Tire Monitoring System

[usranger74]

I am looking to add a wireless tire monitoring system to the Nomad.

I used the search function to ck these out

http://www.bigbikeparts.com/Inventory/Navision/13-315A?catalogNo=

The last post was about 5 months old.

So, those of you who use this system, do you recommend them?

Any problems?

Txs

[ringadingh]

Princess Auto here in Canada sells a monitoring kit for cars, its about $70.00, I know nothing about it or how well they work. I just check mine manually every couple weeks.

[cactusjack]

Bill, I think that's the same system Ells showed me last year in Cortez. I was pretty impressed with it.

[ponch]

Make sure you have metal valve stems.

[usranger74]

Make sure you have metal valve stems.

Why make sure they are metal?

[ponch]

Why make sure they are metal?

Some in the beemer crowd had issues with systems like that with rubber valve stems and the only thing I can come up with is that there is a weight on the end of the valve stem. Rubber can flex/move.

[usranger74]

Some in the beemer crowd had issues with systems like that with rubber valve stems and the only thing I can come up with is that there is a weight on the end of the valve stem. Rubber can flex/move.


I found there online manual and they do warn about rubber valve stems.

[ponch]

I found there online manual and they do warn about rubber valve stems.

RTFM :tup:

[Top Cat]

RTFM http://www.vulcanbagger.com/forums/images/icons/icon55.gif

[jandreu]

I've had that system on my Nomad for about 2 months now and I LOVE it. Paid about $150 with shipping. Installs easily and works great. You do have to turn the valve stems a little for the sensors to clear the brake rotors. The sensors come on and off very easy, no harder than a cap. It gives me peace of mind knowing my tires are OK and not having to check them all the time. I'm a little anal about tire pressure and I hope by keeping the pressure correct the unit will pay for itself by increasing my tire mileage. I did not use the locks in the kit as I'm not to worried about someone stealing the sensors. You can barely see them behind the rotors. I have not noticed any wheel balance issues either but I'm also running Dyna Beads. The down side is if you do not leave the receiver in range of the bike when you get home the next time you turn the system on it will read the last pressure signal sent which will be from hot tires so it will be high but will correct itself as soon as it receives an update from the sensors. I can also adjust my tire pressure in half pound increments by unscrewing the sensor and screwing it back on. The receiver will update instantly.

[Monkeyman]

RTFM - Read The F***ing Manual http://www.vulcanbagger.com/forums/images/smilies/icon_mrgreen.gifhttp://www.vulcanbagger.com/forums/images/smilies/icon_mrgreen.gifhttp://www.vulcanbagger.com/forums/images/smilies/icon_mrgreen.gif

[VulcanE]

I've been running this same system for over 3 years now. I loved it when I first installed it, and I'm still loving it. The Nomads (1600 anyway), came from the factory with 90* metal valve stems front and rear, and like was mentioned, I had to rotate only the front stem so it would clear the caliper, but in July when I replaced my worn out front tire, I installed a chrome 45* valve stem, and it fits straight out and has no problems clearing the caliper.
When the receiver is reading the tires, the little tires on the receiver's bike turns black to let you know that the reading is current. If you turn it on, it will show the last reading, but the tires won't be black, and once it updates, the tires turn black, as I mentioned. It also will tell you the tire temperatures. I really like mine, and I would recommend this unit to anyone. I've had to replace the "AAA" battery in the receiver once (about a year ago), and last month I replaced the batteries in the transmitters, one had died, so I replaced both. I give this product. TWO :tup::tup:

[usranger74]

I've been running this same system for over 3 years now. I loved it when I first installed it, and I'm still loving it. The Nomads (1600 anyway), came from the factory with 90* metal valve stems front and rear, and like was mentioned, I had to rotate only the front stem so it would clear the caliper, but in July when I replaced my worn out front tire, I installed a chrome 45* valve stem, and it fits straight out and has no problems clearing the caliper.
When the receiver is reading the tires, the little tires on the receiver's bike turns black to let you know that the reading is current. If you turn it on, it will show the last reading, but the tires won't be black, and once it updates, the tires turn black, as I mentioned. It also will tell you the tire temperatures. I really like mine, and I would recommend this unit to anyone. I've had to replace the "AAA" battery in the receiver once (about a year ago), and last month I replaced the batteries in the transmitters, one had died, so I replaced both. I give this product. TWO :tup::tup:

Cliff

Can you add air with the transmitters on or do you have to remove them? I suspect you have to remove them.

