Sorting the bike... and it's a beautiful thing

[rtking]

As a student pilot, one thing my instructor has drilled into me is that in aviation, YOU (as the pilot) are responsible for checking everything on the aircraft to make sure it is airworthy before each and every flight. This is called a "Pre-Flight" inspection. I think of it as checking and eliminating reasons for the airplane to kill me.

Funny thing is that aviation and motorcycling have a lot in common.

I'm loving my RX-3 Cyclone. Really. A lot. But I had a few things that I needed to sort... a minor steering head wobble above 75 mph, occasional false neutral between 3rd and 4th gear, a hard time finding neutral, and bottoming the rear suspension. (yes, I'm a big guy... and the donut on Friday sure didn't help.)

But it occurred to me (late) that it is MY responsibility as the owner/rider (every bit as much as being a pilot) that I am responsible for the readiness of the bike for a ride. Just like an airplane, it may have been assembled somewhere else, but I am ultimately responsible for making sure the airplane is airworthy, and the bike is ride-worthy. Basically, a "Pre-Ride" inspection.

So with the helpful posts on this forum, I went through the various checks. I checked nuts and bolts, adjusted the tire pressures, adjusted the preload on the rear suspension (7 turns tighter turned out to be the ticket for me), adjusted the dampening rate on the rear shock, adjusted the clutch cable, and I tightened the shift lever (slightly loose.)

The sum result is that the minor steering head wobble is gone, no false neutrals between gears, and neutral is a lot easier to find. The bike rides great, suspension working and is comfortable (no bottoming), the transmission snicks into gear, and despite being a big guy with ATGATT, the bike will readily get to 80 mph (GPS speed). I backed off after it climbed to 84 mph. Dang... all of my issues were MY fault for not having performed my checks and making the proper adjustments for my weight.

After reading Joe Berk's book, 5000 Miles at 8000 RPM (which I finished in one sitting... it was that good), I read that Joe checked the tires and chains on every bike on that trip, every day. A daily Pre-Ride inspection. What great diligence. Joe would make a great aviator.

I really enjoyed the bike before, but after the shake-down run this AM, I can say that I am REALLY loving this bike, and it's worth every penny.

Sorry for the long post!

[SpudRider]

Good work! You are swiftly becoming an experienced China Rider. :tup: As you continue to work on your bike you will become increasingly familiar with it, and will be able to diagnose potential problems from sound, et cetera. It is very important to be able to diagnose, and fix problems with your bike while traveling on a long trip. ;)

[GSC]

I finally received my bike on Wednesday. Riden about 140 miles, 30 were forest service roads. Very impressed with the RX-3 , still running it in a bit before I run her full throttle. Ordered w upgrade seat and 13T sprocket so can't really compare. Seems adequate. Very solid feel to the bike.
Most interesting is response by others. Most don't notice or care to look at nice features of the Zong. I call 'em 'Brand Snobs'. Those bike knowlegable can easily see the advanced features of this good value bike and are quick to say so.
Question: What are the two, 2 wire empty connectors on the left side hanging under the seat to be used for?
Thank you for your informed opinion RTKing.

[rtking]

Hi GSC, congrats on your bike! I agree, people need to get past their perceptions and see the bike for what it is, which is a genuinely quality product.

The two connectors under seat are your accessory 12v connectors. On the right handlebar, there's a switch for a Accessory 1 (A1) or Accessory 2 (A2). That switch powers those accessory connectors.

Cheers!

[GSC]

Oh I see. Do you happen to also know the two connectors tucked in behind the speedo are for? thank you.

[rtking]

Oh I see. Do you happen to also know the two connectors tucked in behind the speedo are for? thank you.

I believe those two connectors are for the optional 5w USB / 12v cigarette lighter that fit on either side wings of the instrument panel.

[SpudRider]

...Question: What are the two, 2 wire empty connectors on the left side hanging under the seat to be used for?
Thank you for your informed opinion RTKing.

Oh I see. Do you happen to also know the two connectors tucked in behind the speedo are for? thank you.

RT is correct on both counts. :) All of the accessory outlets are keyed to the ignition switch.

[Jay In Milpitas]

As a student pilot, one thing my instructor has drilled into me is that in aviation, YOU (as the pilot) are responsible for checking everything on the aircraft to make sure it is airworthy before each and every flight. This is called a "Pre-Flight" inspection. I think of it as checking and eliminating reasons for the airplane to kill me.

Funny thing is that aviation and motorcycling have a lot in common.

