Hey guys, I'm relatively new to the forum, so I'm posting to introduce myself/my bike, and discuss the modifications I've added so far. I'm happy to answer any questions you may have about the specific parts listed below.
I come from a Ducati background (Monster 620 and 848), and I recently picked up a 2012 FZ8. Im a huge fan lf this bike--riding comfort (and power) was very important to me and this moto doesn't fail to impress in either regard.
In late May I spent two days in Ischgl Austria. My dad, also an enthusiastic rider, pointed us in the direction of the Highbike Test Center Paznaun. For €75 per person including gear (off-season special) I rented a Ducati multistrada 1198 and he a BMW R1200R and we took off into the curvy mountain roads of the Alps. What an incredible experience, and I highly recommend it to anybody looking to do riding in Europe!!!! Here's a link to their website http://www.highbike-paznaun.com/
Upon our return I immediately began some light mods to bring that touring experience to my daily commuter that was otherwise, very naked and looked damn good. Make no mistake, I don't run the bags and windscreen all of the time, but for long rides, they're essential!
Current modifications:
-Sato Racing frame sliders
-CustomLED tail light
-MRA universal windscreen with adjustable splitter
-GIVI tank lock and flow formed tank bag (3D601)
-GIVI rear bag cage and soft bags (XS302)
Future modifications:
-+1 tooth drive shaft sprocket for optimized high speed cruising.
-Top Selerie seat
-Slip on exhaust (maybe, I'm not convinced I need this yet... the reduced noise is nice)
-Tune to accompany the exhaust, TBD. I haven't seen much information about the current solutions available, and working for an automotive engineering firm that specializes in engine tuning and performance modifications, I definitely need to do more digging before I pull the trigger on this one
To the mods:
The CustomLED tail light is super bright; I chose it mainly because the red LEDs turn off in the direction you indicate, and it flashes rapidly when you first get on the brakes. I think these options are available for the other popular taillight option, but when it came to purchase, this model was in stock and the other was backordered. Very happy with the CustomLED solution.
The MRA screen is great! Install was simple enough once I wrapped my head around how/where the supports would go. Tighten a few screws and I was off. I tested it with the diffuser down and up and it does make a difference--I'll mostly ride with the diffuser up to block wind and reduce ride fatigue. For reference, this windscreen directs the wind just above the collar bone and allows for a good breeze at highway speeds on the neck and head.
The GIVI bags hold up to their reputation. The saddlebag support frame required a bit of modifying under the tail, but overall it is a clean, sturdy fit and I'm pleased with it. I ended up with some of the larger, softer bags (XS302), though I prefer how simple the easy lock saddlebags (3D600) can be removed, but their smaller size and lack of availability put them out of the running. The tank bag is small, and simple. It's the perfect size for essentials and has a viewing window for a range of phones (it even fit my iphone5). Not much else to say really... it's a tank bag, lol!
Here are some photos to accompany. Looking forward to sharing info with you all.
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I come from a Ducati background (Monster 620 and 848), and I recently picked up a 2012 FZ8. Im a huge fan lf this bike--riding comfort (and power) was very important to me and this moto doesn't fail to impress in either regard.
In late May I spent two days in Ischgl Austria. My dad, also an enthusiastic rider, pointed us in the direction of the Highbike Test Center Paznaun. For €75 per person including gear (off-season special) I rented a Ducati multistrada 1198 and he a BMW R1200R and we took off into the curvy mountain roads of the Alps. What an incredible experience, and I highly recommend it to anybody looking to do riding in Europe!!!! Here's a link to their website http://www.highbike-paznaun.com/
Upon our return I immediately began some light mods to bring that touring experience to my daily commuter that was otherwise, very naked and looked damn good. Make no mistake, I don't run the bags and windscreen all of the time, but for long rides, they're essential!
Current modifications:
-Sato Racing frame sliders
-CustomLED tail light
-MRA universal windscreen with adjustable splitter
-GIVI tank lock and flow formed tank bag (3D601)
-GIVI rear bag cage and soft bags (XS302)
Future modifications:
-+1 tooth drive shaft sprocket for optimized high speed cruising.
-Top Selerie seat
-Slip on exhaust (maybe, I'm not convinced I need this yet... the reduced noise is nice)
-Tune to accompany the exhaust, TBD. I haven't seen much information about the current solutions available, and working for an automotive engineering firm that specializes in engine tuning and performance modifications, I definitely need to do more digging before I pull the trigger on this one
To the mods:
The CustomLED tail light is super bright; I chose it mainly because the red LEDs turn off in the direction you indicate, and it flashes rapidly when you first get on the brakes. I think these options are available for the other popular taillight option, but when it came to purchase, this model was in stock and the other was backordered. Very happy with the CustomLED solution.
The MRA screen is great! Install was simple enough once I wrapped my head around how/where the supports would go. Tighten a few screws and I was off. I tested it with the diffuser down and up and it does make a difference--I'll mostly ride with the diffuser up to block wind and reduce ride fatigue. For reference, this windscreen directs the wind just above the collar bone and allows for a good breeze at highway speeds on the neck and head.
The GIVI bags hold up to their reputation. The saddlebag support frame required a bit of modifying under the tail, but overall it is a clean, sturdy fit and I'm pleased with it. I ended up with some of the larger, softer bags (XS302), though I prefer how simple the easy lock saddlebags (3D600) can be removed, but their smaller size and lack of availability put them out of the running. The tank bag is small, and simple. It's the perfect size for essentials and has a viewing window for a range of phones (it even fit my iphone5). Not much else to say really... it's a tank bag, lol!
Here are some photos to accompany. Looking forward to sharing info with you all.
View attachment 2490
View attachment 2491
View attachment 2492
View attachment 2493
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