Newbie!! Again?

[oggy]

A wise choice, but then as I too have a 700, I would say that. On the negative side can't say predominantly white on a bike does it for me and what is that attempt at the Turner prize doing on the front fairing? - mine is nearly as bad but not prizeworthy. Plastic bash plate - utterly useless if meant to be a bash plate, more work required if a fairing.

However, these are minor flaws. For me the handling is superb, the ride position excellent and the build quality more than adequate. I do believe it is a good progression from previous models and the semi-traditional look - helped no end by the spoked wheels - does it for me.

As far as running-in, personally I would take it very gently for the first 500 then change the oil and filter.

My piggy bank is being filled for a decent rainbow Titanium effect can and small, round chrome-backed indicators to match headlamp.

Most of all though - enjoy it and get out on it!

[Windmill John]

I agree with T Alp, speed should be varied throughout run in, just not full throttle.
I definitely would change the oil sooner than later.
Do anything you want to an engine, just remember that oil changes are the single most important life extending thing you can do.
Read about cavitation.
Feel free to call me retentive, but the first 3.5 miles of any journey are taken with relative ease. After that.... well......
I change my oils at about 8k, no more regular for two reasons. One, I use the bike regularly and I put in the best oil.

[Farky]

mmm - looks like im doing an oil and filter change in Dingle then! Was thinking that myself.

So many opinions differ on how to run a bike in - my current one I just ride from cold with ease until temp is upto 50 then no big heavy torque pulls and no revs over 6k until 300m done - that should be Holyhead then... followed by full on madness in Ireland..yipee!!

oggy - agreee with the under cowl - ok for keeping most dirt and grime off the pipes and sides but otherwise pointless - woldnt have it wothout though..and most replacements metal ones dont protect from grime off the road as they have holes etc...a nice lightweight piece of alu in the same shape wouldnt be amiss.

Dealer knows the mileage im putting on it and is standing over it ok - first service being done next Tuesday when im back along with fitting some acc's that werent instock - heated grips mainly - also not bothering with valve clearances til 4k...unless theres a clear noise to warn.

[ABC]

...So many opinions differ on how to run a bike in...

Forget opinions, follow the manual which on the 700 has this short comment:

"Help assure your motorcycle's future reliability and performance by paying extra attention to how you ride during the first 500km (300m). During this period avoid full throttle starts and rapid acceleration."

On the first oil change again, forget opinions. Stick to the manual which requires that the oil and filter be replaced at 600m.

It seems logical to me to assume that Honda know best about their own bikes on such matters.

[dubhe]

Re: oil

You might regret leaving the oil until your return, you would never regret changing your oil as specified.

[Windmill John]

If anyone out there does not change their oil regularly, can they please put a message on their tank saying so; so I don't end up with one of their bikes