I'm loving my RX-3 Cyclone. Really. A lot. But I had a few things that I needed to sort... a minor steering head wobble above 75 mph, occasional false neutral between 3rd and 4th gear, a hard time finding neutral, and bottoming the rear suspension. (yes, I'm a big guy... and the donut on Friday sure didn't help.)


So with the helpful posts on this forum, I went through the various checks. I checked nuts and bolts, adjusted the tire pressures, adjusted the preload on the rear suspension (7 turns tighter turned out to be the ticket for me), adjusted the dampening rate on the rear shock, adjusted the clutch cable, and I tightened the shift lever (slightly loose.)


I really enjoyed the bike before, but after the shake-down run this AM, I can say that I am REALLY loving this bike, and it's worth every penny.

Sorry for the long post!

An astute comparison, RTKing.

A 4 wheel vehicle on the pavement with many neglected items will still get you around. Two wheelers not so much. Like an aircraft, neglecting small but IMPORTANT things like tire pressure can get you injured or sort of dead forever. Sound harsh, but it's true.

Glad that you learned (and shared) what problems you were having and what fixed them! I can tell that you now know what a great little thrifty bike these are.

Setting the suspension for both rider (load) and conditions can make a world of difference, as you've learned. It's important for a rider to understand that what works for one person may not be right for them. I'm 6' tall but only 150 lbs fully suited, for example.

Preflight/ride should include:
1. (Key off) Tire pressure, chain slack, lever feel (clutch & brakes) THEN fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid, fuel).
2. (Key on) Listen for fuel pump, dash lights, all other lights and especially brake light working from both front and rear levers, horn.
3. Engine started, listen for any unusual sounds from the engine as well as the bike in general. Rev the throttle a couple times to listen for any new buzz or rattle.
4. Helmet on now, because a good helmet (and other hearing protection) can muffle those sounds in #3.

Okay, grandpa lecture concluded.:grr: I just want each & every one of my friends that I have never met to finish each ride intact, or at least if you get hurt it's because you had too much fun, not a faulty machine.

Love & stuff, Grandpa,,,,,, er,,,,,, Jay.

[rtking]

Preflight/ride should include:
1. (Key off) Tire pressure, chain slack, lever feel (clutch & brakes) THEN fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid, fuel).
2. (Key on) Listen for fuel pump, dash lights, all other lights and especially brake light working from both front and rear levers, horn.
3. Engine started, listen for any unusual sounds from the engine as well as the bike in general. Rev the throttle a couple times to listen for any new buzz or rattle.
4. Helmet on now, because a good helmet (and other hearing protection) can muffle those sounds in #3.

I just want each & every one of my friends that I have never met to finish each ride intact, or at least if you get hurt it's because you had too much fun, not a faulty machine.

This is outstanding, Jay! Wholeheartedly agree. Thank you for this Pre-Ride Checklist. :clap::thanks:

Cheers!

Bob

[ElectricCircus]

Preflight/ride should include... :thanks:

Very useful list.

Thank you Jay!

[Weldangrind]

... all of my issues were MY fault for not having performed my checks and making the proper adjustments for my weight.

You've got a good attitude! :tup:

I'm glad to hear that your bike is working well for you. Never apologize for such a well thought out post.

[SpudRider]

X2. :)

[Lee R]

I'm a pilot by trade and walk around my bike prior to use as well. Another habit I picked up is using Torque Seal to witness mark fasteners for quick inspection.

https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSAKWJS7Cgl0zN4vqA5pOa21Du0fvEy5 geTK1UrGTz6E-LD83b_yA

[Jay In Milpitas]

I'm a pilot by trade and walk around my bike prior to use as well. Another habit I picked up is using Torque Seal to witness mark fasteners for quick inspection.

https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSAKWJS7Cgl0zN4vqA5pOa21Du0fvEy5 geTK1UrGTz6E-LD83b_yA

Excellent tip, Lee! Even comes in colors to match our RX=3's!
http://www.chiefaircraft.com/catalogsearch/advanced/result/?brand=Torque Seal

[GSC]

Many of the fastners are marked such on my new arrival. Its confidence inspiring to see factory bothered.

[Riceburner]

Great idea on the "pre-flight" check over :), I do the same and having been a Helicopter (Cobra) mechanic in the Army a few hundred years ago, I also have marked many of the bolts with paint, always want to know if that "Jesus Nut" comes loose :hmm:.

[Jay In Milpitas]

Great idea on the "pre-flight" check over :), I do the same and having been a Helicopter (Cobra) mechanic in the Army a few hundred years ago, I also have marked many of the bolts with paint, always want to know if that "Jesus Nut" comes loose :hmm:.

