2008-09-13 - Washington DC - Cruise Tech Day

[Blrfl]

During yesterday's DC tech day, a few of us discussed having a get-together to install our Audiovox cruise controls. Dale volunteered to host, since he has one, too. (Although this time, I think we're buying lunch!) Technical and logistical details to be discussed below.


Date: Saturday, September 13, 2008 at 8:00 a.m.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Due to space considerations, Dale and I think we should limit this to five or six bikes. (We're going to do our bikes separately since we live close to the shop.) Dale has offered to host another day in October for the remainder. Others are, of course, welcome to hang out.

Location: Open Road Outfitters (http://www.openroadoutfitters.com), Sterling, VA. (Click here for directions. (http://www.google.com/maps?source=uds&daddr=45763+Elmwood+Ct%2C+Sterling%2C+VA+(45763+El mwood+Ct)+%4039.020956%2C-77.417876&iwstate1=dir%3Ato))

You Will Need to Provide:


ST1300
Audiovox CCS-100 cruise control unit
Control pad mounting bracket (see below)
Vacuum reservoir
Various electrical bits
RAM mount or suitable spacers and bolts
More as we figure it out...






Ezwryder (Dale)
Blrfl (Meeeeee)
SilverBullet
jester



ezwryder (Dale) -- Received
Blrfl (Me) -- Received
Scooterb -- Shipped
treasst13 -- Shipped
jester -- Shipped, Awaiting Payment
sourbeer -- Received
SilverBullet -- Received
Blue STreak -- Received
WVUandVT2 -- Received
apopj
cpugiu
kram0703 -- Received
Stellarpod 1 of 2 -- Received
Stellarpod 2 of 2 -- Received
Fred D -- Received
Tankereng -- Confirmed

There will be 18 brackets available, with 2 not spoken for. The cost of the brackets will be $8.50.

[juddspaintballs]

I see no need for me to be there, but I also see no need why I shouldn't be there to hang out. Hmmm

[Blrfl]

You still have four empty farkle circuits, young man! :)

--Mark

[juddspaintballs]

I'll add any farkle generously donated :D

[Blrfl]

I'm working up a design for a bracket that will put the controls on the left side.

The design is based around having a RAM-B-309 (http://products.ram-mount.com/rammount/productdetail.aspx?partnumber=RAM-B-309-1U) on the left side, but it could be attached to the brake reservoir bolts with some suitable spacers to bring it past the protruding part.

Here's a rough sketch without dimensions, and there are a couple of things that need to move a hair to make everything even.

30264

Comments, better ideas, etc. are welcome. I'm also considering a design that will put the controls just above the windshield switch, but it's going to be a bit more complex.

--Mark

[juddspaintballs]

Mark, if you designed and built the one around the RAM mount for the reservoir, that would be a nearly universal mount, would it not? Meaning, it would also benefit the 1100 users and nearly every other metric bike owner for a good mounting position for cruise control or many other switch items. THAT alone seems like it would make it worth the design. More market means you could have a bunch of these punched out at a very reasonable rate.

[Blrfl]

Yeah, it is a universal mount. You don't even really need the RAM mount.

I'm in discussions with someone who will be referred to as "The Fabricator" about getting them made. For the local installs, I'll get them powder coated.

--Mark

[juddspaintballs]

Awww. If you got them chromed you could charge $200 and sell them to the Harley crowd.

[Scooterb]

Yeah, it is a universal mount. You don't even really need the RAM mount.

I'm in discussions with someone who will be referred to as "The Fabricator" about getting them made. For the local installs, I'll get them powder coated.

--Mark

Mark, how much would you charge a non-participant for the bracket? I would be interested in one.

Don't forget to tell everyone to have their switches sealed already before arriving at the event. If you're going to use RTV, make sure that it is electrical grade only.

[treasst13]

Mark: Pending the date, I would be interested in attending Crusie tech day. I was in attendance last Sat. A great way to complete this project using all of the knowledge that was available. thanks. Bill

[Blrfl]

Mark, how much would you charge a non-participant for the bracket? I would be interested in one.

I'll see how much time "The Fabricator" has to make a run of them. He's a busy guy.

I did some "reach testing" while underway and decided I don't like the spot where the bracket would put it, so I'm going to try a different design.

--Mark

[jester]

I am interested in attending but need to know a date so I can make plans.
Going to order the cruise this weekend.
Any suggestion on who to order it from.

Dan

[Blrfl]

We don't have a date yet. Dale and I need to so some planning, and I need to design a bracket. Life is piling up quickly, and at the rate I'm going, I think it might not be until late summer.

Amazon is a good source, and some auto parts chains carry it.

--Mark

[sourbeer]

I'd also like to attend to install the cruise control. I'll be keeping an eye on the date and hopefully it will occur on a date that I can attend.

[sourbeer]

I've got my audiovox cc on order and should have it in hand shortly. i'll be watching for the date, and looking forward to real cruise control.

[SilverBullet]

Hey Mark,

Count me in on the tec day - cruise install. Sounds like a blast.

