Just bought an '01 R1 with 2700 miles. Runs great, really happy with it. I do have a few questions though and was hoping you guys could help.

1) The LCD on the Speedo is cracked so the digits aren't reading completely. The crack runs through some of the traces on the bottom of the lead contacts. Is there any way to order just a new LCD from anyone? All I've been able to find is face plates for the tach. I put up an ad here on parts wanted for a new gauge cluster but if I could just get the LCD that would be better because my mileage would be correct.

2) My GF has fallen off the back twice now on the new bike, and never had a problem with probably thousands of hours on my FZR. I just ordered a Corbin rear hoping that will help. Anyone heard anything either way on the Corbin rears?

3) I bought a K&N filter for my ride but haven't put it in yet. Someone told me the R1's carbs don't really benefit from K&N filters like most bikes. Is that true from your experience? Also, someone is trying to sell me a new in box set of K&N Jets that will fit for like $30. Would you recommend it? I've heard good things about Ivan's needles, not sure about the K&N's.

4) I can't help but notice the brakes on the R1 are really weak feeling. I changed the brake fluid and put in good stuff. The stuff I took out was dirty and had air in the lines. It really didn't help much other than firming up the lever pull a bit. The dealer told me that R1's have shit for brakes from the factory. Should I invest in new pads or steel braided lines or both? I can't imagine that they should feel this weak to me after upgrading from a stock '89 FZR600.

5) I'm really feeling the need for a steering dampener on this bike. Especially at low speed like in parking lots I really have to be super careful because it move so freely. I've been hearing alot of prices on used dampeners usually in the $300 range even for 3-4yr old ones. What's the life cycle on one of these and what years are compatible?

Thanks very much. I've been dreaming of an R1 since I saw the first one in '99 with a polished frame and that blue paint at the Pikes Peak Raceway in Colorado. Finally finally finally made that dream a reality. Thanks so much.

- Shane

Sounds like you bought a bike that went down hard and may have some problems. #1-The speedo/ tach unit lists for $580!I have a new one if you are interested.#2- R-1 is not intended to ride 2- up, tell the GF she can't ride with you.#3-Only benefit from K&N is to Re- jet.#4- May have oil on pads.#5-Steering dampener will save your life, the R-1 is well known for head shake and tank slappers that will put you in the ditch.

Your GF fell of the back, holy shit! Get as damper for sure, dont get an old one, get a new one it will save you.

GF fell off twice??!! how did you get her back on after the first time?:lol

Brakes are shit from the factory??
Check avatar, check the pads.
I just changed mine, and brakes improved.(stock, by the way)
Works fine for me:p

get a buddy-belt so she can hold on and drive like a sane person when you have a passenger. Use the search button to learn more about the r1 and K&N filters. Get a speedo unit off ebay or from the for sale area here. Take some time and learn about your new bike.

thanks for the input. I've got a bid in on ebay on a gauge cluster. We'll see how that goes.

She fell off once in parking lot at about 1.5 mph and the second time taking off from the driveway. She's been wearing jeans with different not so slick denim lately. Seems to help. Can't wait till the Corbin rear gets here though.

I cleaned my brakes and rotors and that helped immensely. I believe I picked up some oil from a leaky car or something. There was a slick film on my lower forks and wheels. Been good since. Thanks.

answers to 4 and 5 only!
4) the stock lines are crap, put braided on, makes a huge difference on this bike (not on all bikes). Also check what pads are in there. Previous owner may have put bad pads in, although considering mileage it should still be on origional.
5)get used to it, this is just speed of steering, steering dampers may help but are primarily designed to stop slappers. Still might be a solution for your problem. Dampers should be about $300 new with fitting kit. About half that used. They will need rebuilding every now and again.