Advice on old xt600 for long distance riding...
 

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!

welcome!
 

:welcome: to the HUBB!

If you are happy with your bike, keep it......... if the bike runs OK and you feel OK about another 12,000km then go for it!
I would have the Cam chain checked just for peace of mind...... better to be safe than sorry.
50,000km is only just over 31,000 miles.... no where near replacement time yet! :thumbup1:

you obviously know your bike and enjoy it..... keep doing so, XT's are reliable, pretty bulletproof and like a good wine, they get better with age.

Martyn

I think I will keep my thumper for a while. :mchappy: I just bought a 21.5 liter tank and will be modifying the seat to make it more comfortable. The 93 comes stock with a torture seat.


BTW, great forum. We have an xt600 forum in Brazil but Portuguese is my second language. I'm glad that I found this one.