| Author | Message | ||
     Chadhargis |
The new riding season is quickly approaching, and for the first time in a few years, I find myself with only one bike. The Ulysses. It does so many things well, that I sold off my other bikes. Now, this is not a problem, but come time for some track day fun, I'm going to be putting my one and only ride on the track. I'm not a racer, and don't aspire to be one. I just like sharpening my skills and enjoying my bike in a closed course environment. I don't care to go 150mph or anything. In fact, the fastest I've ever been on a track was 100mph. I'm more about smoothness, corner speed, and precision braking than straight line speed. This brings me to the Uly. I want to give it a bit more track focus, but still keep it streetable. Here are my thoughts: 1) Purchase an extra set of wheels to mount sticky rubber on. The lighter S or R wheels preferably. 2) Mount up lighter "wave" type rotors on each new wheel to save weight and dissipate heat better. 3) Install a Wilbers shock and fork springs (or other premium aftermarket shock) 4) Perhaps do Renthal medium rise bars for a little more forward lean I've already got the race kit, and that's about all I want to do to the engine. As I mentioned before, it's not about top speed to me, it's about cornering ability. I think it will be a lot of fun to surprise some sportbikes in the corners with the Uly. They'll leave me for dead in the straights, but I'd like to get the Uly setup for cornering precision. I've already got a steering damper, so I may look at raising the rear of the bike a bit. The Wilbers shock will allow you to change the rear ride height by 1/2". I may make a visit to Traxxion Dynamics in Atlanta to get their help in setting the bike up for my weight. Can anyone make any other suggestions as to what might help me meet my goal of a super handling Uly? What about any reliability upgrades. Again, not looking to make more power or go faster in a straight line, just want to be able to lay a knee on the deck without any drama. | ||
| Lorazepam |
slicks on the spare wheels, as soft as you can find. | ||
| Chadhargis |
Humm...hadn't thought about running slicks. What if it rains?  Figure at my pace I'll get several track days out of a set of tires. Thought about going with the Diablo Corsa III: http://www.us.pirelli.com/web/catalog/moto/moto_ca talogo_schedaDescription.page?categoria=/catalog/m oto/hypersport/none&vehicleType=MOTO&product_id=13 185&uri=/pirellityre/en_US/browser/xml/catalog/mot o/MOTO_MV_DIABLOCORSAIII_HYP.xml | ||
| Smcnamara |
Another fairly cheap and easy mod is to throw the peg brackets and pegs from the XB-R on in place of the Uly peg brackets. You lose your passenger pegs, but it moves your feet up and back a couple inches and should help prevent any premature peg grindage. If you get some knee dragging accomplished, I hope you'll share some photos. It's a pretty tall mount, and thus-far, I've lacked the sufficient cojones to lean it quite that far. Your photos might prove inspirational. :-) P.S. I went with Michelin Pilot Powers for the track, and was quite happy with them. I ran the D616's on my first outing, which were frightening and also chewed themselves up in interesting ways... (Message edited by smcnamara on February 20, 2007) | ||
| Sethbuchbinder |
Smcnamara is rite on the money with the factory peg shift gear from any standard XB and specifically the pegs from a XBR. That is if your serious about progressing your track riding to advanced levels. if your just looking to go out and rip around the track and have fun, the stock dropouts are fine and shouldn't really hold you back. The wave rotors are nice if you are buying a set of them for an extra pair of wheels but are also a bit pricey. since its your only ride id skip the suspension mods. Swapping suspension will turn the track day transformation in to a day and a half worth of wrench time each time you do an event. I had a 2006 Ulysses on the track in Vegas at Buells Competitive product training seminar. Let me tell you that in 100% stock form, that bike is extreemely capable on the track. I was draggin knee before the pegs touched the ground. There was a bit of dive on the breaks, but thats to be expected and if you have a 2007 with the progressive springs, then it shouldnt be an issue. The stock bars are a bit higher than they could ideally be, but remember this is a adventure sport bike. Changing the bars for a day or three of riding is a bit of a chore. Get an extra set of wheels with some good meats on them or just pop some good meats on the stock wheels. There not going to slow you down. Side note Buell MC had most of the bikes that are considered competitive product, standards, naked bikes, and adventure/sport bikes from the big 4 plus Triumph,Ducati,and BMW at this event ready for back to back thrashing. The only adventure/adventure sport that came close to the Uly on or off the track was the BMW R1200GS. Both are great machines, but the Buell is way less expensive and has IMHO lots more character.. but you all know this already as this is BadWeb. Chad, Just ride it like you stole it. and if you have side cases and a top case, leave them on and see the reactions you get... Seth | ||
| Chadhargis |
