Great how-to and explanation. I must say, I do have a soft spot for the Aprilia. from the alloys to the welds to the engineering - even to the gear selector. It screams quality to me. Lovely bike...
Great video as always. Got Pilot 4s on my Aprilia Mana and always wondered about the backwards tread pattern. I also discovered from one of your previous videos that my front axle bolts had been tightened in the wrong order by an Aprilia dealer, with the forks pulled in as you described. Never too old to learn. I'm passing on the knowledge to my son now as his YZF R125 needs a service this weekend.
Another enjoyable vid. I've used muck-off on my brake bobbins before now. Appears to be as effective as brake cleaner for that particular job. Had a new pair of Pilot 4's on my blade 2 months ago. Peeing down with rain on the way home, scared the s**t out of me. When I checked the pressures, the front tyre was inflated to 44 psi and the rear 38. They are supposed to be 36 and 42. I was not a happy bunny. On the plus side; the tyres are fantastic.
Cracking stuff. I enjoyed that I did...embarrassingly enough, even after 30 odd years of biking, there were a few chestnuts there I didn't even know. I'll just go a soak my head for an hour or so. ;o) Nice one, thanks for that.
Last time I fitted new tyres to my old Mille I refitted the wheels and took it out to scrub them in. I drove about 200 feet to the t-junction at the end of my road and realised I'd ran over a lovely streak of hydraulic while queuing. I was certain if I were careful enough I could scrub it off. I was, of course, wrong and down I went immediately. I loved that bike and never wanted to sell it but some of them just seem to have a hex on them...
So right about getting the torque values rightl. My CBThou has a single sided swinger and if the axle bearing pinch bolt is done up too tight after adjusting the chain you can crush the bearings so I went out and bought a torque wrench to make sure I got this bang on each time - 54ftlbs, 74Nm in case anyone is interested.
Great vid Dell, as always!! Thanks pal, would love see a video on you scrubbing in your tyres, it would provide some reassurance to us novices on how it's done properly, plus we'd get to see what it's like having a blast on the beast!!
+SuperPramFace187 Thanks mate, but im no hero rider, and these days all you need to do is ride them steady for the first 50 miles, then build up the confidence as you go along...modern tyres grip pretty much from brand new.. maybe ill get a chance to get out with the camera next week...got a ride video ready for Sunday, but not on the Aprilia...
Great Job as always. I'm in the middle of a front fork job on my ape at the mo, which is proving to be a hassle (might even do a video when it's ready to get put back together), but the tips for sticking the front wheel back on in this video will prove useful so thanks!
+Moonfleet41 I might just take you up on that. My preload tubes were missing gaskets (at least it appears they are based on the image in the workshop manual), so I ordered new ones from a reputable dealer here in the US. When they arrived they were very different. Longer and with a different plastic piece on the end that was sans gasket but wider than the original while still fitting inside the fork. Now I'm trying to figure out if this is a change made to the showa forks in later years and if I can use said parts. The US dealer have claimed that if the part is wrong it's because that's what aprilia has sent them and I'm inclined to believe em.
Copper slip is the finest invention. I use it on my work mowers and strimmers and they get more crud than a bike ever will and still undo for maintenance.
Had almost exactly the same debate with my local tyre fitter over the front Pilot Road 2s, trouble is we were gassing so much he put the rear on the wrong way, lol. Great tyres though, on my third set now, love 'em! BTW, nice videos mate, very entertaining and informative too!
+bagpopuk Thank you most kindly my friend, would you believe when I bought my new Harley FatBoy many years ago, road it home from the dealer with 10miles on only to find the front tyre was on backwards --- and that was from the factory !!
I've had bad days at work myself, I just hope he/she didn't fit the entire run of production for that day backwards! That was a good catch though, I wouldn't even have looked, not on a new 'un!
Ref the front tyres ..,It must be a bit of a nightmare for tyre manufacturers to decide what tread pattern for wet weather rideing, to disperse the water out of the side for cornering or a pattern for motorway riding to avoid hydroplaneing when the tread is facing backwards.......once again a good vid ...cheers D & P....................
Yarp!! I used the PR2 s not only because of the great wear and wet grip but i like the tread pattern best out of all the pilot roads... Tangerine Dream ..got all their albums ..chill man.... xxxxxxxxx
+springy 2112 cor that takes me back....just of to pop Rubycon on the gramophone :) Is it true that the entire b side of Phaedra got recorded backwards by mistake? Great album whatever
+DukeDyson Hey Dave If you listen to it in a mirror it evens it up or you can try the brail version its sublime!! I have a particular liking for "encore live" particularly "monolight" now ,where's that whiffy tobacco i left in the seventies ? Also love Ozric Tentacles the modern version of TDream ..Spirals in hyperspace is a great chill album....Peace Dave.. Sorry Del !gone off on a hippy trip.....
Great explanation of front tyre tread. I change my own tyres on my GPZ and it really messed with my melon when the tread pattern looked the wrong way around on my michellins
Note that not all fastners should be lubricated before installation. If they are being torqued there are different settings for dry and lubed. The lube generally reduced the torque to apply by about 25% ish. You can over tighten the fastner by torquing a lubed bolt to the dry torque setting.
Im all aware of all the advises we read in manuals and online... but after 30+ years of pulling bikes, cars and buses apart, fighting with dry, corroded and stuck fasteners that creak undone like a rusty bar door, or just plain snap clean off.... i never agree with tightening down fastener threads bone dry if they have to live outdoors... there are a wealth of products you can use to prevent threads from corroding in place, hell even threadlock will prevent a thread from corroding... so i just reduce any specific torque setting to compensate, or with the clever thinking of the Harley "Torque Range" they publish... just go with the lower of the two figures..!! works for me, and no fastener ive even done up on MY bikes has ever failed to come free when i need it to... This is a way old video.. but check the channel, ive just stripped the back end out of a very neglected Hayabusa, and it's been absolutely chronic how every single fastener has fought me all the way...!!!!!
+Tony Jeffery Hi Tony.. yeah it sure does, almost looks as if you could stand it up without the stand....but i wont try, it didnt go well when i did it on the General...lol
Nice to see a serious video on youtube with a rsv mile, not much about this or the rsv tuono to find on youtube. A lot of wheelie video and fast riding gopro videos but not much technical interesting about rsvs from this age.
+Raymond Kuiters Hi Raymond, yeah i found that too when i bought it...not much to guide you if you get stuck and cant afford "Italian specialists" to fix it for you..(and lets face it, who can lol).... thanks for your kind comments, the bike doesnt really need much done but what i do have cause to do ill cover in a video..! ride safe chap... Del.
