kz440 : 12

Took a 150 or so mile trip Saturday with some Ozark Mountain Scramble alumni to do a shake down run. I've got a few things to tinker with as far as jetting is concerned. The primary main needs leaned out a bit, and the secondary needs to be richened. Exhaust is in dire need of some back pressure which will probably help the jetting conundrum. On top of that, a slight head gasket leak popped up, so I am going to re-torque and see if that clears things up. If not I have a full gasket set at the ready to swap out.

As far as suspension goes, the rear shocks might as well be blocks of wood. Actually I think blocks of wood would be an improvement. The rear feels unstable and wants to wash out under any acceleration. All bumps are transferred directly to my ass and spine. I have ridden hard tails that are more forgiving. I have a feeling the kz1000 police shocks are just set up way too stiff, so I am going to sell these off and get some from a 750 or the like. The good news is that the Progressive fork springs are spot on, so just the rear needs improvement.

All in all, not a bad first trip, just needs some refinement.

Derrick