A very large golden lab no longer chases motorcycles and by the hand of God I am still vertical.
This is my first light-weight, purchased as just short of a basket case and became mostly road worthy about 5 weeks ago. Although the bike did not seem to sustain any damage from the impact, I decided it was time for a full front-end service and inspection. I drained out muddy/back fluid and cycling solvent through the hydraulics produced black particulate matter.
Results:
1. Tubes and seals shot
2. Springs seem OK and measure 423mm
3. Hydraulic cylinders offer little to no resistance when cycled in a jar of ATF; they catch at the bottom of the stroke and when the shaft is rotated it is far from smooth.
4. Head bearings were rather dry but cleaned up OK and have been greased and re-installed
Where do I go from here?
I have found sources for the seals.
I can get a new set of tubes for $220.
Do I need new hydraulics?
Has anybody had success with a transplanted front-end from
?
I am not trying to restore to stock and I don't want to spend a bunch of money only to end up with a wimply front-end. At 6'1", 195 lb and 60 years of age I want this thing to stick on the pot-holed pavement we call roads down here on the Mexican border.
What do you suggest?