Hey friends,
It's been quite a long time since I've last posted. I'm writing this from Copenhagen which is pretty cool. Back in March I had the pleasure of booking a motorcycle trip around New Zealand. I'm about 2 weeks out from flying down there so just wanted to post that I'm definitely going to write about this soon. I probably won't post until I get back though since I'm not taking my laptop with me. Kind of hard to take a laptop when I don't have any luggage space for it! I'm renting a BMW F800GT so I'll write about that experience too.
On a side note, I'm moving to Chicago soon and am considering buying a Ducati Panigale (1299 maybe?) or a BMW S1000RR. Haven't decided which one yet so I'm going to explore first. Both seem amazing! Either that or I'll buy a cheap track bike and a standard bike like a monster. We shall see!
Pandabear
Friday, December 1, 2017
Friday, April 14, 2017
Long time no talk!
Hey Friends!
Haven't been riding much lately since I'm in graduate school. I did pull the bike out of the garage though and had it down in DC for a week when my car was in the shop. I got my first parking ticket when I parked in front of my school building (it's ok for scooters to park there but not sportbikes!).
Riding back home on I-95 I also got flipped off by a lady who was a left lane hog. I politely waved at her to move to the lane to the right and she wasn't having it! Just to reiterate, it's against the law to cruise in the left lane...pass left, keep right!!! This needs to be a huge concept taught for drivers. Probably part of the reason Americans are so bad at driving and why our roads are so unnecessarily congested. If someone approaches from behind, MOVE RIGHT!!!
Anyways, I've booked a trip to New Zealand for this coming December. Should be an amazing trip and I will definitely post pictures.
Finally, I bought a pair of Alpinestars GP Tech gloves in white/black. They are phenomenally comfortable with pretty much no break in period necessary. The only gripe right now is the left hand slight pinching between my ring finger and middle finger. I'm playing with the velcro straps to see if I can get rid of it. Will let you know when I figure it out, but otherwise, an amazing glove that I got on close out for $230!!! Separate gripe, they have a nice plastic wrist slider strap but due to it, it causes the glove to roll over to the back of the hand when placed on the counter. This causes the glove to roll and potentially fall off your bike if you put it down the wrong way. Easy way to get scuffs, but also, not a huge deal!
Keep in touch,
Pandabear
Haven't been riding much lately since I'm in graduate school. I did pull the bike out of the garage though and had it down in DC for a week when my car was in the shop. I got my first parking ticket when I parked in front of my school building (it's ok for scooters to park there but not sportbikes!).
Riding back home on I-95 I also got flipped off by a lady who was a left lane hog. I politely waved at her to move to the lane to the right and she wasn't having it! Just to reiterate, it's against the law to cruise in the left lane...pass left, keep right!!! This needs to be a huge concept taught for drivers. Probably part of the reason Americans are so bad at driving and why our roads are so unnecessarily congested. If someone approaches from behind, MOVE RIGHT!!!
Anyways, I've booked a trip to New Zealand for this coming December. Should be an amazing trip and I will definitely post pictures.
Finally, I bought a pair of Alpinestars GP Tech gloves in white/black. They are phenomenally comfortable with pretty much no break in period necessary. The only gripe right now is the left hand slight pinching between my ring finger and middle finger. I'm playing with the velcro straps to see if I can get rid of it. Will let you know when I figure it out, but otherwise, an amazing glove that I got on close out for $230!!! Separate gripe, they have a nice plastic wrist slider strap but due to it, it causes the glove to roll over to the back of the hand when placed on the counter. This causes the glove to roll and potentially fall off your bike if you put it down the wrong way. Easy way to get scuffs, but also, not a huge deal!
Keep in touch,
Pandabear
Thursday, June 9, 2016
Moar trackdays!
Hello again,
I said I was more or less done with riding for now, but it seems that was mostly for street riding! After getting a bit hooked on the track, I ended up going for two more track days!!
I've learned quite a lot in three track days from being coached and sitting in on classroom sessions (and putting concepts into practice). I've picked up my pace, and I feel more comfortable going through turns quickly. I can 150% say that I've become a better rider in a short period of time. I can't say street riding would ever provide that boost so quickly.
After my first track day, I picked up on the racing line, and practiced being smooth throughout the corners. On day two, I worked on my body positioning, including anchoring better under braking and transitioning into leaning off. On day three I picked up my pace and got a better handle on how hard I can brake in straight lines, in corners, how much gas I can apply while leaned fully over, and in general, how my bike handles. Comfort level with my bike? Hopped on a rocket and went through the roof!
In general, I feel much more attuned to my bike's feel and feedback, and how my inputs affect my riding. Enjoying a nice cool down rain shower on day 2 allowed me to test my resolve on a partially wet track. I had no issues except for a small slide going over a puddle on a left hand turn. My relatively new Pirelli Rosso Corsa's did the job and sorted out the issue, though I think a rain tire (for racing) would have been much better. Street tires seem to be a bit of a compromise and while the are definitely better than race slicks, they aren't 100% fool proof...still have to use common sense and some caution!!
Body position needs some work. While I was close to touching down and dragging knee (even as a short rider!), I don't think I extended my leg far enough outwards. Regardless, speed and skill is more important than dragging knee, it's not a goal but a by product. I am still thrilled by my improvement and that's what counts!
I may have to book one more before I leave for school...more to come!
- Pandabear
I said I was more or less done with riding for now, but it seems that was mostly for street riding! After getting a bit hooked on the track, I ended up going for two more track days!!
