After 88k hard miles, LoveShack got her first valve adjustment. Here's the nitty gritty:

All exhaust valves were still within spec, right in the middle of specified tolerances.

As expected, the intake valves were tight, both left and right, on both cylinders, but not by much. The specs call for .10 to .20mm clarences, and LoveShack's were .25 and .28 respectively, on both cylinders. Not bad after 88k miles, considering the abuse I've put her through .

The only caveat in this equation is the intake boots were brittle, and therefore replaced. After speaking with the mechanic, he told me two things:

1. He was sure the valves had been inspected prior, as the valve gasket on the rear cylinder was as fresh as the day it came out of the factory. Usually, that one needs replacing due to the heat coming from the rear exhaust.

2. It was refreshing to see someone actually riding a 2006 model with more than 3K miles on it. He also mentioned my valvetrain is in great condition .

Total cost for the valve adjustment which obviously included pulling the cams and replacing the shims to set the valves on the loose end of the specs: $297.00.




While he was in there, I had him replace the original coolant, which he also tested for grins, and found it still held the cooling capabilities of fresh coolant. It's fresh now, so no worries on that end.

I also had him replace the original spark plugs. No discussion in that department, as the bike ran fine when I brought it in.

He also did a throttle body synch, which was slightly out of spec, but as he said, "It really didn't need to be done."

Beyond that, he cleaned my K&N air filter, and buttoned the bitch back up.



After 88k miles, LoveShack is ready for another 88 . YMMV may vary, of course, but I thought some of you would be interested in just how wonderful the DL-650 motor really is .

Dave

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Formerly known as xsquiggy

I've checked the valve clearance each year on mine (put in fresh coolant also). They were on the tight end to start with but moved very little. This spring, at around 60kmi, I decided to get them set to the high side and quit worrying about it. I had also changed spark plugs every year, even though the ones that came out looked like new. I had iridiums put in. So, for the foreseeable future: oil changes, cleaning air filter and riding.

Around 75kmi now and it runs better than new.

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09 DL650 ABS

MadStad + stock shield, JCW large topbox, Tuturo chain oiler, Heaterz grips, Suzuki hand guards, GIVI side guards, Aprilia Tuono mirrors, 36l Givi panniers, Richland Rick fork brace, Pipercross Air Filter

http://www.aldntn.bravejournal.com/

Thank you for that report. I can go another year or 2 or 30K miles before worrying about the valves based on your use. I don't flog mine much so they should be just fine.
Met another Strommer the other day and he was telling me that the Wee was described as 40K mile bike then you throw it away and get a new one. Drivel! Folks just don't know how good they are.

One person's experience on one bike does not predict another person's on another bike. Here's a rundown on many experiences. Valve clearance adjustment poll for those who have done it or had it done

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Pat- 2007 DL650A was ridden to all 48 contiguous states. 2012 DL650A is just getting started.
Nicknames for posting ease on my part, Vee = all DL1000s. Wee = 2004-2011 DL650s. Glee = 2012+ DL650s

He probably tested the freezing point, not the cooling capacity. The freezing point won't change unless you have a leak and use plain water as the make up. The real question is the level of corrosion inhibitors. Did he test that?

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2007 DL650A Whee! (SV cam transplant)

Manage the unavoidable.
Avoid the unmanageable.

Hi Dave.

Glad to hear all is well with LoveShack.

I check my Wee every winter. I don't have the numbers in front of me, but as I recall, one side was trending tighter (can't remember with out looking it up... intake or exhaust?) Will probably have to re-shim when I dig into it next month. Should be a bit of and adventure.

By the way, my 09 is catching up with you; she's about to roll over 55,000.

Anyway, I guess this post is somewhat pointless. ...just wanted to say hi.

Hope you are doing well.

Brad

My first valve adjustment was at 209,000km, 4 exhaust valves was all it took. Still using the original valve cover gasket as well.

cheers!

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K5Wee in Kanada (255,500 KM and stalled for winter)
IF YOU WON'T STAND BEHIND OUR TROOPS.....FEEL FREE TO STAND IN FRONT OF THEM