Topic: Anybody Own a HONDA VARADERO? I DO NOW!

[BenelliSEI]

John, You gonna fix the typo in the thread title or just live with it? I sometimes chuckle when I see replies pop up...any boby. Would be funnier if it had been any booby
David

Oops! I’m a boob. Done……

[BenelliSEI]

Took it for a short run late this aft and no issue with the oil pressure light. Will run it longer tomorrow.

Like my KLR650, this big twin stops quickly when the throttle is closed. Add a few downshifts and it coasts to a stop very quickly. Constantly reminding myself to pull the front brake lever to show a brake light to the cars behind. Today I ordered a stop switch from ST-2 Systems that is essentially an inertia switch. Looks like you wire it in to the brake light circuit and it pops the light whenever there is any deceleration……. Makes sense, will be interesting to see how well it works. All the reviews on their website were very positive. Seems like a smart safety feature!

[BenelliSEI]

I replaced the front Continental tire last week. The rear spins easily on my gravel driveway, so today I ordered a rear. It’s only money!

[RAFster122s]

On wet roads it could have been more than money...wet traction seems to be one of the things that goes first on older tires.

[BenelliSEI]

Agreed. In addition to some extra traction on loose gravel, these tires are noted for wet weather performance.

Not today though. Perfect weather and headed out for a long loop! Trying out the side bags today. Just can’t bring myself to click on the top box. Too ugly…..

[BenelliSEI]

200 Km today and no “low oil pressure” light or shut down. Bike ran flawlessly. The boxes don’t create any handling issues but the bike had a different thrumming noise from the rear. I hadn’t noticed it before, so I suspect it’s air whistling around the crates?  Will pull them off and see if that makes the sound disappear.

The rear tire is worn in the middle (visibly squared up) and you can feel it squirm on turn in. New one is on the way. Going out again with a buddy (Gary with his a husky) tomorrow.

[70CB750]

Agreed. In addition to some extra traction on loose gravel, these tires are noted for wet weather performance.

Not today though. Perfect weather and headed out for a long loop! Trying out the side bags today. Just can’t bring myself to click on the top box. Too ugly…..

It's nice to see you are in love.   

[BenelliSEI]

Yup…. A bit nervous when my KLR650 sold within minutes of the KIJIJI ad, but no regrets now!

[BenelliSEI]

Installed and balanced the new rear tire. The previous owner was a real fan of chain lube. Spent more time cleaning grease and dirt off everything than actual tire work……
I need a nap!

[MauiK3]

I think the Honda is the better machine, just my biased opinion

[BenelliSEI]

I think the Honda is the better machine, just my biased opinion

I’m totally convinced!

[grcamna2]

John,does that v-twin have a powerband or jump in output at a higher rpm?  or is it just broad torque,like a freight train all the way up ?

[BenelliSEI]

John,does that v-twin have a powerband or jump in output at a higher rpm?  or is it just broad torque,like a freight train all the way up ?
[/quote


Pulls from 2500 rpm, but comes on strong over 4500 to redline just under 9000.

[grcamna2]

John,does that v-twin have a powerband or jump in output at a higher rpm?  or is it just broad torque,like a freight train all the way up ?
[/quote


Pulls from 2500 rpm, but comes on strong over 4500 to redline just under 9000.

Sounds like fun 

[BenelliSEI]

Rode with my grandson today, for the first time. We took the local “rail trail” into town for ice cream. What a delight!

[grcamna2]

Rode with my grandson today, for the first time. We took the local “rail trail” into town for ice cream. What a delight!

How's he handling that little 2-stroke race bike John ?

[BenelliSEI]

I’m stunned, no issues at all. He’s yet to really twist the throttle (his dad and I have been warning him repeatedly). Probably put 50 kilometres on it over the past two days all around the farm. He’s really getting it and using the bottom three gears well.

[grcamna2]

I’m stunned, no issues at all. He’s yet to really twist the throttle (his dad and I have been warning him repeatedly). Probably put 50 kilometres on it over the past two days all around the farm. He’s really getting it and using the bottom three gears well.

Do you have a few new plugs and plug wrench handy ?

[BenelliSEI]

I’m stunned, no issues at all. He’s yet to really twist the throttle (his dad and I have been warning him repeatedly). Probably put 50 kilometres on it over the past two days all around the farm. He’s really getting it and using the bottom three gears well.

Do you have a few new plugs and plug wrench handy ?

I do! I’d assumed he would foul it up quickly, but he must have been getting it just clear enough. Never fouled a plug and started first or second kick for both days! Solid little bike.

[grcamna2]

How's the journey up to Pickle Lake going John ?

[BenelliSEI]

How's the journey up to Pickle Lake going John ?

Actually we’re doing another loop first. Starting this Friday. Check out: ridethehighlands.com. On the front page, click on: Adventure Loops; Pick Axe Loop. 370 kilometers of gravel roads and fire routes. This is the warm up to Pickle Lake.

https://ridethehighlands.ca/en/routes/pick-axe-loop/65

[grcamna2]

How's the journey up to Pickle Lake going John ?

Actually we’re doing another loop first. Starting this Friday. Check out: ridethehighlands.com. On the front page, click on: Adventure Loops; Pick Axe Loop. 370 kilometers of gravel roads and fire routes. This is the warm up to Pickle Lake.

https://ridethehighlands.ca/en/routes/pick-axe-loop/65

This coming Fri.? Looks good 

[BenelliSEI]

Yes. Five of us!

[Kevin D]

Yes. Five of us!

Is Gary going? Chris? Any others I might know?
Wishing you well on your adventure ride on your Varadero.

[BenelliSEI]

Kevin….. Gary just cancelled as he just learned he has a family Birthday. Chris is stuck working. Two guys are part of the Lexus race team and one local.

Pissing down rain today, but weather for the end of week looks good!