I've learned quite a lot in three track days from being coached and sitting in on classroom sessions (and putting concepts into practice). I've picked up my pace, and I feel more comfortable going through turns quickly. I can 150% say that I've become a better rider in a short period of time. I can't say street riding would ever provide that boost so quickly.
 |
| Why yes, that is indeed my new Bell Star Carbon RSD helmet! |
After my first track day, I picked up on the racing line, and practiced being smooth throughout the corners. On day two, I worked on my body positioning, including anchoring better under braking and transitioning into leaning off. On day three I picked up my pace and got a better handle on how hard I can brake in straight lines, in corners, how much gas I can apply while leaned fully over, and in general, how my bike handles. Comfort level with my bike? Hopped on a rocket and went through the roof!
In general, I feel much more attuned to my bike's feel and feedback, and how my inputs affect my riding. Enjoying a nice cool down rain shower on day 2 allowed me to test my resolve on a partially wet track. I had no issues except for a small slide going over a puddle on a left hand turn. My relatively new Pirelli Rosso Corsa's did the job and sorted out the issue, though I think a rain tire (for racing) would have been much better. Street tires seem to be a bit of a compromise and while the are definitely better than race slicks, they aren't 100% fool proof...still have to use common sense and some caution!!
Body position needs some work. While I was close to touching down and dragging knee (even as a short rider!), I don't think I extended my leg far enough outwards. Regardless, speed and skill is more important than dragging knee, it's not a goal but a by product. I am still thrilled by my improvement and that's what counts!
I may have to book one more before I leave for school...more to come!
- Pandabear
Monday, May 9, 2016
My first trackday!
Hello friends,
I had my first trackday on April 24th! I had been wanting to do it for a long time now and was always kind of a chicken. I had a lot of doubts about doing it or going alone but after realizing you can't rely on others to go with you, I just said eff it and went! So here are things I'd like to share from my experience.. it's a long post, but I'll try to be as helpful as possible!
Prep... wear a race suit, 1 or 2 piece leathers. Wear race boots, race gloves, and have a back protector. For my organization (Absolute Cycle Experience), 80% tire tread and 80% brake pad life. The rest, just make sure things were tight on the bike. I myself swapped all pads, got Pirelli Rosso Corsa's, and I'm glad I did because you want STICKY TIRES! Tech inspection was straightforward, they eyeballed tires and brakes and then hand checked pegs and such to make sure they were secure. Cake.
At the track itself, I dropped tire pressure...front from 36 to 31 and rear from 42 to 32. Street tire pressures do NOT belong on the track, you need GRIP. Next time I'll do 30/30. This was reiterated at the riding school, as one of the first things mentioned. I'll get to the school in a bit.
So let's get to the important part, my experience! I rode to the track (was the minority). If you are worried about crashing on a trackday, then don't crash! Ride at a comfortable pace and take it slow. I rode at a pace a bit faster than on the street, but it was within my comfort zone and I took my time getting there. Everyone I talked to said the same thing... take it easy and let your tires warm up as well as the track surface itself. Gradually increase your pace, don't go guns blazing. Unlike cars, as you know, motorcycle riding is way more in-depth and traction is EVERYTHING. There were numerous crashes from people going too hard too soon as well as riding beyond their skill level. Several people got taken away in ambulances. Just don't...and you will be fine!!
I was nervous upon arrival. I felt like people were looking at me and judging me...but they weren't. They are there to have fun and improve themselves too. Once I started talking to people, everyone seemed way cool and very helpful. I met a really nice family and they offered me food, drinks, and let me use some of their equipment. I also made a good friend and we are arranging for another track weekend together! Really, as the org said, just check your ego at the door. Go in with a clear mind and you'll have a blast.
I asked where the tech location was and some guy guided me over there. I started chatting with some people and they put me at ease, quickly. The staff was very helpful and pointed me in the right direction. I sailed through tech and attended the riders meeting. Then I was guided over to the intro school where some control riders were teaching newbies like me.
The program was really great. They take you immediately into the class where they teach you about racing lines and what to do/not to do. They give you a bit of information, and then they take you out in a group in a follow the leader format. Really easy and as long as you follow them, you learn and have a great time. Then you go back into the class and learn some more info and talk about things you can improve on. Rinse and repeat. Each time out, they increase the speeds. Biggest thing there is that they set you up for the corner speeds from the beginning. After that, it's simply increasing speeds on the straights and introducing some braking before the turns. Also, they tell you to NEVER look behind you, no matter what. Your line is everything and looking behind is a quick way to crash or cause a crash. Focus on what you are doing and don't try to compete, it's not a race.
I spent the day trying to be smooth on the brakes and throttle and managed to keep a nice pace. The first couple sessions I was with the class. The last two sessions, we were set off on our own, and I stepped up my pace to what I was comfortably having fun with. On a few turns, I started feeling uncomfortable and knew I was off the throttle coasting, going too fast for my skill, and beginning to overload the front (recipe for a low side crash) so I slowed my pace. While it's fun having your face about a foot above the pavement, I knew I was getting tired and so I kept myself in check. Knowing your limits will keep you off the pavement.
So all in all, I had an absolute blast. All my prior fears are gone and now I am hooked on the track. I've got two more days booked before I have to head to grad school, and I'm stoked!! After riding on the street a few times afterwards, it's just not as enjoyable due to cars, speed limits, debris, and the constant peril of significant injury/death from hitting things like guard rails, trees, rocks, etc. I'm so glad I took the plunge and went to the track, and I hope this helps you make up your mind to go as well. As a first timer I can easily say, it's not as scary as it seems to get there, and there are tons of people ready to help you if you reach out to them and ask. So stop making excuses and pull the trigger, I can guarantee you, you won't regret it!!!
