New Blade owner in Oz

veeman · 04-11-2006, 1:36 AM

Hi y'all

Just introducing myself - Graham, from near Melbourne, Australia. Emigrated here from England 15 years ago.

Just got myself a 2 year old 954, mainly for track days. Over the last 10 years, since getting back into bikes after kids left the nest, I've had VFRs (3), Blackbirds (2), CBR600, VTR1000. Got a new VFR800 last October, for general road riding, especially when my wife wants to go with me.

Been doing regular track days at Phillip Island, mostly with the Honda Riders Club of Australia. Honda do a 'Blade Blast' every year, which is like a normal track day but they also bring along about 20 of the latest model blade. You can pay for one or two 20 minute sessions on the blade. Which I have been doing for quite a few years. It has been my ambition to have a Blade as a trackday bike but I haven't been able to afford it - until now. Just decided I should do it, before I'm too old, or lose my job (very likely soon). Just booked track days for Easter Monday and the following Tuesday, so the fun is about to start.

Would appreciate any tips anyone has for the 954. It has only done 12,000km and has a carbon Micron can on it. Pilot Power rear and Pilot Sport Front (original).

Cheers, Graham.

matt232 · 04-11-2006, 10:23 AM

G'day and welcome.

My written off 2004 1000RR should be popping up at fowles pretty soon if you wanted a fixer uper.

Zeeman · 04-11-2006, 10:37 AM

Welcome

Z...

sporky · 04-11-2006, 10:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by veeman

Would appreciate any tips anyone has for the 954. ............... and Pilot Sport Front (original).

Cheers, Graham.

welcome!

get rid of the Pilot, you asked for tips
s..

matt232 · 04-11-2006, 10:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sporky

welcome!

get rid of the Pilot, you asked for tips
s..

Yer and put pilot powers on front and rear.

veeman · 04-11-2006, 5:20 PM

Thanx for the welcomes.

Yes, I was thinking of changing the Pilot Sport on the front. Tomorrow actually, in time for my first track day (with this bike) next Monday.

The bike tips into corners very easily at first but getting it right over seems to take more effort than I expected - and remembered from previous rides on Blades. Mind you, I have only previously ridden Blades on the track, at much higher cornering speeds than on the street. So, I'm not sure if this is a normal characteristic, or just down to the profile/wear of the Pilot Sport on the front. I've always liked Metzelers but, since it has a good Pilot Power on the rear, I'll probably get a Power on the front.

Graham