Slow to warm up

Bone stock 78 kz1000

I just replaced the points/condensors and added the relay to the system that wiredgeorge suggests. Bike starts fine and runs strong, better i might add than before the relay. Timing is spot on. plugs and boots in good condition.

It seems to take a little longer to warm up to the point it will idle smoothly without babying the throttle. 3-5 miles of riding highway speed, but then idles smooth as it always has. Seems like it was warming up a little faster a few weeks ago, but it is hard to tell, since my daily drive takes me out of the driveway, onto the highway and I don't slow down again for 12 miles, and always idled fine by then.

Is this just "cold natured" and I haven't ever noticed it before because of the drive into town?

Thoughts?

Trey, Mid 70's bikes were jetted lean for emissions even in the day, and even moderate temps required a minute or so before head temp came up enough for happy idle. It was easy to tell when operating temp was achieved, as idle speed would pick up @ 500 rpm. Riding before then, depending on amient temp. could take miles. moderatly dirty pilot jets would make idle mix even leaner, and emphasise poor response until good and warm. G

Thanks for the info! I figured this might be the case, and just taking short runs this last couple of weeks I finally noticed it.

Trey,
I had the same problem with my 73 z1, header and pods are the only upgrades. After talking with the guys at Z1 Enterprises at Mid-Ohio last year they suggested lowering the clip on the needle in the carbs one notch, therefore raising the needle. Bike warmed right up and idled like a dream. Just a thought is all else fails.
Jim

I have heard that going to thicker oil or synthetic oil will make it take longer to warm up. Never heard that changing the points would.

gane wrote:

Trey, Mid 70's bikes were jetted lean for emissions even in the day, and even moderate temps required a minute or so before head temp came up enough for happy idle. It was easy to tell when operating temp was achieved, as idle speed would pick up @ 500 rpm. Riding before then, depending on amient temp. could take miles. moderatly dirty pilot jets would make idle mix even leaner, and emphasise poor response until good and warm. G

yep, nature of the beast......