it still needs to be stretched out a bit!

Yes, Matt, still tender. I expect it will be good enough, by the weekend after tomorrow.

Thanks for your concern.

Good point. Done!

Glad to hear the rib is improving. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

Thank you, for both the name change and the concern.

My new rear tire arrived today and am expecting new valve shims on Tuesday. Gonna be good to be back on the road! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

I have been using this period of sitting around and letting my rib heal, to work on my book, Nature Photography: The Hard Way.

What happened to your tire and your valve shims? Isn't your bike practically new, still?

That is great Mike! I still have my place in line right? <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

A little over 800 miles on it.

The roads up here are chip seal which is murder on softer tires like what are used on bikes.

Valve shims are used to set the valve clearances. The 600 mile maintenance includes a valve adjust as they tighten up during the break in. You need to measure the clearance, measure the shims and then order thinner shims to bring the clearance into spec. My remote location makes the wait for the parts unfortunately long.

I think I'll change the tire tomorrow and grease the rear end.

I appreciate the explanation.

As for the second half of your last sentence: this is a family forum, Mr Moderator! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

<img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />

Sorry.