I'm Still Alive

I do apologize for the time delay.

Things have been crazy lately, I'm hoping to start working full time (which in this economy is a true blessing), but I've also been dealing with final exams. I have one more to go!

Flying around between work and school has given me opportunities to really get used to my new Versys. It is a whole new animal, but it doesn't take much to master. I found out just how far I can lean into corners a few days ago when my foot peg scraped along the road....scared the crap out of me. I thought for sure something broke.

I like the fact that I can go around 200 miles on a full tank, double than my DRZ400. And it only costs $12 to fill up. I had to add some fuel treatment to my tank last night because of condensation. The Versys is fuel injected so there's no carburetor to clean. It is really annoying because I always get condensation in the tank. Same problem with the DRZ.  It's because Florida's weather is retarded and the temperature changes by 30 degrees every day during the Fall/Winter. I keep my bike in the garage, but when I'm out and about at night, it's exposed to the outside air and that's when it happens. I hate you, Florida.

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. It was 31 degrees Thanksgiving morning when I rode out to see my parents. Enjoyed every minute of it.

I don't have anymore classes until January, but I plan on working every day to maximize my hours.

Welcome home, Versys

After almost a week of delays and frustrations, I can finally say I was able to drive the Versys home last night! Of course today is non-stop rain (go figure), but at least the bike is home now.  

The good news? The bike is now home and I can drive it (weather permitting).

The bad news? My professors thought Thanksgiving is the best time to slam me with hundreds of review questions (literally), with 2 papers, 2 tests, 2 speeches, AND the final exams. 

So I won't be blogging or riding for the next week and a half. Thank you, SFC. 

-J

Versys Progress

Today was a good day.

My dad and I were able to mount the rear tire and adjust the chain length.  We were also able to remove the luggage rack from the rear.  I didn't have the bars that attach to the rear of the bike, but when I get the bike back home, I'll probably put them on.  But I think it is a good looking bike, especially without that big rack on the back.

The new clutch cable finally came in.  Paid for two day shipping, received it in 3 days...USPS. Government efficiency at its finest. Discovered why Kawasaki had troubles with clutch cables on the 2008 model.  It's because the cable placement was designed poorly.  Kawasaki had the cable bending at a 90 degree angle to fit into the brackets, this pinches the cable and causes it to break over time.  My dad re-routed the cable and eliminated that 90 degree angle.  What a night and day difference! 

I have the front tire in the back of the car and I'm going to take it to the Harley dealership to get it mounted on to the rim hopefully tomorrow or Tuesday.  Once that's done, and the tire is back on the bike, the Versys will be up to 100%.  I really cannot wait until I can really get a good feel for this bike.  Hopefully it will be good to go before Thanksgiving so I can ride it out to the family gathering.  

-J

Good Things Take Time

I haven't been able to hit the open road just yet.

I ordered a new set of Dunlop tires, clutch cable, and oil filter for the Versys.  These obviously take time (& special equipment for mounting new rubber on the rims) to do, so it has been difficult to get things done.  With the DRZ, my dad and I were able to change out the rubber by hand, but the Versys has larger tires, so it is pretty much impossible to do it manually.  Luckily, the local Harley dealership was able to mount the new rubber on the back rim, so hopefully some time this coming week I will be able to drop off the front tire and have it done as well.

I have also discovered that the 2008 Versys is/was notorious for problematic clutch cables, the stock cable tends to fray and break.  Based on how difficult this clutch is to operate, I think it is safe to say that it is the original.

Not all is lost, however.  I was able to change the oil and put on the new filter.  Hopefully the clutch cable won't be too difficult to replace, either.  That leaves me with the tires.  The tires will take the longest because that requires travel and wait time for Harley to mount the rubber.  One down, one to go.

Also, Gainesville no longer has a Kawasaki dealership, so that has become problematic, especially since the bike is approaching 14,000 miles and is soon due for a good mechanical inspection.  I do not have any idea what kind of maintenance the previous owner had done on this motorcycle, but as I find more and more "bugs" (i.e. stripped screws, over torqued bolts, loose shifter, missing cotter pins), I'm starting to think a complete idiot was working on this bike not knowing his ass from his elbow.  It is all minor things that don't cost much to fix, but they are all associated with vital parts of the bike.  Somewhat concerning.

Right now, the bike is at a good 80%, I will keep you all updated, and hopefully the bike will be up to 100% by the end of the week.  Stay tuned!

-J

Bigger Changes Than I Thought!

