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Old April 23rd, 2014, 05:05 AM   #1
reroka
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What can you do to a 250R

To make long rides a little less uncomfortable.

I have ordered a new sprocket and a new seat. What else can I do to get more MPG and More comfort?
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Old April 23rd, 2014, 05:57 AM   #2
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Double bubble windscreen will help deflect the wind over you.
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Old April 23rd, 2014, 06:09 AM   #3
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A gel seat

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Old April 23rd, 2014, 06:10 AM   #4
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Bluetooth headset, power outlet, and ear plugs. Also a little throttle assist thing that puts the throttle on your arm. Idk what it is called
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Old April 23rd, 2014, 06:20 AM   #5
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Buell one inch drop pegs. They lower the feet just enough if you are tall. They do require some drill and file work. And you need to adjust the brake and shift pedal.
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Old April 23rd, 2014, 06:41 AM   #6
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Bluetooth headset, power outlet, and ear plugs. Also a little throttle assist thing that puts the throttle on your arm. Idk what it is called
+1 on the earplugs. Cheap and makes a ton of difference for your hearing and fatigue during long rides.
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Old April 23rd, 2014, 06:45 AM   #7
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Quote:
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.... What else can I do to get more MPG and More comfort?
Padded Bike shorts- I know it sounds funny, but they work.

Ear Plugs-wind noise can cause fatigue on long noisy rides.

Good gloves with padding in the palm- arm and hand fatigue arm common on these buzzy bikes.

Gel Throttle grips- Pro Grips seem to be the favorite

Heavier Bar Ends (kind of expensive IMO)

Adjustable Levers- Makes clutch and brake operation much nicer

Slightly bigger and better tires for better stability, control and long distance wear

Correctly adjust your rear shock.

The below engine improvements along with a better breathing air filter can help increase mpg and smooth out engine buzz

Iridium Spark Plugs for better combustion and increased mpg

E0 87 Octane Gas- proven to have better mpg and more power

Full synthetic oil-allows for a smoother running engine and shifting tranny. Will help reduce some engine buzz


Here's a good list of what to take on short-long trips. Emergency Motorcycle First Aid and Safety Kits
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Old April 24th, 2014, 03:41 PM   #8
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Quote:
Originally Posted by reroka View Post
To make long rides a little less uncomfortable.

I have ordered a new sprocket and a new seat. What else can I do to get more MPG and More comfort?
More frequent breaks
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Old April 24th, 2014, 04:32 PM   #9
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I mean let's be realistic here.
Buy a bigger bike appropriate for distance touring. A GPX750 around a grand with a nice set of Givis
Look at at this gem for instance.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Kawazaki-G...item2c80c0b2ed
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Old April 24th, 2014, 04:37 PM   #10
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paging @NevadaWolf due to experience touring on a 250.

I'd say more breaks, I have put down some reasonably long days on my 300 (4-600miles give or take) with the stock seat. It was uncomfortable at first but my body adjusted to it, so long as I stop once in a while and drink or eat something I'm good. A comfortable helmet and windscreen go a long way for comfort too.
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Old April 24th, 2014, 04:44 PM   #11
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OP, tell us a little more about what specifically is uncomfortable. Does the seat make your butt sore? Get a gel seat, or a seat pad. Head tired from getting blown around in the wind? Get a bigger windscreen and tuck.

More info needed please

Quote:
Originally Posted by Ninjinsky View Post
I mean let's be realistic here.
Buy a bigger bike appropriate for distance touring. A GPX750 around a grand with a nice set of Givis
Look at at this gem for instance.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Kawazaki-G...item2c80c0b2ed
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Old April 24th, 2014, 04:52 PM   #12
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For better mpg, install taller gearing, get a taller windscreen, keep your tires pressures up to the max, keep your chain lubed and adjusted, check for brake and wheel bearing drag. ensure your rear wheel is aligned with the frame.

For comfort , I second @DaBlue1 's suggestion of wearing padded cycling shorts, or getting a gel pad for the seat, earplugs, and a throttle lock. The best throttle lock I've ever used I made myself out of some heavy gauge wire.
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Old April 24th, 2014, 04:57 PM   #13
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Quote:
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Whatever you choose to do, don't listen to this person.
Why not? I talk sense.
The ninjette is not designed for long distance touring.
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Old April 24th, 2014, 05:06 PM   #14
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The ninjette is not designed for long distance touring.
Not with that attitude
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Old April 24th, 2014, 05:51 PM   #15
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LoL, I wonder what you would balk at?
If somebody said "I want to make my Ninjette a better moto crosser?"