All the best,
- Pandabear
I had my first trackday on April 24th! I had been wanting to do it for a long time now and was always kind of a chicken. I had a lot of doubts about doing it or going alone but after realizing you can't rely on others to go with you, I just said eff it and went! So here are things I'd like to share from my experience.. it's a long post, but I'll try to be as helpful as possible!
Prep... wear a race suit, 1 or 2 piece leathers. Wear race boots, race gloves, and have a back protector. For my organization (Absolute Cycle Experience), 80% tire tread and 80% brake pad life. The rest, just make sure things were tight on the bike. I myself swapped all pads, got Pirelli Rosso Corsa's, and I'm glad I did because you want STICKY TIRES! Tech inspection was straightforward, they eyeballed tires and brakes and then hand checked pegs and such to make sure they were secure. Cake.
At the track itself, I dropped tire pressure...front from 36 to 31 and rear from 42 to 32. Street tire pressures do NOT belong on the track, you need GRIP. Next time I'll do 30/30. This was reiterated at the riding school, as one of the first things mentioned. I'll get to the school in a bit.
So let's get to the important part, my experience! I rode to the track (was the minority). If you are worried about crashing on a trackday, then don't crash! Ride at a comfortable pace and take it slow. I rode at a pace a bit faster than on the street, but it was within my comfort zone and I took my time getting there. Everyone I talked to said the same thing... take it easy and let your tires warm up as well as the track surface itself. Gradually increase your pace, don't go guns blazing. Unlike cars, as you know, motorcycle riding is way more in-depth and traction is EVERYTHING. There were numerous crashes from people going too hard too soon as well as riding beyond their skill level. Several people got taken away in ambulances. Just don't...and you will be fine!!
I was nervous upon arrival. I felt like people were looking at me and judging me...but they weren't. They are there to have fun and improve themselves too. Once I started talking to people, everyone seemed way cool and very helpful. I met a really nice family and they offered me food, drinks, and let me use some of their equipment. I also made a good friend and we are arranging for another track weekend together! Really, as the org said, just check your ego at the door. Go in with a clear mind and you'll have a blast.
I asked where the tech location was and some guy guided me over there. I started chatting with some people and they put me at ease, quickly. The staff was very helpful and pointed me in the right direction. I sailed through tech and attended the riders meeting. Then I was guided over to the intro school where some control riders were teaching newbies like me.
The program was really great. They take you immediately into the class where they teach you about racing lines and what to do/not to do. They give you a bit of information, and then they take you out in a group in a follow the leader format. Really easy and as long as you follow them, you learn and have a great time. Then you go back into the class and learn some more info and talk about things you can improve on. Rinse and repeat. Each time out, they increase the speeds. Biggest thing there is that they set you up for the corner speeds from the beginning. After that, it's simply increasing speeds on the straights and introducing some braking before the turns. Also, they tell you to NEVER look behind you, no matter what. Your line is everything and looking behind is a quick way to crash or cause a crash. Focus on what you are doing and don't try to compete, it's not a race.
I spent the day trying to be smooth on the brakes and throttle and managed to keep a nice pace. The first couple sessions I was with the class. The last two sessions, we were set off on our own, and I stepped up my pace to what I was comfortably having fun with. On a few turns, I started feeling uncomfortable and knew I was off the throttle coasting, going too fast for my skill, and beginning to overload the front (recipe for a low side crash) so I slowed my pace. While it's fun having your face about a foot above the pavement, I knew I was getting tired and so I kept myself in check. Knowing your limits will keep you off the pavement.
So all in all, I had an absolute blast. All my prior fears are gone and now I am hooked on the track. I've got two more days booked before I have to head to grad school, and I'm stoked!! After riding on the street a few times afterwards, it's just not as enjoyable due to cars, speed limits, debris, and the constant peril of significant injury/death from hitting things like guard rails, trees, rocks, etc. I'm so glad I took the plunge and went to the track, and I hope this helps you make up your mind to go as well. As a first timer I can easily say, it's not as scary as it seems to get there, and there are tons of people ready to help you if you reach out to them and ask. So stop making excuses and pull the trigger, I can guarantee you, you won't regret it!!!
All the best,
- Pandabear
Wednesday, December 30, 2015
Temporary Goodbye?
Hello Friends,
I still want to try to finish a few posts from a while back, including a helmet review. I've been tremendously busy the last several weeks with other life matters (all good things, don't worry!) and while I will have a tad bit more free time now, I still have much to do.
I do want to go ahead and say that I will be taking a temporary break from blogging as well as riding. I will be selling my beloved ZX-6R sometime in spring as I will be heading off to graduate school for two years. If anyone wants to buy it let me know.....
I won't be posting much, if at all, during school, however, I do plan on buying a bike after I graduate! Perhaps another 600cc or maybe my dream bike, the BMW S1000RR! We will see. But for now, I hope everyone has enjoyed reading, and hopefully I can give you guys a few more fun posts before my hiatus.
Stay tuned
- Pandabear
I still want to try to finish a few posts from a while back, including a helmet review. I've been tremendously busy the last several weeks with other life matters (all good things, don't worry!) and while I will have a tad bit more free time now, I still have much to do.
