[pcgolfer]

I have to admit, that old LT's don't seem to have held their market value. I purchased this bike in 2005, and was getting a little concerned about potential final drive and clutch issues. Especially the cost. The bike had a spotty maintenance history (no records), but a 48 complete inspection service was performed in Grand Rapids.

Last week, I discovered a leak near the front wheel. I determined it came from the damper. So, I purchased a Clymers manual. Today, I decided to get it in 5th and gun it. No hesitation whatsoever. I also have seen little if any oil consumption. The clutch window shows the fluid level is right where it should be. The bike has 49.5K, so I am thinking the final drive might have been addressed, or I just got lucky. From the threads, it appears that the 1999 had significant issues. However, I do have antilock brakes, and they do appear to be working fine.

I am the guy that started the thread on how many times their LT has been on it's side. I put it down a couple weeks ago after not riding it much. This time, I gave the bike the respect it deserved. What a wonderful riding bike... if it is going more than 10mph. I am glad the bike didn't sell.

Other than the damper (which I'm not sure is really necessary). I can't find a single thing wrong with the bike. I plan to ride the bike now on longer trips. I am planning on doing an oil change. Any opinions on whether I check the final drive? My plan is to run it this year, and check out the final drive at the beginning of next season.

I also have a Buell cyclone, which I dusted off and plan to ride it back and forth to work 4-5 miles. The BMW is going to be reserved for 20 miles or more. I still say the LT is a sweet ride, but it is one of the toughest beasts to tame at 5mph or less. For me, I have to treat each stop with a great deal of attention. It's definitely not a stop and go bike.

 

[wa1200lt]

You will find with the passing of time that you won't have to concentrate so completely when you come in for a landing. You still have to be diligent and plan the procedure but it becomes second nature. If you get lazy though......... you will drop it. It just happens.

Enjoy,

Loren

 

[pcgolfer]

How true.... I dropped it several times the first year... then none.... It sat for a couple years... just fired up the engine. It only took one time, and my memory came back.

I now put two feet down at stops... Even if you are careful, if the one foot slips (and you have a 30 inch inseam) it's going down no matter what. With short legs, the slightest tilt pulls your other foot off the ground.

The last time, I didn't even fight it... I just let her go, then asked for help picking her back up. I honestly think this is the most difficult beast at slow speeds... I have ridden tons of bikes, but nothing like this.

It has a lot of good traits. One other shortcoming, it should could use a set of highway pegs (standard). Short legged guys will know what I am talking about.... I actually rest my calves on the bat wings (I know it's stupid) sometimes.

 

[BecketMa]

When I describe what I have to do to stretch my legs out, on the bat wings, on trips, I describe it as getting ready for a pelvic exam at the Gynocologists while doing 70 mph on an interstate.

Maybe next year I can add some Mick O Pegs?

This year it has been a new helmet, Kevlar jacket for summer riding, summer riding boots, Sena Head set to hear the audio and music from my GPS, arms for the windshield, black dash board, fuse box, relays, driving lights, box to mount switches on the right hand throttle controll, replacement bolts, replacement rubber gromets, items to make a harness for the added driving lights, red LEDS and yellow LEDS.

Right now my plan is to leave for Maine the first week of Aug.

Best from Tucson
Bob

 

[JPSpen]

If you haven't had a final drive failure by 60K, Chances are your drive was built correctly and will last the life of the bike...

I got tired of dropping my LT after about the third time... Got a CLC instead...

Much better weight distribution.


John