Thanks for the welcome etc

[Nelson]

Thanks to all of you for the warm welcome - I hope to meet some of you in the near future, but unfortunately can't make the upcoming rally.
I've started to make modifications to my 2012 V-Strom and would appreciate any comments on accessories (I've read through the accessories section to glean what I can)
I've ordered a Cosmo centre stand as it was listed on this site as a supplier - not arrived as yet.
I've also order a Loobman oiler and have high hopes it'll do an excellent job. Also ordered a Powerbronze hugger direct from the factory, as my bike is like new and want to keep is as good as possible.
I have a PTO to fit and power up a car type GPS, but at the moment am running a Tom Tom Rider 2 which hasn't charged properly off the mounting shoe for many a year - faulty contact points I believe. Not a problem as the charge lasts most of a day and I just charge at night from a mains supply.
I've fitted a charger connection directly to the battery c/w fuse
The bike came with half worn Bridgestone Battleaxe tyres, and I'm getting used to them. My previous 2011 model came with the standard block tread design (don't recall make) which despite their looks I was well impressed with, especially in the wet. Haven't tried to push the Bridgestones in the wet as yet, as I'm still getting used to the bike's handling, but this will come soon no doubt as we're not short of rain! I know tryes are very much a personal preference, but I like high mileage, excellent grip especially in the wet and decent price - not much to ask! My main experience has been with old Avon Roadrunner, and newer Storm and Cobra types, and have been happy.
Can anyone recommend a large tank bag? I was thinking of an Oxford First Time 40 litre job, but not sure it will suit the tank shape?
Running lights? Necessity and preferred make?
Why do people fit beaks? Style only? Can't see them making any difference to protection?
Standard seat seems OK but I'm riding up to northern Scotland at the end of the month so will soon find out.
Any other modifications you'd recommend?

[AlanT]

If I'm not mistaken, the Oxford First Time 40 litre tankbag is a magnetic fitment type. No sure how well that would work on a tank with plastic panels?

As to the beak question, be prepared........... 

[Woodyflyer]

Re your problem with the rider 2 not charging, I have a similar issue , as it's easy to connect the dock the wrong way around by mistake . I repaired mine.
 See http://www.knarfoh.com/TomTom_Dock/dock.html

Woody

[Tintent115]

The beak adds a large helping of style and about 10mph to the top end......

[UK_Vstrom650]

Beaks are added as people have no taste 

Bigpie fuse box is a good addition, and if there's not one on there already a Cosmo fork brace may improve front end handling for you.

If you don't get on with the screen (assuming stock) a Givi Airflow is also popular, as are heated grips if you ride all year.

[Nelson]

Thanks all - I seem to recall a few years ago when initially buying the Rider 2 I did in fact wire incorrectly and blow the fuse - Tom Tom kindly gave me a new docking shoe free of charge, which was rather good. I've heard the electrical pins wear against the plates and that by ziptie-ing the unit together a better contact is made. The instructions you forwarded to replace the fuse are very useful, as this could well be the problem.
I seem to be getting on with the standard screen - my last bike was disgusting, with turbulence coming under the screen and rattling my helmet and spectacles to give double vision. This is a vast improvement if a little narrow.
Will try a Cosmo fork brace and remember the discount code this time! Missed it when I ordered a stand.
Point taken about the Oxford bag - I assumed it would come with straps but these may only be for headstock and not at the rear. I'll have a look at one in the flesh. I don't need a tank bag badly enough to pay £100+ but any suggestions of alternatives appreciated.
Did my first 200 mile+ run yesterday and the mpg indicator said 82 mpg! Cheltenham to Elan Valley and back, 65mph max and gentle riding. I'll check accuracy as soon as tank needs refilling but things are looking good.

[MartinW]

V-Strom riders cover the full range of humanity.

Some are intelligent and attractive, with good taste and who don't like beaks on the bikes.

There are some other members too.

[Fat Rat]

I can almost forgive people that are attracted to a reasonable arse end and get intoxicated by that new bike smell, they buy the bike and realise too late that it has a ridiculous beak attached to the front. However, anyone who buys an aftermarket beak and fits it to a bike should be locked up.