I do want to go ahead and say that I will be taking a temporary break from blogging as well as riding. I will be selling my beloved ZX-6R sometime in spring as I will be heading off to graduate school for two years. If anyone wants to buy it let me know.....
I won't be posting much, if at all, during school, however, I do plan on buying a bike after I graduate! Perhaps another 600cc or maybe my dream bike, the BMW S1000RR! We will see. But for now, I hope everyone has enjoyed reading, and hopefully I can give you guys a few more fun posts before my hiatus.
Stay tuned
- Pandabear
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
Follow-up to the Vulture Impact
Hey friends,
Wanted to post a quick follow-up to the previous post. While my Arai helmet certainly saved me from much worse injury, I have been feeling pretty poorly since the impact. Today I was quite dizzy at work, and finally went to the doctor. I was told that I have a concussion, based on the symptoms that I'm exhibiting.
So I guess I wanted to make it clear that while helmets are extremely important, they aren't 100% guaranteed to protect from impacts. I want to reiterate though, ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET!
And of course this is my opinion (and I stick by it) and you may disagree, but...full-face helmet or don't ride! I won't ride in any other type of helmet, period. Dot or not, those half helmets and such are useless IMO.
Anyways, stay safe everyone. I'll be getting a new helmet this weekend, maybe a Bell Star if it fits well. We shall see!
- Pandabear
Wanted to post a quick follow-up to the previous post. While my Arai helmet certainly saved me from much worse injury, I have been feeling pretty poorly since the impact. Today I was quite dizzy at work, and finally went to the doctor. I was told that I have a concussion, based on the symptoms that I'm exhibiting.
So I guess I wanted to make it clear that while helmets are extremely important, they aren't 100% guaranteed to protect from impacts. I want to reiterate though, ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET!
And of course this is my opinion (and I stick by it) and you may disagree, but...full-face helmet or don't ride! I won't ride in any other type of helmet, period. Dot or not, those half helmets and such are useless IMO.
Anyways, stay safe everyone. I'll be getting a new helmet this weekend, maybe a Bell Star if it fits well. We shall see!
- Pandabear
Monday, August 10, 2015
Arai Vector 2 Crash Test
Hey friends,
Well, ok, not really a crash (fortunately!), but I hit a massive bird today on the way home. I'm pretty sure it was a vulture. I was coming around a bend at about 45mph and I saw this big bird sitting on the side of the road. The whole thing happened in a few seconds, I saw it, I started squeezing the brakes, I thought it was going to fly up into my face, it did, and BAM! Felt like getting hit by a brick. The darn thing ricocheted off my headlights and windscreen (nasty smear, yuck), and as I tried to duck below it, it clipped the back of my helmet and ripped it apart.
There was blood everywhere, fortunately not mine. I stayed upright, but it gave me a heck of a headache! On a side note, I pulled over for a little bit and tried to calm down and tend to my head. I was passed by several cars, none stopped. People aren't as nice here as out in the country area where I previously was living.
I didn't think there was any damage at first, but after looking in my mirror at a stop, I saw feathers sticking out everywhere. I reached back and was fussing with the feathers and then felt jagged edges and loose parts. I pulled off plastic and my heart sank for sure. When I got home, I finally saw the extent of the damage. I'm not sure if the shell has been compromised, but I don't think I'll risk it.
First a flat tire. Then an egging. Now a busted helmet.
I sure have some bad luck...
But on a side note, this is why you should always wear a helmet!
- Pandabear
Well, ok, not really a crash (fortunately!), but I hit a massive bird today on the way home. I'm pretty sure it was a vulture. I was coming around a bend at about 45mph and I saw this big bird sitting on the side of the road. The whole thing happened in a few seconds, I saw it, I started squeezing the brakes, I thought it was going to fly up into my face, it did, and BAM! Felt like getting hit by a brick. The darn thing ricocheted off my headlights and windscreen (nasty smear, yuck), and as I tried to duck below it, it clipped the back of my helmet and ripped it apart.
There was blood everywhere, fortunately not mine. I stayed upright, but it gave me a heck of a headache! On a side note, I pulled over for a little bit and tried to calm down and tend to my head. I was passed by several cars, none stopped. People aren't as nice here as out in the country area where I previously was living.
 |
| Poor Helmet. Stupid Bird!! |
First a flat tire. Then an egging. Now a busted helmet.
I sure have some bad luck...
But on a side note, this is why you should always wear a helmet!
- Pandabear
Thursday, August 6, 2015
Don't get egg-ed on!
Hey friends,
Yesterday I was a bit peeved. I went out to my bike to ride to work and noticed something weird splattered on my seat. I tried to wipe it off but it didn't really do anything, so I said whatever! When I turned to put my key in the ignition, I noticed that someone egged my bike!!! ARGH!
The solitary egg hit my handlebar and clutch lever and splattered ALL OVER. The fairings, tank, the back of the bulb of the high beam, all down the forks....it was plastered. I was so shocked and angry, and it seems that my bike was the only target on the street.
Just ranting about how petty people can be. This is such a cowardly act, and if people do it "for fun," that's just pathetic. It's starting to make me wonder if the flat tire I got just two weeks ago was vandalism too.
Fortunately, once I came back from work, the hose made short work of cleaning the egg off. However, it was an unpleasant ride to and from work with the smell of omelette wafting in my face. I don't like eggs!
I've gotten over it and I've put the bike on the spool stand on my driveway now. Hopefully no one touches my bike again.
