common sense...

marts1 · #11 (**permalink**) 10-22-2009, 09:57 AM

I made the "2" holes the next size larger on the chain guide and of course larger bolts. Never have an inkling of a problem and thats without an adapter.

bairdco · #12 (**permalink**) 10-22-2009, 03:36 PM

on the inner tube strips thing, yeah, that won't provide any sort of dampening effects, so it's no big deal.

BUT, depending on the quality of your paint, it might not do anything to save it. i've had things mounted like that before, and when i've taken them off, it peels a nice strip of paint off with it. especially gas tank mounts. gas saturates innertubes, and then goes to work on the paint. i figure, the motor, chain, all the cables and zipties, etc. involved with these things is gonna scratch up my bike anyway, so i just don't worry about it.

on another note, i think gas tanks SHOULD be mounted using some kind of rubber, like wrapping your frame with innertube, or using skateboard bushings or something on the bolts.

isolating the gas tank from a vibrating frame cuts down on fuel-foaming.

plus, the studs in the stock tanks are so cheap, if they're too tight, over time they can crack the shoddy spotwelds that hold them in, and then you have shoes full of fuel.

Venice Motor Bikes · #13 (**permalink**) 10-22-2009, 06:31 PM

I agree that 'no tensioner' is best! But on some bikes, you have to have them...

I've never had a single problen with screwing the tensioner into the chainstay. I've seen many frames crack from abuse, but not there! yet...

Using a 1/2 link on the pedal chain & (swaping rear sprocket) is a great way to get both chains equal in tension!

The irony is, that "common sense" isn't that common!!

bandito · #14 (**permalink**) 10-23-2009, 05:48 PM

Different strokes for different folks, Im not a fan of drilling holes into half in tubing chain stays either. Seat tube yes, top tube yes near the ends, handle bars near the end yes. Just look at a frame the way its designed and if your like me youll see alot of weight sitiing on those bottom chain stays. Drilling a hole horizontally into the bottom chain stay weakens it at it most critical point due to the load on it due to buckleing......anyway if every one had the same ideas there would be no use for this forum.

Clintzr2 · #15 (**permalink**) 10-26-2009, 12:58 AM

Well said Bairdco!

You definately need to tighten down anything and everything. If not parts will be falling off. I reccommend using ruber washers and locknuts on all fenders, cargo racks, chainguards, gas tank, etc.

As for the engine mount controversy. I have used different types of rubber and different size frames. I prefer the rubber between the engine and the frame. I use 3/8 and 1/4 inch (very thick) smooth rubber (not porous) which is harder and not squishy. I have found that when you have a good fit the rubber eliminates vibration, but if your rubber causes the engine not to fit onto the frame completely, you get the vibration.

tyrslider · #16 (**permalink**) 11-12-2009, 12:02 AM

Good lookin out! I thought we were like minded! Big fan of chain tensioner chucking and lawn darts.

VMB I have a theory about the decay of common sense i.e. the ability to see commonality in different things. Specialization in almost every field has narrowed the view of most folks; doctors are a great example but even mechanics and tradesmen are very specialized these days. Back in the day a guy changed his own oil, painted his house, tune ups, bicycle and lawnmower repair, carpentry, etc. A guy could make connections concerning different trades and the mechanisms and physics involved. He trained his hands to do what he wanted them to do w/ control and could make subtle changes for different needs/jobs. Commonality allowed him to apply experience learned previously to new activities.

I'm sure w/ your experience you know the true meaning of common sense. I am truly amazed, though, at how few people know what it means let alone have it! Yes I see the irony, sad cruel irony

**2door** · #17 (**permalink**) 11-12-2009, 10:30 PM

I fear that 'common sense' and 'personal responsibility' are two things that are on the 'endanged species' list. You just don't see them as much as you used to.
Tom

george_n_texas · #18 (**permalink**) 11-13-2009, 08:38 PM

I got 2 more for the list: people that know how to 1) listen 2) be a true friend

Both are pretty much a lost art with the me-ism now days.

azbill · #19 (**permalink**) 11-13-2009, 09:42 PM

2door and george...
I agree with both of you...
I also remember when it wasn't like that

Dan · #20 (**permalink**) 11-14-2009, 03:47 PM

Good job! Lookin' out for others.

Saw a movie the other day (can't remember the title) It's premise was that dumber folks made more babies so the human race and common sense were doomed. Cracked me up