Where to buy parts?

[rockyrunner99]

Where is the best place to get parts for our bikes?  Best, as in cheapest  .  I have a dealer near me, I haven't checked there yet.  I am looking for the valve cover gasket.  I am about to check the valve clearance  thanks.

[Roadstergal]

For just one item like that, you're probably best off at a dealer, since any savings you get online will probably not exceed shipping costs.

For bigger orders, I've tried Bikebandit and Ron Ayers, but have gotten the best service and comparable prices at Thumpertalk.
http://shop.thumpertalk.com/

[rockyrunner99]

Thanks, I was kinda leaning towards the dealer, just cause I don't want to wait for the shipping.  I will compare prices just to make sure they are not totally ripping me off. 

My father-in-law needed a seal set for a steering box on his greyhound bus converted motorhome.  It was 2 seals, about 2 in diameter, and 2 o rings.  He said these parts are on about 50% of the trucks on the road, nothing special about them at all... $50!   

[BaltimoreGS]

I like www.cheapcycleparts.com

-Jessie

[centuryghost]

Don't forget ebay. I got a new valve gasket a month ago for $12!

[NF11624]

While going to the dealer will offset the shipping costs of one item (particularly a small one) don't expect the dealer to actually have the part you want in stock.  That can lead to major disappointment.  I would call ahead and make sure they have it or have them order it for you.

[The Buddha]

You can reuse a valve cover gasket, unless of course its leaking to begin with.
The O rings on top also are to be swapped at the same time, and those actually are the bigger problem usually.
Glue the gasket on the valve cover using gascacinch or some such before installing it. Clean the valve cover with contact cleaner.
Cool.
Buddha.

[gsJack]

I've replaced valve cover gaskets about every 30k miles when they start leaking.  They can be reused until they dry out and stop sealing compleately.

[rockyrunner99]

This one is leaking just a tiny bit, maybe it could just be tightened?  I am in Phoenix and everything is dried out out here!

[O.C.D.]

Ebay is the best for me but I have had really good luck with Dennis Kirk and Bike Bandit.

[Roadstergal]

This one is leaking just a tiny bit, maybe it could just be tightened?

I use a little silicone, especially at the bases of the half-moon bits, and torque appropriately.  Taking it off, cleaning the surfaces, and re-installing is free...

[gregvhen]

+1 bike bandit. and you earn money back.  and they good if you have to return something.  you can call and talk to a real person.

[gregvhen]

This one is leaking just a tiny bit, maybe it could just be tightened?  I am in Phoenix and everything is dried out out here!

I wouldnt over tighten it. You could very easily break the bolt head off.... very easily.

[centuryghost]

Not to mention that everything is aluminum up there, be careful of stripping. I ruined the top end of a cb350f with my heavy handed-ness.