Anyone else have their car or bike egged? Did you catch them?
- Pandabear
Yesterday I was a bit peeved. I went out to my bike to ride to work and noticed something weird splattered on my seat. I tried to wipe it off but it didn't really do anything, so I said whatever! When I turned to put my key in the ignition, I noticed that someone egged my bike!!! ARGH!
The solitary egg hit my handlebar and clutch lever and splattered ALL OVER. The fairings, tank, the back of the bulb of the high beam, all down the forks....it was plastered. I was so shocked and angry, and it seems that my bike was the only target on the street.
Just ranting about how petty people can be. This is such a cowardly act, and if people do it "for fun," that's just pathetic. It's starting to make me wonder if the flat tire I got just two weeks ago was vandalism too.
Fortunately, once I came back from work, the hose made short work of cleaning the egg off. However, it was an unpleasant ride to and from work with the smell of omelette wafting in my face. I don't like eggs!
I've gotten over it and I've put the bike on the spool stand on my driveway now. Hopefully no one touches my bike again.
Anyone else have their car or bike egged? Did you catch them?
- Pandabear
Friday, July 3, 2015
Sorry for the mess!
Hey friends,
Sorry for the missing pictures! I lost my entire archive of pictures and now have to start from scratch! Never fear, I have a lot of new product reviews to do, and I have a long weekend, so hopefully I'll get to review two items that I purchased recently - the RS Taichi e-Heat vest, and Rev'It Everest GTX pants.
I'm impressed with both items, so expect a glowing review. I think I will also post up some long term reviews of my other gear, and some of the latest activities on the bike.
Thank you for your patience!
Pandabear
Sorry for the missing pictures! I lost my entire archive of pictures and now have to start from scratch! Never fear, I have a lot of new product reviews to do, and I have a long weekend, so hopefully I'll get to review two items that I purchased recently - the RS Taichi e-Heat vest, and Rev'It Everest GTX pants.
I'm impressed with both items, so expect a glowing review. I think I will also post up some long term reviews of my other gear, and some of the latest activities on the bike.
Thank you for your patience!
Pandabear
Tuesday, May 5, 2015
My Bday!
Hi Friends!
It's my birthday today! Yay! I have survived three years of riding so far, about 30,000 miles and counting. I have had two bike accidents, four tip overs (including one hit and run), one totaled bike, but countless memories of fun and amazement. I have never once regretted riding, and I never will (even if I get hospitalized or die!!).
Why do you ride?! Comment below!
- Pandabear
It's my birthday today! Yay! I have survived three years of riding so far, about 30,000 miles and counting. I have had two bike accidents, four tip overs (including one hit and run), one totaled bike, but countless memories of fun and amazement. I have never once regretted riding, and I never will (even if I get hospitalized or die!!).
Why do you ride?! Comment below!
- Pandabear
Thursday, April 30, 2015
India Trip Picture - Safety First!
Now this is an economical mode of transportation! Haha!
More to come :)
- Pandabear
Friday, February 27, 2015
Cold Weather...Go Away
Hey friends,
It's been a while! Normally I would be out riding around by now but this year it is exceptionally cold. Coupled with my upcoming vacation to the Himalayas, I won't be riding until April. That's practically unheard of for me!
I decided to get a heated vest finally. I opted to go the similar route as my heated gloves, getting the RS Taichi E-Heat Vest. I'll write a separate post on that soon, but through preliminary testing, it seems like a great product. High quality, soft and comfy, and heats very well!
Can you guess what color I got? Hahaha...you shall see....
Get ready folks!
- Pandabear
It's been a while! Normally I would be out riding around by now but this year it is exceptionally cold. Coupled with my upcoming vacation to the Himalayas, I won't be riding until April. That's practically unheard of for me!
I decided to get a heated vest finally. I opted to go the similar route as my heated gloves, getting the RS Taichi E-Heat Vest. I'll write a separate post on that soon, but through preliminary testing, it seems like a great product. High quality, soft and comfy, and heats very well!
Can you guess what color I got? Hahaha...you shall see....
Get ready folks!
- Pandabear
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Bike is great, car, not so much! BMW E90 Sedan
Well friends,
I've been riding as much as I can the past few weeks. It is rapidly getting cold and the season is nearly over for riding (or possibly, completely over!?). The bike is running well, with the stator, voltage regulator, and radiator fan all being replaced - at a cost of about $700. Sadly, it's been cold and I've been taking the car to work, my 2011 BMW 328i xDrive.
Yesterday however, congestion was really bad, and I opted to take the back roads home after work. Sadly, upon trying to cross a four-way stop, I guess I didn't see a black car (I have no clue how I missed the headlights and it being "stopped" at a stop sign - unless it actually ran the stop??) and drove head on into it. The other car wasn't too badly damaged but mine was:
There was a good amount of frontal damage, the bumper is toast. I didn't look at the fog lights but they might be damaged. The headlights are on and running but some of the plastic went flying. The hood also clearly got messed up and it does not lay flat like normal. The driver side airbag deployed, as well as the passenger side curtain airbag (??!). I realize now that the airbag is pretty violent, as it left some burns, deep bruises, and cuts on my arm and knuckles:
This image shows the injury hours after the accident, but immediately after it looked horrendous, and VERY purple and bruised. I first thought I was going to need stitches, but it turned out a layer of skin was ripped off, not so much a deep cut.
