Posted by Tim Schroeder on July 14, 1999 at 15:23:45:
In Reply to: New Savage... posted by Susan Watson on July 13, 1999 at 05:46:21:
Hey Susan,
Congrats on your new ride and welcome to the Savage world ! Great bike, lots of fun and kool looks.....
One point I'd like to convey is treat that motor very nice for the first 1000 miles. As you've only got one piston and cylinder, you must allow it to break in "quietly" and not over-rev it. Follow the owner's manual instructions, but I'd recommend you increase the "first 600 mile break-in gear/speed" limits to 1000 miles. This the most crucial time for your engine and proper procedures are paramount. You'll be rewarded with long motor life and lots of riding enjoyment instead of lots of visits to your mechanic to repair a blown out engine. This is not a sportbike and over-revving could lead to lots of $$$ out of your pocket in repairs. I find my Savage most happy with medium engine speeds at moderate road speeds and I've never "wound her up" to max throttle, though you may for short periods. I'd also recommend buying the factory manual, lots of info well worth the $50 even if you don't plan to do a lot of maintenance work yourself, though one of the most endearing traits of the Savage is the fact that its easy to "get at" everything for general upkeep and servicing.
You'll find LOTS of info on your new ride in this site, lots of expertise from experienced Savage owners. Ask anything you may, somebody will probably know the answer.
Good riding !
Tim