On Sunday I completed the final test ride for Project 39, my 1993 VFR750. The first run was 57 miles, which I use for initial checks and to bed in the brakes and scuff the new Bridgestones. Back in the shop I addressed any issues found, then on this longer ride I run the bike through all its paces. I'm aiming for about 100 miles and so I make a backroad loop to my favorite coffee shop, 2894 On Main, located in the heart of East Troy, WI which lays claim as the former home to Buell Motorcycles.
But on this day it served as a half-way butt-break for coffee and a huge molasses cookie at a picnic table in the too-quaint town square across the street. As usual, I leave the large side fairings off the bike to allow detailed checks of the mechanicals. The ride totaled 97 miles and I couldn't find a single nit to pick — the engine ran smooth and strong, the temp gauge sat at about 1/3, the ride was controlled and tracked perfectly, the suspension upgrades front & rear working well together. The new Delkevic muffler brought out the V4 music without being at all brash and the bike revved cleanly. A gas mileage check brought 47 MPG with moderate throttle inputs.
I'm still awaiting my newly upholstered OEM seat so I was using the tattered Corbin which came with the bike. I aways carry a tail pack with some tools and repair bits but, as usual, didn't need them. When I chose the chain & sprockets for this bike I went with a 1-tooth larger front sprocket, lowering the highway revs by about 400 RPM for a slightly calmer riding experience, and probably aiding the fuel mileage a bit. With six gears to choose from I've never found the 750s lacking in acceleration even with lowered gearing. I also tested the GPS mounting which is hardwired and quickly detaches for transferring to my other bikes. Also added are a set of heated grips, but those didn't come into play on this perfect summer day. I've also mounted a taller "touring" windscreen on this bike which still looks good and seems to work just fine keeping a little more wind force off my torso. On order are a set of Knight Design lowered pegs which should keep my old(er) joints happier along with the Helibars up front. Can you tell I'm leaning towards the "touring" half of sport touring?
With its final exams complete I can now do a final fastener check, any needed cleaning and mount the rest of the fairings. I'll also be applying my own decals to this project, purposely not clearcoated so it can revert to the original look, if desired (I have a full set of stock decals). In September I'll be taking the bike on a 4-day ride in the southern Blue Ridge where it should prove the perfect mount for all the fantastic twisties the mountains are famous for. I've ridden the area several times but, inexplicably, never on an Interceptor, so am really looking forward to this trip.
I'm still awaiting my newly upholstered OEM seat so I was using the tattered Corbin which came with the bike. I aways carry a tail pack with some tools and repair bits but, as usual, didn't need them. When I chose the chain & sprockets for this bike I went with a 1-tooth larger front sprocket, lowering the highway revs by about 400 RPM for a slightly calmer riding experience, and probably aiding the fuel mileage a bit. With six gears to choose from I've never found the 750s lacking in acceleration even with lowered gearing. I also tested the GPS mounting which is hardwired and quickly detaches for transferring to my other bikes. Also added are a set of heated grips, but those didn't come into play on this perfect summer day. I've also mounted a taller "touring" windscreen on this bike which still looks good and seems to work just fine keeping a little more wind force off my torso. On order are a set of Knight Design lowered pegs which should keep my old(er) joints happier along with the Helibars up front. Can you tell I'm leaning towards the "touring" half of sport touring?
With its final exams complete I can now do a final fastener check, any needed cleaning and mount the rest of the fairings. I'll also be applying my own decals to this project, purposely not clearcoated so it can revert to the original look, if desired (I have a full set of stock decals). In September I'll be taking the bike on a 4-day ride in the southern Blue Ridge where it should prove the perfect mount for all the fantastic twisties the mountains are famous for. I've ridden the area several times but, inexplicably, never on an Interceptor, so am really looking forward to this trip.
East Troy is a pleasant midwest village located at the mid-point between Milwaukee and Beloit along the I-43 corridor. It has about 6000 residents, a small railroad museum, Gus's Drive-in, LD's BBQ and is also near the Alpine Valley resort and music venue. It's a place where American flags fly and kids can still play safely while Harleys and hot rods rumble slowly through the town square where local musical performances are a regular summer attraction. There's even some good roads nearby…and good coffee.
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