Wilsons Sandbox

I presently have 80,000 km on my 2001 A15. I bought the bike second hand in 2005 with 7000 km on the Odometer. My riding habits are 15% gravel/dirt with 85% paved roads. I accelerate relatively fast but once at the speed limit follow it with a gentle hand. Changes to the bike were basic such as doohickey; Progressive rear 420 suspension and front progressive springs with 2 3/4 spacers; stronger frame bolts (4); alum belly pan; better battery; iridium spark plug, front stainless steel braided brake line and a few other small tidbits. So far the bike has been running strong, does not burn oil and has proved to be quiet reliable. Maintenance has been as follows: - this is my third chain. I took the original one out at 27,000 km and later found out it was still good. 1st chain was fed a strict diet of 90w gear oil. The second chain was a DID 520VM2. This chain lasted 40,000 km on a diet of WD40 and Castrol O ring spray (50/50). At the 40,000km change the chain stretch was within specs but all the rollers were extremely loose. The third chain, another DID 520VM2, has 13,000 km on it and is being fed 90w gear oil at home and either Castrol or PJ O ring spray on the road (no WD40). I still have the original chain as a spare. - The doohicky is now sporting the short spring and is working fine. - I run K270's front & rear (tires). I've learned to slow down on wet roads after suffering a couple of rectal puckering surprises. I ride in all types of weather and these tires have been reliable. Not the best tires for wet climates. - I use 15 weight fork oil to reduce diving. - changed the rear wheel bearings as a precaution not because it needed it. - change on average 3 front sprockets to 1 rear. - So far I have replaced the pump seals twice and will be doing so again before long (weeping). This is not hard to do, just takes time. - I change oil every 3000km and use Castrol 10W40 motorcycle oil. So far no issues. I do NOT change the oil because it's winter, only when due. I have read various discussion on acidity, viscosity breakdown etc... Just buy a good oil and all the rest is moot. - I check the engine valves every year and have had to adjust them at 12300km, 51992km & 75300km. Always to maximum specs. The shims play musical chair & I only have to buy 1 shim every time. - I use regular 87 octane gas with the fourth tank being 92 octane for the added cleaning agents. Ethanol gas has now come to New Brunswick, Canada. Bike doesn't like it and backfires on deceleration. - The carburetor has had ZERO modifications, still on factory specs. Gas is treated with STA-BIL when put away and the carb run dry. On the couple of occassions that I drained the carb, the gas was clean. - The swing arm and rear shock is removed EVERY winter & greased with Amsol water resistant grease. Good music and a beer helps me put it back together. - OEM seat, my ass gets used to it. For those with a more delicate tush gel covers can be had at Walmart & Canadian tire. I enjoy the beast but may soon get a Vstrom 1000 to keep her company. I am planning a couple of cross country trips and feel that the A15 would not be up to the task (due to age/high mileage). ADVISE: If your rear end gets numb stand on the pegs a couple of seconds. If your throttle hand gets numb, control the throttle with your thumb and inner curve of the right hand - stretch the others out. Wear a reflective vest especially in low light & rain conditions. Maintenance does not have to be done all at once - just get it done. This forum has been good to me - hope I gave some back. That is all. Ride safe Brian