The suspension and bar mods won't be just for track days. They will stay there for street riding too. 99% of my street riding is very aggressive. I might do two or three "touring" type trips a year. Most of my riding time happens less than 3 hours away from my house by twisty roads. My Uly is more or less a sportbike for a tall person. A little lower bar would be a welcome addition for me as I find I sit too upright on the bike (long arms!). At 6'5", I become a big sail. This leaves me leaning forward into the wind, which isn't great with those tall bars. Also makes tucking behind the screen more difficult. Moving a little weight to my arms will save my bum some pain on longer rides too. The Wilbers shock and fork springs will benefit me on the street too. The Wilbers is a great shock. It should improve ride quality as well as handling. I called Klaus at Wilbers today and discussed some stuff with him. The Wilbers fork springs are longer by 1/2" than the stock ones. He also recommends running more airspace in the forks (less fluid). Given my weight with gear approaches 250lbs, the stock suspension is tasked heavily. Using a heavier weight spring will allow me to get the sag set right and have the suspension in the middle of its travel. I also ordered the shock with the ride height adjustment. I'm going to play with raising the rear up a bit at a time to see if I can quicken the steering. I'm running a steering damper, so I'm not too worried about the front end behaving badly. I'd make small changes only, so I should feel any sort of instability before it becomes an issue. The new brake rotors will go on the new wheels. Figure the lighter wheels combined with the lighter rotors should make some difference. I'm also considering trying to find a brake caliper and master cylinder for an XBRR. I like to brake very late coming into corners. That's how I pass a lot of folks since I can't get them on the straights. My biggest wants for the track are strong, fade free brakes, sticky tires, and a great suspension. If I can get that for about $2000, that's about half of what I was going to spend on an old clapped out "track ho" bike that I'd have to maintain, repair, etc. It would also sit in my garage most of the time. To me, setting up my Uly to do what I want of it makes more sense right now. | ||
| Adamd |
With all that money you could buy a track only ex500 or gs500 and probably go quicker? | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
Yeah, but it wouldn't be comfortable for him due to his height. He would also have twice the registration costs, twice the insurance costs, and twice the maintenance costs. Besides that, if his goal is to use the track day to improve upon his skills for street riding, wouldn't it be better to do it on the bike you intend to ride on the street? With his mods, he has also improved his main ride. | ||
| Chadhargis |
Yep...what fatty said. If I did buy a "track bike", I'd most likely register it for use on the street since I only plan on doing a couple of track days a year. They are just too dang expensive to do more than that considering hotel, travel expense, tires, fees, etc. Once I get my Uly modded, I'll have the most comfortable bike on the track. At the end of the day when everyone is complaining about being sore and tired, I'll be ready for more. At 6'5" and nearing 250lbs fully geared up, I'd squash an EX500. I'd end up having to do the exact same mods to it, and being too uncomfortable on it to ride it anywhere (I have really bad knees). Also, I seriously doubt that an EX500, even with an aftermarket suspension upgrade, will run much faster (if at all) than my Uly when I get done with it. True, the EX weighs less, but it doesn't make near the power the Ulysses does, doesn't have the same level of components (brakes, chassis, suspension), has a 2" longer wheelbase than the Uly, and smaller tires that may make sticky rubber harder to find for it. The only downside to running my Uly at the track is a possible get off. But in all honesty, that's more likely to happen on the street than the track. True, I ride faster on the track, but not insane fast. I don't "beat" the bike, I just carry a bit more corner speed since I know the corners are clean, there is no traffic, no cops, and no animals. I temper my pace on the street not because I can't go faster, but because I can't control what's around the next bend. Here's what I've got ordered so far: 1) XBS wheels 2) Front wave rotor 3) Rear wave rotor (don't use the rear brake on the track much, but it's lighter) 4) Renthal medium rise bars 5) New rear pulley 6) Wilbers Racing shock w/ ride height adjustment and remote preload adjustment 7) Wilbers Racing fork progressive springs (1/2" longer than stock) 8) Pirelli Diablo Corsa III dual compound tires I'm also thinking about scoping out an XBRR brake caliper and master cylinder. That would be interesting. When it's time for a track day or even a spirited road ride, I can slip off the stock wheels, mount up the XBS wheels and I've got what amounts to a Ulysses XB12X-R. I can't wait to see how it turns out. Of course, it if sucks or isn't any better, I'll have a bunch of parts for sale. LOL!! | ||
| Etennuly |
Sounds like someone is going to have some fun. When and where? I would enjoy watching if my timing were right. If I weren't so old, fat, and out of shape I'd try to join you on this adventure, but that ain't gonna happen. I sure did enjoy chasing you for a while when we hit those twisties over N'ville way!  | ||
| Chadhargis |
I'm not exactly Nicky Hayden. Track days are for anyone who wants to ride in a safe environment free of gravel, dogs, cops, etc. Typically there are at least two groups, and many times three groups. There will always be a novice or slower group if you aren't interested in pushing yourself. As of now, I only have one track day that I am 100% sure I'm going to do. I'm heading to Barber on Labor Day weekend to do a NESBA track day. Would love to have you come down and hang with us. | ||
