The plan of attack for the Apache
Given the current condition of the TS400K I’m not expecting to have to do too much to it, but I’m pragmatic enough to realise it’s still likely to need some fettling.
Unusually for a trail bike, the Apache runs 12-volt electrics so fingers crossed they will at least work even if the connectors and earths need a thorough clean-up later. Obviously I’ll need to check spokes for tightness, wheel bearings for wear and head bearings for rock, but I’ve a belief they’ll all be spot on, or close to it. One thing I won’t be taking for granted will be the state of the brake linings. Two of the three bikes I’ve imported have had what looks to be decent shoes but, upon closer examination, have been suffering from intergranular corrosion, which breaks the bond between the alloy casting and the adhesives used to bond the friction material in place. Checking the brakes out brings with it an attendant problem I’ve not had to deal with for a long time… how to take both wheels out of a bike with no centre-stand. Looks like I may have to get my old paddock stand out and see if there’s a way of adapting it to support the Apache. Thankfully I have an old plastic beer bottle crate so I can potentially support the tail end under the swingarm. With the wheels off it might also be time to look at the rubber that’s currently on the bike. I’ve no idea how good or new it is and I’ve notdesire to dump the big TS on its side first time out for want of some decent tyres!