the cable that goes into the front of the engine (just behind the fork) - is that the tach cable?

it seems like mine is leaking - i wipe the engine down in this area, and the next day, theres a layer of oil...

any ideas?

Yes, that is the tach cable. It is common on our bikes...I mean, the leak. Use pipe tape, er, plumbers tape; the white tape.

you'll have to redo it every so often.  I did mine about 6 months or so ago and its in need again.

jake

I had the same, noticed it after about six months and asked the same question. I recon mine is leaking about half a thimblefull per annum so I just wipe it off now and again. It's nothing to worry about.

There is white o-ring made from a plastic like material.  Buy a new one.  It can be a pain to take out and put in.  It's not round so pay attention to the way that it goes in when you take the old one out.  Use the teflon tape also.