Howdy all,
So, I got a swell (aka dirt cheap) deal on a non-running z750s... and now it runs. I am rather impressed with the engine on this bike. It's a screamer for a budget commuter! I have been a throttle-wheelie-happy loon this week, and spent several thousand miles of back tire rubber getting a feel for the bike (this tire isn't going to last long, I am afraid).
As I am working through the bike, replacing fluids and whatnot, I have noticed a few items I'd like to improve. First the suspension, it's rather, uh, humble. I am a big fellow, and weigh-in at a mere 235lbs (soaking wet!). I am obviously not who Mr. Kawasaki had in mind when designed the bike. So, if there's any advice about budget upgrades you can lend, it would be greatly appreciated. I have ordered a ZX14R rear shock, which offers much more adjustability, and designed to carry about 50-60lbs additional weight, will likely suit my heft better. Should be a bolt on jobbie from my research. My next mission will be the front brakes and forks.
I'm not trying to do a fork conversion or new calipers, this is my budget project, so nothing radical. Thinking maybe steel lines and EBC HH pads? Anything else? And then the forks, these may be a deal-breaker for me, as they are pretty awful (lots of dive under heavy brake load and unstable as hell over choppy pavement), bordering on dangerously awful. I need to do the seals soon, so maybe drop in some heavier weight springs and thicker fork oil? Maybe a sweet, sweet Chinese fork brace? Am I missing anything? Advice from anyone who knows these bikes better would be appreciated!
I know, it's not a sport bike, and if I am already pushing the limits, maybe it isn't the right bike to keep. But if I can make some marginal improvements on the cheap, it might work well as my commuter.
As always, any advice from you more learn'ed folks is greatly appreciated.
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