Do we need a Vacume storage tank too. I saw amazon has this Vacuum Storage Tank that they are advertising for the CCS 100. If so would this work?

Linky
http://www.amazon.com/Audiovox-2506019-Vacuum-Storage-250-6019/dp/B00124YFVS/ref=pd_bxgy_auto_text_b



Dan,

What part of North Carolina will you be coming from? Mabe we can meet and ride up together.

[Blue STreak]

Hmm, if I pick up a 1300 this weekend I just might be up for this, too.

[Blrfl]

I've been so up to my ears lately that I haven't had time to get a bracket designed for the controls. I really need to get the radio project out the door first, though.

--Mark

[jester]

I will be coming from the Winston-Salem area.
I will be glad to meet up and ride.
we can confirm everything once the date is set.

Dan

[SilverBullet]

Sounds Good. Let hope that mark can get all his work caught up and can get some free time to pull this off.

[mdelro]

Are observers welcome to attend? I don't really know if I want CC right now, but thought it would be good experience learning how to get around the bike by seeing it done in person. Just got my 06 ST a month ago. First thing to go in was a Speedohealer. I'm in Manassas, VA.

Meyerweb - Saw your Ferrari at Manassas Honda the other day, glad you're OK.

Del

[Lowrider]

I have an Audiovox CC ready to install and a bracket made. It would be fun to install as a group. If Marylaners are welcome!

Any excuse for a ride!!

Where and when?

[Blue STreak]

Thanks Del.

What day did you see it? I figured it would have been picked up and gone by now.

[mdelro]

Tuesday, was in there getting my old CBR1000F (trying to sell) inspected.
Answered your seat request few moments ago, I have one available.

Del

[Blrfl]

Sounds Good. Let hope that mark can get all his work caught up and can get some free time to pull this off.

My life is becoming more congested, not less, and it doesn't look like it's going to let up anytime soon. (Details will be divulged in another thread when the time is right.) If some of you guys would like to help make getting this thing set up a group effort, I'd be more than grateful. Here's what needs to be done:


Figuring out a complete list of supplies. It might be more cost effective for everyone if one person acquired everything (except the Audiovox kits) and split the expenses among the participants. A lot of the information can be gleaned from Ray's excellent installation instructions (http://www.frontiernet.net/~st1300rider/05-16-05/ecc.htm).
Build vacuum cannisters from PVC pipe and hose fittings. This needs to be done well ahead of the installation since the cement needs to be cured before installation. I wouldn't object to having mine painted black. Greg identified an off-the-shelf vacuum chamber that we might be able to use, although I seem to remember it being a 4"-diameter sphere, which is kind of large.


I've started a page on STWiki (http://stwiki.notonthe.net/twiki/bin/view/ST13/AudiovoxCCS100Installation) for this project where people can update the tools and supplies list. Editing that page is as easy as editing a post here.

The big sticking point for me has been the mounting bracket for the controls, because I'm unbelievably picky about mounting things in a way that look neat and not kludgy. I took some time this morning and came up with something I like. A sketch is attached below, as is a photo of the approximate location where it will put the controls. It was designed to be used with a RAM-B-309 mount (http://products.ram-mount.com/rammount/productdetail.aspx?partnumber=RAM-B-309-1U), which bolts on in front of the clutch reservoir. There's enough of a "zig" in the bracket to dodge the ball and any arm you might have attached. Based on some pictures I found of the 1100's left control pod, this should work on that bike as well. Let me know what you think, and I'll talk to Il Fabricatore about having some made up and figuring out the cost. I'll have them powder coated a matte black to match the RAM part.

Are observers welcome to attend?

Absolutely, but we might put you to work! :D

--Mark

[WVUandVT2]

The bracket looks good Mark. I've been checking around lately to find the check valve and other parts. You definitely want to plan ahead as Mark pointed out because not everything is readily available. The check valve can be purchased from Napa Auto Parts (part number 2-1015) but you have to special order them as most Napa stores in the DC area don't carry them. I purchased what I'm told is a suitable sub from the local Lincoln/Ford/Mercury/Jeep dealership (part number 04677204). I haven't verified if the barbs are the same for this check valve yet but they look the same. This check valve's body is larger than the Napa one though, I still haven't found a place that sells 1/8" ID tubing. I'm building my canister in the morning from parts from the local Lowes (about $10). It will only have 1 connector which saves some money. I'm looking forward to getting this thing installed soon. 100 mile commute every day without cruise is no fun.

[Lowrider]

Does anyone remember someone using an extra 5' of vacuum hose instead of a rigid canister? It seemed to me that a coil of hose would be easier to deal with that a tank.

I got a check valve at Western Auto. $3 if I recall correctly. Don't know the stock number since I took it out of the package. I asked the guy behind the counter and he got me one. Ace hardware near me had 1/8" hose. I think it is windshield washer hose.

If I can help anyone with a bracket, let me know.