As I posted yesterday, my plan was to convert my DRZ400S into a Super Motard by changing out the tires, and adjusting suspension.  After doing more research and talking to good people, I came to the conclusion that an S-to-SM cross-over requires too much time and money, neither of which I have enough to invest.  My bike is a daily driver, I cannot afford to not have it.  The bike is just too beautiful as it is, changing it would only devalue it.

 

Two grand ladies. DRZ (left), Versys (right).

What ended up happening was something I really did not plan on.  I stumbled upon a 2008 Kawasaki Versys 650 at a local dealership.  The bike was in great condition, and I could not take my eyes off it! The previous owner took great care of it.  After a test drive, and a few hours throwing numbers around, I traded in my 2006 Suzuki DRZ400S and drove home on the Versys.  I was able to get a great deal on the bike, and got excellent trade in value on my DRZ.  I am certainly going to miss my DRZ, it was a gift from my dad and I love that bike very much.  However, bikes like that are meant to tear up the dirt and grass on the weekends, and I just couldn't do that anymore.  I wanted something light, but powerful and comfortable.  It took about a year, but I found a good replacement bike.  It even came with a removable storage box that attaches to the back!


Now with the Versys, I can take longer trips, feel more comfortable navigating the local highways and city streets, take my wife for a cruise, but still maintain the quickness and "snappyness" of a Dual Sport/Enduro.  I ordered a new set of tires, and a few other replacement parts.  I think I found a great motorcycle that will last me a long time.  I hope my DRZ goes to a good home with someone who will care for it like I did.

The last picture taken of me and the DRZ before I drove home on the Versys.

-J

BIG Changes Are Coming!

Hello readers! 

I do apologize for the lack of posting, the weather has been rainy for weeks & I haven't had time to do anything. I hope this weather isn't a preview of the upcoming winter!

As the title of this post states, big changes are indeed coming! The past 12 hours have been very exciting for me. 

For the past year, I've been researching how to convert a DRZ400S into a DRZ400SM. While it is possible, it can become very expensive. Because of that, I pretty much canned the idea. I don't go off road anymore, my DRZ is a daily driver in the city, and I love to cruise on the weekends. My bike is in such great condition that I couldn't fathom the thought of selling or trading it for an actual SM....they're the same bike anyway. 

So last night, my dad called me up and put me in contact with a guy a few hours away who wants to trade stock DRZ400S tires (18" rear & 21" front) for 17" SM Excel tires. He wants to surprise his son. No cash involved, a straight up trade! 

THIS. IS. A. GOLD. MINE. 

Tires & rims are what make this conversion so expensive. Also, Excel rims aren't stock, they are blacked out after market custom rims...beautiful. I really hope this exchange works out, we're both interested and it saves me HUNDREDS of dollars! 

Adjust the front forks, the suspension, cable lengths, & a few other minor things.  I am getting a custom seat that is wider and fits on the stock frame so I can further enjoy the ride. 

I've also wanted to change out body plastics to go all black, but that requires painting the tank...I know I'm getting WAY ahead of myself and investing all of my hopes and dreams on a "what if", but I'm so pumped!! I really hope I can get the SM tires, that will set everything else in motion. I can't focus on anything else. 

That's what it will look like (more or less) when the tires go on. 

The weather finally cleared up for today (it's supposed to rain again tomorrow), so I was able to take the bike to class. 

Have a good day!

-J

A Thousand Miles From Nowhere: Republic of Seychelles

The absolute most remote place I have ever visited is the Republic of Seychelles.  Seychelles is located on the East Coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean, 1,000 miles away from the next closest land mass.  A true gem in the Indian Ocean, and a "off the beaten path" tourism location for Europe, Africa, and Asia.

 

The best way I can describe Seychelles is to compare it to Hawaii (think Jurassic Park).  Large mountains and valleys enveloped in low hanging fog and mist. I had never heard of this nation until I set foot there.  The economy is largely based on tourism and fishing. The food had a very American and French influence, which allowed for a nice taste of home, but still maintained the exotic feel of a far away place.  My visit kept me in the capital island of Victoria for 4 days, and this allowed me to get a glimpse of what the future holds for Seychelles and what they strive for.  

The center of town had a really cool 4-way intersection with a clock in the middle.  Plenty of open air markets, store fronts, restaurants, and places of worship.

The main attraction for visitors to Victoria Island is the Berjaya Resort.  A very beautiful resort that has prime real estate on the coast.  Beautiful beaches, towering mountains, and unbeatable views.  Open bar(s), a pool, live music, all on the beach.  

