I took it off the moment I got the bike. But I need it on so I can service the chain whilst on my Europe trip. It's not essential but it will make life much easier. However, I remember there being a problem with its not sitting right. Anyone got any ideas why it's so close or not lined up properly? View attachment 33360
I've had a 2011 and now have a 2013. Neither have lined up much better than yours and the rubber tends to deteriorate rapidly with the heat. I put a bolt through the hole in the CAT with a couple of large washers to give a bit more support and clearance. They have bent with the slamming action of the retracting stand but help a little.
That's not a bad idea... I could put a large top bolt with a nut either side. With the plate in the middle. I was thinking, is it going to be possible to move the exhaust much?
Exactly - had the same problem on 2010 & 2013 models. Also put screw and washers thru' the hole in the cat & change the rubbers regularly. Still get a horrible clank when taking the bike off the main stand. Even had paint worn off the stand where it rubs on the cat. Poor detail design, good job the important stuff works really well
I just pull/tip my bike up onto the side stand, in neutral and get a mate to spin the wheel and spray the chain - Adjustment is done on the side stand anyway, although the centre stand would be a lot more convenient for oiling, I must admit.
How many miles are you likely to do? Surely one decent clean and oil before you set off will suffice won't it? Or are you going for 1000's of miles?
I was thinking the same as you Mr. R you can adjust it with side stand, and tbh if you adjust it right before you go, and assuming the chain is in good condition before you go doubt it will need adjusting again till you get back. Mine has only needed adjusting once in 4.5k miles and that was quite early on I guess where a new chain was settling down. Unless of course you are covering every country in Europe a few times over
Yea, as I said it just makes the job easier. I can do it on the side stand alone. Worst case. Move the bike forward bit by bit lol. I'll be doing just over 3,000. Probably lube the chain every few days. It's wax so it won't dry up any time soon. As for adjusting, yea, side stand is good. I normally do it on the paddock stand. The chain is brand new. Only a couple hundred miles on it. So I imagine it will get a little slack at some point.
