I replaced the speedometer drive gear today. I had determined that the small flat part that engages the cable had broken and was causing my speedo to be inoperative.
It works again. I then compared speedometer indicated speeds with a GPS app on my phone.
I have used the app before, and to compare, the speedo in my 2013 Focus ST exactly matches GPS speed.
At an indicated 100MPH, the GPS speedo was showing 82MPH. That is a large variance. Enough to cause miscalculations in MPG and rally riding.
Today I also rode two up on the ST for the first time. I was nervous about the additional weight, but the bike handled it just fine. While moving and while stopped. The additional rear end sag put more bend in my legs and made me feel more stable at a stop. Haha.
Also, the past few days, I have flushed and bled front and rear brakes and the clutch. The clutch master had brown sludge in it. Nasty stuff.
I also drained and refilled the forks. I did not remove them, just drained using the drain screws, straight into a measuring cup, so I could refill the amount that drained.
The fluid that came out was dark grey and metallic. Definitely due for a change.
I replaced with 10w fork oil and I have not noticed an immediate change as today's riding was very slow while I escorted a friend home on his first bike (Honda Rebel), and then two up while I brought my fiance home who drove the friend's car. I will pay more attention to what the front end is doing in the coming days.