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Farkles, Gear & Accessories => Farkles and Gear General Section => Topic started by: JuST Peter on September 30, 2014, 08:45:36 PM

Title: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on September 30, 2014, 08:45:36 PM
Something I've been looking at for quite some time, and more so now the hands are getting stiffer (and sorer)…..Cruise control, similar to Pezz'.

Just ordered these:
http://www.murphskits.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=25&products_id=369 (http://www.murphskits.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=25&products_id=369)

Not being terribly mechanical minded, I've asked The Bringellian (Mike Woodward) the local Farkle Fitter, to fit it up for me.

Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: Biggles on September 30, 2014, 09:04:12 PM
Everyone will be interested to read about the installation and operation.
At 1/4 the price of the MCC, it's tempting, I'm sure.  And not requiring the vacuum canister will make it a tidier looking job.
OzSTOC members might even become to recognised source of installation instructions for STs, as there are other types mentioned on the webpage.
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: alans1100 on September 30, 2014, 09:17:53 PM
I've looked at this as well and both units are the same but going to the Rostra site shows some options that might assist with installation.

The unit uses a coast option so there's no need to tap the brake like you do with MC

http://www.rostra.com/universal-aftermarket-cruise-control-by-rostra.php (http://www.rostra.com/universal-aftermarket-cruise-control-by-rostra.php)

Mainly getting the speed signal.

Magnets are fine in most cases but depending on speedo cable size it maybe possible to install a speed generator on the rear of the speedo though not sure what sort of interference that would occur..

Part number 250-4160 which would normally be fitted on the gearbox and the OEM cable fitted to that.

I'm not sure why MC cruise doesn't do this and do away with magnets.

(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j374/alans1100/2504160-large.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/alans1100/media/2504160-large.jpg.html)

Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: ST2UP on September 30, 2014, 09:54:18 PM
 :think1 and  :popcorn with just a little  WOW:


Cheers
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on October 01, 2014, 04:28:04 AM
Just to clear things a little, I've ordered the optional control pad as it has the "engaged" indicator ($50-00) lit up when in use, plus shipping which will cost $60-00 but they use US Priority Mail which provides a tracking number and, in their words, "is generally fast through customs".
Having used this option when I had my business, orders usually land here in about a week, so it's worth it
Still a cheaper option for me than the MC Cruise

As for installation, I'll be taking plenty of pics and documenting any and all tips as we find them
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: Shiney on October 01, 2014, 08:56:37 AM
Awesome stuff mate, I'm looking forward to seeing how it all works out :thumbsup
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: cravenhaven on October 06, 2014, 08:29:23 AM
Interesting. If it doesnt use a vacuum cylinder then how does it control the throttle?.
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: alans1100 on October 06, 2014, 10:49:52 AM
Interesting. If it doesnt use a vacuum cylinder then how does it control the throttle?.

This one is fully electronic and works much like "drive by wire" in cars these days.

The cable is controlled by a small electric motor inside the control unit which also has the computer as well.

Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: HunterTodd on October 06, 2014, 12:28:34 PM
Interesting. If it doesnt use a vacuum cylinder then how does it control the throttle?.

This one is fully electronic and works much like "drive by wire" in cars these days.

The cable is controlled by a small electric motor inside the control unit which also has the computer as well.

ow does it attach to the cable?
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: alans1100 on October 06, 2014, 01:10:07 PM

ow does it attach to the cable?


Read through an the install here. Basic install would be the same on most cars/bikes and the same as a vacuum controlled unit. Only the throttle connection might vary (different options supplied) and no vacuum line to worry about.

http://www.murphskits.com/catalog/docs/Rostra%20install.htm (http://www.murphskits.com/catalog/docs/Rostra%20install.htm)
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on October 06, 2014, 04:58:37 PM
I spoke to Mike Woodward (The Bringellian - my farkle fitter) yesterday, who indicated it was "a piece of cake"  o:) so it appears it's not gunna take long to hook up. One interesting thing I noted on the US site was they had the control unit mounted on the right near the throttle  - seemed a bit odd considering you have to have the speed up to apply the cruise - maybe the yanks have really long fingers  :grin
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on October 15, 2014, 07:48:38 PM
My cruise control package arrived today  :hatwave so fingers crossed it should be installed within the next couple of weekends.  :thumbsup

A detailed instal with photos will follow
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: alans1100 on October 15, 2014, 08:53:33 PM
I could no doubt do most of the install myself except for the throttle connection.

