nklr: saddles /mardi gras

[montanabbq]

After using a Throttle Rocker for some 5000 miles, I've decided to install a Vista Cruise throttle lock. I bought the one from Fred that requires installing a small screw into the throtte housing. I've reviewed all of the information I can find on the web (Dual Sports News archive, etc), but I still have questions. No problem with the screw installation, but I am still having trouble... I slid the grip off of the throttle sleeve a bit to provide room for the lock, installed the lock around the throttle sleeve and put the provided plastic "washer" between the lock and the grip (Progrip Gel #714). When I tried to roll on the throttle, the grip was sticking/hanging up on the throttle lock, making the throttle stick open. I trimmed the end of the grip so it was the approx. same diameter of the plastic "washer". This made the situation better, but I had a tough time trimming around the grip while it was on the bike - it looks pretty sloppy. I'm not happy with the end result and hope to achieve a more tidy installation. I guess I'll have to pull off the Acerbis hand guard and replace the grip. Fred thought I should leave more of a gap between then new grip and the throttle lock - so they won't come in contact and the trimming will not be necessary. If the grip is not pushed up against the plastic "washer" and lock, the throttle lock seems wobbly to me - Anybody have any ideas? Has anyone fabricated a sort of "donut" type spacer to go between then end of the grip and the throttle lock/plastic washer? What did you use? Maybe another style of grip would work better? (I like the 714's - they're a meaty grip that fits my hand well) I'm probably making something out of nothing, but I don't want to have problems with a sticky throttle. Thanks, Doug B. A14

[btl6847]

Hey Bud, I have installed a few Vista cruise throttlle locks, so I'll throw my 2 cents worth in, and we'll see if it helps... Did you adjust the tightness of the lock itself? You probably did, but if not, loosen the screw that holds the 2 parts together just a little, but not too much not to lock down. Your grip flange is a little too big for the indent on the side of the throttle lock. It was for mine, and I now use the Pro Grip Superbike grips. Smaller stock flange, and feel great, like all Pro Grips do. The thickness is just a hair less than the dual sport grips they sell, but the same durable material that makes their grips great. If that's not what you want to do, then to keep the grip flange away from the throttle lock, but keep pressure to the side of it to get rid of the wobble, make about 5 or so shims out of plastic, using the one they gave you for a template. It depends on the thickness of the platic you use for how many you'll need. I have the same plastic in sheets, but you could use clear plastic from something that was packaged for display, like something from the store. Make sure it's slick. A spacer could be made from some plastic from a bike, i.e. busted side panel, fairing, etc... to take up the gap, so you don't have to cut so many spacers. You can use a LITTLE bit of very slick lube between the spacers and the throttle lock. Just don't put it on the grip. Make sure thar when you moved the grip that the other end of the grip isn't hung up and dragging on the hand guard. I have had that happen. Also, make sure your throttle tube to the handlebar is lubed up well. I hope that some of this helps you out. Good Luck!!! Brian A12

[marshall]

Matthew, I too would have just stayed home on Fat Tuesday, but as this was the wife's first experience with Mardi Gras, I felt obligated to let her see first hand what all the fuss was about. I did NOT take her to Bourbon St to witness the real "adult" version of Mardi Gras! I spent a few months in Hayden, AZ years ago, Tucson was close enough that we spent many a Sat. evening there for dinner, and other entertainment. Great weather, pretty cool offroad areas. Just my .02 worth, Marshall in Slidell, La 95 KLXC3 "Blackhorse" (in honor of those who served)