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Photo by Giovanni Lamonica,
Aralsk, Kazakhstan.



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  #1  
Old 3 Dec 2022
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Maintenance help
Greetings folks. I have had my bike sit for about 4 years now in MotoCamp Bulgaria in a warehouse.

My question is which oils besides the regular motor oil should I change? I was thinking of changing all the oils on the bike, including the coolant. Just drain out everything on the bike and set it all new. Specially because I have not ever changed the coolant or anyother oil besides the motor oil and I have done around 65,000 miles on the bike. My plan is to hopefully get back on the road this upcoming year.

I would appreciate if someone has some input or experience on this type of matter. Thank you.
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  #2  
Old 3 Dec 2022
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Yes definitely change everything!
Fork oil, brake fluid, engine / transmission oil, coolant. Should all be done on mileage alone. Fork oil, brake fluid and Coolant every two years max is a good standard.
Also, you might want to have injector cleaner on hand if it's fuel injected.
If the tank is metal, and wasn't full, check for rust inside. If rusty, you'll need to clean it and put a fresh fuel filter in.

Good luck!
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Old 3 Dec 2022
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Thank you Grant. I will follow your advice!
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Old 5 Dec 2022
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I've recently been recommissioning a bike after it was stored outside for 2 years. What Grant said was spot on, I'd just add that for me I changed the oil (but not the filter) and coolant without starting the bike at all, then rode the bike for 200km before changing the oil and filter and checking the coolant ... both were ready for another change because of corrosion / sedation / moisture that was given a chance to break free or get washed around by being run up to temperature for more than a trivial amount.

Other things, check the brake lines and any flexi part of the fuel line thoroughly for cracks. The chain may have sticky links that free up with a bit of use, so it's worth cleaning and oiling the chain thoroughly before setting off and again after 200km. Even if the control cables aren't sticky their lifespan will benefit from oiling. Be wary of the tires, if they didn't go flat they'll still have a waxy layer on that needs scrubbing off with gentle riding. If they went flat for a long time the bands may be out of shape causing dangerous handling.

One last thing, it's very satisfying breathing fresh life into a bike, so I hope you enjoy it
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Old 5 Dec 2022
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To the above I'd just say - don't oil control cables. Modern cables are PTFE lined and oiling them can cause the liner to swell and make the cable stiff. They are designed to run dry (which also attracts less dirt). Also, tyres don't go out of shape. Modern materials stay flexible and when pumped up to normal pressure regain their design shape straight away.
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Old 5 Dec 2022
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Venhill cables are PTFE lined but they recommend regular oiling in the instructions that come with them ... they're also the most reliable ones I've ever had (*touch wood*)

As for the modern tyres not losing their shape, please tell that to the deformed Pirelli Sport Demon from 2017 that I just had to chuck because it was wobbly
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Old 8 Dec 2022
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Thanks for the heads up! I appreciate all the tips.
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