Hello from colorful Colorado

[rabbi_70]

Hi everyone, just a little note to say thank you for such an awesome forum. I have a new-to-me 2012 Concours 14 with 32K on the clock. I call her, affectionately, Big Bertha.  Reading reviews on the bike before I purchased her left me a little intimidated - but I am glad the seller allowed a test ride. She carries her weight lower than i expected so she falls into corners easily, I can flat foot it (Im 5'11"), and she purrs like a kitten. Now if only I could get her on the center stand without using a 4X2 Id be as pleased as pie. My previous love affair was with a VFR (RWB anniversary) but she was like an Italian supermodel - in such pristine condition that I was afraid of scratching her - or even looking at her the wrong way. I sold her in anticipation of an out-of-state move next year, but I couldn't miss riding this summer so I got Big Bertha. The only thing i changed is removing the ugly canister exhaust slip on and putting in a dual outlet (sounds amazing and, in my opinion, looks a lot cleaner). She is honestly restoring my love for riding without the anxiety. Not sure what happens when I move but for now I think I really like me a big girl. :-)

[Rubber_Snake]

Welcome to the club!  Man, that shorty exhaust must scream! 

[VirginiaJim]

Welcome!

[rabbi_70]

Thank you guys. Yep - that shorty sounds sweet. 

[Boomer]

Welcome 
If you can't get her onto the centerstand she may have been lowered.

[rabbi_70]

Thanks Boomer, she is indeed lowered.  The guy I got her from though was a fluffy look-a-like (the comedian), small in stature .. and he was moving the bike around and putting her on the center stand (while wearing flip-flops) like she didn't weigh a thing. I'm a lot larger and a little more muscular (and my VFR was pretty easy to do the same with) so I figured Id be able to without any issues. Boy was I wrong. I have new respect for the fluffy dude. :-)

[tweeter55]

Welcome, rabbi.
They can be a horse to put on the center stand but it's all about technique.
Others will fill you in on the easiest way about it.

[connie_rider]

I suggest raising the bike.  At 5' -11", you should be fine with it at stock height.
The stock Links can be purchased on Ebay relatively EZ, and the front forks should only be an adjustment.

I like the look of your mufflers, but have a thought or 2....

 1; To my eye, your mufflers are upside down.
On every muffler like that, {that I've seen} the point is at the top...
For instance;  https://delkevic.com/dl10-stubby-14-carbon-fiber-round-muffler-to-fit-concours-1400-2008-2021/

With point at top; It prevents water from accumulating on the lower lip, and rusting out the muffler.
More importantly; As you have it installed, the tip will direct the heat more "up"..
UP can be BAD!!! (see below)

 2: Important; If the upper muffler directs it's exhaust flow upwards, (towards your rear bag hinge) do not ride the bike again until you inspect the rear hinge..
ie; If the heat is directed at the rear hinge,,,  the exhaust heat "can melt" the plastic hinge. [on a long (or enthusiastic) ride].

Ride safe, Ted

[rabbi_70]

Thank you Connie_Rider. The connectors only fit the one way so it is correct. LOL. I  have rode it extensively since the pic and no heat on the bottom of the bag (one ride was 4 hours straight).

[connie_rider]

Ok, certainly not knocking the looks. Just making observations.

Ride safe, Ted

[rabbi_70]

No worries mate, and no offense taken. Im too old for that. :-). This is my 14th bike in 40+ years of riding- never met a rider that didnt mean well. Its why we ride.

[connie_rider]

About 8 of us rode Colorado last year. (Couldn't do rallies because of the Pandemic, so we called our event the Un-Rally)
We based in Durango. Covered a lot of area.
Have a good friend in Montrose. (Steve)
If your ever out that way, might ride with him.
He really knows the roads out there..

Ride safe, Ted