I just bought an '01 929 2 weeks ago. It has 9200 miles on it, and has been very well taken care of. Recently i've noticed it making a bit of top end or probably valve clatter at about 3000-4000rpm. The oil was last changed about 4 months ago, but was ridden very little in the mean time as the bike was garaged almost the entire time. At what interval should the valves be adjusted on a 929? Second question what oil are people using for their bikes and how often are you changing your oil? I've heard the Honda synthetic blend is really good, any difference in opinions on this?

Thanks-
mdc-b

 

As I recall the valves get adjusted at the first 16,000 miles. Some guys do it sooner.

Oil is a big topic withtons of different preferences. I use Shell Rotella Full Synthetic 5-40w. It's a tough oil with a wide operating range. But I always remind guys to stay away from oils labeled "Energy Saving", as they contain friction modifiers that can have a negative effect on clutch operation ( our bikes have a so-called 'wet clutch' that is bathed in engine oil; a bike with a dry clutch (like a Duke) I guess could use oil with modifiers.

 

Since the 929's have a wet clutch, do you have any clutch issues with a full synthetic?Meaning, if the oil is too "slippery" it's not providing any viscosity for the clutch to grab and hold. I've been told by a guy I work with to stay away from the full synthetics due to this very reason. He's not the brightest bulb in the box, but he's had a 929 since 2000.
thanks again-
mdc-b