Posted: Tue July 14, 2009

July 2009.

It has been an interesting couple of months since the 998 was MOTed.  The bike was taxed before the end of May and everything seemed to be going well, the handling was amazing after being set up properly and the new hugger was keeping the grime and spray away from the rear suspension - all was good with the world.  One Sunday in June we were going to go for a run but the starter was dead - no click, nothing.  I attempted to de-spike the alarm but this made no difference, so I cut it out - problem solved - the world is good again.  Less than a week later whilst out and about, I noticed a build up of oil on the swinging arm.  Long story short, the shock had burst.  Looks like a rebuild with a new damper rod is in order.  Fortunately a Ducati Up North forum member answered my cry for help and a replacement shock was delivered within a few days.  I plan to keep this as a spare once the original Ohlins is rebuild later in the year.

Posted: Fri May 22, 2009

May 2009.

Finally, the 998 is MOTed.  It was booked it for testing earlier this week and it passed without any issues.  It has been a busy couple of weeks as far as working on this bike is concerned, the shock was succesfully rebuilt - despite initial fears - and the complete back end of the bike has been cleaned and rebuilt.  ERS Racing have set up both the front and rear suspension to my weight so I am hopeful to see a difference in the handling just as soon as the tax is bought.

Posted: Sun Apr 12, 2009

April 2009.

It looks like the 998 it is not going to be ready early April as planned.  During the winter clean-up I noticed that the rear stock absorber was leaking oil and, after drilling out the bottom mounting bolt, I was able to take the shock to a rebuilder.  On closer inspection he noticed that the damping rod has been damaged - probably by a stone - but believes he can repair some of the damage to prevent a seal fitted in the future getting ripped to bits.  The only issue I have now is that he told me that he has seen moto-cross rear shocks in better condition and if the rod cannot be repair I might want to consider a 2nd hand replacement.

As this is not something that will get resolved over night I need to consider putting the Monster back on the road initially, as this will allow me time to sort the 998 properly, but I am actually looking forward to the prospect of being a Monster Pilot again.