[SilverBullet]

I looked up the check valve on Napa's site if someone needs to order them.

http://www.napaonline.com/NOLPPSE/(S(ftfhgd45m25borukdafpfi45))/Detail.aspx?R=CRB21015_0066013449


Is this the canister that is 4" in size that you fear is to big and want work?
http://www.amazon.com/Audiovox-2506019-Vacuum-Storage-250-6019/dp/B00124YFVS/ref=pd_bxgy_auto_text_b

[Blrfl]

Is this the canister that is 4" in size that you fear is to big and want work? http://www.amazon.com/Audiovox-2506019-Vacuum-Storage-250-6019/dp/B00124YFVS/ref=pd_bxgy_auto_text_b

That's the one. I'm just not positive it will fit well anywhere. (I could be wrong, though. I don't want everyone to rush out and buy one if it doesn't.)

Other news: Dave has fabricated the brackets and will be shipping them to me shortly. Once I've had them powder coated, I'll let everyone know how much the tab came to.

--Mark

[SilverBullet]

Sounds great Mark. The brackets look like they will do fine. I saw Johnnie (WVUandVT2) got his install done and put a new posting up. That will free him up to help all of us newbies out... :D


Hope things slow down for you soon so we can pull this event off. Just a heads up, my weekends are now booked the first 3 weekends in August and after that I should be free any weekend.

[juddspaintballs]

hope to be able to make this event, but i might be a bit busy for the next 6 months

[sherob]

You got a date for this yet :confused: If it's 8/9, I'll stop by :D

[Blrfl]

You gonna be in the neighborhood?

I'll check with Dale and my social secretary, but I might be able to pull off either August 23 or September 6.

--Mark

[apopj]

Is the date firm yet? I am in Akron, OHio but would travel to DC to get help getting cruise to work on my 08 ST.... thanks, JEff

[Blrfl]

Not yet. I'll email Dale tonight.

Dave and I are still working on the bracket. There was some difficulty in fabricating it as designed, but we think we've come up with something that will work. After I get them, I have to send them out to be powder coated.

--Mark

[Blue STreak]

I plan to be there, assuming I've gotten an Audiovox by then. It's on back-order at the moment. Heck, if I haven't gotten it I'll probably still come, to watch and learn.

[sourbeer]

They have them in stock currently at murphskits.com for 115.00 shipped which isn't a terrible price considering that they are getting difficult to find. i paid around a hundred bucks for mine a month or so ago. I ordered the vacuum cannister from murphskits just this week and picked up the check valve on Monday. I just need to get some hose, and a bracket to mount the control pad on.

[Blue STreak]

Doesn't the murphkits cannister have a check valve built in?

[SilverBullet]

Amazon just got Audiovox cruise back in and posted them at 84.99. They had been out for a few weeks but post them last night. I ordered one today. The murphkit does have the check valve built in and I ordered one since people posted they have like them.

Got notices that the parts are on their way! Everything shipped out and should have them all by next week.

I went ahead and ordered the Accessory Wire Harness from Direct Line Parts too and got a 20% discount coupon to use against it.

[sourbeer]

sounds great.

i also have the accessory harness and heated grips waiting in the box to be installed. I've got to do that and the cruise install when I can find the time. I'm still needing a bracket to mount the cruise control pad, haven't gotten around to making anything for it yet.

glad you got the cruise ordered, i wasn't sure if amazon would get them back.

[Blrfl]

There are a dozen or so brackets being fabricated, many of which are already spoken for. There might be a couple of extras, though.

--Mark

[SilverBullet]

Mark
Am I one of those on the list for a bracket? If not, please add me.

Thanks

[sourbeer]

Yeah, Me too. I'd like to get on the list for a bracket if possible. Otherwise, i'll have to get to work on making one myself that will (no doubt) not be nearly as nice.

let me know if you have one available for me.

[Blue STreak]

I ordered from Amazon Wednesday, they shipped Thursday, I got it today. And that was with the free SuperSaver shipping! Now to get the cannister.

Eidt: Ordered from Murphskits.

[Blue STreak]

There are a dozen or so brackets being fabricated, many of which are already spoken for. There might be a couple of extras, though.

--Mark

Mark:

I hope one of those is spoken for me!!! If not, please tag one when you get it.

[Trekker]

Mark, I'll make more than a dozen so you can powder coat the quantity you need. (my fab guys got busy all of a sudden with real work. :D The blanks are supposed to come off the CNC punch next Monday.)

[Blrfl]

Okay, now you all know who to harass. :D

--Mark

[Trekker]

Okay, now you all know who to harass. :D

--Mark

Do'H!!!

[jester]

put me down for one of the brackets.

Dan

[cpugiu]

has this gathering decided when they are going to meet? I might have time to get a unit and all the fixings too.

[SilverBullet]

Hey Mark,
Will we need to cut the two brackets according to Ray's instructions (http://www.st-owners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=45296) before we get there or will we be doing this on site? Also, should we do some of the other items like weather proofing the switch. Anything else we need to do that any one can think of?

[Trekker]

Harold,
See the attached photo of the bracket Mark & I are making. It mounts on the left handlebar and will be powder coated black. It is one piece and does not need to be cut.

The Cruise unit has pressure sensitive adhesive and the wires protrude through the long slot. Mark has told me the control unit will need to have some sealant added to it, and that it should be installed upright. All easy things to accomplish.

