Raining all day, 8,436 miles on the DL650. I was getting restless so I decided to check the air filter and the plugs. Had no intention of doing the
plugs until at least 10,000 miles. Others who have done their plugs at 7,500 had mentioned that the plugs did not seem to need to be changed.
The top plug looked great and the gap was .03, did not even need to touch it. Based on that I did not look at the other plug.
Air filter was in great shape. Held to the light I could see that it was pretty clean. Blew it out with a compressor but very little came out. Maybe it was the damp weather.
Unless I get bored, at this point I have no intention of touching anything until 11,000 miles. Valves are due every 14,500 miles. Totaly boring bike from the point of service. No issues whatsoever to this date. One of my riding buddies has almost 10,000 miles and has had no problems also.
I'm almost at 19,000 with my GS500. Probably going to do the valves myself. The GS is running great. Nothing done but minor oil leak, jet kit, 1 front tire, 2 rear tires and a new chain. Brakes look good, thanks to downshifting and using the engine to brake. You have to flog this baby to keep it happy. I tell you it's clean living and Castrol GTX 10-40.
Never got around to doing the front springs. Maybe one of these days.
Hey there MP183. I just recently got my 96 GS and am riding and enjoying repairing it after it has sat for a lot of years. Mainly fuel/ rust issues. I will ride it this season for sure and am already looking ahead to my next bike. I really like the looks and style of the DL. I've seen your comments on the choice of the GS on commutes there but I'm curious as to what you feel are some of the other differences between the bikes from a GSr's perspective. I "sat" on a DL in the showroom this week and really like it. It seems like a monster compared to my GS, kind of intimidating. I'm 5'8" and found that I can't "flatfoot" while on the bike.
Although I've owned several bikes years ago I consider myself a noob here. What aspect of riding would you say that I be sure to "master" or perfect before taking the step to the DL?. I've done quite a bit of research already but reviews all seem to be from veteren riders that are more interested in reporting the nuts and bolts where as I'm looking for the "feel" perspective. Any comments would be appreciated.
Again I want a full season of the GS before I make the transition and will probably keep the GS for riding also. Its a great bike but I would like a little more comfort for some long rides.
At 5'8" you should consider lowering the bike. Going in a straight line is not a problem. I'm 6'0" and still consider the height a pain in the butt. Took me a long while to get used to it.
The bike is an awesome bike if you are looking to cover a lot of ground.
If we are talking 300+ plus miles you can't beat it.
It's very quick, I keep getting up to 90-100 mph when I pass things.
A guy I ride with had his up to 125 the other day.
If you appreciate the GS for what it does you will appreciate the DL650 for what it does. There is no comparison when it comes to the engine and the amount of maintenance that is required. The engine should be able to go 100.000 mile without a problem. Water cooling makes the difference. The fuel injection is awesome. No flat spots, no hesitation.
When I go out I'll do 250-350 miles on a typical run. I did 590 miles one day going to Lake Placid and back via a lot of the local roads. This is where the bike shines.
If you don't need a long distance bike I would consider a SVS650. All things being equal the height can get you into trouble. If you stop a funny angle you need to be able to reach the ground. Being able to touch the ground with your toe does not help when the bike is tilting to its side with all its weight.
Smart decision to keep the GS for a year. You might not realize it, but it's one of the most important decisions that you will ever make.
Good luck.
Let me know if you have any specific questions.