Another problem with low mileage, high fuel consumption, is that to much fuel can wash the bores of lubrication and this causes the rings/bore to wear prematurely.
Yep. Walmart 20W50 is used my some here as well. I’ve used it in a pinch without issue. I’ve used Rotella without issue. The current oil is Lucas synthetic and it’s working fine too. Avoid “ENERGY CONSERVING.”Yes It is diesel engine oil, It's the only thing other than motorcycle specific oil thats rated for wet clutches. Motorcycle riders have been using it for years, it costs less than motorcycle oil. If your going to be racking up miles and riding a lot the cost savings can be significant. Otherwise use use 4 stroke motorcycle oil. Asking motorcycle riders what the best kind of oil is can start fist fights there are loads of differing opinions. The FACTS are that yes rotella diesel oil is a ONE of the recommended oils for older 4 stroke wet clutch bikes. I have run it with no problems as have many others.
I get the idea that i am running the bike at a higher speed than most do simply because I ride the expressway to and from work. And even though I am not redlining the engine, I know higher speed will indeed consume more fuel. But I am thinking something is not right with as low as I am getting. I will do another trial where I ride at lower speeds on the highway off the super slab and see if my mileage becomes closer to the expected normal.For comparison, after my top end overhaul I’m getting 56 miles per gallon!
Being a traveling Story Teller makes one adjust their perspective a lot...Hmm. I remember writing on another thread that the XS side-stand doesn't fill me with confidence. Maybe asking a lot to trust the side-stand with the engine running - they do shoogle around a lot at tick-over. Add in any slight unfavourable gradient . . .
But you seem quite philosophical about the incident?
Respect for using the bike in such cold weather.
take it off to bend it
I'd take it off. Never was big on bending stuff on a splined shaft.I think I can bend it back correctly. Should I try it on the bike or take it off to bend it?
...and pretty pillion's door?I rode the bike around the neighborhood and it seems as good as it was prior to the tip over.