Single Digits

We're almost there, people. Almost. 10 days to go. Almost entering that dreaded phase of getting the bike ready for the Distinguished Gentleman's Charity Ride;

the single number of days remaining.

I've got my upcoming trip to see my new grandson and also my sister, which is long overdue. So I've been a little bit distracted by both the trip, and the juggling of financials and days to see if it can be done.

So, can it be done?

Well, perhaps an honest assessment of what's left to do is a good thing to do. So, lets...

Actually, perhaps a better way is this- what must be done to do it? What can wait shall not be included in this list. So, things that are not necessary for the mechanical ability of a motorcycle to stop and go and turn. That's pretty much it. Oh, and not kill me. That part is a requirement, too.

Adjustments not withstanding, of course, here's the go-go list:

Electrical:

I can utilize the previous rat maze of a wiring harness, for now. Connect what I'm using and just tie off what I'm not. I'd love the M-Unit and may go that route eventually since it's the long term solution. But for now, I can make do with the stock harness. And probably not venture too far from home... :)

This scenario means no brake light or turn signals and maybe no headlight either. Turn signals are not a legal requirement, and I can hand signal with the best of them. Brake light isn't ideal at all, so may try and figure that part out.

So, need to buy a $200 battery, a $40 charger and a $5 cord to charge it once mounted in the bike. $245. Big number. Get a plan...

Mechanical:

Adjust the rear brake levers to get the right height. Ensure activation is solid.

Front brakes are functioning but not ideal. Lots of rubbing on the front tire, which I will assume will solve itself out with movement and a little bit of wear. Sometimes things tend to do that- just work themselves into the position they need to be in to work right. Hoping this is the case.

Clutch lever and cable need tightening and adjusting. Not a big deal here.

Adjust the choke cable. Technically the stock one is too long like most of the other ones. Not a huge deal, can likely just route it the long way around and should be fine for now.

Forks are a question mark. Sure, they are OK, but seems pre-load is way off and the rebound isn't great at all. Something's not right, but likely will function with the prerequisite of not killing me.

Fluids:

Everything is replaced. Rear final drive oiled. Oil changed (will be topped off once I get it running). I may look into the fluids in the forks if can be done without disassembly of everything. If not, it can wait.

Fuel needs to be added to the tank. Ready for this part now; tank is solid and good to go. Just no point in not buying the fuel once I'm ready to use it.

$12

So, the list for right now getting her running- about 260 bux give or take. That could get me to the church on time. I think. I've got a helmet, gloves, jacket... though since the riding attire for this charity ride is a lot different, I may have to visit a Goodwill store or two and see if I can locate some tweed and bow ties.

And maybe a fake handlebar mustache, while I'm at it.