Getting a '99 RSV - need some advice please

[robbitybob]

Hey Guys – Great Site!

 

I’ll be leaving Sunday, after church, for 6 days of family vacation. Then I fly to TX to pick up my new (to me) ’99 RSV. This bike is known to me. I used it for in exchange for performing the maintenance on it 4 years ago when I was between bikes. (The friend that I am buying it from has ridden it regularly but only short distances since then. He has only put about 1200 miles per year since he moved to TX).

 

Since that summer 4 years ago I have ridden about 25K miles – about 10K on a 1500 Goldwing then about 15k on a Ultra Classic.

What do I need to “watch-out” for as I get used to the RSV on my 1400 mile ride home? (My friend is taking it to the Yamaha shop for a once over so I am not concerned about the mechanicals). I am thinking about some of what I have read on the site. Is the stock handlebar position going to kill my shoulders after being used to the Ultra? Are the rear brakes “that” touchy”? Maybe I’m getting old and forgetful but I don’t remember anything that kind of stuck out at me about the bike other than it made me smile to ride it!

 

Thanks for all of your help

[Condor]

Hey Guys – Great Site!

 

I’ll be leaving Sunday, after church, for 6 days of family vacation. Then I fly to TX to pick up my new (to me) ’99 RSV. This bike is known to me. I used it for in exchange for performing the maintenance on it 4 years ago when I was between bikes. (The friend that I am buying it from has ridden it regularly but only short distances since then. He has only put about 1200 miles per year since he moved to TX).

 

Since that summer 4 years ago I have ridden about 25K miles – about 10K on a 1500 Goldwing then about 15k on a Ultra Classic.

What do I need to “watch-out” for as I get used to the RSV on my 1400 mile ride home? (My friend is taking it to the Yamaha shop for a once over so I am not concerned about the mechanicals). I am thinking about some of what I have read on the site. Is the stock handlebar position going to kill my shoulders after being used to the Ultra? Are the rear brakes “that” touchy”? Maybe I’m getting old and forgetful but I don’t remember anything that kind of stuck out at me about the bike other than it made me smile to ride it!

 

Thanks for all of your help

 

Sounds like you already have a leg up over any one else buying a used bike in that you're already familiar with the it. If you didn't experience any glaring problems in the past, go ahead, hop on and ride it home....

[Venturous Randy]

Before you leave, check your tire pressures and get a can of Plexus and some soft cotton rags.

RandyA

[yamahamer]

As far as the shoulder pain if you start to feal it set your cruise and hold the bar weights and make sure your elbows are bent. Locked elbow is the main cause of this pain.Enjoy your ride and have a safe trip.

[robbitybob]

Before you leave, check your tire pressures and get a can of Plexus and some soft cotton rags.

RandyA

 

Thanks Randy. A 32lb box of gear is already on the way down to my friends including Plexsus, a microfiber cloth for the windshield, and my digital tire pressure guage.

[gibvel]

I don't think the brakes are all THAT touchy. If you're used to keeping your heel on the floorboard when you stop then you, probably, won't have a problem with the rear brake.

[robbitybob]

I don't think the brakes are all THAT touchy. If you're used to keeping your heel on the floorboard when you stop then you, probably, won't have a problem with the rear brake.

 

Yup, I don't lean on 'em just use 'em. But I was concerned after reading one of the posts about a guy that hopped on a RSTD (I think it was) and high sided because of the rear brake. It was in a thread about the integrated system some have installed.

[V7Goose]

You don't say where in Texas you are picking it up, but I know you are heading north. If you want to stop by my place not far from the DFW airport we can give it a quick once-over and chat about riding over a beer or coffee. Heck, I might even make a run with ya to the border! Enjoy your new bike (and make sure it has good tires on it!),

Goose

[Mariner Fan]

I don't think the brakes are all THAT touchy. If you're used to keeping your heel on the floorboard when you stop then you, probably, won't have a problem with the rear brake.

 

I think you nailed it. I believe the folks that have had troubles with the rear brake were lifting their foot off the floorboard. It's been discussed in a couple of threads.

[V7Goose]

I think you nailed it. I believe the folks that have had troubles with the rear brake were lifting their foot off the floorboard. It's been discussed in a couple of threads.

Yeah, the brakes are not touchy at all in normal use IMHO - but the first time you get in an emergency situation and instinctively move for a quick stop it is pretty easy to lock the rear up. Because of this, I do suggest spending a lot of time playing with the rear brake and practicing semi-panic stops when you first get one of these machines. You need to be familiar with them to be safe in a dangerous situation.

Goose

[robbitybob]

Yeah, the brakes are not touchy at all in normal use IMHO - but the first time you get in an emergency situation and instinctively move for a quick stop it is pretty easy to lock the rear up. Because of this, I do suggest spending a lot of time playing with the rear brake and practicing semi-panic stops when you first get one of these machines. You need to be familiar with them to be safe in a dangerous situation.

Goose

 

Yup Goose, I will do just that. There are a few things that I will have to think about and not just do as if I am on my Ultra. The turn signal switch is different for one thing so I will just have to take the time to re-learn the bike. Been riding since around 1970 but as a creature of habit new bike controls and such will be a challenge. I am looking forward to it though.

 

By the way I will be coming from McAllen, but I am staying with someone in Houston as I exit the HUGE state of Texas. (I just never realized that big could be so BIG!) Thanks for the offer of the meet though.

[Silver Bullet]

Bob after you get it checked out- jump on that raskel and ride it like you stole it.. and if you come theough amarillo tx. come on by and have what ever you would have to cool you off. tea or a cool one or water or some shade for a while..

 

jack

[jneed53]

I bought my 2000 RSV in Indiana and made the trip in reverse to Texas. Gave it a quick test ride and headed home the next day. No regrets or problems. Where are you picking up the scoot? I could join you and Goose for a run for the border.

[skidrow]

Too bad ur not doing this labor day weekend. My wife and i will be going to indy on ours from houston. What day will you pass thru houston?

[robbitybob]

Too bad ur not doing this labor day weekend. My wife and i will be going to indy on ours from houston. What day will you pass thru houston?

 

I'll be running through Houston on Sunday evening 8/3. Won't be leaving McAllen 'til after church. Then stopping by a friend's for a dinner and a few winks and then up before dawn to head north.

 

Thanks to everyone that has offered a cold drink or advice. I'll be in a hurry to get back so I won't have time to take anyone up on their ride offers.

 

I just want to say - I have read on this site for some time and I am struck by how nice most all are - even to folk that might in some ways appear rude. i am grateful for all that I have learned and hope to be able to return the blessing.

[pegscraper]

Too bad you wouldn't have it by this weekend. You're just a hop, skip and jump from Columbus, where some of us are meeting for a ride this weekend. Actually just a hop. For that matter, show up on your Harley. Hey, we'll let in a foreign bike.

[robbitybob]

Too bad you wouldn't have it by this weekend. You're just a hop, skip and jump from Columbus, where some of us are meeting for a ride this weekend. Actually just a hop. For that matter, show up on your Harley. Hey, we'll let in a foreign bike.

 

Sorry Pegscraper maybe some other time!