The Indian Ocean is the warmest ocean I have ever swam in.  When I wasn't in the surf, I was kicking back on a beach chair with a local hand-rolled cigar, just taking in the sights and sounds of the beach.  A wedding took place and I really enjoyed watching that.  That resort beach is a great place to have a wedding.  I wouldn't mind renewing my vows there myself.  

  

 To end my last day on the island, I was blessed to see the most beautiful sunset I have ever seen before.  The clouds cleared out in the late afternoon, giving way to a stunning sunset.  I took about 10 pictures of this sunset, but this one is my favorite.  I would certainly return to Victoria Island, Seychelles.  More specifically, the Berjaya Resort.  It is certainly a costly venture, but one I would highly recommend if given the opportunity.

-J

Halloween Down Time

While most Americans my age are out having crazy Halloween parties with their college friends and fraternities, I decided October 31st was the best time to cook some steaks on the grill with an old high school friend.  We discussed the typical religion, politics, sports, local news, etc., and enjoyed cold beer and good food.  What I didn't take into account was the idiocy of Trick-Or-Treaters and their parents.  My friend and I were not in costumes, the exterior lights were off, and there were open containers of alcohol in plain sight.  Normally, that would indicate that a particular house is not participating in Halloween festivities for children.  Nothing against kids.  We were always polite towards kids that would walk up.  But if you are a parent walking your kids around the neighborhood and you notice a house with this kind of environment, use some common sense and don't send your kid to someone's garage asking for candy.  Use your head.

A cold front moved into North Central Florida on November 1st, so the weather has been very cloudy.  It finally cleared up late yesterday afternoon so I couldn't pass up the opportunity to take a few pictures of the DRZ.

-J

Cedar Key Sunday

Midnight Sunday morning (or Saturday night for the average person), I randomly became inspired to take a trip.  I spent two hours in the garage in preparation for an almost two hour drive to the Gulf Coast.  The weather was in the mid 40's, so a cold weather prep was a must.  If you aren't familiar with cold weather motorcycle preparation, read about it here! 

I woke up at 8:30 and was on the road by 9:45.  It was a balmy 47 degrees as I headed towards Cedar Key.  For those of you who aren't familiar, Cedar Key is not part of The Florida Keys or associated with Key West.  The Florida Keys are located in the Florida Straits, with Key West being 90 miles north of Cuba.  However, Cedar Key is located on the Florida Gulf Coast and is mostly a fishing and boating community.  There are restaurants and touristy shops.   

The drive down to the coast was great.  I passed by the grave of legendary blues artist Bo Diddley in the town of Bronson.  I knew he was buried nearby, but to casually turn my head and to see it at just the right moment was quite a treat.  Definitely owe plenty of American culture to men like B.B. King and Bo Diddley!

The last time I visited Cedar Key was prior to 2003.  I cannot remember exactly when, but my grandfather was still alive and I remember him patting a Pelican on the head. I'll never forget that.  Cedar Key is not the same as it used to be.  Tourism is the mainstay of the local economy, so when the economy tanked in 2007-2008, Cedar Key was hit hard.  Many of the restaurants closed as tourism declined.  

I had lunch at the Pickled Pelican restaurant.  I sat outside and had a great view of the Gulf of Mexico and the nearby islands.  The menu was great, as was the pricing.  I certainly recommend it!

 The area is really beautiful and, in my opinion, really epitomizes what the Florida coast is all about.  Shrubbery, coastal inlets, and beautifully flat terrain.

I ended up putting 156.8 miles on the bike.  The weather was incredible, as was the ride.  Very little traffic and I was able to average a speed of about 70mph.  If you live in the Sunshine State and haven't made a trip to Cedar Key, I do recommend it.  It is a fun day trip and there is a large pier to go fishing from.  The food, scenery, atmosphere, and the people are wonderful.  Unfortunately, I won't be able to spend as much time on the road in the future as I would like.  I recently was hired by Veteran's Affairs on top of being a college student.  I'm going to be busy, but it is for all the right reasons.  Stay safe out on the road, fellow riders! Happy Halloween!

-J

Abroad Life: The Traveling Gator: Classics for Men

Hey guys,

Are you wanting to invest in a wardrobe change, but you aren't sure what to go for?  Find out what women consider attractive, and distinguish yourself.  Don't dress like a boy, dress like a man.  Clink the link below and find out how to separate yourself from others.

