I need some advice about my xt600 for long distance traveling. I have two friends that I travel with and we are planning a trip to Ushaia Southern Argentina one year from now, which will be about 12,000 Kilometers round trip. My friends have a 2005 Honda NX 400 and a 1997 Suzuki DR 650. We did a 3,000 kilometer trip recently together here in Brazil and had no problems.

My bike is a 1993 Yamaha xt600E with 55,000 Kilometers. It runs good but looks rough. My friends have advised me to trade my bike in for a newer bike. I like my old xt600 and am thinking of just upgrading it by putting a bigger gas tank, more comfortable seat, shield, etc. Maybe they are embarrassed to ride with me because my bike does not shine like theirs!

I make fun of them for washing their bikes too much!

I admit, I have toyed with the thought of getting a newer bike, problem is I would have to shell out more money and I might get a lemon.



My question: Is there anything that I need to look for or check on since my bike is 13 yrs. old and 55K (kilometers) mileage? I am talking about major mechanical stuff. I know about chains, tires, batteries, etc. I heard that the cam or cam chain might need replaced? Valves? I have noticed a sound when I am slowing down like a chain or gear type sound. It does not seem to effect performance of my bike. My mechanic tells me that my bike is running fine but I have not told him about my 12K planned trip yet.

Thanks for any advice!

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Every where is walking distance if you have the time!

to the HUBB!

If you are happy with your bike, keep it......... if the bike runs OK and you feel OK about another 12,000km then go for it!
I would have the Cam chain checked just for peace of mind...... better to be safe than sorry.
50,000km is only just over 31,000 miles.... no where near replacement time yet!

you obviously know your bike and enjoy it..... keep doing so, XT's are reliable, pretty bulletproof and like a good wine, they get better with age.

Martyn

I think I will keep my thumper for a while. I just bought a 21.5 liter tank and will be modifying the seat to make it more comfortable. The 93 comes stock with a torture seat.


BTW, great forum. We have an xt600 forum in Brazil but Portuguese is my second language. I'm glad that I found this one.

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Every where is walking distance if you have the time!