vzuden

Garden of the Gods is very picturesque. We were there a year ago. Cave in the Rock is close by and is another spot for a quick visit

It’s unfortunate you didn’t get a serious response. I have had these bikes since 2006 and have wondered the same thing as I don’t see a purpose for it.

Do you have coolant in your crankcase?

Tire fill valve. Looks like it is rottten or the wrong one was put in. They should be replaced whenever the tire is replaced because the rubber deteriorates. If that is the case, good thing you found it because it could break off while riding causing a sudden blowout. Take the wheel off, break down the tire bead, cut off the old one, and install new

This doesn’t address your questions but to update - the 2012 had an iPod that came with it. There is (or was) a cable in the left saddle bag to connect it to the sound system. I never used it or the cassette and rarely the radio. I prefer my phone in a Ram mount on the handle bar and Bluetooth to my helmet.

The oil in the overfill condition accumulates in the plastic plenums under the fuel tank. And from there it leaks out and runs down the side of the engine. I don’t recall ever having it in the actual air filters

I have taken a sample of potentially fuel contaminated oil on a screwdriver or similar (in other words a few drops) and put a flame to it. If it lights up readily you can assume it has fuel in it but it should smell strongly of fuel too.

I filled my first bike past the midpoint a couple of times many years ago. Stopped that after cleaning up the mess. I took the air boxes off to get the oil puddles and then cleaned the left side of the engine. Beyond the mess, I agree it probably doesn’t cause any harm. If you ever have a fuel issue with a carb dumping fuel into the head and past the rings into the crankcase it would be hard to know if it’s already overfilled

The load your tires are carrying is a factor but another consideration is the condition of the roads. Many don’t realize it but every little bump or even expansion joint causes a tire to lose, very briefly, contact with the road surface. When contacting again it grinds a little more rubber off. Now add your load and maybe higher temperatures and it exaggerates it a little more.

I managed dealership service depts for 25/years. It’s a money maker for them and has no positive impact for passenger cars and trucks

At 6’ 1 you would most likely prefer to raise the rear through modified links more so than lowering the front or changing to the smaller tire. All three have the same result of decreased rake.

Plus one on trying them on. As already stated, the manufacturers make them for the various head shapes. I was educated on this at an IMS Cycle show in Chicago two helmets ago. I went there with all my research involving reviews and weights etc. All set to purchase a model I no longer recall. The guy working the International Market Place where they displayed products and did not sell obliged me by letting me experience the fit of my intended model. He was 100% correct, it was not the helmet for me. He told me which one was going to fit my head but again, let me try others. He knew his helmets and I was not surprised as I had eavesdropped a little while waiting for him to finish with another patron. His recommendation for me was Shoei and it fit perfectly. I use the modular and replace them every five years so come to think about it, I am about due for another.

5 years ago??. If that was the last time you are 3 years overdue to flush and refill. A good flush and fill may be all you need. While, you’re at it, if the brake fluid is that old you should consider them also

My son’s next door neighbor lost his life after hitting a turkey on his bike a couple of years ago

The newer you go in the 2nd gens the more likely you are to have less whine. My 2006 was noisy even after a warranty clutch basket replacement but my 2012 is much quieter. Colors changed and the sound system accessories to the radio changed over the years

Welcome, Keith. I am not too far from you - just north of Peoria

I repack the swingarm bearings every 20,000 miles. Same for steering head bearings. With the work you have done so far going after the swingarm bearings should within your abilities

I use one of this type and it’s probably a little more heavy duty https://www.walmart.com/ip/Hyper-Tough-Oil-Filter-Wrench-63-5mm-116mm-Model-1208/55524395

You may have dirty fuel with maybe some really fine rust. Check inside the fuel tank and if there’s any sign of it, flush out and replace the fuel filter along with draining float bowls

I’m not sure what year it was but my first gathering was the International Rally in Galena, Illinois. Since it was the first for me, I am sure that’s why It is my favorite

I buy plastic wing nuts at the hardware store. I believe they are 1/4 inch, coarse thread. The studs on the bike are metric but the plastic threads on SAE wing nuts will thread on a little tight and conform to the metric. This helps keep them vibrating off. No need to over tighten. Just snug

Hmmm… doesn’t the passenger always do the controlling??

hotel reservations made!

His rebuild is a quality job, quick turn around, at a very reasonable price

Mike Eykamp- a.k.a. The Diamond Cut Guy