SSA Sierra Sportbike Association | Reno Nevada Motorcycle Trackday Weekend Riding Club

General Chat - Weekly Rides, Bike Discussion, & More . . . => DIRT • Trail - Motocross - Adventure => Topic started by: slmoto on November 19, 2014, 07:35:42 AM

Title: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: slmoto on November 19, 2014, 07:35:42 AM
Anyone up for some dirt riding this weekend? I'm thinking Sunday since it looks to be a little nicer weather wise, I was thinking Moon Rocks but I'm open to other places if somewhere else is preferred.
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: GreenMachine on November 19, 2014, 08:15:08 AM
DAMN YOUUUUUUUUUU!

Now I have to get motivated to get that defective tire TB5 sold me repaired.  :rant 

'Sold as is,' INDEED!  No where did he tell me it could be susceptible to horseshoe impalement.  :rant
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: slmoto on November 19, 2014, 08:27:33 AM
Get it fixed!, and let me know if you find any good deals, I'm in need of a rear tire as well. Not in the same way you need one, I still have air in my tire but the tread is getting really low and the side treads are pretty tore up from rocks. I think the guy I bought the bike from had a pretty soft compound on there.
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: GreenMachine on November 19, 2014, 09:26:54 AM
White Brothers is your MX muffler, right SL?  We need to get that thing's sound level under control with something like this, only oval shaped.  I did a preliminary Google search, but could only find open end caps like the one you have.  I'll keep searching.  But anything that you could mount on there that would plug the hole without starting on fire and can hold back exhaust pressure would work.

(http://static.summitracing.com/global/images/prod/mediumlarge/sup-406-3046_ml.jpg)

Or you could call Remarc Mfg <listing here (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=metal&hl=en&ll=39.550211,-119.801702&spn=0.002966,0.005107&sll=39.549726,-119.801702&sspn=0.001483,0.002553&t=h&hq=metal&z=18&iwloc=A)> to see what they could fabricate for you.  I've had them do two exhaust TIG weldings for me and they have all the press and welding equipment to do it.  They're friendly too.
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: slmoto on November 19, 2014, 09:51:02 AM
Quote from: GreenMachine on November 19, 2014, 09:26:54 AM
White Brothers is your MX muffler, right SL?  We need to get that thing's sound level under control with something like this, only oval shaped.  I did a preliminary Google search, but could only find open end caps like the one you have.  I'll keep searching.  But anything that you could mount on there that would plug the hole without starting on fire and can hold back exhaust pressure would work.

Or you could call Remarc Mfg <listing here (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=metal&hl=en&ll=39.550211,-119.801702&spn=0.002966,0.005107&sll=39.549726,-119.801702&sspn=0.001483,0.002553&t=h&hq=metal&z=18&iwloc=A)> to see what they could fabricate for you.  I've had them do two exhaust TIG weldings for me and they have all the press and welding equipment to do it.  They're friendly too.

Already done!

There is supposed to be a solid plate White Brothers included with the exhaust, one of the previous owners must have removed it.

I got some stock metal from Home Depot after the Dog Valley ride, small piece for only $6. Took the end cap off traced it on the metal, drilled the holes cut the oval and bolted it on, perfect fit. Rode with some out of town friends last weekend and it seemed to help. Still loud but not as obnoxious. And according to the White Brothers spec sheet I found online I was losing 2hp with the blocking plate removed so now supposedly the bike is more powerful, although I didn't notice much performance wise but at least the sound is more reasonable. ;D

(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss141/jepfrk/exhaust.jpg) (http://s570.photobucket.com/user/jepfrk/media/exhaust.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: GreenMachine on November 19, 2014, 05:16:06 PM
Good man!  I'll be much appreciative when you go by me next time.   :|)

Here's more info on tuning it.  Their 2 HP less may be true, but the statement isn't all it's cracked up to be.  On an open outlet pipe, like you had, you may get 2 HP more at peak RPM, which is great if you're red-lining the engine all the time.  What is conveniently left out is that with a closed end-cap your mid-range torque will probably increase, making the bike easier to ride and better able to power through most real-world riding situations.

Assuming the plates you have on there are tapered, like mine:

QuoteMore discs move the power band up to give you more top-end power, and lean out the carbureted fuel mixture. Removing discs decreases the size of the exhaust outlet, decreases exhaust tone, and exhaust flow while backpressure is increased. Fewer discs tend to increase low-end torque and richen the carbureted fuel mixture. Diffuser discs allow you to compensate for changes in altitude and air temperature without re-jetting or changing your air intake. And, besides reducing noise, our discs function as United States Forest Service-approved spark arrestors (USFS T-102), making them a safer choice for off-road motorcycles and ATVs. <link (http://www.supertrapp.com/resource/faqs.asp#8)>

So you can remove the internal spark arrestor screen too, the discs will perform that function now.

