Joe wrote:
> ..... My GTS drinks oil when sitting at 80+ mph. <snip>
True. Mostly. This thread has come up before but on my recent trip to
the Redwoods, it has proven to be true again. If I did not go over 80
mph +/-, the bike consumed NO oil whatsoever. I checked it at various
times. However, on the trip in, we averaged 80 to 90 mph and consumed
about a pint in nearly 700 miles.
While I'm not sure of the 'official' reason on this, it is my
understanding that the engine consumes oil in the attempt to 'protect'
all the operating parts, particulary the top end. (Valves,
rings...etc...)
IMO, I think that this is somewhat reasonable and if it saves the engine
from excess wear, not a major pita. I have gone an entire oil change,
3000 miles, and not used a drop of oil. Because I never went over the
consumption speed.
And yes, I have owned bikes in the past that consumed NO oil regardless
of speed, and it was nice. But again, I don't consider, IMO, it to be a
real problem or pain. But that's just MY opinion. :^)
And....as long as we are at it....I would gladly trade a few hp and a
little drivetrain 'slop' to have a shaft drive on the GTS. It makes
plenty of power for me and I don't think the hp difference would really
be missed. And it would be clean....and quiet... ahh........
Brandon (With his last 2 cents leftover from his trip....) :^)
