I need some advice about my xt600 for long distance traveling. I have two friends that I travel with and we are planning a trip to Ushaia Southern Argentina one year from now, which will be about 12,000 Kilometers round trip. My friends have a 2005 Honda NX 400 and a 1997 Suzuki DR 650. We did a 3,000 kilometer trip recently together here in Brazil and had no problems.

My bike is a 1993 Yamaha xt600E with 55,000 Kilometers. It runs good but looks rough. My friends have advised me to trade my bike in for a newer bike. I like my old xt600 and am thinking of just upgrading it by putting a bigger gas tank, more comfortable seat, shield, etc. Maybe they are embarrassed to ride with me because my bike does not shine like theirs! :confused1:

I make fun of them for washing their bikes too much!

I admit, I have toyed with the thought of getting a newer bike, problem is I would have to shell out more money and I might get a lemon.



My question: Is there anything that I need to look for or check on since my bike is 13 yrs. old and 55K (kilometers) mileage? I am talking about major mechanical stuff. I know about chains, tires, batteries, etc. I heard that the cam or cam chain might need replaced? Valves? I have noticed a sound when I am slowing down like a chain or gear type sound. It does not seem to effect performance of my bike. My mechanic tells me that my bike is running fine but I have not told him about my 12K planned trip yet.

Thanks for any advice!

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Every where is walking distance if you have the time!