[Stretch]

Well, I did get a chance to read up on the chain tightening and went out to check. My chain was so slack that I couldn't even get an accurate reading because it hit the frame when I lifted it and still wasn't tight! I tightened it up to the 1/2 inch specs and took it out for a spin. It is a whole new bike! The noise level is dramatically lower, the shifting is smoother (still slips in 5th when I upramp too quickly) and much more top end. I think my earlier problems with slow speed turns may have been aggravated by this loose chain/clutch and the resulting jerky acceleration and stopping. And here I was blaming my shifting technique (which can stll use some improvement)!

My real learning experience is in what to look for in when buying a used bike. I bought mine from the instructor/owner of the motorcycling training school I attended (actually bought it from the school itself, even though it was not a training bike). I relied on his "expertise" and assistance. After reading the wonderful posts here, I have found that (1) the handlebar weights were missing (replaced them), (2) the cracked tires "normal and no problem for a bike like this" need replacing (on order), (3) chain was dangerously loose, (4) the clutch wasn't adjusted properly, and his advice (5) "always rev the hell out of these bikes, they love it" wasn't very bright either. I am sure there are more learnings lurking in the bike...

I guess part of learning is unlearning. So far I have been able do it without the bike or I getting seriously hurt... I am going to try to keep it that way!

Thanks again for all of the help you folks gave me!
-Bob