In 1995 I tried fitting a cruise to the car we had but I couldn't get the throttle link right. I ended up getting my supervisor from to come around. Three months later the unit failed and we got a new one professionally installed

Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: Shiney on October 16, 2014, 03:52:56 AM
My cruise control package arrived today  :hatwave so fingers crossed it should be installed within the next couple of weekends.  :thumbsup

A detailed instal with photos will follow

 :popcorn :popcorn :popcorn
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on October 31, 2014, 08:47:38 AM
There's been a slight delay as Mike has found a pulse divider is required since the ST runs at 80,000 ppm and the Rostra will only go as high as 40,000.
We found the part required on the Rostra site but couldn't find a dealer, as they don't sell to the public, until I suggested we ask Google.
Good ol' eBay…….it should be here in about a week :thumbsup
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: Pezzz on October 31, 2014, 08:54:25 AM
Yeah mine on hold due to work and life getting in the way .... sigh. ...
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on October 31, 2014, 09:21:27 AM
We've also found a wealth of information about the Rostra electronic cruise control on the ST Owners (US) website, and in one thread alone, there's 20 pages of posts, so there's heaps of help there too.
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: Greencan on November 01, 2014, 06:59:18 AM
Mornin' All...

The one item that sets the MC Cruise from all other motorcycle cruise controls is their patent Cable Interface Unit (CIU), so that throttle / cruise can work collectively and independantly similtaneously. It's a very clever invention by the Guymer boys.  :wink1

Cheers the can :-)
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: Lionel on November 01, 2014, 07:16:38 AM
One of the FAQs on the Rostra web site. http://www.rostra.com/universal-aftermarket-cruise-control-by-rostra.php (http://www.rostra.com/universal-aftermarket-cruise-control-by-rostra.php)

Q: Can I install Rostra's Global Cruise system on a motorcycle or ATV?A: At Rostra, we love seeing the inventive ways in which our customers apply products that we manufacture to a variety applications. But, while a number of online forums exist that detail the multitude of installation options for our products on non-passenger vehicle modes of transportation, due to safety concerns surrounding these installations, we do not actively support these applications. Our technical support is provided through extensive real-world testing that at this time does not include working with said vehicles.

Just like going over to the dark side. Car tyres are not recommended for motorbikes but plenty of riders use them.


Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on November 01, 2014, 08:55:46 AM
Mornin' All...

The one item that sets the MC Cruise from all other motorcycle cruise controls is their patent Cable Interface Unit (CIU), so that throttle / cruise can work collectively and independantly similtaneously. It's a very clever invention by the Guymer boys.  :wink1

Cheers the can :-)
Well, the one item that keeps me from installing an MC Cruise is the cost. I can only spend what I can afford
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on November 01, 2014, 09:00:11 AM
One of the FAQs on the Rostra web site. [url]http://www.rostra.com/universal-aftermarket-cruise-control-by-rostra.php[/url] ([url]http://www.rostra.com/universal-aftermarket-cruise-control-by-rostra.php[/url])

Q: Can I install Rostra's Global Cruise system on a motorcycle or ATV?A: At Rostra, we love seeing the inventive ways in which our customers apply products that we manufacture to a variety applications. But, while a number of online forums exist that detail the multitude of installation options for our products on non-passenger vehicle modes of transportation, due to safety concerns surrounding these installations, we do not actively support these applications. Our technical support is provided through extensive real-world testing that at this time does not include working with said vehicles.

Just like going over to the dark side. Car tyres are not recommended for motorbikes but plenty of riders use them.



