Notes for the new owner

I hope these will be helpful.

  • I try to run 30 psi in the bike tires, and 20 psi in the sidecar tire. The sidecar tire should be inflated more for loads -- 20 psi is the "mostly empty" pressure.

  • Use the short black strap on the handlebars around the front brake lever, as a parking brake. Cheap but effective.

  • Be aware that the starter will happily spin the motor even with the kill switch set to OFF.

  • The main (under-seat) gas tank holds 4.85 gallons according to Honda, and the aux (side case) tank holds 5.0 according to the pump. I usually refill by the fuel gauge, but there are still several gallons left when it reads empty.

  • Be aware that the key can be pulled out when the ignition is ON.

  • Remember to turn the key all the way to OFF (and not one click, to AUX). I think all the battery-draining stuff switched with AUX is in the absent fairing, but I'm not sure.

  • The power outlet (which takes this kind of plug) in front of your right knee is wired directly to the battery through a 10A fuse. It is NOT switched, thus is suitable for charging the battery, or leaving you stranded if you leave something plugged in. (Compression starting the bike is technically possible, but really not fun.)

  • There's a seatbelt tucked under the sidecar seat. It's enough to remind a small passenger to stay seated, but probably shouldn't be counted on for much in the way of protection.

  • Check the engine oil every so often (dipstick comes out in front of the left-hand cylinders; there's a sight window on the right-hand side, but you have to stand on your head with a flashlight to see it). At this age, the engine seems to burn a little bit of oil.

  • The Mad Max headlights take an H9 bulb. Be aware that the high beam is blindingly bright to oncoming motorists at night.

  • Stick with 10W40 oil. 15W50 caused the starter clutch to stick in the disengaged position, particularly when cold or with infrequent use.

  • The speedometer reads about 13% high. About 68 indicated is 60 MPH.

  • In order to decrease steering effort, you can swap the front suspension's pivot point (unbolt, move forward, rebolt, use loctite). This makes a surprisingly noticeable difference, handle the rig with care if you try it out. Beware of stretching the brake hoses, they're just barely long enough.

  • There's a small brass elbow-joint thing in the trunk. Use it on the tires (particularly the front tire) to make checking pressure and adding air easier.

  • If you have to take the front wheel off for any reason, pay strict attention to the order and orientation of all the parts and spacers. The wheel will bind if they go together wrong.


Copyright © 2009. Created by Ian Johnston. Questions? Please mail me at reaper at obairlann dot net.