A thx and a rear wheel clearance question.

[thepaintbox]

First...thank you to all the people who have answered questions for me this week. I just bought my first motorcycle ('04 GZ) and I'm having a great time learning to ride. I must have put down 50 miles in local suburbia getting used to the bike. Sadly, the steep terrains around here make learning that much harder.

My question is about the rear wheel clearance. The support arm that goes between the frame and the bottom of the rear drum (on the left) is only about 1/4 (maybe just less) away from the tire. It's not hit it at all on any bumps, but i wanted to ask if that low clearance was normal.

And just to share:

"I like your bike...it's so quiet." -An old lady I had to ask for directions when i got lost in suburbia h3ll.

[alantf]

Originally Posted by thepaintbox

Sadly, the steep terrains around here make learning that much harder.

I live up in the mountains, so every time I go home it's UPHILL! Just want to say - learn not to be afraid of piling on the revs to get you up, & if possible get a good run up to the start of the hill. Having said that, however, going down is a completely different kettle of fish. My brake pads only last for 3000 - 4000 km.