Peder_y2k

I concur with Utadventure, the battery or primary circuit is suspect. -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

Don't you have to do that to get a MC license endorsement? It's part of the standard proficiency testing isn't it? -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

I would simply add more to the overflow tank, then check every outing and refill as required. If the level doesn't stabilize, then problems remain. -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

[/size] Those 'Susquatchs' are definitely CANADIENS. Here in 'Merica, they're called BIG FOOT........that's both singular and plural. -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

They're CANADIENS......what did you expect???? -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

FWIW, antifreeze mix has water in it, and water evaporates over time, especially when warm. The ethelene glycol does not evaporate (albeit very slowly), so in my bike, I just add distilled water to the reservoir to bring the mix back to the correct consistency. -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

I could use the rubber strap. -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

Sounds like a low voltage at the battery situation, or poor ground. Also the handlebar 'start' switch that disengages the headlight so the starter can get full power could be compromised somehow. Also, the fuse panel could be problematic as age has a way of weakening the glass fuse holding tangs. When these get weak, less current flows. Time to get the volmeter out, so begin at the battery terminals. -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

That's exactly what I was wondering....and what about our bikes when we visit? -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

The stuff does work on rigid plastic substrate like ABS, PVC, Styrene, fiberglass etc., but not on soft vinyl such as seat covers. Works best on very clean dry surface. -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

http://www.swaymotorsports.com/ Looks sorta useful. I just don't have $10K laying around. -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

Way overpriced for what it is. Been around in kit form since the mid 90's. Maybe find a good used one for much less. An old Piper Super Cub with doors removed and big soft tires will do the same for less money. As for me, I prefer a PPG, or Powered Para Glider. Could haul one on the back of my VR....... or in a small trailer. -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

Wear 'lift' boots. That'll make you taller, and you'll have new boots. -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

Like bongobobny says about the carb synch, plus the carb pilot screw adjustment being correct. A simple test is with the engine running at idle and warmed up to 'normal', is to place the back of your hand some 3" from the exhaust. If your hand feels to hot to keep it there comfortably, the carbs (fue/air mix) need adjustment. The exhaust gas temp should be warm but not so hot as to cause any heat pain. On my '88, I can hold my hand there till I get tired from leaning over to reach. -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

Tip: Never rotate the cam without a shim in place. Don't ask me how I know! BTW, I have a handy little tool for use if the cam drops into an empty shim bucket. -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

See post #3 -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

Yes, what MOBILE said:cool10:. I first learned to ride a '48 Harley at 11y.o. on a rutted Alberta prairie road. Couldn't stop for but a second as the skeeters would catch up and eat me alive. Shove the left foot clutch pedal forward to go, step on the rear to disengage, and slip the left side tank lever into gear positions. Rear brake pedal on right. I think it also had a thumb throttle, but it was long ago and don't remember well. Furthered my learning on a '56 Triumph Bonneville 650 with gear selector on right pedal, rear brake on left. The brain has a way to make adjustments. -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

If you couldn't fit a feeler guage , then your clearance is "zero". Yes, cam position makes a difference because of the way it is ground. Use the T1 and T2. -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

Welcome to the party!!!...... Tip: Keep the shiny side up! -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

FWIW....Idaho potatoes grow better in Washington! -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

Those measurements are just under the specs. Being a little tight is risky if the bike would encounter high loads and operating temps, but a ride around town is no big deal. With the other repairs going on, this valve adjust is timely. You'll have another 27,000 miles till the next check, but by then the valves will have settled in and not likely need any adjust till the next one in series. -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

I've been using the $88.00 MIC battery (350CCA) on this page now for 4 years with excellent results (holds full charge very long time - 6 mo over winter storage) in my '88VR. http://www.batterystuff.com/batteries/motorcycle/yamaha/1988/1300cc-xvz13-ventureroyale/ -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA

I'm with LilBeaver on getting a good binocular. The larger the objective lens, the better, something over 50mm. Magnification around 20-30. These binocs will also be good for other activities, like birdwatching, varmint hunting, spying on the neighbors 3 miles away, etc. Might also consider a spotting scope. -Pete, in Tacoma WA USA