| Author | Message | ||
     Pattonme |
I've only test ridden the XB9's so far so bear with me. I find the throttle way too sensitive to minute wrist movement. is there a way to intercept/alter the TPS (I presumem it stands for Throttle Position Sensor) outputs to make it less sensitive? is it possible to program the main ECU or does one use a PowerCommander to do this? | ||
| Sparky |
I wouldn't alter any of the fuel injection controls if it were me. There are other ways to change the response of the throttle though. For instance you can replace the smallish diameter stock grips for slightly larger grips like the soft gel grips that American Sport Bike sells. Better yet install a "Throttle Rocker", a plastic handle that wraps around the throttle grip and snuggles against your wrist giving much greater leverage (thus less sensitivity) to work the throttle. Its major benefit though is to reduce hand/wrist ache from not having to grip the throttle constantly, an important consideration for us older guys. | ||
| Pattonme |
I have a throttle rocker and while I sing it's merits I don't see how that addresses the problem. The throttle is simply quite touchy which is albeit exacerbated by being an FI bike and a big twin to boot. I got no problem with the throttle under more rapid throttle inputs. | ||
| M1combat |
I have that problem with my CB750F-SS... Instantly tells me when the chain needs adjusting. Not to Hijack, just saying I feel your pain. | ||
| Usapitbullz |
I thought riding motorcycles was all about throttle control. If the throttle is to sensitive for you, you might want to consider something a little smaller. I don't know your experience level but I have never heard anyone complain about the throttle being to sensitive on the XB. L8R, JM | ||
| Easyflier |
Usa, When I got my xb9r the suspension was too soft up front, every time I turned a corner or took a slow curve it felt like the throttle was twitchy. After I got the suspension dialed in it felt just right. Makes me think that Pattonme test rode a bike that might not have ben set up for him properly. | ||
| Pattonme |
I love it. points well taken, esp Easyflier but nobody has answered the original question. Is the TPS modifiabble/tweakable/fudgable and if so, how? The question is NOT, "does the Buell owner community think there is a problem with TPS sensitivity." EasyFlier is correct to point out that if the suspension is set up perfect the effect is mitigated if not removed. I too am familiar with how unexpected bumps at the handlebars can readily lead to unplanned control input. But since you brought it up, what settings should I target for a 175lb (with gear) rider? On a -S so I can maximize the test-riding and (possibly) ownership experience? My bikes have been 'standards' from 500cc to 885cc, all carb'd and jetted to near perfection(which is a consideration) ranging from 43HP to 100HP. I've ridden 70,000 miles in the last 3 years. I've been teaching MSF for 3 years. I'm a novice-level road racer with multiple podium finishes. I really don't think basic motorcycle control is a problem for me, snide comments notwithstanding. | ||
| Dynarider |
No the TPS is not modifiabble/tweakable/fudgable. havent heard that complaint before. Isnt that being a bit nit picky? Most folks like having decent throttle response. | ||
| Easyflier |
Pattonme, Here is a link to the Shawn Higbee suspension chart that seems to give good results on the xb9r. Would help if I had actually put the link in the message. http://groups.msn.com/xb9r/20022003fireboltsuspensionsetup.msnw edited by easyflier on October 01, 2003 | ||
| Leeaw |
I believe that the suspension is set up "stock" for a 170lb rider, at least that is what the dealer told me and the manual shows. You should be right on target. Now if you want to mess with the setup as shown in the suspension chart, that is another thing. I know I am going to when I get a free moment. | ||
| Easyflier |
Leeaw, I think the suspension was built for a 170lb rider but with adjustmenst I don't know what they leave the factory at. My bike was picked up with rear preload set at second notch, which is adequate for a sub-150lb rider according to the Higbee recommendations.  All I know is that from my limited experience the proper suspension setup completetly changes the personality of the XBs and if it's off it can make for a very uncomfortable ride IMO. For those that are looking to buy an XB I would even make proper suspension adjustment for the test ride a mark of a good dealership. Of course that assumes you can get a shop that even encourages test rides. | ||
| Daves |
 Ride to the edge! Dave Iowa HD/Buell (Buell Cycle Center) | ||
| Leeaw |
Easyflier, mine rear preload was also set at 2. I went up to 4 for my 192 lbs. Are we supposed to take into consideration the weight of gear too, because my Vanson jacket and clothes would add at least another 10. I think suspension adjustments for test rides should be done after you leave the parking lot. They used to throw you the keys but now follow you on another bike. Shame! | ||
| Easyflier |
Leeaw, Yes, you should take into consideration the weight of your riding gear. 4 is the factory recommended setting for your weight. Higbee's chart stiffens up the rear pre-load quite a bit and softens up the compression and rebound settings to compensate. Keep in mind that he is going for quick handling and a little less comfort. I've been running pretty close to the owner's manual all season and thought that the higher rear pre-load would make the bike pretty stiff and uncomfortable but after trying these new settings I was surprised at how smooth the bike still rides. I think it's because I softened up the front some and it doesn't transmit much of a jolt through the bars. YMMV, and I think moving away from the stock tires improves ride quality as well. I still think that the dealer should set the suspension before a rider leaves the parking lot though. | ||
| Leeaw |
I will try and change mine today and see. I am sure my M2 is way off because the XB is alot smoother over bumps. Never really touched that one since I never had the adjuster tool. | ||
| Hippo888 |
I think Pattonme is complaining about the on/off nature of some FI systems. Throttle sensitivity isn't just how fast the throttle responds to input (CV carbs are always a bit slow in this regard), but also how controllable/linear the throttle is. Imagaine a firehose operated with a binary, on/off switch. The on/off switch can be very sensitive (a 'hair trigger') to input, but it's either on or off. Either no water or hundreds of PSI of water, nothing in between. That's the problem with a lot of FI systems. Honda's FI systems are really bad at this. They're either on or off, there's no smooth graduation of power. Into a corner too hot? Roll the throttle off a tiny bit and WHAM! the Honda FI cuts fuel completely. Now you're free-wheeling through the turn and diving into the inside. Roll on the throttle the tiniest bit and WHAM! huge throttle for a tiny input. Now your steering wide again, but with a nice pogo-ing suspension. Not fun. A throttle needs to be both sensitive and linear. -Paul in MI | ||
| Dynarider |
I know what he was refering to, but I dont think its an issue. I have ridden a couple of 9's & have never noticed nor been bothered by any such "issue". |