+Geoffrey Ritcher Yeah mate, see how you get on with it in place, im a lazy git and usually struggle with access to a thing before i resort to taking things out of the way...lol.. if you rrally cant get in there, then drop the wheel and muddies out....
Great choice, can go wrong with the Michelin. I have run different one forever and love them. Let me know what you think on the cornering when you get out on them !!! Ride Safe......
nice advise... on my mille r I have a 190 rear and on the standard mille it has 180 rear coming across this video has answered one question as to what is the correct recommended tyre.
Another great video, you make things looks easy. I haven't got the room in my garage for the table lift but do you recommend the little blue lift u have as I was thinking of getting one just to hold my Harley up straight. 6 weeks now after my cancer operation but still not rode me new iron. I have however had good news, which is no chemotherapy, yes. Congrats to the lady who completed the marathon. Look forward to next video. Ta Ian.
+Jaimie Walsh Hi Ian, good to hear from you again buddy....yes indeed, this is the little one i use, and its great for holding the bike upright, www.ebay.co.uk/itm/500kg-Motorcycle-Mini-Lift-Scissor-Lift-Not-Hydraulic-Motorbike-Lift-Rubber-Pad-/171948342317?hash=item2808eb7c2d But this one is even better and will lift the whole bike up about 2ft so you can sit on a stool and work on the motor for servicing....i have one of these and its great for taking the wheels out as the bench is no good for that.. here:- www.ebay.co.uk/itm/FoxHunter-1500lb-Hydraulic-Motorcycle-Motor-Bike-Quad-Lift-ATV-Jack-workshop-BLK-/131399594405?hash=item1e9806b1a5 Hope they help mate...
You'll have to let me know how the Michelin Pilot's are. I was thinking about the Pilot Road 4's for my Triumph Speed Four in the spring. The Conti's are about done. Great video, and learned something as always. Cheers! Mike
+Michael Rench Thanks Mike, so far they are grippy, smooth and stable, so real happy at the moment, but i havent had a proper chance to go punish them yet...but its the weekend, and how better to give them a good sound drubbing than take the bike to West bay for a brew and some chips...! yeehaw.. Take care chap, love to Melly.
West Bay for brew and chips..... aw man. Now I am jealous! Well, Melly and I will have a ride out this weekend too. We have a cuppa for you and Penny. Cheers! Mike
Nearly half an hour, flew past as usual and even then seemed rushed! Nice one mate! Bike purchase now on hold as I am officially on the waiting list for the bypass operation (probably before Christmas, they say), so I'll sit out the 8 weeks or so recovery and then push the button! Have I decided? Yes. Am I sayin'? ... Now where's the fun in that? :-)
Hi del, another great video! For us wusses who just ride in the summer. Could you recommend how to prepare the bike for storage over the winter break ready for next spring/summer
+10cummins2010 Hey buddy, Nothing Wussy about laying up for winter, or not riding in the shite... i certainly wont be trashing my beautiful Harley Davidson by riding it through all the filth and carp over the dark month....and nor will Penny on the Triumph.....thats what Ratbikes are for...lol.. This may help you buddy, made it a few years ago now, but all tips still relavant and apply to any bike... ua-cam.com/video/fPnaDJkWav4/v-deo.html
+Moonfleet41 yeah that Harley needs to be kept in perfect nick. It may be an investment one day! But thanks for that. I'm also part of the RSV club so really enjoying the Mille videos. All the best!
+LoganPicks Its not tape buddy, thats just a small cloth i use to protect the bottom yoke when i strap the bike down on the lift....it prevents the hooks from scratching the shiney finish...! Thanks for wathicng buddy//
Your tyre guy's explanation (lean) would make sense if it was the same for the rear, but it's not, so I don't buy it. What makes sense to me is that the force on the rear is primarily forward drive, while the force on the front is primarily braking, i.e. backwards. The two tyres push in different directions, when they're putting down most of their force.
I disagree on the front tyre force buddy.. the primary forces that play in a front tyre are sideways during cornering no?, thats why front tyres wear out on the sides and not in the middle right..?
Hey moonflet I know you usually do cruisers and Harleys but I just got rid of my sportster....:/. I have a sport bike now, can you make a video on how to change the chain and sprocket on them?
Cool video!, So, I have the "Haga" Model and need to get to the flasher unit, have you done a video on this..? Or does anyone have a link to share..? Thanks!
Hi Del, me again. I have a question for you re my Busa. The steering has gone light, when I put her up on the stand and whip the steering left and right the damper seems to have no resistance. I have bought one from ebay and plan on fitting it tomorrow. Question do I need to remove the front wheel or can I do it by just removing the plastic under the nose cone? Ta Geoff
+Geoffrey Ritcher Hi Geoff....thats the most awkward place to work on a Busa....you can get up in there, but you need to be a naffin gynaecologist as its so cluttered in there...! at the very least cover the front mud guard with a blanket to protect it....you'll get in there, but you'll feel like you've been run over afterwars from the stoopid position you have to adopt to get in there... lol
The Great 180 Vs 190 debate The manual states you may have either so it's personal preference I guess. I'm more curious " if you can remember" did you go for a 190/50 or 55 fella ? I need some new boots soon and am tempted to go 190 on this occasion. Regards
@@Moonfleet41 thanks for replying, that size is recommended in my manual and should of given you what was needed 👍 Nowadays 190/55 seems popular for a sportier/lean angle. I shall have to weigh up the pros and cons, hope your well and love going through the archives, there's all ways something to watch that helps me out 👌
Bro you and your team of two are awesome. I'm learning so much and it's great. Are you on the Aprilia Forum? I basically need to do everything your doing. Great job
+Jujag Themag Hey brother... no sadly not on the Aprilia forums. we just dont get the time to endulge those things, we would love to make more friends that way but time just eats us.. we're stacked out with making the videos and trying to work full time, you know how it is.. but hey, if you ever need a tip of guidance, you know where to find us, any time just ask buddy... take care, and keep safe.. all the best Del & Penny'
Question: Makes sense the tyre grooves facing towards the bike but on the rear they seem to point the other direction. Does your tyre guy know why? Seems logical to me they would want to do the same ?
+Dangerous Hamster TBH, the front does the most 'side force' work, and needs the foot print as dry as possible...im no expert on tyres, but bike tyres have always been 'front to rear opposed', so it must be right.!
