low compression... uh oh.

[jiggersplat]

well, i picked up a compression gauge and tested the bike.  the cylinder that isn't firing has about 25-30% lower compression than the other side.  i've been told that if you add a small amount of oil to the cylinder, and the compression goes up, that indicates bad rings.  if not, then it's the valves.  is it possible that my valve clearance is so out of spec that my compression is suffering that much because of it, or should i start looking for a used motor?  i bought all the tools to do the valve adjustment, so i guess i will just have to check, eh?  thoughts?

thanks,
dan

[The Buddha]

Yes valves staying open will kill the compression. Exhaust valve staying open will keep it from running, or cause the idle to be high... like sucking air, intake valve staying open while it could cause the same thing, it usually also misfires in the carbs.
Cool.
Srinath.