Yep, while I'm fully aware that these aren't specifically suited to motorcycles, at the end of the day it's my neck isn't it!
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: Lionel on November 01, 2014, 09:05:55 AM
My post wasn't a criticism. But the info on the web site probably explains why its not an out-of-the box installation for motorbikes.
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on November 01, 2014, 09:18:42 AM
My post wasn't a criticism. But the info on the web site probably explains why its not an out-of-the box installation for motorbikes.
If you go to http://www.murphskits.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=25&products_id=369 (http://www.murphskits.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=25&products_id=369) You'll see about halfway down the page, Murphy clearly states these are not designed for motorcycles;

As he states:

Buyers: Be very aware that the cruise controls offered on this site are UNIVERSAL AUTOMOTIVE cruise controls. None of them have been approved for motorcycle application by their respective manufacturers. However, over the years ingenious tinkerers have adapted them to several models of motorcycles. We can not, and will in no way, guarantee they will work on your motorcycle. We are also unable to offer technical support during installation. All sales of cruise controls are final, and under no circumstances will we accept return units. Any warranty issues are covered by the respective manufacturers, and are between you and them.

Furthermore, think carefully about whether or not you have the talent and skill necessary to install this device on your motorcycle. This is by no means a simple installation, and if not done correctly can result in potentially dangerous operating conditions. We cannot emphasize this enough.

We appreciate your understanding.

Murphs
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on January 13, 2015, 07:01:32 PM
Installation of said Cruise Control has been put on hold indefinitely due to personal health problems (Prostate Cancer), so I gotta look after myself first
Watch this space!
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: Lionel on January 13, 2015, 07:15:18 PM
Sorry to hear about your health problems, Peter.
Listen to the experts and I hope to see you back on the bike when you conquer this pestilence.

Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: ST2UP on January 13, 2015, 07:16:50 PM
Look after yourself Pete..... We will be here anytime your in need of a pick me up  :thumb


Cheers mate  ;-*
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: StinkyPete on January 13, 2015, 07:19:05 PM
PM sent.   Take care my friend.
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: Abe on January 13, 2015, 07:20:02 PM
Take care Big Fella, yell if you need anything.
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on January 13, 2015, 07:46:14 PM
Thanks for your kind thoughts Lionel, Dave, Chris and Pete,

Tomorrow I go to a physiotherapist to learn how to do pelvic floor exercises for 3 weeks, then see the Doc (actually he's an Associate Professor) and book a date.

I'm told I'll be out of action for about 3-4 weeks but it could be a tad longer before I throw a leg over - the ST that is, not Patty!
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: Biggles on January 13, 2015, 08:20:50 PM
Goodonya for sharing.  Excellent prospects for management and cure these days.
Stay online.  You'll need some sanity, and some proxy riding.
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on January 13, 2015, 08:22:23 PM
Thanks Bill, I'll need some grounding from time to time :thumbsup
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: Shiney on January 13, 2015, 08:59:11 PM
Take care mate, all the best.
Keep us updated.
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on January 14, 2015, 04:50:22 AM
Thanks Dave, I'll do that for sure
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: PC on January 14, 2015, 05:42:55 AM
       Good luck today              as the poms say  " keep your chin up"
        see you at the rally in march
   
       all the best mate
      Peter
 
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: saaz on January 14, 2015, 10:28:45 AM
Good luck Peter.Getting on top of it early is the best thing. And who knows what other benefits exercise will bring!
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on January 14, 2015, 03:27:25 PM
After an initial visit to the physio centre this morning, it appears I'll be doing a helluva lot of walking and dieting before I even make it into the operating theatre. I got told I have to work up to walking for an hour each day - have to use and record a pedometer too, measure how much I pee (am I allowed to say that on here) each night - must remember not to drink out of the measuring jug afterwards   :grin

So in answer to John's (Saaz) post, yes, I'll definitely come out of it a lot fitter and hopefully a lot slimmer. My daughter Louise already has me on a weight loss and exercise program, and I also have to visit the pre-op dietician  :eat - probably get told the same as Louise keeps saying - keep out of the confectionary aisle, eat more greens, more fruit, no more  :Cake2

Pelvic floor exercises - Now this is something I didn't expect! I have to learn how to pull in the muscles down there - sitting, standing, and laying down - there's more to all this than meets the eye, let me tell y'all.

It's a good thing this is only a relatively small operation - think how much training I'd have to put in, for something major  :crazy
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: Lionel on January 14, 2015, 03:45:43 PM
Peter, walk is a 4-letter word.
After reading your post I'm going to lie down to recover. A bit of Maori PT goes a long way.

Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on February 01, 2015, 01:50:39 PM
Ok, latest update - I go under the"robotic" knife on March 2, stay there for 3-4 days, come out with a catheter  :eek for about 10 days, then go to wearing big nappies for a while until the pelvic muscles start doing their new job.
Daughter Louise has got 10 days carers leave so I'll be well cared for there, and no doubt Patty will be around too.
I'll just have to be careful I don't overdo stuff as I begin to feel better.
I won't say I'm worried, more like concerned for how my life will have to change, but others have been down the same road and are still going strong so if they can do , so can I!  :thumbs

Forgot to mention, I'ver lost 5 kg in four weeks, so perhaps I'll begin to grow back into my old duds again soon  ;-*
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: saaz on February 01, 2015, 02:33:17 PM
 :thumbs  At least it is now happening. Good luck with it all.
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: Abe on February 01, 2015, 06:24:00 PM
Enjoyed our chat the other day Peter.  :thumbsup

You have a great positive attitude, some people look at life thinking "doom and gloom" and the "world owes them something",and they just become bitter and twisted, which does not help their condition.

Keep losing weight the better you will feel  ++ and will make dividends after the operation.

Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on February 01, 2015, 06:55:34 PM
:thumbs  At least it is now happening. Good luck with it all.
Thanks John  :hatwave
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on February 01, 2015, 07:06:36 PM
Enjoyed our chat the other day Peter.  :thumbsup

You have a great positive attitude, some people look at life thinking "doom and gloom" and the "world owes them something",and they just become bitter and twisted, which does not help their condition.

Keep losing weight the better you will feel  ++ and will make dividends after the operation.


Likewise Abe. It was a good catchup.

Oddly enough i don't think of this as a major operation, even though it really is, same as I don't feel my age - other than first thing in the morning LOL - and can't wait to get it over and finally get a straight night's sleep.

And yes, attitude is everything - keep it light and everyone can feel ok about it. About the only thing I miss so far is this :EatCake - but to disfigure a phrase - you can't have a beautiful figure  (like mine) and eat cake too.

These pelvic floor exercises are something else, aren't they? It's like you're in mixed company, want to fart and can't and have to hold it in :crackup :rofl
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: saaz on February 01, 2015, 08:47:19 PM
Make sure you get a name tag, as won't know who you are  :think1
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: Biggles on February 01, 2015, 08:52:17 PM

These pelvic floor exercises are something else, aren't they? It's like you're in mixed company, want to fart and can't and have to hold it in :crackup :rofl

These motorcycle forums are a mine of information!    :o

Make sure you get a name tag, as won't know who you are  :think1

He's the one squatting every now and then.
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: Bloodman on February 02, 2015, 07:17:24 AM
Not the worst op you could have, a very high success rate particularly the after effects of having your prostate removed. Keep up the exercises as they are vital to your recovery.
Who is the lucky surgeon who gets the job and where are you having it done ? I attend at least one prostatectomy each week in my work and if you are having the robot you will be up and about sooner than later.

Good luck and a speedy recovery

 :bl11

Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on February 02, 2015, 07:58:38 PM
Not the worst op you could have, a very high success rate particularly the after effects of having your prostate removed. Keep up the exercises as they are vital to your recovery.
Who is the lucky surgeon who gets the job and where are you having it done ? I attend at least one prostatectomy each week in my work and if you are having the robot you will be up and about sooner than later.

Good luck and a speedy recovery

 :bl11


Justin, the surgeon is A/Professor Manish Patel; hospital is Westmead Private; and yep, his expertise is robotic surgery.
If it isn't too personal, what is your line of work that relates to prostatectomies
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: DaleMcLean on February 02, 2015, 08:03:54 PM
You'll get used to doing the exercises mate (second nature after a while  :wink1)
The nappies arent too bad and after a week they'll be gone anyway, unles you want to do Iron Butt rides  :rofl :rofl

JUST REMEBER to tell them to add a couple of inches NOT take some off as they did to me  :eek

Youve got my number  :thumb any time
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on February 02, 2015, 08:27:35 PM
I did ask the Doc whether I'd have to tie a string to it, and he just laughed but considering my right hand will be unemployed from now on :fp, size aint gonna be too much of an issue  :grin but yes, my good pal, I've got your number and would be lost without you and your support
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: Bloodman on February 05, 2015, 07:48:46 AM
I am an Autotransfusionist which means i attend all types of surgery where there may or will be a large loss of blood,see aortic aneurysms, hip replacements, radical prostatectomies, caesareans and the like.  I suck up the blood , wash it, then return just your red cell to you.