And, not sure what you mean about a "45 degree valve stem that fits straight out?"



Txs

[VulcanE]

Cliff

Can you add air with the transmitters on or do you have to remove them? I suspect you have to remove them.

And, not sure what you mean about a "45 degree valve stem that fits straight out?"



Txs


Bill, you do have to remove the transmitter to add air, but it's just like removing the valve stem cap to add the air (I don't use the anti-theft locks either). On the "45 degree valve stem that fits straight out?" I'm saying that it is mounted perpendicular to the circumference of the wheel, whereas the OEM 90* stem had to be rotated about 30* off of being perpendicular.

[usranger74]

:mad:Bill, you do have to remove the transmitter to add air, but it's just like removing the valve stem cap to add the air (I don't use the anti-theft locks either). On the "45 degree valve stem that fits straight out?" I'm saying that it is mounted perpendicular to the circumference of the wheel, whereas the OEM 90* stem had to be rotated about 30* off of being perpendicular.


Txs Cliff and the rest for the info. It helped.:tup:

[stator]

is it too hard to drop down on a knee and check the air?

[usranger74]

is it too hard to drop down on a knee and check the air?

If I could drop to one knee and ck the air pressure, that would be ok. But, I can't. Also, just like my car, to monitor AP while riding down the road is a plus.

[ponch]

If I could drop to one knee and ck the air pressure, that would be ok. But, I can't. Also, just like my car, to monitor AP while riding down the road is a plus.

:tup:

[scott2007nomad]

Thanks for posting the question. I have also been shopping for these as I don't like laying on the ground every time I have to check the rear tire pressure.

[meat]

I have also been using this system for several years now and it works great. Seeing your tire pressure while ride would come in handy if you develpoed a slow leak. Also being able to see the temp. of the tire may let you know if something is going on with a tire that needs checked out.

[stator]

if I find myself needing to spend 150 bucks for a gadget to tell me how much air I have in a tire because I can't check it myself it will be time to sell the bike 'cause I'm too damn old and decrepit to ride it safely or maintain it. Honestly, the unnecessary stuff people spend money on. (McCuff for example!) I suppose some of you guys have an indicator telling you which gear you're in too? (omg) What about being one with the machine?

[usranger74]

if I find myself needing to spend 150 bucks for a gadget to tell me how much air I have in a tire because I can't check it myself it will be time to sell the bike 'cause I'm too damn old and decrepit to ride it safely or maintain it. Honestly, the unnecessary stuff people spend money on. (McCuff for example!) I suppose some of you guys have an indicator telling you which gear you're in too? (omg) What about being one with the machine?

Never said I was to old and decrepit to ck the AP as I am not. I ck it each day I ride but I don't know anyone who can ck the AP on the rear tire by "dropping onto one knee" as you stated. I am looking fdw to seeing a photo of you doing such to prove me wrong;). And, you being "one with the machine" I am sure you have a way to know what your AP is while doing down the road at 70 MPH. Yes sir, that is a skill I do not have:D

[jandreu]

stator..as one of the people you are referring to by putting "un-Necessary stuff" on my bike I assume your bike is bone stock, need driving lights - nope, need luggage rack or top rails for the bags - nope, need highway pegs - nope, need any thing other than what ma jaw installed????? Part of owning a bike is to make it your own and one person's "UN-Necessary stuff" is another persons desire so lighten up and watch how you refer to forum members, please. State your feeling but don't make it personal.

