Lubrication

[WdavisUI]

I was reading the owners manual about my 2004 GZ and came across a section on the points on the bike that should be lubed with oil or grease. I regularly lube my chain and change the oil and filter from time to time and also check the tire pressure. Besides doing these things i dont do any other maintenance. How important is it to lube all these points and if it is important which are the most important. Also i was wondering what PSI is best to fill the tires to for someone who rides mainly city some 50-60 MPH and with no passengers. Also when my bike is idleing when its warming up sometimes i hear a small raddleing sound, any suggestions? Thanks.

[Easy Rider]

Originally Posted by WdavisUI

Also i was wondering what PSI is best to fill the tires to for someone who rides mainly city some 50-60 MPH and with no passengers. Also when my bike is idleing when its warming up sometimes i hear a small raddleing sound, any suggestions? Thanks.

Is there some reason that you doubt the wisdom of the tire pressures in the manual.......and on the sticker on the side of the bike??

I suspect you are hearing the valve trane noises. It is normal to be slightly more noisy when cold. Mine is more noisy for a minute or two after being started.......cold or hot.

[9mmPreacher]

check to make sure your license plate isn't the cause of the rattling.

[Easy Rider]

Originally Posted by 9mmPreacher

check to make sure your license plate isn't the cause of the rattling.

Good one. If it is THAT kind of rattle, then it could be the heat shield on the exhaust pipe, a loose seat (latch) or probably several other things too.

[Water Warrior 2]

Might be a good time to get out some tools and go over the bike to check for loose nuts, bolts, latches and all the little things that might cause rattles. Rear plate as mentioned, chain guard and even the rear pegs might vibrate and make noise. I looked for a rattle on the VStrom for 2 years before I found it. Nothing major but annoying as heck.

[Tonckawa]

I would like to ask what type of lube to use?

[Easy Rider]

Originally Posted by Tonckawa

I would like to ask what type of lube to use?

What the manual says.
If it says "oil", either regular engine oil or 3-in-1.
If it says grease, then any kind except wheel bearing type.
You can get a mini-grease gun for about $5.

Don't get hung up on details that don't really matter.
If a specific type is required, the manual would say so.

[5th_bike]

Originally Posted by Easy Rider

If it says grease, then any kind except wheel bearing type.

Why, I put wheel bearing grease a the hinge of the side stand, and at the rear brake pedal - it doesn't seem to hurt it.
Is white lithium grease OK then, that's the only other grease I have handy ?

[Easy Rider]

[quote=5th_bike]

Originally Posted by "Easy Rider":16jlpq24

If it says grease, then any kind except wheel bearing type.

Why, I put wheel bearing grease a the hinge of the side stand, and at the rear brake pedal - it doesn't seem to hurt it.
Is white lithium grease OK then, that's the only other grease I have handy ?[/quote:16jlpq24]

It won't "hurt" anything but it won't do a very good job either. Notice how thick and STIFF it is?

Do they actually recommend grease for those points?
I'd be inclined to use the same 90W that I put on the chain.
Maybe I should read my manual sometime ?? :roll:

Yes, white lithium would be good. I think it is more waterproof than "plain" grease.

[5th_bike]

Originally Posted by "Easy Rider

It won't "hurt" anything but it won't do a very good job either. Notice how thick and STIFF it is?.

Well in the Maryland near 100° (37 °C) summers the bearing grease drips out of my grease gun, no problems with stiff bearing grease here.

Originally Posted by "Easy Rider

Do they actually recommend grease for those points?

Yes they do recommend grease for the brake pedal pivot, and for the side stand pivot as well as for the side stand springs' ends.