Murphy's Law

Murphy is everywhere. So two weeks ago, I embarked on what should have been a couple-to-five hour job to do an 18,000km service with chain and sprocket change. I decided it was time to swap to a 19 tooth final drive sprocket (from standard 18 tooth).

Parts were ordered and workspace sorted out. Bike was stripped down when Murphy made his presence felt.

The rear spindle (part of the rear sprocket-brake assembly) was damaged in a way never before seen by anyone I know.

At the same time, I discovered that the new rear sprocket doesn't come with any bearings or o-rings.

New order for more parts! Thanks Murphy. 4x days lost awaiting deliveries. New parts arrive, work starts again, my health issues kick in. Hours drag out to days.

Finally the bike is back together and all that is left is a rear brake adjustment, top the oil off and start packing my gear for road trips.

I missed the Sydney Veteran's Lodge Ride (today), so now planning a new ride for the shake out prior to the big ride to Far North Queensland.

These photos are ideas for those who, like me, dont have "the right" tools. I pressed the new bearing in without any store bought purpose made tool.

If you have ever wanted to do minor stuff on your bike, but have no mechanical background and are worried about breaking things, or don't have hundreds of dollars worth of tools... get in there and give it ago. Plenty of how-to videos out there to show the way. A good dealer or mechanic will help out with advice and guidance as well.

A happy note is that the new sprocket is fan-bloody-tastic!

Riding is more than barreling down the highway, or rolling through bends. Get into the workshop and enjoy meeting Murphy. You will learn so much about your bike and be a better rider!