Insure it for more then it's worth and then burn/crash it and reap the rewards to spend on an everyday GS parts are much more common.

isnt that how the aussies got there in the first place, by being criminal?
no offence meant but it did tickle me did that!

Martyn

Bin the starter motor and git a Nippon replacement or have the magnets bolted in (Valeo).

J

__________________
Nostradamus Ate My Hamster

Have a look to see what I did on mine - left menu near the top, "Johnsons Trip"

__________________
Grant Johnson
Seek, and ye shall find.
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Inspiring, Informing and Connecting travellers since 1997!
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com

All very good advice above. I would +1 the starter motor, the Nippondenso is an excellent alternative, much lighter, completely re-buildable in any country (it's like Toyota) and uses much less amps. I use Panasonic batteries...bulletproof! I would seriously consider changing out the un-reliable charging system, either for the Omega 400w, or the other solid state one thats become quite popular (whats the name??) Make sure your tranny is up to date, and if opening the box, i would sugest the lower 1st. gear. Make sure your driveshafy u-joints are greasable and check the rubber boots for cracks. The heads are usually only good for about 50-70k miles before requiring complete re-build. Replace the cables, they're cheap. Always bring a spare clutch cable. It's funny, the throttle cables seem to last foreever, but the clutch will go south in a hurry! If you pull out the gear-box, inspect the clutch closely, especially the splines. They're not that expensive to replace anyways. Learn the in's and out's of maintaining the bike! Put together a proper tool-kit, and only use this kit when you work on the bike. As great as tubeless tires are, ALWAYS carry at least a spare front, if not both and the equipment to patch them along with tubeless tire plugs. Carry some 10m of rope and an ancor...the front brakes suck! Improvements can be made with an EBC rotor (anything but Stainless Steel!) Lots of info out here on improving the brakes. If your carrying a load or two-up, re-enforce the sub-frame, it's kinda weak stock. Follow all of the recomendations above and you will have the ultimate touring bike. There's something to say simplicity. I also own a 1200GS, but i'm afraid to leave dealership range with it!