Now to answer your question, no I can't get down on one knee to check the rear tire pressure. Due to the bags and brackets for the exhaust I have to lay down on the ground to check it. Also if you've ever had a tire go flat you will appreciate being able to know your tire pressure at a glance.

[ponch]

if I find myself needing to spend 150 bucks for a gadget to tell me how much air I have in a tire because I can't check it myself it will be time to sell the bike 'cause I'm too damn old and decrepit to ride it safely or maintain it. Honestly, the unnecessary stuff people spend money on. (McCuff for example!) I suppose some of you guys have an indicator telling you which gear you're in too? (omg) What about being one with the machine?

Some motorcycles come with TPM, so it's not like it's rocket science. Believe it or not, things like traction control, ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, electrically adjustable windscreen and god forbid heated seats and grips. None of this prevents one from becoming one with their bike, but rather enhances it. Now, it you want to talk about useless stuff, let's talk chrome, fancy paint and other non-functional features...It comes down to whatever you think is important. Some find TPM important, others like chrome. Who cares. $150 is pretty cheap for piece of mind, IMO.

[VulcanE]

I would like to say that if he don't like it, he doesn't have to buy one!! :zzz:
I like mine and it is one of the best safety features that I've invested in. And yes, I'd like to see him get on one knee and check his rear tire pressure. I like the convenience of just pressing a button, and walla, there it is, and the tire temperature too. :tup:

[meat]

This was some of the smartest money I've spent on my bike. Knowing real time air pressure in the tires while going down the road can't be a bad thing.

[Monkeyman]

Never said I was to old and decrepit to ck the AP as I am not. I ck it each day I ride but I don't know anyone who can ck the AP on the rear tire by "dropping onto one knee" as you stated. I am looking fdw to seeing a photo of you doing such to prove me wrong;). And, you being "one with the machine" I am sure you have a way to know what your AP is while doing down the road at 70 MPH. Yes sir, that is a skill I do not have:D

Couple of thoughts. First, you CAN check the AP by "dropping to one knee"...if you remove a bag first. http://www.vulcanbagger.com/forums/images/smilies/icon_e_smile.gif

And it IS possible to check the AP at 70mph. You just have to be able to run really fast. Of course, you have to be really quick about using that tire guage. http://www.vulcanbagger.com/forums/images/smilies/icon_mrgreen.gif

Once I get a fairing, I'll probably spend the cash for this. Great idea imho but then again, I'm getting a bit older. You know what they say..."Knowledge is Power". The more knowledge I have about the bike, the better off I am.

[scott2007nomad]

I picked up a nail in the back tire once when leaving on a short trip.
Arrived home after about 30 minutes with about 25 pounds of pressure in the tire.
Ever since I constantly worry about the pressure in my tires, especially while on the freeway.
It would be nice to glance at the monitory/sensor and know the status of the tires.

[scott2007nomad]

I picked up a nail in the back tire once when leaving on a short trip.
Arrived home after 30 minutes with about 20 pounds of pressure in the tire. (moto, not darkside)
Ever since I constantly worry about the pressure in my tires, especially while on the freeway.
It would be nice to glance at the monitory/sensor and know the status of the tires.

[stator]

Lighten up? You lighten up. I'm just messing with you guys.... and I never made anything personal. Don't take it that way.... unless you really need to. [you've got that gear indicator, don't you :) ]

No I'm not bone stock. Yes I have to remove the left bag for my one knee pressure check (for which I made quick release bolts). Air checked in 2 minutes and I'm ready to ride. Checking air at 70... I can't do that. Cool that you guys can. What was I thinking?

Ha... I'm going riding.

[usranger74]

Lighten up? You lighten up. I'm just messing with you guys.... and I never made anything personal. Don't take it that way.... unless you really need to. [you've got that gear indicator, don't you :) ]

No I'm not bone stock. Yes I have to remove the left bag for my one knee pressure check (for which I made quick release bolts). Air checked in 2 minutes and I'm ready to ride. Checking air at 70... I can't do that. Cool that you guys can. What was I thinking?

Ha... I'm going riding.