Don't get me wrong I love the little things but as they are, which is a spirited little commuter/ sports bike.
To be honest I was never happy about the EL250 using that engine in a custom either, the characteristics are all wrong even though the factory did it!
Any ways it's not for me to stop anyone messing with a 250R just said what I would do. I'll leave it there. Have fun stuffing foam squares down your trousers
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Old April 24th, 2014, 05:56 PM   #16
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There is a guy who offroads his ninjette with great success. I believe he goes by the handle @Skippii
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Old April 24th, 2014, 06:04 PM   #17
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Sirref View Post
paging @NevadaWolf due to experience touring on a 250.
What? What da ya want??


Definitely agree more info is needed to help out.

1) How long is this "long ride" that is making you uncomfortable? 100 miles? 1000 miles? 10,000 miles? One hour? Ten hours? A day? A week?

2) What are you finding uncomfortable? Feet? Knees? Hips? Butt? Back? Shoulders? Neck? Arms? Hands?

3) What is your MPG now and what are you expecting to get? 20? 40? 60?
@DaBlue1 has a great list of changes you can make to the bike to improve your overall comfort. Plus you will not find a better source for improving MPG than @greenaero.

My own little bits of advice are to move around enough on the bike to not get locked into one position. Invest in some sort of cruise control so you can rest your hands on the ride. Stand on your pegs, let your feet hang down, hook your feet over the rear pegs to help keep your lower body from cramping.

Definitely take breaks at whatever your body requires. I can sit for two hours on a bike with no problem, but I have found that three hours straight is too much. Some folks can go an hour, some every half hour. Your body will tell you its requirement and go by that schedule. Get off the bike, take as much gear off as needed, and walk around. Stretch, jog, road side pushups, even take a short cat nap, whatever you need to keep your body from becoming too stiff.

Get some quality gear that will help regulate your body temps. You need gear that will help keep your core temp steady, so that means air flow in normal conditions or completely sealed in extreme conditions. If you are getting too hot or too cold on your rides, you not only will be uncomfortable but can also risk serious problems.

Finally, eat, drink, and be well rested and mentally focused on your ride. Nothing sucks more than a growling stomach two hundred miles from the nearest bite to eat. LOL
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Old April 24th, 2014, 06:07 PM   #18
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dear god, I hope I never end up starving with hundreds of miles to go before the next chance to eat. Cliff bars are my savior when mtb which probably isn't as bad of a situation.
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Old April 24th, 2014, 06:10 PM   #19
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What can you do to a 250R
To make long rides a little less uncomfortable?

Ride faster, shave time off, look cool for chicks
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Old April 24th, 2014, 06:13 PM   #20
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riding faster over long distance works against you, it wears your mind and body down quicker in addition to burning through more fuel.
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Old April 24th, 2014, 06:14 PM   #21
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Quote:
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dear god, I hope I never end up starving with hundreds of miles to go before the next chance to eat. Cliff bars are my savior when mtb which probably isn't as bad of a situation.
That's why my tank bag has a tupperware box filled with jerky, crackers, cookies, cheese squares, carrots, and celery. I love my little lunch box.
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Old April 25th, 2014, 11:38 AM   #22
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I bought this to ride to work. I spend about 150.00 a week in gas. I drive 50 miles one way. The stock seat just kills my ass. After about 30 mins of riding my butt hurts.

I am not a big person I am 5 foot 10 inch. about 145 pounds. I love riding it. It has all the power I need. I just need to do something to make my ass from stop hurting.

Quote:
Originally Posted by rasta View Post
OP, tell us a little more about what specifically is uncomfortable. Does the seat make your butt sore? Get a gel seat, or a seat pad. Head tired from getting blown around in the wind? Get a bigger windscreen and tuck.

More info needed please



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Old April 25th, 2014, 12:07 PM   #23
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I guess the only issue I Have is the fact that my butt hurts after riding for an hour or so. I have figured out how to place my legs in different spots to help with pain around the ankles.

Like I said, I love riding it, I just want my butt to stop hurting. I did buy a sabbleman sent for 235.00 which I should get tomm.

The MPG I get is well a full take of gase I can get 260 miles on before spending on gas. So I love the fact thta the 4.75 gallons the tank hold gets as many miles as my pt cruiser does with damn near 14 gallans.