Note- these brackets are probably only good for the 1300. I have not yet put one on my 1100, but the bracket may interfere with the choke lever. I will look soon. (I'm not planning to install a cruise any time this year so it hasn't been an issue for me yet).

[SilverBullet]

Great David. The bracket looks really good and I have the RAM mount in place to attach the bracket on.

The other to small brackets that need to be cut, according to Ray's instructions go down at the throttle cable area. (The first two photos in his write up) Should we cut them and have them ready or do them when we meet.

Thanks

[Trekker]

Great David. The bracket looks really good and I have the RAM mount in place to attach the bracket on.

The other to small brackets that need to be cut, according to Ray's instructions go down at the throttle cable area. (The first two photos in his write up) Should we cut them and have them ready or do them when we meet.

Thanks

Hmmmm.... I don't know about those brackets..... Mark hasn't ask me to make any for those positions. Let's see what the Tech master says.

[Blrfl]

He's talking about the bracket parts that come with the Audiovox kit. They need to be trimmed a bit to work with the throttle body. I'm going to try and arrange it so we have what we need at Dale's to cut them down and clean them up.

--Mark

[sourbeer]

any date for this event?

I'm also hoping that I can get one of the brackets. I've got everything else needed, vacuum cannister, hose, check valve, audiovox cc.

[Blrfl]

Dave made 19 brackets, so hopefully there will be more than enough for everybody.

We did a test-fit during this weekend's camping trip and found a small problem with the bolt holes that needs to be corrected. After I get the brackets, they have to go out for powder coating. I need to check with the guy who does it and see what his schedule is like.

So no date yet. If it's agreeable with Dale, I was thinking the weekend after Labor Day might be good.

--Mark

[sourbeer]

I'll keep an eye out for the date. I'm going to the MotoGP race in Indy weekend of Sept 13th but will try to attend otherwise. If I am not able to make it, I'd still like to purchase one of the mounting brackets if possible.

[SilverBullet]

Hey everyone! I wanted to do a little preperation before this event so I wanted to learn to take off all the tupperware and also go ahead and mount the servo and vacuum canister thinking that would take a long time out of the picture that day. Plus I wanted to make sure the Audiovox vacuum canister would fit. I purchased this unit http://murpskits.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=&products_id=222&osCsid=562de1d85f97663bc652f51f41fb0ec5.

I have heard so many people praising it so, I wanted to give it a shot. I mounted the survo unit on the left side, pushed all the way up behind hind the spearker grill and mounted the vacuum canister right under it. Servo is bolted on real good. On the vacuum canister, one of the mounting ears is tied with a zip tie up around the support arm by the mirror mount. The other ear not tied and everthing tucked in behind the inner cowl.

Total time just to learn to take everything off, mount the units and button everthing back up was 4 -5 hours. I was taking my time, putting all bolts in individual marked trays but I had no bolts left over and all seem to alaign up fine.

I just wanted to make sure I had an idea how to take this plastic off and make sure the vacuum canister would fit before I head up to this event. I did not attach anything else except just put on the vacuum hose and plug up the hole so no dirt or anything would get in.

Look forward to getting up with everone so we can finish this install.


PS

Does any one that will be going have a pair of the Hitachi connector crimper tool? I have a connector that I can attach for the servo power to my quartet harness.

[Blrfl]

The parts arrived from Dave this week, and there are a total of 19. I did a test-fit on my 1300, and the fit and position is very good. (Pictures attached.) At breakfast this morning, I held it up to Jed's 1100, and it does look like it might interfere with the choke lever (it's a tight squeeze), but the bracket can be flipped around if there's nothing attached to the clutch reservoir bolts.

The guy who's done my powder coating in the past seems to have dropped off the face of the planet, so I've got a couple of estimates pending from other local shops. If I hear from them early in the week, I'll try to get the parts put in, which will put us in a good spot for September. Once coated, the whole thing should look like it belongs there. I'm very tempted to paint all or part of the control pad black.

I'll go through this thread, gather up a list of interested parties and put it in the first post. The price on these should be relatively low. Dave was nice enough to fabricate the brackets gratis, for which we owe him a big thanks. The only expenses I have to cover on these is powder coating, gas and lunch for Dave and his guys, so I think we're looking at $10 or less each.

I'd like to thank everyone for their patience with this. I know we've been planning this for four months, but hopefully the wait will be worth it.

--Mark

[SilverBullet]

Thanks Mark for all the time you've put into this project.:bow1:

Big thanks to Dave for fabricating the brackets for us.:bow1:
Thaks to you both

[Blrfl]

I'm going to drop Dale a line and see how September looks for him. We might do our bikes ahead of time to work the kinks out.

--Mark

[Blue STreak]

Very nice looking. Thanks Mark, and Dave!

Look like it won't interfere with the heated gear control module I'll have on top of the clutch fluid reservoir, either.

