With an MOT test this week, I took the time today to give the FireBlade a once over and while I was there, I had a rummage around to see if I could find the cause of the hot starting issue.
For a bike that will be 17 later this year (just let that sink in) she's done pretty well, but the hot starting problem is annoying to say the least. The last time it happened, it was a disconnected breather hose that seemed to be the problem, but today when lifting the tank, everything seemed to be in place. Cross fingers it was just a kinked line somewhere and its been sorted. Only time will really tell though.
Part of my prep for the MOT was checking the lights and the brake pads all round, which ended up being a minor strip down and included a clean of the front calipers and then a wash under the fairings.
So with the Ipod on I set to work. Taking the left fairing off, I was greeted by an engine bolt trying to make a break for freedom. Looking at it, it must have come loose some time ago (I know - bad Matthew) with the only thing keeping it in place, being the fairing itself. Very lucky.
With the bike up on the stand, my attention turned to the front calipers, which is never a clean job. They came apart easily enough and there was plenty of life in the pads for Thursday, so that was a good thing. With the pads out, I inspected and then cleaned up the calipers and pistons and started putting them back together. Thankfully I'd fully rebuilt these a few seasons ago, so they were still in good condition, with each piston moving freely. When I'm back out on the Ducati this season, I think I'll take the time one weekend morning and strip them back down again.
For a bike that will be 17 later this year (just let that sink in) she's done pretty well, but the hot starting problem is annoying to say the least. The last time it happened, it was a disconnected breather hose that seemed to be the problem, but today when lifting the tank, everything seemed to be in place. Cross fingers it was just a kinked line somewhere and its been sorted. Only time will really tell though.
Part of my prep for the MOT was checking the lights and the brake pads all round, which ended up being a minor strip down and included a clean of the front calipers and then a wash under the fairings.
So with the Ipod on I set to work. Taking the left fairing off, I was greeted by an engine bolt trying to make a break for freedom. Looking at it, it must have come loose some time ago (I know - bad Matthew) with the only thing keeping it in place, being the fairing itself. Very lucky.
With the bike up on the stand, my attention turned to the front calipers, which is never a clean job. They came apart easily enough and there was plenty of life in the pads for Thursday, so that was a good thing. With the pads out, I inspected and then cleaned up the calipers and pistons and started putting them back together. Thankfully I'd fully rebuilt these a few seasons ago, so they were still in good condition, with each piston moving freely. When I'm back out on the Ducati this season, I think I'll take the time one weekend morning and strip them back down again.
Speaking of pads, I think i'll be getting an advisory or even a fail for the lack of material on the rear pads. I'll order some up and hope they arrive, but its fairly unlikely. I'm not one to skimp on rear pads, but in reality, some budget ones will suffice. The rear caliper is weak at the best of times and I do all my braking using the front wheel. I'll see whats on offer.
Wish us luck everybody.
Wish us luck everybody.
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