| Littlefield |
Interesting you mentioned raising the rear. Seems like if anything mine steers too quickly. Gets into and out of corners pretty well with a little oversteer but gets upset midcorner if it's bumpy. If it was a car I'd call it bump steer. From what I've read a little more front rebound damping may help but I'm going to try dropping the forks or decreasing the rear preload also. | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
Littlefield, I had the same issue. I had to dial the rear down because it felt as though I was riding a Dachshund. | ||
| Chadhargis |
I most likely won't raise the rear any but it's a nice option to have. With the proper rear spring, I shouldn't have to run much preload. Once I get the shock and springs installed, I'll need to enlist the help of some buddies to help me set the sag. | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
You don't want my kind of sag.  | ||
| Sethbuchbinder |
You should definitely add the XBR dropouts and pegs to the list. With all that nice kit, your gonna feel more comfortable and probably lean the bike more. At that point, ground clearance will become an issue.(a good problem to have!)The diablo Corsas are a great track day tire and actually do pretty well on the street as well. You will be amazed at how much faster the bike will turn in with the much steeper profile of the corsas compared to the D616's. make sure we get a full report after Barber, and dont forget the pics. Seth | ||
| Stevenknapp |
I'm also considering trying to find a brake caliper and master cylinder for an XBRR. There was some discussion between DaveS and the factory guys at the Ride your Uly to the UP gig. Might be worth asking his opinion, if he remembers. I thought the gist was big $$$, not as much benefit as you would expect. | ||
| Sethbuchbinder |
The RR master/caliper combo does perform significantly better than the already great 6 pot stockers. The downside is that they are extremely hard on rotors and they are a bit $$$. So the nice new wave rotors could be in for a rough, shorter then average life. and replacing rotors can get very $$. The stock master/caliper work great on the track,however a set of EBC pads are a must. The compound of the stock pads have the same grip, but dont hold up to the excess heat and will galze and perform poorly after a while. | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
Chad's already running the "Dr. Golden Sprinkles" pads. | ||
| Chadhargis |
Yeah...the Lyndalls pads are awesome. Great feel. Don't know how they will stand up coming into turn one at 100+mph and braking no sooner than the #2 marker. Could get interesting. | ||
| Chadhargis |
I finally found the wheels I want and bought those suckers!! 2006 XB12R wheels (good tires as a bonus!). For $440, shipping included, I think I got a pretty good buy. Project XB12X-R is on it's way....<evil laugh>  (Message edited by chadhargis on February 23, 2007) | ||
| Etennuly |
Chad, I'd be happy to go with you guys to Barber, but timing leaves me out. I will be concluding a six day trip at that time. I will be riding to northern Penna. for a wedding then on to meet with some friends, then we head to Detroit to see another friend. Our next leg will go to East Troy to BMC's H-Q to see the builders, then back to my place for a couple of days of escorting my friends around the Smokies. | ||
| Chadhargis |
I just joined NESBA. They have scores of track days in the area. Man! I can't wait to get back on the track. It's the most fun I've ever legally had. | ||
| Chadhargis |
Wheeee!! Just got an email saying my new wheels had been delivered today. I've got the 2007 airbox on order too. I ordered a number sticker as required by NESBA along with a few other custom vinyl decals. I can't wait to see how all this turns out. I'm hoping it doesn't suck.  | ||
| Smcnamara |
NESBA puts on great events. I don't think you'll be disappointed with them, and I think you'll be quite pleased with the Uly on the track. Post a pic of your ride once you get the decals and plate on.  | ||
| Knickers |
Great wheels at a great price. Where did you find them? I've been trolling ebay for months trying to snag a set. | ||
| Chadhargis |
I found them on eBay...and snagged them I did. I'd lost two sets previously due to being outbid. I didn't want to spend more than $500. After I'd lost the second set, on a fluke, I searched again and found these that had been up for 14 minutes with a buy it now of $400. I bought them! I'll take pictures for sure. It's going to be about a month before my Wilbers suspension gets to me. Guess it has to come from Germany on the slow boat. | ||
| Chadhargis |
They say God smiles on idiots and fools, so I guess I'm one or the other. Or both! My "new" wheels arrived today. Holy cow!! They are perfect. No scratches, dings, or other damage. They don't even have road grime or brake dust on them. The Pirelli Diablo T tires mounted on them still have the mold release rubber on. These tires can't have more than 50 miles or so on them. The chicken strips are a mile wide. Bearings look good too. Seem to have had plenty of anti-seize applied to them too, so I have a feeling they were mounted correctly. At $400, it's probably the best deal I've ever received on anything. | ||
| Etennuly |
Yeah but they won't be that pretty for long....now will they, mister happy guy who's gonna go burn them off on a race track ??? | ||
| Chadhargis |
Naah...I'll be spooning on some Diablo Corsa IIIs for the track. I will probably waste the Diablo Ts on the street. |