[Trekker]

Mark, If you cannot get them powder coated in a reasonable time, I suggest you spray them with a good quality flat black enamel paint. That should hold up well over time as long as the brackets are very clean before spraying (wipe down with solvent or alcohol). Has no one considered Chrome ???? LOL

Mark designed these brackets to work well on the 1300 that could also have a RAM mount behind it. Since the 1300 doesn't have a choke lever these are positioned just about right. The 1100 may need a different offset of the large plate that the control unit is attached to. I am now considering putting one on my 1100 next year, and if I do I will fab up a slightly different version.

IF that happens... I may have some extras to pass out..... that's a big maybe cause I will be starting a new job search in '09 and might lose the shop access, (I have access to a metal fab shop where we are allowed to make small personal projects after hours).

[juddspaintballs]

A tight squeeze for the bracket on the 1100's, but if you thin the choke lever down a hair I think it would still work perfectly.

[Blrfl]

You know, Jed, I didn't think about it at the time, but some small spacers would probably get it out of the way.

--Mark

[juddspaintballs]

Maybe I'll install a cruise one day and give it a shot. The cruise unit isn't too expensive and I don't think it would be terribly difficult to do even on an 1100.

[Blrfl]

A quick update:

The brackets are off to the finisher's tomorrow for powder coating.

The date will be a Saturday, definitely not the 20th and unlikely the 6th. Dale and I are working it out.

--Mark

[Blrfl]

We've set a date, September 13. Please see the first post for important information.

The first five or six to confirm get slots in the shop, and Dale has offered to do another one on October to catch the remainder.

The cost of the brackets will be $8.50.

--Mark

[gene]

Mark I'll be over to help out, you might want to let Bob know so he can plan his rte now since you have a set date. Thanks Mark and Dale:)

[SilverBullet]

1 comfirmation

What is the proper way to confirm that I'll be there on September 13th?

[gregj]

I was planning on coming over to help out, but I have a prior commitment on that morning. I will try to make it over after lunch time, just to observe and help.

[Trekker]

Way cool of Dale to offer his shop up on a Saturday.

If I lived just a little closer I would ride in, but my dance card is getting too full, and that's a good thing. Have fun Kids! :D

[SilverBullet]

I'm sure I'll want to come up Friday evening since it is a 4 hour ride non-stop from Roanoke. "In moving traffic" Can someone recommend a cheap but clean, safe room for Friday night.

FYI to the installers:

I purchased a crimper tool for the Hitachi plug adapters if anyone wants to use it for their install. I purchased a 6 pin Hitachi plug that I will put on the control panel harness. Since the wires are so long, they need shortened anyway. I thought I would clean up the wires some. I also purchase a f-male 3 pin to for the power to plug into the Quartet harness.

I'll have a few extra terminals and a couple extra hitachi plugs with me if anyone need some.

I also purchased some smooth protective wire wrap from http://www.vintageconnections.com/Sheathing.htm and some heat shrink to clean up and protect the wire harness and give it a oem look.


Time permitting....and if anyone is willing.....If someone has a different windshild like cee bailey, clearview or others I would like to try a few out to keep me from having to buy them to try.

Also, I "should" have my Day-long saddle by then if someone wants to try it. It's been a long wait......

[juddspaintballs]

I'll probably come to watch and help out and stand around and make jokes. Will we be doing breakfast beforehand or a ride afterwards?

[gene]

Jed you and I can do all three even if it's just us :) I'll meet you somewhere on your way and ride over with you.

[Blrfl]

1 comfirmation

What is the proper way to confirm that I'll be there on September 13th?

Posting up here works.


Gene: Bob already knows.

--Mark

[Blue STreak]

The RTE will be the 20th. I'll try to find time to post details tonight.

I'll be attending the "CruiseSTOC", but don't need space to work in the shop. I'll be there to watch, learn, help out, etc. I will take a bracket, but I'll probably do the actual install in my own garage, on my own time.

Thanks Mark.

[jester]

count me in if it is not to late.

Dan

[Blue STreak]

Mark:

Any idea what time you'll get started on the 13th?

[Blrfl]

I think the plan is to get started at around 8:00 a.m. so we get the most possible wrenching time in should something go screwy on someone's bike.

If I didn't mention it before, Gene has graciously volunteered to be the event chef if Dale's grill is available, although we do ask that you toss in a few dollars to reimburse him for the food. Ergo, no RTE beforehand.

For those coming in from out of town: Please arrange with Dale to drop your STeed off Friday night so it's cold in the morning. Working on hot bikes is no fun. If you're staying in a hotel, let me know and I'll shuttle you around in my car. (I live about three miles from there, so it's no trouble.)

--Mark

[juddspaintballs]

As of now, I'm still planning on being there. I'm caging to recruit school now since I have an enormous duffel bag I have to carry with me, and it would be great to get out for a ride longer than about 30 minutes these days. Albeit, my body may not be up for Bob's ride on the 20th, I can certainly make it far enough for the cruise tech day.

