J. Costa first impressions

Dear friends,

Well, I finally got a free weekend day to install the J. Costa variator. Installation was a breeze. I modified my variator when I owned a Reflex so this wasn't a totally new experience. Special thanks to JeffR for his instructions. I made sure to tighten the "oh Jesus" bolt* to factory specs. The first thing I noticed is a significant reduction in vibration at all speeds. The engine is definitely reving higher, and if you pour it on there seems to be increased acceleration. Another thing I noticed is a change in the way the SWing sounds at highway speeds. It now has a pleasant growl. My first impressions are fairly positive. Even without the increased acceleration, I think the reduced vibration makes it worth the $.

*That's what the Reflex group calls it. It's what you may find yourself saying if the bolt comes loose at the wrong time.

Scooterian,

It really does give you a different sound and feeling doesn't it? I just made a post where I re-installed the stock variator since my pins were so worn. I'm glad the pictorial helped out. Can you make a mental note the next time you ride about your rpm's at 70 and 75 indicated? Give us a report on how you like it the more you ride it.

After owning my SW for two riding seasons I bought the J. Costas variator and paid my local Honda dealer to install it. Total cost came to $375, and although it has made some difference, I don't think it was worth it. To me the difference is marginal and less than what I expected (maybe my expectations were just too high). I knew it would not turn the SW into a sportbike, but from everything I had read on several SW forums I did expect it to make a noticeable difference in acceleration, not just in engine sound. If your funds are limited, I say buy a new windshield or a Laminar Lip and get a lot more improvement overall and for half the cost of the new variator.

Vito,
Don't want to steal a thread but I liked your views and advice on this item as it comes from the other end of a spectrum that can be somewhat subjective at times. When reading thru all these SWing forums I have a hard time not thinking: "when am I going to be able to get one of those!" (whatever it is)? To me it's just refreshing reading such spontaneous remarks about the "other" side. 'Course, I guess that's what the forum is all about. Thanks.