So the
Southbay Clip-on Removal Kit has been successfully removed. While at it, I also changed out the rear brake pads, the TOR exhaust for a set of Predators and gave the bike a well deserved cleaning.
As promised, I took
photos of the operation (scroll down to the bottom of pg.6) then afterward a quick ride to make sure everything was in order :-)
My impressions:
- CRK removal vs stock setup;
Clip ons look MUCH better! The CRK is more comfortable, but for me changed the personality of the bike. I thought of it in a different manner... with the clip ons its different from most everything out there. With the handlebars it felt average. Still an enjoyable ride, but not special. I had a hard time overlooking it.
- Predators vs. TORs;
(Keep in mind I'm not a fan of the obnoxious cruiser type pipes) TORs were a big improvement over the stock sound of a farting goldfish. They were nice, but those days when my wife would ride along on her Staintune equipped Bonnie next to the TOR Thruxton I always felt the TORs didn't quite measure up. They were OK on their own, but next to her's the sound didn't match the Thruxtons attitude. Thats all changed now. Not wanting LOUD pipes, just something more befitting the Thrux I wasn't sure I'd like the Predators. No worries there! They are a bit louder, but the tone is spot-on for the style of the Thruxton - a hot rod Bonneville has arrived. I really didn't think I'd like them as much as the Staintunes, but for this application they are perfect. Very happy indeed :upthumb:
- EBC brake pads;
This was an easy job once I had the right size pads. That was the hard part. The first set I got from my favorite local shop (non-Triumph dealer). It was an honest mistake so no harm, but being anxious to get the job completed before the weekend I stopped at the nearest Triumph dealer (the one I really don't like) and four hours later I was home, with wrench in hand. I only rode about 10 miles and still have to give them time to seat in, but I'm happy so far.
Had I allowed the dealer to do these jobs I'd be looking at somewhere around $400 in labor. And I'd have missed out on the satisfaction which comes from doing the work myself.
Next on the list are front brake pads, new chain, fresh oil & filter and modified Napoleon bar end mirrors (modified to fit the Thrux).
'Till next time :chug:
~Randy DTFR
Ride safe!