Quote:
Originally Posted by reroka View Post
I bought this to ride to work. I spend about 150.00 a week in gas. I drive 50 miles one way. The stock seat just kills my ass. After about 30 mins of riding my butt hurts.

I am not a big person I am 5 foot 10 inch. about 145 pounds. I love riding it. It has all the power I need. I just need to do something to make my ass from stop hurting.
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Old April 25th, 2014, 12:41 PM   #24
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If your rear is the only thing hurting during the ride, then its possible that the new seat will help.

If you are getting the 260 miles out of the full tank and filling up when on fumes, you're getting about 54 MPG. Depending on the speed limit of that road that may be what you can get unless you follow Vic's advice above. Otherwise the only thing I know of to improve mileage is to reduce speed. But I get in the high 40's due to my roads all being 70 MPH or more.

Sorry can't help specifically since I've not had a sore butt when riding. Hopefully someone else can provide you some insight.
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Old April 25th, 2014, 12:46 PM   #25
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Just about my whole ride is on hwy. Speed limit is 55. I have a new 15t sprocket but I have no idea how to put it on.


Quote:
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If your rear is the only thing hurting during the ride, then its possible that the new seat will help.

If you are getting the 260 miles out of the full tank and filling up when on fumes, you're getting about 54 MPG. Depending on the speed limit of that road that may be what you can get unless you follow Vic's advice above. Otherwise the only thing I know of to improve mileage is to reduce speed. But I get in the high 40's due to my roads all being 70 MPH or more.

Sorry can't help specifically since I've not had a sore butt when riding. Hopefully someone else can provide you some insight.
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Old April 25th, 2014, 12:53 PM   #26
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DIYs to the rescue!

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Old April 25th, 2014, 01:07 PM   #27
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HTFU or at least that is what my road cycling pals might say lol

honestly the 15T will help with both comfort and mileage a bit - or at least it did in my case. my commute is onle 32 miles one way but I try and ride the bike every day I can for enjoyment and fuel economy.

At about 35 to 40 min on the bike, the seat doesn't have enough time yet to really really bother me, but my hands and the wind around my head perhaps a bit too much. I think the windscreen and gel grips will be next .

I got off to a bad commuter start with my ninjette though, I had such a short distance to work at my previous career that I could walk or ride a bicycle so the ninjette was outfitted for sporty work (clipons, rearsets, etc.). Even with the more aggressive rider position its peaches compared to my 6R.

BTW my 6R got about 45 mpg on my commute while the ninjette gets 55. My best fuel economy car gets 30 and takes premium.
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Old April 25th, 2014, 01:24 PM   #28
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my ri to ride to work one way is 50 miles. The speed limit on the highway is 55 I ride At 60 to 65. I bought a saddlemen gel seat which I should get on monday. I read that this was a great seat.
like I said I love by ninja 250. The seat is just killing my butt. I hope the new seat I bought will improve this, if not I will return the seat and buy a Corbin like others have suggested. Other than this issue I love the bike I love the miles per gallon I love the speed hi enjoy riding it around its like no other feeling in the world
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Old April 25th, 2014, 02:02 PM   #29
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I guess the only issue I Have is the fact that my butt hurts after riding for an hour or so. I have figured out how to place my legs in different spots to help with pain around the ankles.

Like I said, I love riding it, I just want my butt to stop hurting. I did buy a sabbleman sent for 235.00 which I should get tomm.
For that length of time in the saddle, you could have saved yourself $100.00 or more. I had my seat re-padded so it is a bit more level and I can sit further back on the seat. Also for longer rides I have a cheap gel seat pad that works great. Got it from Walmart about 5 years ago. Used it yesterday on a 200+ mile trip.


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Old April 25th, 2014, 02:36 PM   #30
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Butt hurt?

Get a nice big tank bag.

Rest chest on bag. Get weight off butt.

It works.

I did about 2500 miles during my vacation a few years back and my butt did not hurt. What worked was riding the bike like a jockey rides a race horse... pitch forward, put your weight on your thighs...

To get the idea, sit on the front edge of an office or kitchen chair and tuck your feet back underneath. See how your weight comes off your butt?

Sit bolt upright with all your weight on your a$$ and OF COURSE it's going to hurt.

During that ride I concluded that I like sportbike ergos. After I got home I put on clip-ons and rearsets, and the bike was a lot more comfortable.