+DoubleYouPee Yeah, always wondered about that....set it unloaded then it goes tight when you sit on it...and even tighter under accelleration...!!!!! go figure..!
+Moonfleet41 Yeah, I always set it while on side stand, on the loose end of whats mentioned in my manual then I sit on it and re-check whether there's still a bit of clearance.
+2Wheels_2Wings Always adjust my chain on the side stand . The bike is on it`s wheels when you ride it ( i hope!) so that`s the best way to judge chain tension.
Nice to see an Aprillia & not Ducati . Aprillia a real riders bike. but nealy all Italian bikes are hell to work on valves ect ,but every day care every bike the same. keep the info coming ,nice.
+Jeremy David Evans Love my APE.....its ridiculous to ride, silly power delivery and makes a glorious noise that pisses the neighbors off.... win win win...lol
you can get away with very little valve clearance checks on 990 rotax engine. They seem to be in spec even if you skip the service interval for tens of thousands of kilometers. but they are done for a reason so do it on your own risk.
+simon cartwright Stick with the factory boot mate....the RSV had an undersize tyre fitted at 180....and the 190 is the correct size....you can go down a size from the big fat stuff...but you shouldnt go up to oversize...it'll make it handle shite....if you want you can fit a 180 but you'll need a 5.5 rim from a 1200...!!
Sorry if this has already been asked but I can't be arsed reading through every single comment haha. Why doesnt the Millie not have any cush drive rubbers? Is it just something some bikes don't have?
+josh singleton Hi Josh, they certainly do matey, watch from 5:00 , you see the socket holes that the carrier fits into?, that is a pressed in rubber bushing with a steel tube in the centre to locate the pins..they are cush drives, and a lot more firm and resiliant than the fat square blocks with the 'blades' that fit between them on many other bikes..! jus a better design buddy..
I wouldn't describe the Mille as flighty, they give you friendly 'warning' but you'd have to be a real idiot to get a slap... unlike the oh so unpredictable TL1000S. They do have a top heavy balance and the Michelin Pilot 2ct does help them to roll in nicely. And if you have an R with Ohlins forks, be oh so careful of the pinch bolts, £800 to have the fork bottom replaced isn't funny. Anyway, good video and great bike (been through 4 of 'em!).
Great vid, Del. (Still catching up!) Maybe now I’ll save some coin (and time!) by not taking my 06 Ducati to the dealer 105 miles away-thx to you. BTW: What became of the Aprilia?
Hi Gary, good to hear from you... sadly the Aprilia had to go two years ago when we moved in to our place here, we needed the money for fees and moving costs, and am sure you know, like all of us, if a bike is a luxury, it becomes the first casualty when you need to release a little capital...! I wish we could keep them all, don't ya?!
Great vid as always, just a quick question, I see that you have a video about fork seals and I was wondering if upside down forks are different from the right side up telescopic forks in terms of rebuilding, first time since this time last year that I've ridden mx (first time on a big track too) and landed a few ft short of a 100ft jump on the front end hard, didn't quite seem to like that and the right fork blew, missed the pegs too ;(
+Spif Spaf Hi matey, the USD forks are different and you'll need to check out the proceedure to be sure of the way to do it right buddy....hope you didnt hurt yourself on the spill..
+Moonfleet41 ah alright, cheers for the heads up I'll try and find a manual for it then as I've never done forks before, didn't fall surprisingly enough though, just welled up a bit because of what I landed on the seat with haha
+Spif Spaf They arent that hard buddy, you may get away with it, they still have a damper rod in the bottom just like regular forks, and if you crack that first while its all built up with the cap on....then take the cap off, tip the oil and the spring out...and you csn still "slide hammer" it apart the same way.....if they have a cartridge in them, then there is a trick to getting that released....but they are pretty much the same as ordinary forks...just the two main tubes are upside down.... get stuck in mate...how hard can it be... drop me a line if you get stuck....Del
Road 2 is a good tyre but also quite old, there are plenty of better tyres available. At least, I assume it's a road 2 and not the power 2CT since you said you wanted more mileage.
+DoubleYouPee Just Pilot 2's mate, the older versions...they are not old in actuality. freshle made new tyres, but just an older design....and yeah, there is a new tyre out every two weeks...like mobile phones and laptops...but the bike is 15 years old, so they are still way better than the boots it came with new.. and ive used them before, like the Michelin Anakee 2's on the Tiger, i much prefer them to the new Anakee 3.....better looking anfd better off road... new aint always better with tyres..!
+Moonfleet41 Well, the Road 2 are from 2007. Last few years have been really good in the sports-touring tyre section. You're right though newer is not ALWAYS better. The road 3 wasn't that great but the road 4 as well as most other sport-touring tyres (T30, Angel GT, Roadsmart 2) are definitely better than the road 2, especially when you're putting 1000cc v-twin power down. About the Anakee's, the 3 shouldn't really be called Anakee 3 because it's WAY different type of tyre , just look at the thread compared to the Anakee 2. (Anakee 3 is more like a Road 3 with extra holes). Can't really be compared.
+Moonfleet41 Well, with michelin tyres the names are a bit confusing. Both the "Pilot Road 2" and "Pilot Power 2CT" have dual compound technologies, which is called 2CT for michelin. However only the "Pilot Power 2CT" has it in the name. All you need to focus on is whether it's called Road or Power. I guess you have the Pilot Road 2 because if not, the Power 2CT will be worn before the winter :D.
Neither, it doesn't really matter, the axle doesn't rotate. The bearings on the inside do. I just clean it really well and hit it with some WD40 to prevent rust before sliding it back in.
Hi Lisa, No, if you are just taking the front wheel out, and not touching the bolts on the fork yokes... then they will stay put, no need for fork alignment...
Hi Lisa, No, if you are just taking the front wheel out, and not touching the bolts on the fork yokes... then they will stay put, no need for fork alignment...
Do I have to do the string alignment trick or do the spacers do all that? I giggle at the fact that I tried really hard to take the front fender off without taking the tire off. Didn't work. They make a lot of easy things hard sometimes. Haha Thank you for the speedy response. I feel like you are truly a friend! Thank you for the confidence building skills!!
Thanks Del, I was thinking about pilot power s. have you any knowledge of them? hope you don't mind me asking how much did those pair cost you plus fitting?
+James McCreadie Hi James, yes mate, ive used Pilot 2's many times before, they are a really good combo of qualities... they grip in the dry and wet..and the last a long time too, i got 8k form a pair a couple of years ago on a heavy old Blackbird....so good for powerful bikes with a lot of grunt.. an i paid £225 fitted to loose rims from our local go to guy for MOT and tyres...!
