I'm sure most of us have seen the RAM mounts from MotoReva, but if you've tried to get one recently you also know they have been out of stock since the end of July. Wanting a RAM mount and having no patience I went a different route.
First, I went here:
The Telferizer Custom Motorcycle RAM mounts for GPS Systems
I sent an email asking for a quote for a mount for my 899 shipped to my zip code in VT. I was happy to receive an email the very next day with a quote. I was ok with the price ($65 shipped) and as soon as I sent the money the mount was shipped that day and I was provided a tracking number. I was a little skeptical as this was coming from the UK and I am in the U.S. However, I received the mount exactly 7 days later (picture 1 - note, this is after I had installed the mount and compressed the rubber fitting).
I followed the instructions provided and mounted the mount with the rubber compression nut that was included. Unfortunately, after my first ride (the roads aren't exactly pristine where I am most of the time) I noticed that the mount had started to loosen itself up as I road over rough roads. I stopped, attempted to tighten the mount once again but shortly after being on my way it began to loosen up again. So today I came to a easy solution that requires no special tools and should work just as well as the MotoReva mount.
Step 1: Place something over your front fender (I used a towel) so that you don't scratch it. If it's a rainy day and you've got the time, removing the front tire and fender will make this DIY much easier.
Step 2: Locate the steering stem cover underneath the front fairing, back near the radiator (picture 2). Using a flat tip screw driver, remove the cover (picture 3).
Step 3: Find a nut that threads on to the mount (picture 4). I have lots of nuts and bolts kicking around and was lucky enough to find this beauty with a built in washer (believe it came off of an exhaust mount from a 07 GSXR).
Step 4: This is where it gets tricky and would be easier if the fender and front tire were removed. You will need the correct deep well socket for the nut you find, a universal adapter, 3 - three inch extensions. Start by attaching the universal to the socket and then adding one of the extensions. Now, place the nut in to the socket (this is where having the built in washer helped tremendously) (picture 5).
Step 5: From the back side of the wheel feed the socket and extension up into the steering stem (picture 6). When you get the entire extension in the stem add one of the other extensions (picture 7). When you have the 3rd extension attached you should be able to see the nut through the top of the steering stem (Picture 8).
Step 6: This is where having the fender came in useful. With the three extensions connected you can rest the bottom one on to the fender while you prep the mount. I chose to be slightly cautious and put some blue loctite on to the threads of the mount. Then - holding the extension in my right hand I reached around with my left hand and began threading the mount into the nut. After securing the mount tightly (I didn't take torque measurements) I removed the socket and extensions in the same manor that I inserted them.
Step 7: Replace the steering stem cover. I did so by sliding one tab in to place and then using the same flat tip screwdriver to gently pry the opposite tab inward until it clicked in place (picture 9)
Step 8: Remove the towel and enjoy your new ram mount (picture 10)
I have yet to take the bike on any rough roads since the change but I will be sure to report back any negative findings.
SUMMARY:
Total money invested: $65
Total installation time: 30 minutes or less
Special tools required: NONE