--- In
DSN_KLR650@yahoogroups.com, Jim Douglas wrote:
>
> Am I the only one that thinks modifying ABS features is a bad idea? Who
> knows WTF it's
> really doing in there?
>
Jim,
I didn't say it was a good idea, just that it was possible, even if not offered by the factory. shrug.
Dual sport riders are notorious for doing mod's that make you scratch your head. Do what (mods) makes you comfortable as long as it does not endanger others.
We also have a choice who we ride with: I won't ride with anyone (dual sport) that is using rubber footpegs. A sure way to break an ankle if the rubber is wet/slippery/muddy.
Just for the purpose of discussion:
(polishing my soapbox: then MOUNT)
OTH, some of the OEM black-box majik COULD easily be programed to defeat your start system when the ABS becomes inoperative.
= ABS broke, you don't get to start.
Why, because (the manufacture believes) you/we/us are to stupid to use the brakes in a 'traditional' way after the ABS has failed.
No,
I am not aware of any system that does that, (disables the start) yet.
However, I believe it is coming.
Why?
Because the manufacturer WILL NOT be held liable for a system that is installed, and then does not work, because some dork claims,
"I didn't know the ABS didn't work and I locked up my brakes"
and then lacked the training or ability to overcome a compromised system.
ABS will fail. I was offered a ride on a K750 BMW ABS equipped that was broke..."to expensive to fix", use the brakes in a normal way.
If it ever comes to having a disabled ABS = disabled bike;
Wouldn't you like to be able to defeat it, or would you like to walk?
What is really the heart of this 'problem' (as I see it, IRT to ABS and other wizbang options), is there is no real certification for motorcycle riders let alone buyers.
Lay down the money and ride out the door.
Local case in point, a local rider with limited physical abilities due to MS, is sold a HONDA TRIKE-conversion with nary a moments instruction on how that pig will kill you dead if ridden like a MC.
Another case:
A recent KLR video offered here (CaSTU?) suggested here,
a UTube video titled:
"KLR 650 Raider Bike, or USMC RECON BIKE" etal.(
sorry, I don't have the link)
was CRIMINAL in the instructional level the salesman gave the new owner.
And away he went.
In defense of the salesman, it was not his 'responsibility' to teach, however, in the video, there was not one mention of MSF that I recall.
GOD BLESS the DOD: they won't let you on the military base without MSF training.
IMO is it criminal that we have the freedom to sell machines to unqualified and under-trained, to include 4 wheelers, snow machines, watercraft and motorcycles with little more instruction than how to start it. Least you think I support the NANNY STATE, I don't.
Why is that we have to legislate protection to those with a line of credit or just deep pockets? head shake x 2.
In personal reflection, my 14 Y/0 took the MSF basic course last April; he probably had more seat time than any other person in the course. He learned more motorcycle nuances = keep you alive, in ~15 hours than I could remember/teach him in the past 4 years of riding (and he had learned a lot). I sat on the side lines and watched; and also learned a lot as well.
I took the Advanced MSF 5 years ago: will take it again in the Spring with my now, 15 y/o son. Those that are reading, and have never taken a course, Do NOT Pass GO, get signed up.
In our 2-KLR650 trip last summer, he learned more than he/we bargained for riding trail to me over 12 days, 2527 miles.
Death rides at your elbow and what seems to be a normal curve will spit you out in a moment of hesitation. We witnessed/experienced both.
We also experienced memories that last a life-time;
-grin -
or a least till the snow melts again....
revmaaatin.
soap box: dismount.
ps
Sorry if this seems like a rant. long time till spring....
And I hate doing hospital visits and funerals for those who were under-trained or under-supervised