+Moonfleet41 Thanks Del, I have a pair of Pilot 3's just now but they are totalled .. gone right off. Tread left like you say but the the bike feels weird. I was going to go for the original pilots not the 2, 3 or 4 I think they are called Power, I can get a pair for £142. My mechanic fits on loose wheels for, tyres bought from him. A pain having to get the wheels to him but saves a bit. I just don't know if the Power's are any good. You wouldn't happen to know?
+James McCreadie Not personally use them myself mate.....but the Pilot 2's are really good, last ages and grip like a sports bike tyre should... paid £225 for the pair of these..
Like the little crack at the previous "ROC" debate @ 2:03 . I see what you did there :-) Good to see that the a$$h0les didn't get to ye and ye are having a laugh at it. On another note, I love the feeling of new tyres, the way it sweetens up the handling, it can be like a new bike on the ride back from the shop :-)
+Conor Casey Too right Conor, Penny says i mustn't do it, but i cant resist baiting the haters... so many people who ride bikes these days seem to be like caravaners in waiting... no sense of fun and overly righteous... fair game id say...lol
190 doesnt work well with these. Worsens handling and creates early flat spotting issues. Stick with 180 profile. Better clearance and the bike rolls better and handles more intuitively They are NOT twitcthy bikes if set up correctly and lowering rear end can have dramatically detrimental impacts at high speed and is NOT good advice. Raise the front one notch instead. This maintains better suspension use and geometry than lowering the back. Suspension ought to be set by the book then altered a tiny bit at a time until for fast road riding you get the best and safest compromise between compliance and control. Sorry but on this occassion as a long term owner of 3 rsvs and having raced and ridden them over many thousands of miles I consider your advice and opinions on set up quite technically flawed and lacking knowledge and experience. Ultimately if it works for you and your riding style thats all that matters for you but please consider the safety impact on others before recommending tyres and settings which can affect handling fundamentally changing what the manufacturer intended and reached conclusions on after extensive development is not a silid stand point.0
Aside from your personal annihilation of me, the factory tyre on the back is a 190 and I was returning the bike to that OEM standard, so I need to just clarify with all your apparent expertise, are you suggesting that the factory have made a mistake, and that their recommended choice of tyre is incorrect? It's a 6" wheel rim and usually a 180 would fit on a 5.5" rim, and above all else, I followed the advice of the tyre fitter I went to who prepares race bikes for a track day company... but perhaps you know otherwise?
As a Mille owner these videos are like gold. Top notch.
Great how-to and explanation. I must say, I do have a soft spot for the Aprilia. from the alloys to the welds to the engineering - even to the gear selector. It screams quality to me. Lovely bike...
A mug of tea and a new episode of Delboy's Garage, what a great way to start the day! :)
As an accident investigater... you are absolutely correct.. excellent advice... love these videos. Hello from Eire ☺
+MrBeboopman Well thank you most kindly Sir... coming from you that is praise indeed! Glad you enjoy the videos ....!
Great video as always. Got Pilot 4s on my Aprilia Mana and always wondered about the backwards tread pattern. I also discovered from one of your previous videos that my front axle bolts had been tightened in the wrong order by an Aprilia dealer, with the forks pulled in as you described. Never too old to learn. I'm passing on the knowledge to my son now as his YZF R125 needs a service this weekend.
Another enjoyable vid. I've used muck-off on my brake bobbins before now. Appears to be as effective as brake cleaner for that particular job. Had a new pair of Pilot 4's on my blade 2 months ago. Peeing down with rain on the way home, scared the s**t out of me. When I checked the pressures, the front tyre was inflated to 44 psi and the rear 38. They are supposed to be 36 and 42. I was not a happy bunny. On the plus side; the tyres are fantastic.
+baccas66 Ha ha, always check em yerself aye...!!!
Easily the best and clearest explanation I've heard on tire direction. Nice one Del!
Cracking stuff. I enjoyed that I did...embarrassingly enough, even after 30 odd years of biking, there were a few chestnuts there I didn't even know. I'll just go a soak my head for an hour or so. ;o)
Nice one, thanks for that.
+Rob Ash Hi Rob, we never stop learning aye mate.. !
Last time I fitted new tyres to my old Mille I refitted the wheels and took it out to scrub them in. I drove about 200 feet to the t-junction at the end of my road and realised I'd ran over a lovely streak of hydraulic while queuing. I was certain if I were careful enough I could scrub it off. I was, of course, wrong and down I went immediately. I loved that bike and never wanted to sell it but some of them just seem to have a hex on them...
+Ian O'Riordan Bugger that mate....glad you didnt get hurt at thew same time....and yeah, once you oil up a tyre...its inevitable you're going down.!
I work allot on my bike. And I THINK I know allot on them, but every time I learn something new from you. Keep up the good work mate. Thanks !!!
+Kevin Schijven Thanks Kevin, there's always something new to learn aye, and youtube is perfect for sharing knowledge aye... take care buddy... Del.
Moonfleet41 Thanks mate !!
Excellent explanation on the directional tread. Always wondered why bikes were different. Great video Del and Penny.
+Iron Slim Hey Scott...yeah simple when you think of it, glad the clever people make tyres and we idiots wear em out.. lol
As ALWAYS Penny and Del - excellent video with loads of useful little tips and insights.
So right about getting the torque values rightl. My CBThou has a single sided swinger and if the axle bearing pinch bolt is done up too tight after adjusting the chain you can crush the bearings so I went out and bought a torque wrench to make sure I got this bang on each time - 54ftlbs, 74Nm in case anyone is interested.
Brilliant video, enjoyed, hope the test ride went well, ride safe. I watch your vids and Shawn Smoke's and life is good!!
+Davie. H Yeah buddy, sticky grippy and stable....everything they should be..
Always learn something new when I watch your videos, keep up the good work del.
Great vid Dell, as always!! Thanks pal, would love see a video on you scrubbing in your tyres, it would provide some reassurance to us novices on how it's done properly, plus we'd get to see what it's like having a blast on the beast!!
+SuperPramFace187 Thanks mate, but im no hero rider, and these days all you need to do is ride them steady for the first 50 miles, then build up the confidence as you go along...modern tyres grip pretty much from brand new.. maybe ill get a chance to get out with the camera next week...got a ride video ready for Sunday, but not on the Aprilia...