Take along an allen wrench on your next ride.  Start by taking out some discs to experiment with how the engine performs; maybe take out four to six to begin with.  It's easy to tune & tell.  When you reach the point where the discs are too restrictive, the engine will buck and kick as you crack the throttle full open while riding.  Add two discs and see if power and performance returns?  If it does, you know you're very close to ideal, where jetting is matched to air-flow, which is matched to altitude & current atmospheric conditions.  Throttle response and power should be the best it has ever been and with some minor fine tuning, make for easier starting as well.
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: GreenMachine on November 19, 2014, 06:29:31 PM
Got a dirtbike stand at Harbor Freight for $30.  Hope to have the rear tire repaired by then.  Looking forward to trying some new things out.
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: slmoto on November 19, 2014, 09:09:05 PM
Thanks for the info. I've already taken out the screen spark arrestor. I've got to get a cordless drill to take out with me with an allen attachment, the allen key takes too long but I'll get to experimenting with the plates one of these days.

$30 stand, not bad. I just use my street stand. I have the Pitbull one and if you turn around the brackets that normally attach to the spools it meets up with my dirt bike swing arm, gets me by for the time being.

I'm looking forward to working on some techniques as well. I was thinking Moon Rocks because where Rich and I parked last time was a nice flat open space that would probably be good for working on those sliding circle Mel was talking about and I'd also like to work on my wheelies ;D
:GrnWheelie
Plus there are a number of other jumps and turns that make it interesting enough for some time.
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: GreenMachine on November 19, 2014, 09:42:04 PM
I'm right with ya on all of that. :thumbup
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: GreenMachine on November 19, 2014, 09:43:18 PM
I thought about just using one of my swingarm stands, but I still need a step-stool for getting the bike to/from the truck, so I'll find a home for it.
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: GreenMachine on November 20, 2014, 09:53:01 PM
Got some things straightened out on the CRF tonight. 

1) Rear tire is back on and ready.  Jerry said it should last me through to next Spring.
2) Left radiator is about 1/2" farther forward, which means I can use my fuel tap again.*  8)
3) Oiled the chain with self-drying Yamalube.
4) Secured some things and straightened out the hand guards.

I'd like to get the oil changed tomorrow night and clean the air filter.  I'm sure its pukey dirty.
* Thanks Rich for setting me straight on which way it goes.  That could have been costly if I screwed that up. :thumbup
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: slmoto on November 20, 2014, 10:15:04 PM
Good stuff. These things seem to be a lot more work then the street bikes.

Reminds me I got some radiator braces I should put on before going out and dropping my bike some more this weekend.
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: GreenMachine on November 21, 2014, 10:49:09 AM
Yes, from outside appearance, but when you think about the abuse we put them through, then apply what that would do to our sissy street bikes, it doesn't seem so bad.
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: slmoto on November 21, 2014, 04:07:47 PM
Looks like it's just you and I so far GM unless someone else chimes in before Sun. Do you have a time and place you prefer to meet?

The open lot I mentioned is the third one if you're approaching Moon Rocks from the NE.
https://goo.gl/maps/uxkUY

Would you like to meet out there or somewhere in town then head out?
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: RichVee4 on November 21, 2014, 04:28:21 PM
Sooooo tempting....    But I have other chores this weekend.   Have fun and maybe we can go somewhere next weekend. 
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: slmoto on November 21, 2014, 05:31:33 PM
Quote from: RichVee4 on November 21, 2014, 04:28:21 PM
Sooooo tempting....    But I have other chores this weekend.   Have fun and maybe we can go somewhere next weekend. 

I know what you mean. I have some chores that sound tempting but I have to go riding instead. :)

I'm down for something next weekend as well if you're still looking to ride when next weekend rolls around.
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: GreenMachine on November 21, 2014, 06:13:36 PM
Quote from: slmoto on November 21, 2014, 04:07:47 PM
Looks like it's just you and I so far GM unless someone else chimes in before Sun. Do you have a time and place you prefer to meet?

The open lot I mentioned is the third one if you're approaching Moon Rocks from the NE.
https://goo.gl/maps/uxkUY

Would you like to meet out there or somewhere in town then head out?
Let's meet in town.  I'm not familiar with directions to get there.  TB5 usually ends up northwest of there in a more isolated location.  We usually ride east for a bit and continue north.  But it won't matter.  Moonrocks is only a few miles away...or so it appears.

The forecast, given that the weather front will have moved through with colder air behind it, is for 42° by 11:00AM (high of 50).  That'll be the coldest I've ridden in yet.  It could be fun though taking you back into some of the singletracks and ravines TB5 has put me out on.  And without anyone around us, we can screw around practicing bike control.

Want to say 10:15 somewhere in town, so we're unloading and/or geared up by 11 AM?
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: slmoto on November 22, 2014, 09:18:58 AM
Shall we keep the Starbucks theme going and meet at the Starbucks on Pyramid Hwy in Sparks at 10:15am?

