I picked up Bandit2 late yesterday afternoon and put him to the test. I rode from Windsor over 128 to Spanish Flat, by accident and then onward through Winters making my way via backroads to Sacramento. A lovely inaugural ride, complete with some twistie road, a bit o’ freeway and nightfall. He preformed brilliantly!!
The route

Notes to self:
1) He outweighs the ol’ Bandito. Between the hard bags, water cooled, I discovered that he is about 35lbs heavier. That does make a difference when I was so used to throwing around my other Bandit. This one needs a bit more “woman-handling”.
2) My brakes are different. I had heavy duty Tokico brakes on my old one that have 3 braking pads or whatever they are called. This bike only has two and I think 3 would be better.
3) Stock exhaust is quiet, which Gary likes, but I miss the growl of my holeshot.
4) Headlight is MUCH BETTER. My old headlight was like using a flashlight.
5) Fuel injection is way smooth…wow!
6) WOW…I have six gears!!! ; )

Today I have to ride to Virginia City to meet with an some elder care professionals. My dad is getting more confused and is still living alone, still driving and hanging out in local bars, wondering where he loses cash. *sigh*. I am not sure where this is going, but things can’t remain the same. Funny how my play on dementia isn’t as humorous anymore. It can strike any of us! :rolleye

So with the bad, I get some good. Ebbetts pass could be a great performance barometer and then over Monitor and up the truck route to VC. My new Bandito will see some new country! This bike has only a few miles and I plan on seeing that he is well taken care of, but gets what he was designed for! FUN and ADVENTURE.

When you know it’s good!

When is one more too many?