oil update

[mule2b@aol.com]

I finally got around to mounting one of Tim's adapter plates to The Mule last week and did some riding with a Givi E460. First-off, I have to say that the plate is a really nice piece of work. Materials, paint, thickness, and ease of installation exudes quality. It leaves plenty of room for riding two-up as Tim pointed out to me. There are a few points to consider, though: 1) I opted for the rear light Givi E460 only to find there is no hole drilled into the custom plate for the necessary electrical socket. After realizing that the plate is aluminum, drilling your own isn't much of a problem (thanx, Todd), although it would be nice to have the option of getting these pre-drilled from Tim. 2) The two bolts holding the lock-clamp onto the plate are easily accessed standard hex-headed bolts, which makes me skeptical about leaving the case locked to the plate on NYC streets this way. I'm gonna find me some non-removeable replacements. Again, this would be a nice improvement to incorporate in future product. 3) Lastly, the case doesn't make a snug fit to the plate, resulting in some rattling from the thumper's vibration. I guess I'll try a strip of thin, dense foam to cushion that. Beside these little quibbles, I'm really glad to have this set-up now. It comes in very handy, as I s'pose I'm getting spoiled now............. Steve "The Mule" A14

[Joe]

I use Honda GN4 in the KLR and 3 other Hondas. Works for me. Have never missed a shift on my A13 even when my foot slips off the shifter and ends up a "prissy poke" instead of a "solid snick"! Don't know if the oil has anything to do with it. I don't understand the big deal with oil...we nitpick to extreem on this subject yet who among us operates the bike in a manner that will contribute more to long life then this or that oil? I doubt there are many among us who drive like the proverbial little old lady. I bought the KLR to have fun...that includes letting it sing from time to time...if I'm wearing it out at a faster rate because of this that's OK with me. Joe NW Pa. A13