Triumphrat

NinjaRAT · 12-22-2006, 11:02 AM

So my wife just picked up her brand new '05 Speedmaster. This is the first cruiser either one of us has owned, so I'm a bit lost for ideas on lifting the bike for maintenance. So my questions are:

1. Recommendations for lifting the bike to perform such maintenance as oil changes, chain cleaning and adjustment, and wheel removal. I can't see how my normal wheel stands will work on this bad boy.

2. Looking for reasonably priced saddle-bags. Any recommendations?

3. What about pipes? The last demo Speedmaster I rode had some seriously loud straight pipes (really obnoxious). Any thoughts on the sound quality and bang-for-the-buck on the TOR short pipes? Any additional recommendations for decent after market pipes?

Thanks in advance. If this stupid rain stops, my wife can go out and play. :hammer:

RoundSlide · 12-22-2006, 11:33 AM

For the oil change, just leave the bike on the sidestand, the bike sits high enough to get a used oil container underneath them. As for the chain and tire removal, a standard motorcycle jack wil do everything you need. Sears and harbor freight tools, among others, sell these jacks. Hope you have fun with your new ride!

Talishar · 12-22-2006, 02:10 PM

As far as saddlebags, I couldn't find a decent size and quality at a resonable price. I had to make my own. Yes, I know, this isn't an option for everyone.
The TOR short pipes were my choice for a pipe change. Not obnoxios at all. Quiet enough for conversation at stoplights, yet they give you a good loud growl on acceleration. Didn't have to change the jets, the mechanic just tweeked the carbs abit.
I have no specs on any performance improvement. All I can tell you is the sound is good and the speedy runs sweet.
Tali

mikemm03 · 12-22-2006, 02:19 PM

NinjaRat,
Try this link for a cheap and easy bike lift.this

Thunderbike pipes are all the rave with America/Speedy owners. Bit pricey but nice performance increase and not very loud.
I'm sure a certin party will chime in and proclaim the TB pipes loud, trust me they are just right.
Mike

dazco · 12-22-2006, 08:30 PM

They may or may not be too loud depending on YOUR opinion of whats too loud......according to that certain party. Can't stop can ya?

banjobart · 12-22-2006, 09:18 PM

I like my TOR short pipes very much. I use a Sears bike lift, too.

You can put a 1 or 2 inch thick piece of wood under the side stand for more clearance when changing the oil and filter.

[ This message was edited by: banjobart on 2006-12-22 19:19 ]

NinjaRAT · 12-22-2006, 10:05 PM

Thanks for the input, folks! I especially like the idea of the DIY lift, though I don't mind dropping a few extra $$ for a lift that can lift both whels off the ground. I'll have to revisit the Sears lift (and *****, if I didn't miss the oppotunity to buy a used one a year ago, never realizing I might actually need it).

Guess I'll keep my eye out for a classifieds or eBay bargin on saddle-bags...in addition to windcreen. Ultimately, the short pipes will be further on down the road (no pun), as my wife couldn't really care less. I'm thinking the short pipes might make it easier to reach the chain for maintenence and cleanings. :-D

NinjaRAT · 12-23-2006, 01:18 AM

Actually, another question regarding stands. Any opinions on the quality of the Craftman jack, versus the Gerneral Hydralic sold by Harbour Freight? HF is a bit cheaper, and reviews on Sears' site was somewhat mixed.

Thanks again!

sweatmachine · 12-23-2006, 02:17 AM

look at Shade Tree Powersports for saddle bags, they carry Willie and Max, decent prices and they are good quality.

mikemm03 · 12-23-2006, 09:33 AM

Nija,
I have the Harbour Freight lift. I'm not crazy about it.
I've looked at the Craftsman, to me the Craftsman looks to be a higher quality lift.
Mike