My new bike - 1983 Kawasaki KZ550

[primal]

Yes, the idle speed was messed up where I removed the carbs to clean them. I haven't set it any higher because I haven't gotten the engine fully warmed up yet (i.e. I haven't gone for a ride on it yet). The idle speed for this bike is around 1100 RPM, and according to the tach (which is probably inaccurate at such a low speed) its in the 900-1000 range. I'm DEFINITELY going to set it higher once I get a chance to ride it, so don't worry.

Speaking of which, I replaced the brake fluid and bled the brakes today, plus I corrected a clutch issue (I screwed up a bit when I replaced the front sprocket and the clutch actuator got off track). I do believe it is ready for its first test ride. Gonna go get some fresh gas tomorrow and give her a go.

[Easy Rider]

Originally Posted by primal

I do believe it is ready for its first test ride. Gonna go get some fresh gas tomorrow and give her a go.

Take it easy.
Even though that bike only has about 2X the displacement of the GZ, you will swear that it has 4X the power!! Enjoy!

[primal]

Oh, yes, it's a huge step up from the GZ. But its still a very forgiving bike. I'm looking forward to a summer of riding on it!

[Easy Rider]

Originally Posted by primal

I'm looking forward to a summer of riding on it!

It will be interesting to see how your arse likes that modified banana seat. My Nighthawk 550 had one similar and I don't remember having any real problem with it.

[primal]

Oh, man, it may be ugly, but its super comfortable from what I can tell so far. The seat, plus the upright seating position and new bars makes for a pretty darn comfortable bike (at least, that's the impression I get from sitting on it out on my patio ).

[Easy Rider]

Originally Posted by primal

(at least, that's the impression I get from sitting on it out on my patio ).

Oh man, that's just SAD!

[primal]

I know, I knoooow!

[mr. softie]

I just learned a new trick for cleaning carbs. Soak the carb bodies in white vinegar overnight, or 24 hours is better, then blow every hole out with compressed air. No need for Gumout, which eats the rubber, paint etc. The vinegar will dissolve any "varnish" etc. Vinegar is cheap and will not rot your brain like Gumout or other carb cleaners, wont hurt the environment as much, and is easier to handle etc.

There is also a way to balance your carbs with glass bottles, clear hose, rubber stoppers and water.
Let me know if you need a link to the how to, I will try to find it again.

Make sure the carbs are clean, the valves are adjusted and the plugs and wires are tip-top before you try to balance the carbs.

I am going to try running iridium plugs in my GL650I. The reports from users are that starting is easier, idle is smoother, power is better and gas mileage is up using these plugs. Supposed to last 150,000 miles, and don't need re gapping, just an occasional cleaning with a soft brass bristle brush.

[Easy Rider]

Originally Posted by mr. softie

I just learned a new trick for cleaning carbs. Soak the carb bodies in white vinegar overnight,

There is also a way to balance your carbs

I am going to try running iridium plugs in my GL650I. The reports from users are that starting is easier, idle is smoother, power is better and gas mileage is up using these plugs.

Carb cleaning: If one uses a GOOD in-gas cleaner about twice a year, there is no need to take the carb OFF the bike........and vinegar doesn't mix good with gas in the tank. :biggrin:

I don't think anybody with a GZ will need to worry too much about balancing multiple carbs. :roll:
OOPS! Guess that comment was aimed at the 550.

I'd be interested to hear what you think of the plugs. I have no doubt that they will last longer but for the other claims........VERY skeptical. A spark is a spark, after all.

[Water Warrior 2]

Vinegar doesn't mix with gas ! Come on Easy, you can read, that is why you take off the carbs and soak them in vinegar. Vinegar has a PH of 4.0(7.0 in neutral)and is somewhat acidic and is good on spinach.