Plus I have my storm-trooper looking new helmet to try out (white rf-1000 with a dark smoke shield)

[Blrfl]

Plus I have my storm-trooper looking new helmet to try out (white rf-1000 with a dark smoke shield)

35365

--Mark

[gene]

Now I don't mind doing the grill work for this roudy bunch of bikers :rolleyes: it would be great if every body could bring say $10 cash and we can maybe get Mark's wife Patty to go out and pick us up some food for breakfest and lunch that we can cook up as the day goes by!! Seems fair and the best way to handle eating and working. Hope that is ok with folks?

[juddspaintballs]

sounds fair, gene

[SilverBullet]

Gene
I don't mind chipping in for food, and thanks for volunteering to do the grill work.

Mark,

How is the best way to email Dale? Should we use his openroadoutfitters address or does he have a profile here? I will try to stay in the closest hotel so I wont be to much of a bother. Any suggestions? I may need a ride though.

[Blue STreak]

If I'm there (and I expect to be), I'll be happy to chip in for food.

[SilverBullet]

For out of towners, looks like Candlewood Suites, is about 1/2 mile from Open Road Outfitters.

I'm seeing advance purchase rates of 59.99 - 66.99 on their website.

2 Double beds for 66.99. Any one want to split a room?

[Blrfl]

The Candlewood is a reasonably short walk from ORO and there are a Chick-Fil-A, McDonald's and a Wally Mart within walking distance.

In other news: I got the brackets back from the finisher, and they look great.

--Mark

[Trekker]

In other news: I got the brackets back from the finisher, and they look great.

--Mark

I can't wait to see the finished product!!!!!

"This is gonna be great!", Flounder- Animal House

[sourbeer]

i'll sadly have to miss this event as I have planned for some time to attend the MotoGP race in Indy. I would still like to purchase one of the mounting brackets if possible to do my install, which I will probably tackle in my own garage very soon. I have accumulated all of the necessary stuff, minus the mounting bracket. I'd love to hear or see pics on how you guys power the cruise unit with the quartet harness, I think I'd like to do that as well. I just installed the quartet harness last weekend when I installed my heated grips and PIAA lights.

hope you guys all have a smooth install. let me know if there is going to be an extra bracket for me, but i fully understand that they need to be available to the on-hand farklers first.

[SilverBullet]

Sorry you won't be there. I looked forward to see everyone...but I clearly understand. Have fun at the race and bring us back some good souvenirs.

[treasst13]

Mark: I am interested in a bracket.

[SilverBullet]

Where are all the cruise control installers??? Only two have confirmed.

[WVUandVT2]

I'll only be able to cage there for a few as I have other plans that day. I do want to get one of those nice brackets though :-)

Also, if someone wants to buy a Bestem 2012 Top Box, black, I have one I can bring. I'm selling it for $50. New cost $69 + $25 shipping. The mounting bracket has already been drilled for the ST1300. I had it mounted for a short time before getting a good deal on the Hondaline Top Box. It's still in mint condition. If I don't sell it to someone local then I'll put it in the classifieds forum. I'm trying to avoid having to ship it :-)

[juddspaintballs]

I still plan on making it. Can't say I won't be exhausted, but I should be there.

[Blrfl]

Where are all the cruise control installers??? Only two have confirmed.

Dale will be doing his, and I'll probably be doing mine if the battery isn't dead and I find myself capable of riding it over there, so that's four.

--Mark

[gene]

I think one of us could ride it over for you :rolleyes:

[Lowrider]

I'd love to go, but I'm flying for the Sheriff's Office that day chasing aggressive drivers on Rt 50.

[Blue STreak]

Nothing personal, Lowrider, but what a bloody waste of money! How many thousands of dollars is spent on each ticket issued?

[Lowrider]

Gosh Bob....we waste a lot of money!!

Why.... last week we flew for 6 hours and didn't get one agressive driver...and only 6 DUIs and 11 speeding tickets more than 20 mph over the limit. Oh yeah...then there was the cocaine bust....and the 18 wheeler that ran a woman and her kids off the road...and...guess you're right...it's a waste of our tax money but it sure is fun!!!:D

BTW we'll be wasting more money this weekend with sobriety check points and "click it or ticket it" but then that's federal money we gotta spend before Obama get in.

[juddspaintballs]

so...avoid route 50 on Saturday...

thanks for the heads up :cool:

[Lowrider]

so...avoid route 50 on Saturday...

thanks for the heads up :cool:

You're welcome, but it's only a problem if you are doing something wrong and we happen to see you.

I forgot to mention the squid on the sport bike a couple weeks ago that outran the plane. We guessed 140 MPH on the shoulder of Rt 50 where traffic was backed up on the way to the beach. But then, he was just having fun on the way to the beach and we were just wasting money!!

[gregj]

Sounds to me like money well spent. Fly safe. :D

[Blrfl]

Awright gentlemen, unless the police plane in question has an Audiovox cruise control or one will be installed in it this Saturday, please take the debate over whether or not it's a waste of money somewhere else.

--Mark

[st1300r]

There you go (http://www.st-owners.com/forums/showthread.php?p=542349#post542349) :)

http://www.st-owners.com/forums/showthread.php?p=542349#post542349


Awright gentlemen, unless the police plane in question has an Audiovox cruise control or one will be installed in it this Saturday, please take the debate over whether or not it's a waste of money somewhere else.

