what brand and weight oil should i use in a 1998 suzuki gsxr 600? i just

Blake

New member
I'd check the engine oil, chain, brakes, tire pressure, and lights at the very least.

The proper tire pressure is shown on my chain guard. It might also be marked on your tires.

For oil, you want 10W-40, preferably synthetic. All oil breaks down over time. Synthetic breaks down more slowly. Unless you're riding your bike as frequently as your car, oil longevity is important.

There's not much to do with your lights other than to make sure they work, especially your brake light.

For optimal brake performance, you should flush the brake fluid. If you're eager to get out there, at least make sure both the front and rear brakes work.

Flushing brake fluid is an easy job. You can obtain DOT4 brake fluid at WalMart for a few dollars. One bottle is more than enough. Aside from that, you need a small piece of rubber hose.

Have a friend check your chain slack for you. It's hard to describe the proper tension. You should be able to lift on the bottom of the chain near the middle and barely touch the swingarm with the chain. Make sure the chain is clean and properly lubricated. If it has any kinks or tight spots, replace it. It's a good idea to take a look at the front sprocket and see if that needs replacement, as well.

I highly recommend getting a mechanic's manual for your bike. Honestly, at 20K, you should probably check everything, including the valve lash. Valve lash is a job best left for a mechanic, but it's not impossible to do. Expect to shell out a couple hundred for this procedure. If left untreated, your bike will eventually stop running, and engine damage can occur.
 
bought the bike.? i want to go over everything before i take it out for a long ride. it has around 20,000 mi. is there anything inparticular i should keep an eye out for while going over the bike and the fluids?
 
I'd check the engine oil, chain, brakes, tire pressure, and lights at the very least.

The proper tire pressure is shown on my chain guard. It might also be marked on your tires.

For oil, you want 10W-40, preferably synthetic. All oil breaks down over time. Synthetic breaks down more slowly. Unless you're riding your bike as frequently as your car, oil longevity is important.

There's not much to do with your lights other than to make sure they work, especially your brake light.

For optimal brake performance, you should flush the brake fluid. If you're eager to get out there, at least make sure both the front and rear brakes work.

Flushing brake fluid is an easy job. You can obtain DOT4 brake fluid at WalMart for a few dollars. One bottle is more than enough. Aside from that, you need a small piece of rubber hose.

Have a friend check your chain slack for you. It's hard to describe the proper tension. You should be able to lift on the bottom of the chain near the middle and barely touch the swingarm with the chain. Make sure the chain is clean and properly lubricated. If it has any kinks or tight spots, replace it. It's a good idea to take a look at the front sprocket and see if that needs replacement, as well.

I highly recommend getting a mechanic's manual for your bike. Honestly, at 20K, you should probably check everything, including the valve lash. Valve lash is a job best left for a mechanic, but it's not impossible to do. Expect to shell out a couple hundred for this procedure. If left untreated, your bike will eventually stop running, and engine damage can occur.
 
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