Jesus nut? The one that holds the stick & pushes the rudders?

[Jay In Milpitas]

Latest ride report, RT?

[rtking]

Jesus nut? The one that holds the stick & pushes the rudders?

LOL! That may be how my CFI (certified flight instructor) refers to me. :-P

Been a little busy with work and the family, so no real rides to speak of. But it looks like Joe's got something cooking on Saturday to ride up in the San Gabriel mountains. (See the CSC blog.) Wish I could make it... but have to take the car to have 4 tires replaced before (if?) El Nino whips up into a frenzy. Maybe I'll get up to Santiago Canyon on Sunday AM, and if I do, I'll write about it here.

[Riceburner]

Now that I'm getting to put a few miles on the bike::tup:

I've had mine taken a prat, removed all the plastic, the carb, changed the tires and rear wheel, installed headlight modulator, relay's, re-shaped and covered the seat, installed bar risers, removed all the crash bars for re-paint so I've been "into" the bike and I can say it's well built, even over built in some ways.

That rear passenger grab rail/top box holder... Man if you ever want to shed some weight that's the item. The Tourfella racks would drop weight for sure; that grab rail thingy must weigh 67 pounds (I swear, maybe 67.5), it would make a great Bruce Anchor for any boat up to 23 foot. :lol:

The wire harness seems sufficient, better than that old KLR I once had. And there is plenty of wire under the tank to allow for a one inch bar riser as I did, no strain.:tup:

Somethings could be better, at least for me. The OEM bags leak, could be better but as a standard item they are ok better than none for me. I will probably change them next year.

Now that I got the carb and performance issue taken care of I can say it's a very good bike for the money, I'd be willing to bet that this actually starts a new class of adventure bikes. With the spreading of the RX3 around the world as it appears to be doing, I'd think other manufactures might go this way, there is a real market for this, not everyone wants, needs or can afford a 1250GS or Tiger or the other BIG bikes.

[Jay In Milpitas]

LOL! That may be how my CFI (certified flight instructor) refers to me. :-P

Been a little busy with work and the family, so no real rides to speak of. But it looks like Joe's got something cooking on Saturday to ride up in the San Gabriel mountains. (See the CSC blog.) Wish I could make it... but have to take the car to have 4 tires replaced before (if?) El Nino whips up into a frenzy. Maybe I'll get up to Santiago Canyon on Sunday AM, and if I do, I'll write about it here.

Ah, so you live near the Mother Ship,,,,,,, er,,,,,,, CSC Central.

[Jay In Milpitas]

Now that I'm getting to put a few miles on the bike::tup:

That rear passenger grab rail/top box holder... Man if you ever want to shed some weight that's the item. The Tourfella racks would drop weight for sure; that grab rail thingy must weigh 67 pounds (I swear, maybe 67.5), it would make a great Bruce Anchor for any boat up to 23 foot. :lol:


Somethings could be better, at least for me. The OEM bags leak, could be better but as a standard item they are ok better than none for me. I will probably change them next year.


Between You and Spud, I'm impressed with how much customization has been done on what the uninformed would call a *throw away bike*.:tup:

Yes, that grab rail is a lot of metal. Been idly pondering what I might bodge up as an alternative to that. Perhaps remove the rear seat and start a luggage rack further forward, also removing the passenger foot pegs. After all, it's best to keep luggage as low as practical and as far forward as possible.

[Riceburner]

Between You and Spud, I'm impressed with how much customization has been done on what the uninformed would call a *throw away bike*.:tup:

Yes, that grab rail is a lot of metal. Been idly pondering what I might bodge up as an alternative to that. Perhaps remove the rear seat and start a luggage rack further forward, also removing the passenger foot pegs. After all, it's best to keep luggage as low as practical and as far forward as possible.

Jay In Milpitas, funny, I've been thinking of doing something with that pass seat to. I don't ride two up often, maybe five times all year on the YBR. Unfortunately due to a neck injury and constant pain, my wonderful wife can not ride with me much, a helmet is too much weight after a few miles and then this RX3 is way too high for her to get on. So I have been thinking of making the seat more of an additional storage box, great place to keep the tool roll, spare tube, Duct Tape and other paraphernalia.