--Mark

[treasst13]

Mark: For planning purposes, I will try to attend the Oct tech day. thanks.

[SilverBullet]

Incase anyones interested or would like to join in, I plan to leave from Roanoke VA Friday around 9:00 AM and Ride the BRP and Skyline all the way up to Front Royal. If anyone is heading up that way, feel free to join in. I should make it in plenty of time to drop off the bike at Dale's before he leaves by 6:00 PM.

I'll be staying at Candlewood Suites Friday night.

[Blrfl]

Just a few reminders:

If you're going to seal up your control pad, do so soon so it's cured by Saturday. If you seal the back, try not to get too much goop beyond the limits of the oblong hole where the wires come out.

You will need either suitable replacement bolts and spacers for your brake reservoir area or a RAM mount on which to bolt the bracket. If you have neither, don't panic. The bottom of the bracket can be temporarily bolted to the upper screw until you get something.

Bring something to put the fairing fasteners in. A 3x3 or 4x4 keeper box works very well.

See you at 8:00 Saturday!

--Mark

[Blue STreak]

I may be running late.

If I get my new front tire by Friday, and GregJ is still willing to help me change it out, I'll have to get it balanced on Saturday.

Hey, does Dale have a tire balancer?

[gene]

I got a Mark Parnes I can bring ?

[Blue STreak]

Any weights I can buy / beg? Or where can I buy them locally?

Thanks

[gene]

I got some stick on weights too.

[gene]

I wonder if Dale has a tire changer ? If I didn't have to drive the truck I could bring my harbor freight.

[ezwryder]

I wonder if Dale has a tire changer ? If I didn't have to drive the truck I could bring my harbor freight.

There's another bike shop just around the corner from us that has tire changer/balancing equipment. Given their proximity and the fact that we don't do a lot of general service stuff, we just take ours over to them.

d.

[Blue STreak]

Thanks Dale. It turns out I may be able to get it mounted and balanced Friday night. If not, I'll try the shop next to you.

[juddspaintballs]

I'm starting to rethink this whole "get up early in the morning on my day off" deal. Granted, even if I got up at 6AM, I would still be sleeping in a full 2 hours, but this is a Saturday. I'm not ducking out on you, but I may not be there at 8:00 AM sharp. Maybe closer to 9:00 AM. It's not like I'm actually doing anything but standing around and enjoying the company anywhoo, so I can be fashionably late :p:

[Blrfl]

...I may not be there at 8:00 AM sharp.

8:00 a.m. dull is just fine, too. DAMHIKT. :rolleyes:

--Mark

[Blue STreak]

I got a Mark Parnes I can bring ?

Thanks for the offer, Gene, but don't bother.

Because of work conflicts, I wasn't able to hook up with Greg today, so no tire mounted yet. I'm going to have to take care of that in the morning, so I'll have to take care of it in the a.m., so I'll just get it balanced at a shop.

I'm going to swing buy early in the a.m., I guess, then go get my tire taken care of. Hmm, maybe I should bring my wheel, tire and tools, and get the shop near Dale's to do the dismounting, mounting and balancing. Dale, if you see this could you give me the name of the shop?

[Blue STreak]

Is anyone going to this going to have a car there?

Mark:

I'm considering riding out to Dale's, removing the front wheel there, and having the shop Dale mentioned do the mounting and balancing.

But, obviously, I'd need some way to get everything over there. Twice.

Why twice? Because I'll want them to dismount the old tire and give me the rim back, so I can return to Dale's and put in my Bridgeport valve stem and SmarTire sensor, then take it BACK to the shop to have them mount and balance the tire.

Oh, heck, now that I put that down on paper it sounds like too much trouble. I guess I'll pull the rim tonight and cage it over to Dale's in the a.m.

Bob

[Blrfl]

Is anyone going to this going to have a car there?

I could arrange to have one there if you'd like.

Why twice? Because I'll want them to dismount the old tire and give me the rim back, so I can return to Dale's and put in my Bridgeport valve stem and SmarTire sensor, then take it BACK to the shop to have them mount and balance the tire.

Better yet, ask them to dismount the tire, hand you back the rim, you install the sensor and valve, hand it back to them and have the new tire put on.

--Mark

[SilverBullet]

I got here about 5:00 this evening. I got checked into the hotel and dropped the bike off at Dale's.

Dale was kind enough to offer a ride back to the hotel, so Jim on of the workers there dropped me off. Dale offered to pick me up in the morning.:D

I rode the Blueridge parkway and Skylind Drive all the way to Front Royal and then got stuck in traffic on 28 heading by the Airport into Sterling. It was a long 9 hr ride through thick fog and drizzle rain and then the worst of it, 1 hr of Northen VA traffic jam.

Look forward meeting everyone tomorrow.

[Blrfl]

...the worst of it, 1 hr of Northen VA traffic jam.

Welcome to my world, Harold. :D

Actually, 28 used to be much, much worse. All of those interchanges you passed through between the airport and the turnoff to get to Dale's were traffic lights not so long ago.

