Hey all!
So I just decided out of the blue about a month or two ago that I wanted to ride! So I started doing research, narrowed down options in my budget range that fit my criteria being a new rider (never having ridden before) so I shopped around.
I found a 2009 Suzuki Savage S40 with 6,900 miles on it, for $2500, which included the owner delivering it to my house. I was cross shopping Vulcan 500's but they just felt so big and heavy, and even with my stout frame (5'5" and 200lbs, short and muscular like a wrestler) I was a bit intimidated, and didn't want something I'd find myself going TOO TOO fast on. So I picked up the Savage. Around here (DC area) it seemed prices were a little higher, so I figured to test my luck, and my mechanical prowess
It was only 30 miles away from where I live so I figured what the hell! So I jumped on it! I got the bike last Thursday, and just received my motorcycle permit yesterday (so I could ride, insure, and register it!) and I've been working on it in the meanwhile.
I did the Raptor petcock fix, changed the oil and filter (it was low when I bought it
), checked and did the air filter mod, adjusted the shocks (somehow the PO thought riding with them soft was alright so to each their own!), fixed up the air pressure in the tires, and installed a fuel filter, as well as running some carb cleaner through the engine.
I also invested a good part of money in safety gear, a good quality DOT, and Snell approved helmet, a nice leather jacket that has armor, and a good set of Daniese leather biking gloves. I'll also be picking up some armored pants and hopefully a pair of motorcycle boots soon.
In other terms I also enrolled in the MSF course. Having ridden about 150 miles today with my permit (I just feel like it's in my blood!) I think I could teach myself to ace the license exam, but I would feel better and have a better peace of mind getting three days with an expert that could give me even more tips and tricks to stay safe, especially in the Northern Virginia area.
I hope I'm off to a good start!
Either way, the slight dilemma I have is that now, I'm really running low on money since outright I just spent about $4000 between the bike, gear, MSF course, and registration/titling of the bike.
There are a few things left I have to ask/could use some advice from all you Savages out there haha.
So the bike all together I think needs the following done to it:
-New front tire within the next 1000-2000 miles/1 year whichever comes first (probably the miles
)
-New front brake pads (about 1/2-2/3 of the way worn)
-Valve adjustment
-Belt adjustment (can only turn it about 80 degrees with thumb and forefinger, so I'll have to loosen it)
-Adding a windshield for longer rides!
The last thing on the list, which I'm still wondering about is, I can't tell if the cam chain adjuster is already failing at 7K miles, or if it's me being a little overly mechanically paranoid. I feel like I can hear a chain inside moving underneath the gas tank, but I can't tell if you are supposed to be able to hear a distinguishable clacking from our engines, or if any noise like that at all means that the cam chain adjuster has failed/is failing. I could probably upload a video if it would help you guys decide.
Either way. I could use some advice on that last point and kind of figuring out the order in which to make the upgrades, and it would be super appreciated. If you guys ever need anything, I'd be glad to help as best as a I can as a noob biker xD. Jeez. Sorry that was so long winded!
Thanks guys! Any replies are welcome