Starbucks
2835 N McCarran Blvd
Sparks, NV 89431
https://goo.gl/maps/TOVCe

Sounds good on the single track, I'm looking forward to it.
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: GreenMachine on November 22, 2014, 09:23:44 AM
 ;)  The bike and I will be there.

I'm hoping they get some rain out there for tomorrow.  Don't like all this drying wind.
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: 288RR on November 22, 2014, 08:22:57 PM
Have a good time riding this weekend guys
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: GreenMachine on November 23, 2014, 04:44:17 PM
We did.  I know I left whatever I had up on the mountain today.  I am just beat to garbage! :spank :cuckoo  We parked at the end of Winnemucca Ranch rd and rode in from there.  It didn't take but one or two ridge runs and sweat was pouring off me.  Then we ventured further NW and happened across a nice intermediate skill track that crossed a small ravine.  Conditions were wet packed sand, so ideal.  SL was right there with me the whole day.  After we had our fun on the track I took him back up to the singletracks and the guy didn't skip a beat; going up, going down, technical riding and keeping the bike from jumping off the trail, he was there every time.

To top it off we made our way back in the direction of where we parked and SL found a cool flat area to practice wheelies and sliding the bike.  Perfect!  Only, by the time we got there I was beat.  I just hadn't realized it yet.  I tried sliding in one area and SL went off to another area to screw around.  Not sure I learned anything, maybe a little.  I dumped the bike a couple times and it took about all I had to get it righted, only to push it too far and it fell over on its other side.   :tard  You know you're tired when you're huffing and puffing just to pick the bike up.

It was a blast and exactly what I was after.  Oh man, am I going to be tired and sore tonight!!!   :surrender :thumbup
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: RichVee4 on November 23, 2014, 06:40:27 PM
Sounds like a fun time.  I thought it might be a bit cold but sounds like you managed to keep the activity level high.  Imagine you will be a tad sore tomorrow.   

I found a nearly new 2pc alpinestar suit on CL today and got a great deal!!  Scott you would be proud!
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: slmoto on November 23, 2014, 08:06:18 PM
Quote from: RichVee4 on November 23, 2014, 06:40:27 PM
Sounds like a fun time.  I thought it might be a bit cold but sounds like you managed to keep the activity level high.  Imagine you will be a tad sore tomorrow.   

I found a nearly new 2pc alpinestar suit on CL today and got a great deal!!  Scott you would be proud!

It was a great time today, temps were good since we were able to keep the activity high enough to be far from getting cold. Definitely tired, we'll see if the soreness kicks in tomorrow.

Nice job on the Alpinestare suit.  I think I may know the listing you are talking about, too small for me, glad you were able to grab it, if it's the same one I was seeing it seemed like a good deal.
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: GreenMachine on November 24, 2014, 07:56:06 AM
Quote from: RichVee4 on November 23, 2014, 06:40:27 PM
Sounds like a fun time.  I thought it might be a bit cold but sounds like you managed to keep the activity level high.  Imagine you will be a tad sore tomorrow.  

I found a nearly new 2pc alpinestar suit on CL today and got a great deal!!  Scott you would be proud!
SL?  Me!  It came with knee sliders too, right?

:banana2 to the 2015 riding season.
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: GreenMachine on November 24, 2014, 07:58:28 AM
Quote from: GreenMachine on November 23, 2014, 04:44:17 PM
...I dumped the bike a couple times and it took about all I had to get it righted, only to push it too far and it fell over on its other side.   :tard ...
TB5's defective bike again, not able to stand on its own.  :P
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: GreenMachine on November 24, 2014, 08:08:36 AM
That was a good night's sleep.  Ready to take on a new day. 

Oh, lookie!  It's going to be a short work week!   :D
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: GreenMachine on November 24, 2014, 10:59:34 AM
SL, I'm still laughing about your off-roading stories.  :rotflmao
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: slmoto on November 24, 2014, 11:13:54 AM
Quote from: GreenMachine on November 24, 2014, 10:59:34 AM
SL, I'm still laughing about your off-roading stories.  :rotflmao

That reminds me, I'll pm you.
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: Tahoebrian5 on December 16, 2014, 11:15:48 AM
I missed a moon rocks ride! Damn, I need to pay more attention. I got the ktm back together and am itching to get out. Maybe this weekend if anyone is into it. GM, you should have at least a coupke more rides before the engine blows up, or the Colombian drug lord I stole the bike from catches up to you
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: slmoto on December 16, 2014, 09:33:38 PM
I've been itching to get out as well and Sat. is supposed to be my last day of work before the holidays so I could possibly be up for a ride on Sunday.
I'd know for sure later in the week.
Title: Re: Moon Rocks Sunday 11/23
Post by: Tahoebrian5 on December 17, 2014, 06:16:47 AM
Sunday looks good, temps up a bit maybe.