So on the front of the crank case, around where the cylinder head cover attaches, it always gets a bit shiny and small road debris begins to stick. I've cleaned it a few times but it always ends up looking like the picture. Is this an oil leak or is it just some stuff coming off the road/tire and collecting there? Does your GS500E do this?
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Road debris i'm guessing,exacerbated by the GS's short guard.A guard extension reduces this but looks less sporty.