What to buy...

[mamahemp]

I am going to the local dealership again today, to "sit" on the GZ there.

I would like a larger bike, but frankly since I have been off a bike for 20 years, I am SCARED to go on something too big.

The bike runs fine, looks good, and I will see it tomorrow at 9.30 am in Columbus. He has had it for a few years and wants a bigger bike. Same old story from what I can tell.

I agree, the 250 would not be SUPER on highway, so I am going to retreat to the back roads. With the price of gas, and getting reimbursed for mileage with my new job, a bike is a good way to go. PLUS, I just want to ride again. CAll it my midlife crisis at 40.

[Easy Rider]

Originally Posted by mamahemp

I agree, the 250 would not be SUPER on highway, so I am going to retreat to the back roads.

Good for you. A true "riders" mentality.

If you don't really HAVE to use the Interstates, there is no reason the GZ can't be your permanent bike. I take mine on road trips all the time; so do lots of others.

Two lane US and State routes these days usually don't have a lot of traffic, are usually well maintained and the GZ has no problem keeping up at 55 MPH. Those that generally parallel a major Interstate are usually the best.

Good luck! Keep us posted.

[mamahemp]

okay, one more thing. Should I change out the oil and gas after I get in, since we are in Ohio and they tend to sit during the cold months?

[JWR]

Oil and filter.....Yes

Gas................How long has it been sitting?

If it cranks good and runs good just fill he tank and go.

[Easy Rider]

Originally Posted by mamahemp

okay, one more thing. Should I change out the oil and gas after I get in, since we are in Ohio and they tend to sit during the cold months?

Ask the owner how fresh the gas and oil IS. He has no real reason to lie about that and there is no good reason to throw away fresh oil or gas.

Also ask him what kind of oil he has been using. On a bike that old, it is usually best to stick with what it is used to.

Although not a deal breaker, be sure to ask for the tool kit and owner's manual. Sometimes they get lost just because the present owner forgets they are not with the bike.

[mamahemp]

Just brought the bike home. Got it up to 30, but I think I need to fix the front spring/strut. It appears to be leaking some fluid. I do not want to attempt this myself. What does something like that costs? Any ideas?

Also, have a few other questions, but I will take that to the Tech section...

Thanks! Wow, it is just like riding a bike, everything came back to me. What a wicked little bike. Oh, got my helmet, boots, jacket and gloves, thank you very much!

[alanmcorcoran]

Congratulations. Not familiar with the front shocks so can't help you there. But I'm sure help will be along in a moment.

[Easy Rider]

Originally Posted by mamahemp

What does something like that costs? Any ideas?

It depends on whether it is just a bad seal or a damaged fork tube.
First, wipe it off and be sure it comes back.

If you do one side seals, you should do both.
My guess for seals only: One hour labor ($65-$100 depending on the shop) and maybe $20 in parts.
If the fork tube is damaged......??????

[mamahemp]

thank you. I will wipe it off now and see if it comes back. Neighbor said it looked like a bad seal. he has an older suzuki.