[flasher2001]

yeah, i'm back. for those of you who dont know me, i was one of the first members here at the ORG way back in 2001. i had just bought my first streetbike, an '01 929, and i lucky to find the ORG just as it split off from another site. my 929 and i spent lots of time carving up the backroads of my home county, slaying the Dragon and doing multiple trackdays (mostly with nesba). a job change prompted me to sell my bike.

well, last october i returned to my previous employer and by january i was ready to ride. it was about the time that i learned of the 1098. i had always wanted a duc and the pricetag of the 1098 made it possible so i plopped down my deposit on a Black 1098S and waited ... and waited ... and waited. by the end of april, i was no closer to getting my bike than in january. i knew the black bikes were due for delivery in may/june, but my dealer had seen VERY few of the other models and i was concerned that the wait for mine could drag into the summer. that, along with the mechanical/technical "issues" being experienced by 1098 owners got me looking elsewhere.

i test rode a new 2006 1000rr and instantly decided to get the bike. i got out of the 1098 deal and started getting the 'Blade ready for the track. many mods later and i was off to CMP for two days with nesba. well lets just say that i found the track to be a little different than i remembered (details on my site).

the next few weeks had me thinking of going a different direction. after test riding several bikes (including an XX and ST), i was told i should consider the ZX-14. i had never thought of such a thing!! a Ninja used for sport touring??? a test ride later and some conversation with a few people who had experience on the ZX led me to trade my 'Blade for the Big Ninja. let's just say that so far, i'm 100% happy with my decision. i have NO temptation to get back on the track and i'm riding (by far) the smoothest bike i've ever been on. this bike is silky smooth. the robust weight of the ZX dissappears once you're underway and the engine will freakin' pull til the middle of next week. no vibration, mirrors are excellent, brakes are awesome and the 190 bhp is nothing to sneeze at!!

i've added risers from Heli-Bars and a set of BMW grips. my Bagster tank protector and bag are on the way and i'm hoping to have them by the time i ride TO the Gap at the end of the month with ConqSoft. it will be my first long ride and i'm really looking forward to getting out on the road. the only slight point of concern with my bike is the heat. as long as you're in motion its no problem, but once you stop it gets a little warm on the legs. i can live with it because i know as soon as i twist that right grip, i'll purr off to curves unknown looking like this !!!

sorry for being so long. you can always check my site (and galleries) for the latest.

[Red Rider]

[Tornado bait]

again.

[.OrgOwner]

Great to have you back! Looking forward to your continued involvement with fireblades.