I have heard of Dr Patel and after a few enquiries it seems you are in very good hands. Robotic surgery is basically bloodless so my services are not required  :thumb

Results are extremely good.

Best of luck for the op and the future.

 :bl11 ++
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: Biggles on February 05, 2015, 11:35:30 AM
I am an Autotransfusionist which means i attend all types of surgery where there may or will be a large loss of blood,see aortic aneurysms, hip replacements, radical prostatectomies, caesareans and the like.  I suck up the blood , wash it, then return just your red cell to you.

Sounds like an excellent concept- hadn't heard of it before, but sure saves on donated blood stocks.

I have heard of Dr Patel and after a few enquiries it seems you are in very good hands.

Hmm.  Obviously not the other Dr Patel of Bundaberg, Qld infamy.    :eek
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on April 14, 2015, 03:54:16 PM
This is a very late update, but was speaking to a good friend earlier who suggested I post this, so here goes:
 I was operated on, on March 2 as previously mentioned, up and about on Tuesday, was told I could go home on Wednesday - then they kept asking if I'd passed wind (rude buggers I thought), but on asking why they wanted to know, they said my bowel was filled with air to give them more room to "play", and breaking wind (that's farting to you blokes :grin) was a sign it was coming back out.

Needless to say, I did "break wind", and got released into the custody care of my daughter.

Even though there was little blood I was still feeling pretty tender and took the boss' advice and did very little for about 2-3 weeks. I might add my tummy looks like a bald medicine ball with half a dozen punctures marks on it

By then I was getting a bit toey, and did little things on the side when no one was watching, but as I wasn't allowed on the bike, I did STart it up a few times, juST to remind my self what it sounded like  :'(
After four weeks - around the Easter weekend, I was given the green light to 'avago, so I took a tentative run to Pie InThe Sky at Cowan.
I'm glad I didnt go further as, by the time I got home, the tail gunner's turret was quite sore, but this has improved but notice the leg muscles (at the back) close by are tender if I lift both feet up to the pegs when I take off, so am trying to teach self to lift up one foot at a time which is quite ok.

I am cleared to return to work next Monday so I guess - fingers crossed - I'll find out whether I really am ok to start again by then.
I'll have been off for a total of seven weeks but am still wearing the men's incontinence pads as I still get a little leakage from time to time regardless of the ongoing pelvic floor exercises, and have been told this could go on for some months.
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: saaz on April 14, 2015, 04:17:33 PM
Sounds like great progress to me  :beer These things can be frustrating while in recovery phase, but once you are on the mend it will seem like a bad dream  :thumb

I may even shout you a pie or dessert on the 26th if you can make it  :eat
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: Shiney on April 14, 2015, 04:40:37 PM
It's great to hear that the recovery is progressing well mate :thumbsup
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: tj189 on April 14, 2015, 07:33:00 PM
appreciate you posting this delicate subject up  :thumb
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on April 14, 2015, 08:24:59 PM
appreciate you posting this delicate subject up  :thumb
Delicate's right when I sit the wrong way on the STeed  :eek  :'( :grin
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on April 14, 2015, 08:27:34 PM

I may even shout you a pie or dessert on the 26th if you can make it  :eat
Well, in this case I'll definitely be there   :thumbs
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on April 14, 2015, 08:34:26 PM
It's great to hear that the recovery is progressing well mate :thumbsup
Dave, as good as I can expect  :thumbs
Title: Re: Re Cruise Control
Post by: JuST Peter on June 30, 2015, 10:24:46 AM
After much deliberation and procrastination I have decided to not install the Rostra cruise as I don't have the mechanical know-how to put it together myself, and my plan of getting a mate to help do it has fallen down and to get my bike mechanic to install it would cost almost as much as an MCCruise so it's up for sale for anyone who wants it.