Long-lived motorcycles

"Now it is time for my 150,000 mile writeup (Sept 2009). Once again there have been NO mechnicals and NO parts had to be purchased except those that I consider as 'routine maintenance'.

In the last 30,000 miles: (since the last writeup)

-a new chain at 124,436 mi.
-EBCHH front brake pads at 130,067mi (lasted 18725 mi)
-adjusted vales at 133,021 miles. 5 were a little tight. previous adjustment was at 66,804 mi. (all were within spec)
-replaced rear wheel/sprocket bearings at 135,736. first replacement.
-EBCHH front brake pads at 143,668 mi
-replaced fuel filter at 143,408 miles. first replacement. At this time I purchased a new fuel pump that I will use on my extended range tank. The original pump is still good.
-replaced battery at 147,336 miles. second replacement
-replaced chain/sprockets at 150,001 mi. previous chain lasted 25,000 mi and previous sprockets lasted 48,000 miles
-8 oil changes and 4 oil filter changes. all Castrol 10x40 syntech w/ Fram filters

tires: I prefer Tourances but I have used other tires. There were three rear changes and 2 fronts in the last 30,000 mi.
overall total average rear miles is 12,000 miles. average front mileage is 18,000 mi

Maybe its just luck but in 150,000 miles I've only has to spend a total of $20 for these three items: front brake light switch, exhaust gasket and clutch slave seal. Those might also be considered as wear items!!!

So get on that Strom and ride!!

Kith Burkingstock
Newnan GA"

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My V-Strom is the DL650 '07 model, not the DL1000 '03 described above - but I hold out high hopes, especially since the pre-2004 1000 has the most issues of any of the V-Strom models.