Great Job as always. I'm in the middle of a front fork job on my ape at the mo, which is proving to be a hassle (might even do a video when it's ready to get put back together), but the tips for sticking the front wheel back on in this video will prove useful so thanks!
+taemur moazzam Glad the vidoe can help buddy....drop me a line if you get stuck.. Del.
+Moonfleet41 I might just take you up on that. My preload tubes were missing gaskets (at least it appears they are based on the image in the workshop manual), so I ordered new ones from a reputable dealer here in the US. When they arrived they were very different. Longer and with a different plastic piece on the end that was sans gasket but wider than the original while still fitting inside the fork. Now I'm trying to figure out if this is a change made to the showa forks in later years and if I can use said parts. The US dealer have claimed that if the part is wrong it's because that's what aprilia has sent them and I'm inclined to believe em.
Excellent explanation of the tread and water.
Also killer point about the insurance mobs who would lock onto dodgy tread placement.
+Maxbooze Yeah, they look for any back door when it comes to claim time aye..! Thanks mate, appreciate you watching..
That swing arm is a thing of beauty Del!!
+Neil Cole (Smoothound675) The whole frame is a work or art aye... cheers buddy.
Copper slip is the finest invention. I use it on my work mowers and strimmers and they get more crud than a bike ever will and still undo for maintenance.
+Gearjammer Aint not better endoursement than that buddy...cheers.
Had almost exactly the same debate with my local tyre fitter over the front Pilot Road 2s, trouble is we were gassing so much he put the rear on the wrong way, lol. Great tyres though, on my third set now, love 'em!
BTW, nice videos mate, very entertaining and informative too!
+bagpopuk Thank you most kindly my friend, would you believe when I bought my new Harley FatBoy many years ago, road it home from the dealer with 10miles on only to find the front tyre was on backwards --- and that was from the factory !!
I've had bad days at work myself, I just hope he/she didn't fit the entire run of production for that day backwards! That was a good catch though, I wouldn't even have looked, not on a new 'un!
Enjoyed a good old maintenance video!
+c r Thanks mate glad you enjoyed it....Got a ride video ready for Sunday, and some awesome new music..!
Ref the front tyres ..,It must be a bit of a nightmare for tyre manufacturers to decide what tread pattern for wet weather rideing, to disperse the water out of the side for cornering or a pattern for motorway riding to avoid hydroplaneing when the tread is facing backwards.......once again a good vid ...cheers D & P....................
Yarp!!
I used the PR2 s not only because of the great wear and wet grip but i like the tread pattern best out of all the pilot roads...
Tangerine Dream ..got all their albums ..chill man....
xxxxxxxxx
+springy 2112 Pretty tyres are cool aye...! lol
+springy 2112 cor that takes me back....just of to pop Rubycon on the gramophone :) Is it true that the entire b side of Phaedra got recorded backwards by mistake? Great album whatever
+DukeDyson Hey Dave If you listen to it in a mirror it evens it up or you can try the brail version its sublime!! I have a particular liking for "encore live" particularly "monolight"
now ,where's that whiffy tobacco i left in the seventies ?
Also love Ozric Tentacles the modern version of TDream ..Spirals in hyperspace is a great chill album....Peace Dave..
Sorry Del !gone off on a hippy trip.....
Great explanation of front tyre tread. I change my own tyres on my GPZ and it really messed with my melon when the tread pattern looked the wrong way around on my michellins
Note that not all fastners should be lubricated before installation. If they are being torqued there are different settings for dry and lubed. The lube generally reduced the torque to apply by about 25% ish. You can over tighten the fastner by torquing a lubed bolt to the dry torque setting.
Im all aware of all the advises we read in manuals and online... but after 30+ years of pulling bikes, cars and buses apart, fighting with dry, corroded and stuck fasteners that creak undone like a rusty bar door, or just plain snap clean off.... i never agree with tightening down fastener threads bone dry if they have to live outdoors... there are a wealth of products you can use to prevent threads from corroding in place, hell even threadlock will prevent a thread from corroding... so i just reduce any specific torque setting to compensate, or with the clever thinking of the Harley "Torque Range" they publish... just go with the lower of the two figures..!! works for me, and no fastener ive even done up on MY bikes has ever failed to come free when i need it to...
This is a way old video.. but check the channel, ive just stripped the back end out of a very neglected Hayabusa, and it's been absolutely chronic how every single fastener has fought me all the way...!!!!!
Nice job Del, looking good, the back wheel looks immense. boogietj
+Tony Jeffery Hi Tony.. yeah it sure does, almost looks as if you could stand it up without the stand....but i wont try, it didnt go well when i did it on the General...lol
Very interesting episode! Excellent camera work Penny!
+Byron Anderson Thank you Byron, you're very kind..Px
Brill brother, enjoyed the vid you just take the fear out of attempting these jobs.
Nice to see a serious video on youtube with a rsv mile, not much about this or the rsv tuono to find on youtube. A lot of wheelie video and fast riding gopro videos but not much technical interesting about rsvs from this age.
+Raymond Kuiters Hi Raymond, yeah i found that too when i bought it...not much to guide you if you get stuck and cant afford "Italian specialists" to fix it for you..(and lets face it, who can lol).... thanks for your kind comments, the bike doesnt really need much done but what i do have cause to do ill cover in a video..! ride safe chap... Del.
cheers mate, great advice re the blanket over the front mudguard. just to be clear I can leave the front wheel on? I'll let you know how i get on.
+Geoffrey Ritcher Yeah mate, see how you get on with it in place, im a lazy git and usually struggle with access to a thing before i resort to taking things out of the way...lol.. if you rrally cant get in there, then drop the wheel and muddies out....
# copper slip perfect on plug threads . good point dude.
great video again .. an ya no grease on brake stuff you need the friction hahaha
Great choice, can go wrong with the Michelin. I have run different one forever and love them. Let me know what you think on the cornering when you get out on them !!! Ride Safe......
nice advise... on my mille r I have a 190 rear and on the standard mille it has 180 rear coming across this video has answered one question as to what is the correct recommended tyre.
+wahid latif Yes Wahid, all Mille models sghould have 190mm rears due to the 6" rim... the 180 is a choice for those who think they need it.!
front tire makes sense never knew that but I always but the arrow the right way
+Scott Wilson Too right Scott, the arrows are there for a reason aye..lol
well done del...