I hope my car isn't totaled, but personally I am estimating at least $10,000 of damage easily. I think they will total it at 15,000, so I'm hoping it doesn't come to that! It is a real pity that I had it perfect just two days prior....waxed vacuumed and beautiful:
I guess I'll find out in the next few days what is going on! Wish me luck.
- Pandabear
Update: The car was totaled :( There was $22,000 dollars of damage so they took her away. I managed to get the same car in Tasman Green, oyster dakota leather, with an upgrade of Navigation, bluetooth, and Xenon headlights! The new(er) car is actually in better condition - and of course, I tinted the windows! I will snap a good picture when conditions clear up and I can finally wash and wax the new girl!
I've been riding as much as I can the past few weeks. It is rapidly getting cold and the season is nearly over for riding (or possibly, completely over!?). The bike is running well, with the stator, voltage regulator, and radiator fan all being replaced - at a cost of about $700. Sadly, it's been cold and I've been taking the car to work, my 2011 BMW 328i xDrive.
Yesterday however, congestion was really bad, and I opted to take the back roads home after work. Sadly, upon trying to cross a four-way stop, I guess I didn't see a black car (I have no clue how I missed the headlights and it being "stopped" at a stop sign - unless it actually ran the stop??) and drove head on into it. The other car wasn't too badly damaged but mine was:
This image shows the injury hours after the accident, but immediately after it looked horrendous, and VERY purple and bruised. I first thought I was going to need stitches, but it turned out a layer of skin was ripped off, not so much a deep cut.
I hope my car isn't totaled, but personally I am estimating at least $10,000 of damage easily. I think they will total it at 15,000, so I'm hoping it doesn't come to that! It is a real pity that I had it perfect just two days prior....waxed vacuumed and beautiful:
I guess I'll find out in the next few days what is going on! Wish me luck.
- Pandabear
Update: The car was totaled :( There was $22,000 dollars of damage so they took her away. I managed to get the same car in Tasman Green, oyster dakota leather, with an upgrade of Navigation, bluetooth, and Xenon headlights! The new(er) car is actually in better condition - and of course, I tinted the windows! I will snap a good picture when conditions clear up and I can finally wash and wax the new girl!
Monday, October 13, 2014
Bike is back in action and better than ever!
Hello friends!!!
Great news, bike is back in my possession after a long stay at West Chester Cycles. The team fixed my beloved up, and the Kawi is running strong. My Shorai battery didn't get fried after all, and my bike is noticeably lighter, even after filling up the gas tank. I'm pretty sure of it because I definitely haven't worked out in a long long time!!
Even better news, I cleaned up my garage, rearranged a boatload of heavy things (but not a boat!), and now my two car garage comfortably holds two cars AND my bike. I don't even need to park it sideways or anything, and I have easy access, just drive straight in. No more rain on my bike, and no more street parking.
Rode to work today and had a blast. Hopefully I can still squeeze in many more rides this year. Just need to put my brakes in this weekend!
- Pandabear
Great news, bike is back in my possession after a long stay at West Chester Cycles. The team fixed my beloved up, and the Kawi is running strong. My Shorai battery didn't get fried after all, and my bike is noticeably lighter, even after filling up the gas tank. I'm pretty sure of it because I definitely haven't worked out in a long long time!!
Even better news, I cleaned up my garage, rearranged a boatload of heavy things (but not a boat!), and now my two car garage comfortably holds two cars AND my bike. I don't even need to park it sideways or anything, and I have easy access, just drive straight in. No more rain on my bike, and no more street parking.
Rode to work today and had a blast. Hopefully I can still squeeze in many more rides this year. Just need to put my brakes in this weekend!
- Pandabear
Saturday, October 4, 2014
Update on my bike
Hey friends,
I haven't been riding for a while...2-3 weeks now. My bike randomly died after swapping the battery again so it confirmed my fear that it has a charging issue. I finally gave up (and was stuck again) so I called the local shop and they picked up my bike. So what's wrong??
Voltage regulator, shot. Stator, shot. Battery, shot. Cost..about $500. Ouchhh. Apparently there are no aftermarket regulators for this bike (so the shop claims) so they have to get the overpriced, crappy OEM regulator. This is plaguing the 2009-2012 ZX-6R's.
I'll get the bike back soon, but I am still worried it will die on me again in the future. I'm not sure how long the new regulator will last. Hopefully another few years at minimum!
ARGH! Just want to ride again...
- Pandabear
I haven't been riding for a while...2-3 weeks now. My bike randomly died after swapping the battery again so it confirmed my fear that it has a charging issue. I finally gave up (and was stuck again) so I called the local shop and they picked up my bike. So what's wrong??
Voltage regulator, shot. Stator, shot. Battery, shot. Cost..about $500. Ouchhh. Apparently there are no aftermarket regulators for this bike (so the shop claims) so they have to get the overpriced, crappy OEM regulator. This is plaguing the 2009-2012 ZX-6R's.
I'll get the bike back soon, but I am still worried it will die on me again in the future. I'm not sure how long the new regulator will last. Hopefully another few years at minimum!
ARGH! Just want to ride again...
- Pandabear
Sunday, September 21, 2014
Bike died on the way to work...
Hey Friends,
I was on my way to work last week and a few miles from home, I noticed my console went blank!! No speed, no indicators, nothing. I thought it was a glitch so I went to restart the bike and it flat out was dead!
I ended up jumping it, but it died again. AAA left me high and dry even though I requested an upgrade to Plus RV back in May before my tail of the dragon trip. No towing, no help. SCREW THEM!! Fortunately, I was very lucky to get a tow from my neighbor, who I never met. We had a great conversation on the way home, a lot in common!