Sounds good to me - going riding. I am out the door as well:tup:

[Monkeyman]

No I'm not bone stock. Yes I have to remove the left bag for my one knee pressure check (for which I made quick release bolts). Air checked in 2 minutes and I'm ready to ride. Checking air at 70... I can't do that. Cool that you guys can. What was I thinking?

Not trying to start an argument but what if you're on a trip and your bags are full? Quick release bolts are great (one of my winter projects) but you can't always make use of them.

As far as checking the pressure at 70mph...practice makes perfect. Keep trying until you succeed. :)

[dgconstable]

Removing a bag sounds great while home in the yard but as others have mention if the bags are full on a trip that's not possible. Even with empty bags you have to put the bag somewhere without marking it up and most air pumps are surrounded by concrete.

Without removing a bag you are pretty much lying on the ground. I'm 47 and have bad knees. If I get down it's not always that easy to get back up again.

Go for the monitors!

[Dave]

Couple of thoughts. First, you CAN check the AP by "dropping to one knee".... http://www.vulcanbagger.com/forums/images/smilies/icon_e_smile.gif



I can't

[Old Bear]

Removing a bag sounds great while home in the yard but as others have mention if the bags are full on a trip that's not possible. Even with empty bags you have to put the bag somewhere without marking it up and most air pumps are surrounded by concrete.
I can testify about the marking up! Had my left bag off to wrap the pipes. Found out the hard way that where I put the bag was not stable. One-foot fall to the floor, damn bag looks like I tossed it down the driveway! :cry:

[jjg3]

I've used the TireGard on several bikes (moving the system from bike to bike) for many years and highly recommend it. I see on your link the receiver now comes with a case, good thing because they're not waterproof. If you're a daily rider and/or go on long trips, or would just like to know without going through the effort (I know, it's no effort... whatever), I would suggest if not this one get some brand TPMS. I also used a TireWatch set but they seem harder to find. For a while, Murph’s Kits (http://www.murphskits.com/catalog/) was a TireWatch retailer, but they don't show up on the site now. Tire Watch (http://www.tire-watch.com/index.php)

You also may want to consider the Doran TPMS . (http://www.doranmfg.com/motorcycle-tire-pressure-monitoring-systems.htm)
The Doran appears to be better supported than most others and I think if I decide to get another set, it will be the Doran.

The TireGard has alerted for me several times, never faulty. The first install was on a Triumph America (tubed tires) and leaving for work one morning the unit buzzed and flashed that the rear was low. My first thought was that it had failed, until I found a nail in the tire. I moved it to a BMW R1100RT (tubeless) and coming home from a ride to Alaska I had to replace the rear tire in Canada and over the next few days the unit showed the rear to lose a few lbs each day. I thought the tire bead might have a problem but on close inspection I found the nail. Put the unit on my DR650 (tubed) and the unit alerted on a cold morning. I had the low pressure warning set too high (for the Beemer) and it alerted when the lower pressure DR tires went down a bit in the cold. I also had gotten the Tire Watch for the Beemer since it installs inside the tire making for a 'cleaner' install not showing anything. It also made it easier to service since there's nothing on the outside. But the batteries are not suppose to be replaceable as with the TireGard (replaced batteries only once in several years), resulting in sender replacement every 5 years or so. I got them from Murph’s Kits and the batteries died the day after I came back from a trip to Colorado (just a few weeks after installation). Murph replaced the sender an I think that may be one of the reasons he quit advertising them. The Tire Watch went with the BMW when I sold it a few months ago. I don't use the sender locks that come with the TireGard because they're a PITA. But have not lost a sender yet. I loaned the TireGard to a riding buddy on the trip to CO because I had the Tire Watch on the Beemer and it was a simple matter to unscrew the TG and screw it on his Connie tires. Now the TG is on the Big K. I have the receiver velcroed to my tankbag.

I've always mounted the receiver where I could see it while riding. Very reassuring. It's a good system. But I still carry an air gage for those times I need to put air in the tires.