Now I ride a full-on supersport and it, too, is comfy to me. My only issue is neck strain, because I wear glasses and can't easily look upwards. I did come up with a super-geeky but totally effective solution for that, but that's another discussion.
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Old April 25th, 2014, 02:51 PM   #31
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Old April 26th, 2014, 12:21 PM   #32
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If RaceTech's calculator is correct, the front is undersprung and the rear is oversprung for your weight. While it's not a direct comfort thing like the seat, having the springs in the right range for your weight will help the chassis float along parallel to the ground while the wheels follow the varying road surface - a smoother ride for you. The wheels won't be flailing around due to way-too-soft springs or transmitting every bump to your butt due to way-too-firm springs. Getting springs firm enough for my weight completely transformed how smooth my EX500 feels.

They recommend ~.70kg/mm fork springs, which are fairly easy to swap in. They recommend a 7.9kg/mm (440lb/in) rear spring, which is what the PreGen has. However, that shock is a bit shorter and doesn't have preload adjustment. You could swap the PreGen spring onto an EX500 shock to retain the preload adjustment, but it's still shorter (and it becomes a more complex and expensive swap). I'm not sure if there's another bike's shock that has a spring in that range and would be an easy swap (I'm not sure what spring(s) the popular GSXR shocks use). The rear is only about 20% too stiff, compared to needing 65% stiffer fork springs, so I'd do the front first and see how much that helps.


Quote:
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My only issue is neck strain, because I wear glasses and can't easily look upwards. I did come up with a super-geeky but totally effective solution for that, but that's another discussion.
Contacts?
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Old April 26th, 2014, 12:52 PM   #33
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Quote:
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I bought this to ride to work. I spend about 150.00 a week in gas. I drive 50 miles one way. The stock seat just kills my ass. After about 30 mins of riding my butt hurts.
I would definitely suggest doing something about the stock seat, it's awful. You can buy a gel seat, a Corbin, etc. But those alternatives are a little pricey for my liking. What I did was get a leather seat pad, shave down the foam on the seat, and placed the seat pad on top.

Check out this thread I made a while ago:

https://www.ninjette.org/forums/showthread.php?t=156210

this is the pad

Much cheaper alternative.
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Old April 26th, 2014, 12:58 PM   #34
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Originally Posted by DaBlue1 View Post
For that length of time in the saddle, you could have saved yourself $100.00 or more. I had my seat re-padded so it is a bit more level and I can sit further back on the seat. Also for longer rides I have a cheap gel seat pad that works great. Got it from Walmart about 5 years ago. Used it yesterday on a 200+ mile trip.
that seat looks pretty cool, does it come in green?
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Old April 26th, 2014, 05:51 PM   #35
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Originally Posted by Sirref View Post
that seat looks pretty cool, does it come in green?
It's a custom covered seat. I had an upholstery shop do it. The owner's son did custom motorcycle seats on the side.
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Old April 26th, 2014, 06:09 PM   #36
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Flat kit and rain suit and a custom shield.
I got the zero G touring and compared to my old porpoise looking Gustaffson it's worthless.
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Old April 27th, 2014, 05:00 AM   #37
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Originally Posted by InvisiBill View Post
Contacts?
Nope. I've never had very good luck with contacts (extreme prescription).

I figured out a very simple way to boost my glasses frames up so that they sit much higher on my face.

You take a Breathe-Right strip, fold it in half across the narrow axis before peeling the backing off (to make a sharp peak) and stick it as high up on the bridge of your nose as possible, with the peak pointing up. It winds up a little south of the point directly between your eyebrows.

Then perch the center of your glasses on top of the peak. Friction between the glasses temples and the helmet lining keeps them securely in place.

Voila... lenses are now perfectly placed for the sportbike riding position. No locked elbows, no craned neck.

As I said... super geeky but it works perfectly. Only drawback is that you need to remember to keep a supply of strips handy.
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Old April 27th, 2014, 01:07 PM   #38
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edited by the paranoid
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Old April 27th, 2014, 01:28 PM   #39
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It's the same as used in the title of the Why you no wave thread, simply shows the name currently logged in. I have it in my signature to help new folk who've never seen it and may think they are being specifically addressed.

And "cords" is correct, I asked for the achievment after slaying my fourth set of Rosso IIs all the way down to the cords.

So, nope, no idea who you really are. Your secret identity is safe.
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Old April 27th, 2014, 01:42 PM   #40
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Thanks, that's reassuring. Not sure us ninjette.org newbies are getting quite the message you intended though !
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