Still in the trouble shooting phase. I ordered a new battery from Revzilla (Shorai!), but in the meantime I threw the trickle charger on and charged the battery. Seemed to hold the charge well, and I rode the bike around for a bit with no issue.
Call me gun shy though, I'm scared to take it to work again in case it dies on me. Don't feel like getting stranded again!
Let's see what happens!
- Pandabear
I was on my way to work last week and a few miles from home, I noticed my console went blank!! No speed, no indicators, nothing. I thought it was a glitch so I went to restart the bike and it flat out was dead!
I ended up jumping it, but it died again. AAA left me high and dry even though I requested an upgrade to Plus RV back in May before my tail of the dragon trip. No towing, no help. SCREW THEM!! Fortunately, I was very lucky to get a tow from my neighbor, who I never met. We had a great conversation on the way home, a lot in common!
Still in the trouble shooting phase. I ordered a new battery from Revzilla (Shorai!), but in the meantime I threw the trickle charger on and charged the battery. Seemed to hold the charge well, and I rode the bike around for a bit with no issue.
Call me gun shy though, I'm scared to take it to work again in case it dies on me. Don't feel like getting stranded again!
Let's see what happens!
- Pandabear
Monday, August 25, 2014
Crazy day of riding!
Well friends,
It has been quite busy. I barely even get to sit down and type anything so I haven't been able to post much. I've mostly just been commuting to work and back. Some instances...
Today was crazy. I had some bad tailgaters, and one work van which decided to overtake me, IN MY LANE! And then he just made the next right turn. What was the point of that honestly? He could have waited two more seconds instead of doing something that could have resulted in something bad.
And finally turning into my own neighborhood, a pickup truck decided instead of braking for a guy making a left turn, he was going to use the right turn lane to overtake, while I was right next to him making, uh, a RIGHT TURN!
Sigh, people drive me crazy. Nobody cares, everyone is on the phone, or who knows what. And people think motorcyclists are reckless!!!!?
::END RANT!::
- Pandabear
It has been quite busy. I barely even get to sit down and type anything so I haven't been able to post much. I've mostly just been commuting to work and back. Some instances...
Today was crazy. I had some bad tailgaters, and one work van which decided to overtake me, IN MY LANE! And then he just made the next right turn. What was the point of that honestly? He could have waited two more seconds instead of doing something that could have resulted in something bad.
And finally turning into my own neighborhood, a pickup truck decided instead of braking for a guy making a left turn, he was going to use the right turn lane to overtake, while I was right next to him making, uh, a RIGHT TURN!
Sigh, people drive me crazy. Nobody cares, everyone is on the phone, or who knows what. And people think motorcyclists are reckless!!!!?
::END RANT!::
- Pandabear
Thursday, August 7, 2014
Anticipate!
Hey friends,
Dropped my bike again today. Someone slowed at a yellow light and then decided to go through it while I was turning left. I stopped short to avoid a collision but on the road angle and turning angle, my bike was too far over to stay upright under braking. She got scratched AGAIN on the left side and the person drove off.
Couldn't pick it up, and nobody helped me at all. Finally another motorcyclist stopped by and helped me. I feel so fortunate to have people like that help me out. I can not be more appreciative. If you see a downed biker, stop and help out! I know I will in a heartbeat!
- Pandabear
Dropped my bike again today. Someone slowed at a yellow light and then decided to go through it while I was turning left. I stopped short to avoid a collision but on the road angle and turning angle, my bike was too far over to stay upright under braking. She got scratched AGAIN on the left side and the person drove off.
Couldn't pick it up, and nobody helped me at all. Finally another motorcyclist stopped by and helped me. I feel so fortunate to have people like that help me out. I can not be more appreciative. If you see a downed biker, stop and help out! I know I will in a heartbeat!
- Pandabear
Sunday, July 6, 2014
Blue Ridge Parkway
Well Friends,
I have been very busy with work and life, so no videos yet from tail of the dragon. The trip went well. I ended up going by myself when my "friend" bailed on me the morning of, but I think it ended up being a very interesting and rewarding trip regardless. I saw a baby bear on the road (so cute!) in the Smoky Mountains. I mocked the "Motorcyclists Beware!" sign on Lee Highway (Route 211), which on my route was an uphill, smoothly paved serpentine road. If I had my race suit on I probably could have dragged knee all the way up! Bah, so many good memories, but that'll be a longer post when I have more time!
For now though, all is going well though. Just did an oil change and am back to silky smooth shifting.
Today I rode around in Delaware with a friend. We ended up in Dover at an Air Museum which was pretty neat. I'll have to upload some pictures tomorrow (when I'm not tired and lazy!). We saw some epic, huge transport ships. I'm pretty sure the interior was as big as my house!
Anyways, sorry for the delay. Life is a whirlwind! I still don't think I've reviewed some of the other new gear I've gotten - Alpinestars Archer gloves and my RS Taichi GMX Motion jacket.
I'll be back!
- Pandabear
I have been very busy with work and life, so no videos yet from tail of the dragon. The trip went well. I ended up going by myself when my "friend" bailed on me the morning of, but I think it ended up being a very interesting and rewarding trip regardless. I saw a baby bear on the road (so cute!) in the Smoky Mountains. I mocked the "Motorcyclists Beware!" sign on Lee Highway (Route 211), which on my route was an uphill, smoothly paved serpentine road. If I had my race suit on I probably could have dragged knee all the way up! Bah, so many good memories, but that'll be a longer post when I have more time!