Another great video, you make things looks easy. I haven't got the room in my garage for the table lift but do you recommend the little blue lift u have as I was thinking of getting one just to hold my Harley up straight. 6 weeks now after my cancer operation but still not rode me new iron. I have however had good news, which is no chemotherapy, yes. Congrats to the lady who completed the marathon. Look forward to next video. Ta Ian.
+Jaimie Walsh Hi Ian, good to hear from you again buddy....yes indeed, this is the little one i use, and its great for holding the bike upright, www.ebay.co.uk/itm/500kg-Motorcycle-Mini-Lift-Scissor-Lift-Not-Hydraulic-Motorbike-Lift-Rubber-Pad-/171948342317?hash=item2808eb7c2d
But this one is even better and will lift the whole bike up about 2ft so you can sit on a stool and work on the motor for servicing....i have one of these and its great for taking the wheels out as the bench is no good for that.. here:-
www.ebay.co.uk/itm/FoxHunter-1500lb-Hydraulic-Motorcycle-Motor-Bike-Quad-Lift-ATV-Jack-workshop-BLK-/131399594405?hash=item1e9806b1a5
Hope they help mate...
+Moonfleet41 thanks del that's my Christmas list sorted. hope you and pen are well. Ta ian.
That was good to watch, thanks for the info.
You'll have to let me know how the Michelin Pilot's are. I was thinking about the Pilot Road 4's for my Triumph Speed Four in the spring. The Conti's are about done. Great video, and learned something as always. Cheers!
Mike
+Michael Rench Thanks Mike, so far they are grippy, smooth and stable, so real happy at the moment, but i havent had a proper chance to go punish them yet...but its the weekend, and how better to give them a good sound drubbing than take the bike to West bay for a brew and some chips...! yeehaw.. Take care chap, love to Melly.
West Bay for brew and chips..... aw man. Now I am jealous! Well, Melly and I will have a ride out this weekend too. We have a cuppa for you and Penny. Cheers!
Mike
+Michael Rench Damn the Blasted Atlantic.....we want to come play...boo hiss.. We'll be thinking of youz as we cruise the beach road Brother..
Nearly half an hour, flew past as usual and even then seemed rushed! Nice one mate!
Bike purchase now on hold as I am officially on the waiting list for the bypass operation (probably before Christmas, they say), so I'll sit out the 8 weeks or so recovery and then push the button!
Have I decided?
Yes.
Am I sayin'?
...
Now where's the fun in that? :-)
+pgod1960 Killjoy....i bet im right in my guess....!!!!
+Moonfleet41I bet you are too, especially if you can see my watch history! haha
+pgod1960 ...I havent, but ill bet you change your mind again, unless this is your final cast Iron choice....(sorry)..
+Moonfleet41 Vote is truly cast mate. Polls closed days ago. :-) Price negotiated, Stage One complete! Thats as cryptic as I can get.
+pgod1960 I look forward to finding out what it is buddy, lol
Great how-to.
Brilliant thanks keep them videos coming
Again great vid guys, great tips thanks.
CBR900 side stand is another good mod.
Hi del, another great video! For us wusses who just ride in the summer. Could you recommend how to prepare the bike for storage over the winter break ready for next spring/summer
+10cummins2010 Hey buddy, Nothing Wussy about laying up for winter, or not riding in the shite... i certainly wont be trashing my beautiful Harley Davidson by riding it through all the filth and carp over the dark month....and nor will Penny on the Triumph.....thats what Ratbikes are for...lol..
This may help you buddy, made it a few years ago now, but all tips still relavant and apply to any bike... ua-cam.com/video/fPnaDJkWav4/v-deo.html
+Moonfleet41 yeah that Harley needs to be kept in perfect nick. It may be an investment one day! But thanks for that. I'm also part of the RSV club so really
enjoying the Mille videos. All the best!
Always a pleasure to watch, and learn Del.
Thanks for keeping it up.
What's up with the tape on the front of the Harley?
+LoganPicks Its not tape buddy, thats just a small cloth i use to protect the bottom yoke when i strap the bike down on the lift....it prevents the hooks from scratching the shiney finish...! Thanks for wathicng buddy//
Your tyre guy's explanation (lean) would make sense if it was the same for the rear, but it's not, so I don't buy it. What makes sense to me is that the force on the rear is primarily forward drive, while the force on the front is primarily braking, i.e. backwards. The two tyres push in different directions, when they're putting down most of their force.
I disagree on the front tyre force buddy.. the primary forces that play in a front tyre are sideways during cornering no?, thats why front tyres wear out on the sides and not in the middle right..?
Hey moonflet I know you usually do cruisers and Harleys but I just got rid of my sportster....:/. I have a sport bike now, can you make a video on how to change the chain and sprocket on them?
+Jamesy Check out the Bandit Project videos mate, lots on those about chain and sprocket matters...
+Moonfleet41 Oh sorry thank you!
Pilot Power 2 or Pilot Road 2 ? I'd imagine Pilot Power 2. One more of a sport tyre where the other is more a sport tourer tyre.
Cool video!, So, I have the "Haga" Model and need to get to the flasher unit, have you done a video on this..? Or does anyone have a link to share..? Thanks!
Great choice of boots buddy, although they may smell of garlic :0Trust the Italians to put the rear wheel spindle nut on the right hand side eh
+DukeDyson Same as the Scrambler....maybe its a feature for left handed mechanics...!!!
Just admit you took the bike for a blast down the rode as soon as this video was finished! LOL
+Mark Leadbeater You're jokin, brand new tyres, p1ssing with rain,....naah, had to wait till this morning..
Hi Del, me again. I have a question for you re my Busa. The steering has gone light, when I put her up on the stand and whip the steering left and right the damper seems to have no resistance. I have bought one from ebay and plan on fitting it tomorrow. Question do I need to remove the front wheel or can I do it by just removing the plastic under the nose cone? Ta Geoff
+Geoffrey Ritcher Hi Geoff....thats the most awkward place to work on a Busa....you can get up in there, but you need to be a naffin gynaecologist as its so cluttered in there...! at the very least cover the front mud guard with a blanket to protect it....you'll get in there, but you'll feel like you've been run over afterwars from the stoopid position you have to adopt to get in there... lol
Thanks. Very informative.
The Great 180 Vs 190 debate
The manual states you may have either so it's personal preference I guess.
I'm more curious " if you can remember" did you go for a 190/50 or 55 fella ?
I need some new boots soon and am tempted to go 190 on this occasion.
Regards
From memory it was, i think a 190/50/17, i took it in recommendation form the tyre shop and it did make the bike a lot nicer to ride..!
