The fact is we have nothing now. Even basic out lines would help. I sure would appreceiate it.
Hey you know what? since things are different in AUS maybe you could add the Aussie part of the FAQ. I know oil is named different, and fuels, and other things I am sure.
Its like we speak the same different language.
Haha I know what you mean its almost impossible to match brands on so many things!
I definately think all the basics should be done first, oil changes, chain maint, checking all fluid levels, anything that someone who just bought a new FZ6 might ask about.
A few things could be some basic summaries on:
-Bike rattle/vibrations (whats normal for new FZ6 owners)
-Run in methods (yes
both popular ideas, the dealer recommended, and the other one)
-Fuel recommendations
-Bike performance (outlining how the engine reacts differently in the rev range since coming from other bikes its sometimes a bit of a shock)
-Any other little FZ6 quirks people commonly ask about.
All of these can be explained pretty quickly and easily to put peoples minds at rest.
Taking information from current threads (possibly stickies) and kind of centralising alot of the more important stuff like service information and how toos would definately be great.
I think the main thing is keeping it subjective, ie maybe either don't suggest oil brands, or get results from a new poll specifically for that reason that includes common choices for the US and seeing the top used oils. I know we had a similar poll in the aussie section and a quick look lets you know what most people use, and a longer look tells you why.
Rather than saying "this is best" have "these are common choices" or "these are popular techniques/products" maybe with a short summary of the positives and negatives if they are basic and relevant.
Questions that come to mind:
- I just got my FZ6 how do I run it in?
- My bike vibrates alot, is this normal?
- What fuel does the FZ6 take? Is it worth premium?
- How do I clean and maintain my chain?
- How do I clean, wash and polish my bike?
- Why won't my bike start? (Check the kill switch!)
- How and when do I change my oil/filter?
- The bike reacts really different at higher revs! Is this normal?
- Do people use fuel additives? If so how often and what brands?
- What are common tyre replacement choices?
- I hate my exhaust, where can I get a new one? (Links to common brands websites)
- What else do I need to consider with a new exhaust? (Perf. air filters, tuning, PC's, etcs)
- Frame Sliders/Oggy Knobs, worth it or not?
- Axle Armour worth it or not?
- Are Yamaha parts worth it? (Ie screen, rack, bags, belly pan) What other choices do I have?
- I dropped my bike! What now? (Basics on checking for broken levers, mirrors, etc)
- All my friends bikes are alot faster, what am I doing wrong? (Wise words about experience being worth more than a fast bike)
- Gear! Whats commonly worn, whats true 'basic' protection, and where do law requirements and safety not truely meet (generally only helmets are lawfully required, but while keeping your head safe do little else).
- Do I have to buy a Shoei/Arai/AGV to get a good helmet? (Pros and Cons - subjective pref)
- Should I get insurance?
- Whats a good service price? (More along the lines of, 'shop around' than $-figure- is reasonable anything else is wrong!)
After this maybe a more Advanced section on aftermarket modifications, particularly the more indepth kinds, with links to the best threads with how toos.