And those rear foot pegs are HEAVY too, another "over build". :D

[rtking]

Woke up early this AM to do a ride and ended up putting about 50 miles on the bike. Some observations:

1. The bike is really happy all the way up to terminal speed (on today's ride, about 81 mph.) There is some buzziness after 75 mph, but the bike didn't seem to mind cruising with the throttle nearly pinned.
2. I purposely rode the bike over the 73 Toll Road because the hills are about as steep as I'll encounter just about anywhere where I'd ride. (Other steep highways are the 101 in Castaic, and I-15 going over Gorman Pass on the way to Vegas.) With my weight (250 pounds) and no panniers (just top case), I had to drop to 5th gear, but still maintained 62 mph (GPS speed) over the steepest hill on the 73 toll road.
3. I really like the bike's handlng. I only have mild twisties on Laguna Canyon Road, but will try Ortega Highway or Santiago Canyon next time. The bike leans into turns with ease, and the wider handle bars makes maintaining a line (through the turn) easy.
4. The front brakes, as others have noted, are OK. I don't think they're bad, but they just don't give an immediate bite on the rotor. The rear brakes feel great and subconsciously, I was using them a bit more as they were a bit more effective. I understand that CSC is working to bring us sintered metal brake pads and, when those become available, I'll give them a try. I think that's all that's needed to give the bike a bit of an edge in the braking department.
5. Fall is here in Southern Calfornia. It was cool this morning, and I wish I had worn the inner liner to my mesh jacket. But for the next few months, I am seriously thinking that heated grips (that CSC just released) would be a great thing to add. That and the hand guards would make me a (mostly) happy camper. Depending on how cool it gets, a heated vest would be nice too.

Other things I noticed, but not necessarily RX-3 Cyclone related?

1. When I had my previous motorcycles (years back), I learned that Harley riders don't give the motorcyclists' wave. This is still true today.
2. People sure seem to be in a hurry lately. I had a guy in a pickup truck go full-throttle just to get in front of me, only to slam on the brakes and slow to 20 mph. Not sure what that was about, but a little lane splitting up to the traffic light and onto the freeway onramp, and he was behind me.
3. I must be a magnet for really peeved-off Prius and Lexus drivers. In just about any vehicle I have, I always find Prius' flying by at very un-eco speeds. Seems they picked the wrong car for their purposes. And Lexus drivers... just seem so oblivious around me as they cut me off without a second glance and refuse to make eye contact. That's OK, I'm a magnet for mosquitos too... and have learned there's not much I can do about them other than to not put myself in proximity to mosquitoes. Same goes for Prius and Lexus drivers... as much as I can.
4. Just for safety's sake, I'm thinking of replacing the RX-3 Cyclone's horn with a pair of Hella Supertone horns (wired via relay.) I think a dual-tone horn gets cagers' attention more readily. Heck, it's not just the RX-3... I need to add those to my Jetta as well.

Anyway - enough babble about me, more about the bike. I'm still impressed by the RX-3 Cyclone. It's not meant to be a super-slabber motorcycle for triple digit speeds, but it does 75-80 mph, and it'll do it all day long. (Besides, faster than that on just about any highway gets you lots of attention from the constabulary.) And as an adventure bike, knowing it can handle pavement, fire roads, and any speed between 5-80 mph makes it a really versatile machine for my needs. I would not hesitate to take the bike on a long ride up to Mammoth Lakes, and out to Bodie. In fact, that's something I am thinking about for late Spring 2016... a ride out to the Eastern Sierra, and out to Bodie and into Nevada on the dirt trails.

Hope everyone has a great weekend on their RX-3s!

[SpudRider]

Thanks for posting your first impressions of the RX3. :tup: If you don't mind, please post this information in the RX3 Megathread, as well. ;)

http://www.chinariders.net/showthread.php?t=13440&page=285

[Weldangrind]

4. Just for safety's sake, I'm thinking of replacing the RX-3 Cyclone's horn with a pair of Hella Supertone horns (wired via relay.) I think a dual-tone horn gets cagers' attention more readily. Heck, it's not just the RX-3... I need to add those to my Jetta as well.

These are awesome:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bqgM8Z5RI38

[detours]

Yes, thanks for the nice, detailed review!

A suggestion on the front brakes. Go to an empty parking lot and do enough emergency stops to heat up the brakes. Then do some mild braking and let them cool down. Repeat two or three more times. The hard stops really help to bed in the brakes and improve braking power.

But I'll still be ordering the sintered brakes as soon as they're available.

[AZRider]

I lived in OC for 27 years before moving to Peoria, AZ and dread facing any of the drivers, be they Prius or Lexus, on my return trips. Although a louder horn would be of some benefit, I would prefer 360` mirrors. Good luck and stay safe.