For some reason I still can't figure out I decided to take the MSF course. The first time I had ever been on a 2 wheeled vehicle that didn't require pedaling was May 26. On June 13 I became the VERY proud owner of a beautiful 2006 S40 with only 1800 miles on it. I'm immensely enjoying riding it no further than a mile from my house when the roads are empty going no faster than 30 mph
.
On the advice of just about everyone around me my purchase was made from a dealership, so I can be assured that it was looked over and any major problems would have been addressed.
As for the questions:
1.
Carbs:The previous owner had put on an aftermarket Jardine muffler. The dealer told me it was louder than stock, so not knowing anything I told them to put the stock back on. After buying the bike it occurred to me "gee, maybe the previous owner tuned the carb for this aftermarket exhaust. And maybe the dealer didn't think to go through checking that out." What tests should I do to try to determine if there is a difference?
2.
Shifting: While in the course I tried out every one of the bikes they had, which were the Honda Nighthawk, the GS250, and a TU250 (which was my favorite). You may wonder why I brought this up. All three of the bikes had very smooth shifting compared to the S40. When shifting I have to push harder than with the others. This doesn't bother me all that much, but the fact it goes in to gear with a very loud thunk! makes me think that maybe something isn't quite right. I've also noticed that sometimes I have to have the clutch slightly out in order for it to get out of neutral into first. Are these normal occurrences, or should I be heading back top the dealer?
3.
Backfiring:You may have guessed that I was going to ask about this
. The previous owner may have done the idle screw adjustment, as the brass plug is missing. What I don't know is if they did it correctly. The engine will backfire if I accelerate hard as if I was going onto a highway and then roll off quickly. It hasn't backfired on shutting it off, and while the dealer surely cleaned everything and I've only had it two weeks there was no blue on either the aftermarket or the stock exhausts. Should I worry about this?
4.
Brake lock: I'm thinking of getting a brake lock. Does anyone have a recommendation on which to get? Do the ones with alarms tend to falsely go off? Are there reasons why I shouldn't get one?
Speaking of brakes....
5.
Squealing brakes: The front brakes are a bit squealy. There's plenty of pad left, and I have read on here that it's a common occurrence. Is there anything I have to do, or is it best to leave it? I read somewhere that replacing them with FA106 pads helps, but there's plenty of stopping power, and there's very little play in the lever.
6.
Brake modulator: What's a good inexpensive one to get? Are they difficult to install?
For now I think that's all. I'm sure as I ride more things will come up. Until then, thanks in advance for all the help!