@@Moonfleet41 thanks for replying, that size is recommended in my manual and should of given you what was needed 👍
Nowadays 190/55 seems popular for a sportier/lean angle. I shall have to weigh up the pros and cons, hope your well and love going through the archives, there's all ways something to watch that helps me out 👌
Bro you and your team of two are awesome. I'm learning so much and it's great. Are you on the Aprilia Forum? I basically need to do everything your doing. Great job
+Jujag Themag Hey brother... no sadly not on the Aprilia forums. we just dont get the time to endulge those things, we would love to make more friends that way but time just eats us.. we're stacked out with making the videos and trying to work full time, you know how it is.. but hey, if you ever need a tip of guidance, you know where to find us, any time just ask buddy... take care, and keep safe.. all the best Del & Penny'
Question: Makes sense the tyre grooves facing towards the bike but on the rear they seem to point the other direction. Does your tyre guy know why? Seems logical to me they would want to do the same ?
+Dangerous Hamster TBH, the front does the most 'side force' work, and needs the foot print as dry as possible...im no expert on tyres, but bike tyres have always been 'front to rear opposed', so it must be right.!
Moonfleet41 agreed with all points but there must be a reason... bugging me now ! :)
Also 12:11.
"Always with weight on the machine".
Label says "no load"
;)
+DoubleYouPee Yeah, always wondered about that....set it unloaded then it goes tight when you sit on it...and even tighter under accelleration...!!!!! go figure..!
+Moonfleet41
Yeah, I always set it while on side stand, on the loose end of whats mentioned in my manual then I sit on it and re-check whether there's still a bit of clearance.
+DoubleYouPee "No load" - No rider, luggage, dog, cat etc. :)
+2Wheels_2Wings Always adjust my chain on the side stand . The bike is on it`s wheels when you ride it ( i hope!) so that`s the best way to judge chain tension.
Nice to see an Aprillia & not Ducati . Aprillia a real riders bike. but nealy all Italian bikes are hell to work on valves ect ,but every day care every bike the same. keep the info coming ,nice.
+Jeremy David Evans Love my APE.....its ridiculous to ride, silly power delivery and makes a glorious noise that pisses the neighbors off.... win win win...lol
you can get away with very little valve clearance checks on 990 rotax engine. They seem to be in spec even if you skip the service interval for tens of thousands of kilometers. but they are done for a reason so do it on your own risk.
nice work del loads of grip with the 190 rear
+simon cartwright Too right mate, looks bitchin too..
+Moonfleet41 nice wide tyre looks kool whats biggest can have on my bandit
+simon cartwright Stick with the factory boot mate....the RSV had an undersize tyre fitted at 180....and the 190 is the correct size....you can go down a size from the big fat stuff...but you shouldnt go up to oversize...it'll make it handle shite....if you want you can fit a 180 but you'll need a 5.5 rim from a 1200...!!
+Moonfleet41 got a 160 on my rear what a 170?
"Pattern" is surly done as an improvement....
Sorry if this has already been asked but I can't be arsed reading through every single comment haha.
Why doesnt the Millie not have any cush drive rubbers? Is it just something some bikes don't have?
+josh singleton Hi Josh, they certainly do matey, watch from 5:00 , you see the socket holes that the carrier fits into?, that is a pressed in rubber bushing with a steel tube in the centre to locate the pins..they are cush drives, and a lot more firm and resiliant than the fat square blocks with the 'blades' that fit between them on many other bikes..! jus a better design buddy..
+Moonfleet41 so they do! Never seen it done like that before but it looks better than the triangle type ones!
how do you keep your rims so clean? what do you use for cleaning them?
Big wad of clean kitchen paper.....soak it in WD40....wipe them clean in a flash.... easy.!
I wouldn't describe the Mille as flighty, they give you friendly 'warning' but you'd have to be a real idiot to get a slap... unlike the oh so unpredictable TL1000S.
They do have a top heavy balance and the Michelin Pilot 2ct does help them to roll in nicely.
And if you have an R with Ohlins forks, be oh so careful of the pinch bolts, £800 to have the fork bottom replaced isn't funny.
Anyway, good video and great bike (been through 4 of 'em!).
+Paul N Yeah, ive doen one in a Kawasaki years ago, its really unfunny aye... wrist tight and marker paint it..lol
oh and blue pads prob means they are brembo road pads
What's the difference between pilot 2's and 3's?
+Michael Ray About £50...and a fancy patern..
Great vid, Del. (Still catching up!) Maybe now I’ll save some coin (and time!) by not taking my 06 Ducati to the dealer 105 miles away-thx to you. BTW: What became of the Aprilia?
Hi Gary, good to hear from you... sadly the Aprilia had to go two years ago when we moved in to our place here, we needed the money for fees and moving costs, and am sure you know, like all of us, if a bike is a luxury, it becomes the first casualty when you need to release a little capital...! I wish we could keep them all, don't ya?!
Moonfleet41 Roger that, Del.
Great vid as always, just a quick question, I see that you have a video about fork seals and I was wondering if upside down forks are different from the right side up telescopic forks in terms of rebuilding, first time since this time last year that I've ridden mx (first time on a big track too) and landed a few ft short of a 100ft jump on the front end hard, didn't quite seem to like that and the right fork blew, missed the pegs too ;(
+Spif Spaf Hi matey, the USD forks are different and you'll need to check out the proceedure to be sure of the way to do it right buddy....hope you didnt hurt yourself on the spill..
+Moonfleet41 ah alright, cheers for the heads up I'll try and find a manual for it then as I've never done forks before, didn't fall surprisingly enough though, just welled up a bit because of what I landed on the seat with haha
+Spif Spaf They arent that hard buddy, you may get away with it, they still have a damper rod in the bottom just like regular forks, and if you crack that first while its all built up with the cap on....then take the cap off, tip the oil and the spring out...and you csn still "slide hammer" it apart the same way.....if they have a cartridge in them, then there is a trick to getting that released....but they are pretty much the same as ordinary forks...just the two main tubes are upside down.... get stuck in mate...how hard can it be... drop me a line if you get stuck....Del
Moonfleet41 cheers for the advice, I think that I only really have time to do it next week sometime so if I get stuck then I know who to ask, thanks
Road 2 is a good tyre but also quite old, there are plenty of better tyres available.
At least, I assume it's a road 2 and not the power 2CT since you said you wanted more mileage.
