some parts were damaged in shipping (the mount for the welding power rotary knob).
Great deal at $550.00 then, even less now:)!
Its DC also.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Powerland-PDW100-Stick-Arc-100-AMP-Welder-600-W-Gas-Generator-6-5HP-/121526671863?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1c4b8dd9f7

[SpudRider]

One hour ago the Hanjin Germany reached the second closest island to the Kamchatka Peninsula, and left it astern. :)

http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/10694256.jpg

The vessel is now sailing east at 12.4 knots, heading for the International Date Line and the Aleutian Islands of Alaska. The last recorded position for the ship was:

LAT: 50° 05' N LONG: 157° 18' E

[jezzrite]

If he doesn't reply on this forum, call Joe Berk at CSC Motorcycles. I believe he has a 17-inch rear tire mounted on his blue RX3. He can measure the saddle height for you. Also, he has stated the 17-inch tire supplied with the bikes will actually be smaller than the stock 15-inch tire.


Veteran,

The stock tire is 130/90-15, which means the total diameter for the tyre plus wheel is 15 + [(0.9x130x2)/25.4)] = 24.21 inches.

If the CSC-supplied tyre is 130/70-17, the total diameter will be
17 + [(0.7x130x2)/25.4)] = 24.16 inches.

If we ignore the thread thickness, then yes, like Joe said, the stock 17-inch is a little bit smaller.

However, please don't take my idea/calculations at face point. :hmm:

It is just a very rough estimate of the wheel+tyre combined diameters, and by no means the actual height measured.

Still need Joe for that :)

[Weldangrind]

Found handlebar mittens on sale. Already ordered a set for myself.

http://tools.woot.com/offers/quadgear-black-atv-mitts-2?utm_source=woot&utm_medium=share&utm_campaign=wootapp

Not a bad deal.

[Weldangrind]

Maybe this has been addressed earlier but if it has, I cannot locate it; what will the seat height be with the 17 inch rear tire? I suspect the standard published specifications reflect the seat height of the bike with the standard 15 inch tire. One of the big selling points and appeal of this bike for me, (actually for my wife who currently rides a TW200), was the relatively low seat height.) Now it appears that must have changed. I don't want to get embroiled in the "one foot down/two feet down" controversy. I have the same inseam as her (30 inches), but I can ride anything because I've been riding for more than 40 years. She's only been riding for 3 and I don't want her to have a bad experience that'll put her off ever getting on a bike again because of seat height on a relatively heavy bike. I may still buy two so we have the same bikes, hoping there'll never be a problem but.....lower would be better for her. On the other hand, it is an excuse to sell the 3 TW's, 3 honda XL500's, a Suzuki 185 and various smaller Yamaha's cluttering up my shop. I'll keep my BMW F for my longer trips though.

Spud has already responded to your question, so I'll just say welcome. :hi:

[3banger]

We need to run the same Calc on the 18" vs 19" front. This will allow us to correct the geometry back by lowering the triple clamps the right amount.

This actually illustrates one of the few benifits the 15" wheel would have had. It had very tall side walls which would have offered lots of pinch flat protection when running lower tire pressures off road. That being said I prefer the 17".

On of my plans with the little nook in the right side case is to install a small air compressor to make it easy to adjust tire pressures while traveling.