For now though, all is going well though. Just did an oil change and am back to silky smooth shifting.
 |
| Do you expect me to go 25? No Pandabear, I expect you to die!!! |
Anyways, sorry for the delay. Life is a whirlwind! I still don't think I've reviewed some of the other new gear I've gotten - Alpinestars Archer gloves and my RS Taichi GMX Motion jacket.
I'll be back!
- Pandabear
Saturday, May 17, 2014
Alpinestars Archer Gloves, Tail of the Dragon, Warranties, Near Misses!
Hey friends,
A lot has been happening lately! I haven't been able to make any videos or post lately due to work and just life in general. So here's what has been going on!
I had to RMA a few items. My RS Taichi Eheat gloves weren't properly heating my fingers, so I had to send them in. Fortunately, Motoliberty and RS Taichi were great to me, and they replaced the gloves even though they were out of warranty (1 year period). Also, my GMX motion jacket's liner buttons were defective, so they replaced them too.
Then..my SENA headset had some frayed wires and the unit was shorting. SENA sent me a brand new headset, just in time for my trip. I am ecstatic! I just installed everything and updated it to version 5.0, which allows phone and intercom simultaneously. I can't wait to try it out!
I got another new set of tires put on. The local shop charged me $150 dollars plus tire recycle and tax to mount two tires. It's effin robbery! I used to pay $80 bucks for both tires installed at Motor-Vation in Mechanicsburg. I'm going to ride over there next time and give them my business. Anyways, everything is going well with the new tires. I definitely got used to them a lot quicker than the last set. I guess knowing that they would be "twitchy" helped me prepare for the difference. Everything feels so smooth now!
I did have a near miss a few weeks ago. I was riding down the middle of a road and a cargo van at a stop sign pulled out trying to cross the road. I guess they weren't paying attention because I was going straight! I gunned it and swerved in front of them. My heart was racing but I made it around, safe and sound! People need to pay ATTENTION!!
While my e-heat gloves were getting warrantied I ended up buying a new pair of gloves. I got the Alpinestars Archer gloves, the top of the line "tech touring" gloves. They are a tad bit big for me compared to the RS Taichi gloves (even in size small!) but I'm getting used to them. I didn't get a chance to ride in a downpour yet but I did ride in some light rain and fog. I'll do a full review soon, but what I can say so far is that the visor wipe on the left thumb works like a charm! It was practically a windshield wiper, and it got ever last drop off my visor. Love it to death, and worth every penny!
And lastly, on Wednesday, I am starting my trip to Tail of the Dragon! My buddy and I are riding down, taking Skyline drive and Blue Ridge Parkway all the way down. I have been packing my stuff, making sure everything fits. So far so good, having a tail pack is really helping me. I remember the Chicago trip with a full tank bag, which was nice to rest my chin on but for these upcoming twisties, it'll be nice to have it at half size to remain out of the way. The Kriega US-20 is a great addition to my luggage!
Videos to come!
Ride Safe,
Pandabear!
A lot has been happening lately! I haven't been able to make any videos or post lately due to work and just life in general. So here's what has been going on!
I had to RMA a few items. My RS Taichi Eheat gloves weren't properly heating my fingers, so I had to send them in. Fortunately, Motoliberty and RS Taichi were great to me, and they replaced the gloves even though they were out of warranty (1 year period). Also, my GMX motion jacket's liner buttons were defective, so they replaced them too.
Then..my SENA headset had some frayed wires and the unit was shorting. SENA sent me a brand new headset, just in time for my trip. I am ecstatic! I just installed everything and updated it to version 5.0, which allows phone and intercom simultaneously. I can't wait to try it out!
I got another new set of tires put on. The local shop charged me $150 dollars plus tire recycle and tax to mount two tires. It's effin robbery! I used to pay $80 bucks for both tires installed at Motor-Vation in Mechanicsburg. I'm going to ride over there next time and give them my business. Anyways, everything is going well with the new tires. I definitely got used to them a lot quicker than the last set. I guess knowing that they would be "twitchy" helped me prepare for the difference. Everything feels so smooth now!
I did have a near miss a few weeks ago. I was riding down the middle of a road and a cargo van at a stop sign pulled out trying to cross the road. I guess they weren't paying attention because I was going straight! I gunned it and swerved in front of them. My heart was racing but I made it around, safe and sound! People need to pay ATTENTION!!
While my e-heat gloves were getting warrantied I ended up buying a new pair of gloves. I got the Alpinestars Archer gloves, the top of the line "tech touring" gloves. They are a tad bit big for me compared to the RS Taichi gloves (even in size small!) but I'm getting used to them. I didn't get a chance to ride in a downpour yet but I did ride in some light rain and fog. I'll do a full review soon, but what I can say so far is that the visor wipe on the left thumb works like a charm! It was practically a windshield wiper, and it got ever last drop off my visor. Love it to death, and worth every penny!
And lastly, on Wednesday, I am starting my trip to Tail of the Dragon! My buddy and I are riding down, taking Skyline drive and Blue Ridge Parkway all the way down. I have been packing my stuff, making sure everything fits. So far so good, having a tail pack is really helping me. I remember the Chicago trip with a full tank bag, which was nice to rest my chin on but for these upcoming twisties, it'll be nice to have it at half size to remain out of the way. The Kriega US-20 is a great addition to my luggage!
Videos to come!
Ride Safe,
Pandabear!
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