+DoubleYouPee Just Pilot 2's mate, the older versions...they are not old in actuality. freshle made new tyres, but just an older design....and yeah, there is a new tyre out every two weeks...like mobile phones and laptops...but the bike is 15 years old, so they are still way better than the boots it came with new.. and ive used them before, like the Michelin Anakee 2's on the Tiger, i much prefer them to the new Anakee 3.....better looking anfd better off road... new aint always better with tyres..!
+Moonfleet41 Well, the Road 2 are from 2007. Last few years have been really good in the sports-touring tyre section.
You're right though newer is not ALWAYS better. The road 3 wasn't that great but the road 4 as well as most other sport-touring tyres (T30, Angel GT, Roadsmart 2) are definitely better than the road 2, especially when you're putting 1000cc v-twin power down.
About the Anakee's, the 3 shouldn't really be called Anakee 3 because it's WAY different type of tyre , just look at the thread compared to the Anakee 2. (Anakee 3 is more like a Road 3 with extra holes). Can't really be compared.
+DoubleYouPee Noticed on the tyre edge today, they have 2CT molded into them.....!!!! grip like shit-to-blanket either way, so very happy..
+Moonfleet41 Well, with michelin tyres the names are a bit confusing. Both the "Pilot Road 2" and "Pilot Power 2CT" have dual compound technologies, which is called 2CT for michelin. However only the "Pilot Power 2CT" has it in the name.
All you need to focus on is whether it's called Road or Power.
I guess you have the Pilot Road 2 because if not, the Power 2CT will be worn before the winter :D.
+DoubleYouPee NO mate, there are definitly Michelin Pilot Road 2....clearly branded...and new ones, not NOS...!
I have the pilot 2, I love it!
+SV650Dude Great tyres aye...
+Moonfleet41 Use them on my zzr14. Great road tire at a good price.
+Shamen Kippin They are pretty popular for heavier bikes too...
I grease the wheel spindle/axle, wrong or right?
Neither, it doesn't really matter, the axle doesn't rotate. The bearings on the inside do. I just clean it really well and hit it with some WD40 to prevent rust before sliding it back in.
Hi Del, if I take the front tire off my Bonnie, do I have to realign it? Do you have a video for that?
Hi Lisa, No, if you are just taking the front wheel out, and not touching the bolts on the fork yokes... then they will stay put, no need for fork alignment...
Hi Lisa, No, if you are just taking the front wheel out, and not touching the bolts on the fork yokes... then they will stay put, no need for fork alignment...
Do I have to do the string alignment trick or do the spacers do all that? I giggle at the fact that I tried really hard to take the front fender off without taking the tire off. Didn't work. They make a lot of easy things hard sometimes. Haha
Thank you for the speedy response. I feel like you are truly a friend! Thank you for the confidence building skills!!
Hey no problem Lisa, happy to help.. just put the wheel back in with the spacers on the same order they came out..! Good luck with it.. Del
Thanks Del, I was thinking about pilot power s. have you any knowledge of them? hope you don't mind me asking how much did those pair cost you plus fitting?
+James McCreadie Hi James, yes mate, ive used Pilot 2's many times before, they are a really good combo of qualities... they grip in the dry and wet..and the last a long time too, i got 8k form a pair a couple of years ago on a heavy old Blackbird....so good for powerful bikes with a lot of grunt.. an i paid £225 fitted to loose rims from our local go to guy for MOT and tyres...!
+Moonfleet41 Thanks Del, I have a pair of Pilot 3's just now but they are totalled .. gone right off. Tread left like you say but the the bike feels weird. I was going to go for the original pilots not the 2, 3 or 4 I think they are called Power, I can get a pair for £142. My mechanic fits on loose wheels for, tyres bought from him. A pain having to get the wheels to him but saves a bit. I just don't know if the Power's are any good. You wouldn't happen to know?
+James McCreadie Not personally use them myself mate.....but the Pilot 2's are really good, last ages and grip like a sports bike tyre should... paid £225 for the pair of these..
Thanks Del for the advice, will get a quote off my mechanic.
Like the little crack at the previous "ROC" debate @ 2:03 . I see what you did there :-) Good to see that the a$$h0les didn't get to ye and ye are having a laugh at it.
On another note, I love the feeling of new tyres, the way it sweetens up the handling, it can be like a new bike on the ride back from the shop :-)
+Conor Casey Too right Conor, Penny says i mustn't do it, but i cant resist baiting the haters... so many people who ride bikes these days seem to be like caravaners in waiting... no sense of fun and overly righteous... fair game id say...lol
front wheel is 80NM
Isn't the rear wheel main nut 110NM on that bike
Manual says 120nm
yes, on a torque monster like this one, you really dont want to screw the nuts too loose.
I wonder If the Designer of this bike is/was a fan of the Film "War of the Worlds"(The original film)
+Tim Mason They are a bit futuristic aye...specially the 'Star Trek' back lights...
The three lights on the front look a bit like the martians when they walk into the basement.
+Tim Mason now you say it.....so they do..
thanks man..
What are those tyres ?
Didnt watch the video then?... its in the opening ten seconds buddy.!
lol bun fight!!!
Steering damper. Stops the bars shaking if you are too enthusiastic.
Don't spose you have a Clutch Push Rod Oil Seal video for this bike :/
Sadly no mate...
190 doesnt work well with these. Worsens handling and creates early flat spotting issues. Stick with 180 profile. Better clearance and the bike rolls better and handles more intuitively They are NOT twitcthy bikes if set up correctly and lowering rear end can have dramatically detrimental impacts at high speed and is NOT good advice. Raise the front one notch instead. This maintains better suspension use and geometry than lowering the back.
Suspension ought to be set by the book then altered a tiny bit at a time until for fast road riding you get the best and safest compromise between compliance and control.
Sorry but on this occassion as a long term owner of 3 rsvs and having raced and ridden them over many thousands of miles I consider your advice and opinions on set up quite technically flawed and lacking knowledge and experience. Ultimately if it works for you and your riding style thats all that matters for you but please consider the safety impact on others before recommending tyres and settings which can affect handling fundamentally changing what the manufacturer intended and reached conclusions on after extensive development is not a silid stand point.0
Aside from your personal annihilation of me, the factory tyre on the back is a 190 and I was returning the bike to that OEM standard, so I need to just clarify with all your apparent expertise, are you suggesting that the factory have made a mistake, and that their recommended choice of tyre is incorrect? It's a 6" wheel rim and usually a 180 would fit on a 5.5" rim, and above all else, I followed the advice of the tyre fitter I went to who prepares race bikes for a track day company... but perhaps you know otherwise?