jonapplegate I might be able to do a little weight analysis, but it might have to wait until after the trip.
Of course, there is no end to the work that could be done to increase efficiencies in the engine and drivetrain, and if I was a millionaire I'd be remanufacturing parts in alumninum and titantium and silicoboron steel....
Apart from $300 I spent improving my $350 engine, I've done nothing to the mechanics!
Other parts I WILL lose:
1) I can move the battery to the RS toolbox and remove the battery case and frame.
2) Remove the black plate that used to hold the coil that bots between mudguard and frame
3) Remove the rear military mudguard frame and replace with regular mudguard stays
4) Remove the round flywheel cover and replace with lightweight steel mesh cover
Some other things I might do for weight savings:
I can go through and replace a lot of standard nuts and bolts with aluminum ones (on covers and non-mechanical parts that are not under stress).
I can go to a much lower weight 'beanie' half-helmet
Switch back to 35W halogen headlamp from HID - no ballast/ignitor, less weight
Any other tips and suggestions for weight savings much appreciated!
Yes bob, I hated losing the highway pegs but they went with the crashbar - which I also really like having... but that was about ten pounds right there!