Workshop

Q: In a world of no centrestands do you measure chain tension on the sidestand when travelling? Anon A: The obvious answer here is that if the bike was sold when new with only a propstand, the manufacturer should have given you a procedure to follow in the owner’s manual, and it would be best…

Continue reading »

Q: I would like to be advised of the correct procedure for setting the valve and ignition timing. I have a ‘confusing’ Honda manual as a guide but with flames coming from the near side inlet port, am at a loss as to knowing what to do. Please help if possible. Ron Marks A: If,…

Continue reading »

Q: I have a 1989 Honda CBR1000F-K and its looks are spoiled by a scuffed round right-hand engine cover. It appears not to have a part number that I can find anywhere, even my Haynes Manual gives nothing away. Can you help point me at someone who might know how to replace this? Stephen Guy-Clarke…

Continue reading »

Q: Well I’m truly stumped with this bike, I have no idea what is going on with it or what is causing the sooted plug on the left-hand pot and which I think goes hand-in-hand with the inability to rev cleanly beyond 4K revs: every ignition component has been replaced and where possible swapped with…

Continue reading »

Q: I am having problems trying to find a set of standard piston rings for a Benelli 250cc 2C Phantom. I have tried several websites with no luck. Can anybody out there help? Harry Duffield A: Yes, I can see this might be a problem. However if you look at eBay, particularly the US (.com)…

Continue reading »

Q: I’m currently restoring my 1982 Suzuki GN400 after recently retiring and having some time on my hands. I am looking for some advice on the best way to finish my cylinder, cylinder head and rocker cover after recently having them vapour blasted. I thought of leaving them bare, but even after a few weeks…

Continue reading »