Sunday, May 30, 2010

Starting midstream...

Unlike this brand new blog with its more or less default formatting, my 2008 M50 is neither brand new nor in stock condition.  Hitherto, I've done a fairly decent job of documenting modifications made, and subsequently sharing any lessons learned, via forums dedicated to the M50.  This effort satisfied my intent toward making contributions that continue to advance the robust community of M50 enthusiasts.

So, why The M50 Blog?  It really has nothing to do with the forums.  They're an excellent tool, collectively they represent the single most important resource I've found for any type of information relating to the M50, and I intend to continue using them extensively.  They embody the knowledge of an entire virtual community on one niche subject.

Ironically, it's the communal nature under girding forums that has inspired me to create this blog.  I found after two years of owning my M50 and doing several modifications, that I sorely wish my accounts of these experiences were consolidated in one location (as opposed to scattered across a multiple forums in disparate posts - some of which fall underneath threads that I didn't even start).  Moreover, I have realized that to me there is a certain value in capturing the linear evolution, creating almost a narrative if you will, that defines how my machine went from an assembly line of generic metric cruiser clones to become the one of a kind iron steed that serves me today.  A blog allows me to capture this linear evolution.  Having the blog also affords me with a single repository with which to record other various thoughts concerning the M50.

The way forward? In the future information I would generally post in forums will still be provided in the format of a concise synopsis and posted underneath appropriate threads.  These posts will include a link to the detailed article published here on The M50 Blog.  In this manner I can continue contributing to the M50 community, while still maintaining an intact nostalgic record of what sets my M50 apart from the rest.

What about the past?  As aforementioned, my M50 has already undergone several significant modifications (e.g., a complete fuel system overhaul, a DJ Drive, etc.).  I'm currently deployed, so the next three or four months will be dedicated toward publishing articles that cover all previous modifications:

  • Suzuki OEM Windshield
  • Suzuki OEM Passenger Backrest Touring w/ Large Pad
  • Suzuki OEM Rear Rack Chrome
  • Saddlemen Explorer Seat
  • Fuel System Overhaul - K & N air filter, Power Commander USB III fuel processor, and Vance and Hines Cruzers
  • DJ Drive (a modified final drive with taller gear ratios)
  • Jeff Arnold's Riser Spacers (now produced by Ken Cooley)
  • Cobra Freeway Bars
Once I return to the States, I'll resume customizing the M50 and publish articles as modifications are made.  Projects already planned for the future include:

  • C50 Handlebars
  • Goodridge Stainless Steel Brake Line Kit
  • Barnett Stainless Steel Throttle and Clutch Cables
  • John's Kits - Forward Controls Kit
  • John's Kits - 2" Lowering Kit
  • Ken Cooley's Chin Spoiler
  • Custom LED Integrated Taillight
  • Biker's Choice License Plate Relocator
  • BikeMaster Trapezoid Mirrors
  • K-Drive Click & Lock Saddlebag System