Abroad Life: The Traveling Gator: Classics for Men

Stay Warm On Brisk Days

Today we experienced our coldest weather of this Fall season so far. The temperature fell to 48 degrees. For those of us who rely on a motorcycle as our main mode of transportation, falling temperatures are never something to look forward to.

I had to break out some warmer riding gear, and by "gear" I mean layers. I have a leather jacket, but really the only thing you can do in a pinch is bundle up. I'm an advocate of layering because it saves money. Why buy heavy riding gear if you don't have to! If you live up north, do whatever you must to stay warm. But in Florida, layering should suffice.

Guys, if your wife or girlfriend owns a pair of opaque tights, they work great! They are thick enough to keep your legs warm under your jeans (Hue makes great opaque nylon and wool tights & can be found at any department store). My wife has a pair of thick fleece-lined tights that I have under my jeans today. Thick enough to double as socks, so your feet don't sweat. They kept me warm on the bike, and are breathable enough that I'm not overheating while indoors. 

Now if you consider yourself a "manly man" and think that wearing tights is insulting to your manliness, then do what works for you. But don't knock it until you try it because it is a cheap and comfortable alternative to keep your legs warm on the road. 

Ladies, same applies. Wear some tights or leggings under your normal riding attire to keep you warm on those brisk days. 

-J

Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Located in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Spain, lies the Balearic Islands.  The island chain is comprised of Mallorca (or Majorca), Minorca, Ibiza, and Formentera.

Palma is the capital city of the province on the island of Mallorca.  The city was originally founded in 123 BC by the Roman Empire and was a major shipping port for Carthage and Hispania. Today, Palma de Mallorca is a huge tourist destination for mainland Europe, more specifically Germany, Ireland, Poland, Netherlands, & United Kingdom. Being a tourist destination, there are many cruise ships and ferry's that visit the island. In fact, the Costa Concordia was pierside during my visit.  Quite spooky, actually.  Not long after leaving Palma, the Costa Concordia tragically sank and took lives with her.

The largest visible structure from downtown Palma is the Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma.  A very beautiful Gothic Roman Catholic cathedral that was built between 1229-1601.  Renovation and restoration was between 1901-1914.

The city of Palma is very beautifully maintained.  Fall was also in the air, so the crisp, cool temperatures and clear blue sky really added to the magic of Palma de Mallorca.  I don't use the expression "magic" lightly.  I've been all around Europe Africa, and the Middle East, but Palma de Mallorca truly was magical.  I loved it!  I could not get over the wonderful people, the food, the Sangria (oh my God, the Sangria was life changing), and just the overall setting and vibe of the city.  I could live in Palma.  I'd love to live in Palma.

I had a great couple of days hanging with good friends, taking in the sights and sounds of Palma de Mallorca. I can see why this is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Europe.  Great beaches, great food, great night life, great culture, great history.  Palma de Mallorca is in my top 5 favorite places that I've visited. 

I'll end this post with a picture of me enjoying an amazing glass of Sangria and a good smoke, proudly representing Manchester United.  I'd revisit in a heartbeat.

-J

Fall Photoshoot

I've said it countless times so far this year, but Fall is my favorite time of year.  It is my favorite time to ride, and it is my favorite time to photograph.  I'm an amateur photographer at best, but the best thing about Fall is that the weather is so beautiful, nature cooperates with the camera almost by default.

Living in Florida, we don't have the wide variety of beautiful trees that explode colorful leaves every Fall, but we do have the Sycamore.  Sycamore's are the quintessential "Fall tree" for the Sunshine State.  When their leaves fall, I just want to stop what I'm doing and just take it all in.

The neighborhood I live in is a golf course community.  When the economy tanked, the course owner cut his losses and left.  The course has not been operational for many years, and it wasn't until the past year that landscapers started a monthly bush-hogging of the fairways.  No idea when the course will re-open, but in the meantime, the overgrowth allows for great photo opportunities.

Turkey Creek is also a beautiful natural water feature that courses through the neighborhood.  The way the light hits the water in late afternoon makes it difficult to pass up taking some pictures.  I wanted to drive down into the creek bed for some great shots, but I did not want the attention that came with an entire family that lives next to the creek.  They all happened to be outside and wouldn't stop starting at me.  People in this neighborhood have become very rude and nosy.  The last thing I want is for someone to call the Golf Cart Police (Homeowner's Association), even though I wouldn't be doing anything wrong.  Just isn't worth it.

Perhaps I'll get window that gives me a chance to spend more time in the creek bed.  Only time will tell.

-J