--Mark

[SilverBullet]

I don't know if I could have taken much longer of that. My Arse..was saying time to get off and the GPS said 12 miles but I had to creep....and creeepp.

My pour clutch hand never seen so much work LOL

Times like this I wished lane splitting was legal but that is dangerous I guess. :rolleyes: Unless everyone else is setting:rolleyes:

[Blue STreak]

I could arrange to have one there if you'd like.



Better yet, ask them to dismount the tire, hand you back the rim, you install the sensor and valve, hand it back to them and have the new tire put on.

--Mark

Thought of that....might do it....but with my luck it'll be pouring down rain while I stand in the parking lot working on my rim. :(

Thanks for the offer, but I think I'm going to go out in the garage and yank the wheel. Tomorrow's going to be a crummy day to ride, anyway.

[QUOTE=SilverBullet;544470]

My pour clutch hand never seen so much work LOL

[QUOTE]

Yep, commuting up here will definitely strengthen your clutch hand.

[Blrfl]

Thanks to everyone for coming and especially to Dale for his usual great hospitality.

We got maybe 1-2/3 installs done today: mine (from scratch), Dale's (started his yesterday) and Harold's (who gets the distance award and used his on the way up). In retrospect, I'm glad we didn't have five of these going on at once. Now that I've done the whole procedure from top to bottom, I know where the snags are and will be able to help out next time.

Speaking of which, Dale has offered to host another of these in October if there's interest. We'll try and get a date arranged soon so people have time to plan.

I took mine for a short spin, and I'm quite pleased. With no reservoir and the sensitivity set to medium, it did very well. It's a little twitchy in second, but quite smooth above that. I didn't get to hit any real hills, so I'll see how it does another time.

For those who want brackets, I'll see about getting them out in a week or two.

--Mark

[SilverBullet]

It was a pleasure meeting everyone today. It always nice putting faces to usernames.

Special thanks to Dale for hosting the install and Mark for making the great looking brackets. They turned out really nice.

Bob, thanks for the steble. However, I did not have to use it on the way back.

Thanks to Del "MDelro" which allowed me to test ride his ceebailey shield out.


I made it home by 7:00 PM. 230 miles non stop ride back to Roanoke. I could not have done it on the stock seat however the Russell hopefully will break in more. It was still a little rough on the ride back.

[Trekker]

Would love to see some pics of the control unit & bracket installed.

[Blue STreak]

Thanks for setting this up, Mark. And thanks again, Dale, for the use of your space. I watched and helped Mark with his, and feel much more comfortable doing my own, now. Might take advantage of Dale's offer to host another, in spite of the fact that I generally prefer to work in my own garage. Dale's got some real nice facilities there.

[ezwryder]

Thanks to Mark for spearheading the effort and the bracketry. I was more than happy to offer the facilities in exchange for the push to get this done. Glad to see those who came out.

I am very pleased with the outcome on my bike. I popped the GPS on the bike and found a longer stretch of road where I could get a sense of how well it maintains speed. It was consistently within 2 mph of my setting the entire time. I'm planning to hook up a trailer to see what effect that will have. I have a cannister handy and will install that if needed, but for now I'm very happy with the setup as is.

The bracket is great -- it is mounted just within reach of my thumb, so I quickly learned how to manage it without looking. I need to reroute my cable run as the current routing looks a bit hasty in retrospect.

I do have one habit I'll need to adjust. On a Gold Wing, you can disable to cruise when you grab either the clutch or the brake, so rather than blip the brakes which would flash the brake lights, I'd grab the clutch ever so slightly to trigger the switch and kill the CC. This setup monitors the brake only, but that is no big deal at all. Just an adjustment.

I have a Harley sitting in the back of the shop and another cruise control to install on that. But it's a factory unit designed specifically for that bike. I can't imagine it will be as much fun as doing the ST's. I know for sure it won't be as much fun to ride!

d.

[Blrfl]

On a Gold Wing, you can disable to cruise when you grab either the clutch or the brake, so rather than blip the brakes which would flash the brake lights, I'd grab the clutch ever so slightly to trigger the switch and kill the CC.

Pulling in the clutch will disengage this unit, too, but it has to detect a rise in engine speed. I tried it during my test ride and it worked as expected.

If the clutch switch creates 12V on a line like the brake switches do (as opposed to shorting something to ground), making it work the same way would be easy. All you'd have to do is split the purple wire and connect to the brake and clutch lines with a diode in line to prevent the clutch from turning on the brake lights and the brakes from making the bike think the clutch is pulled in.

A note for Harold: I re-read the instructions on the tube of sealant, and we should have pulled the masking tape off the control pad immediately after we put the sealant on it. That would have left a bead with a nice, even edge. I'm going to seal mine tonight and will do that.

I'd like to thank Bob and Dale (again) for their assistance with some of the parts that required finer motor control than I have in my hands right now. Not being able to ride much hasn't been much fun for me, and I'm grateful for the help in doing something bike-related. It was nice to get back on the bike, even if it was for just a few miles.

--Mark

[SilverBullet]

Here are some pics of the mount.