Hi everyone,
I’m looking for a bit of advice, as my Google-fu hasn’t turned up as much as I’d hoped.
I’m planning to do a major service soon, so while I’m stripping the bike down, I’d like to upgrade or replace a few bits and pieces along the way where it makes sense.
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Rear Brake Issue
I recently changed my rear brake pads to ECH 197HH pads. They were a bloody tight fit. I had to bleed about 50 ml of brake fluid just to push the piston in far enough to get the pads to fit.
I’m not sure if that was the right call, or if I may have another issue on my hands.
The rear brake rotor looks a little off, and I managed to melt my previous brake pads after doing three long days of slow throttle control and rear brake training for my P’s test.
The bike doesn’t feel like it’s dragging, but I honestly can’t tell if there’s enough free play in the pedal or if there’s something else I’m not considering.
Has anyone dealt with something similar?
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Parts Compatibility Between Models
Does anyone know the parts compatibility between different model years?
The stock OEM parts I’m looking at are:
- Alternator Cover: 11321-MGZ-JO0 — $250
- Right Crankcase Cover: 11330-MGZ-JO0 — $300
These look identical to the 2016 model parts, but the price drops quite a bit:
- 2016 Alternator Cover: 11321-MJW-J80 — $100
- 2016 Right Crankcase Cover: 11330-MJW-J80 — $200
Do the 2016 parts still fit and work properly, or are there differences I’m missing?
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Gear Shifter / Newer Model Upgrades
I’ve also heard something about upgrading the gear shifter using parts from a 2016 model.
Is that possible?
And while I’m at it, are there any other worthwhile parts from newer models that are worth upgrading to?
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Major Service Plan
Here’s what I’m planning to do so far:
- Radiator hoses and coolant flush
- Oil filter and air filter
- Front fork dust covers/seals
- Brake master cylinder rebuild due to foggy sight glass
- ABS flush
- Front and rear sprockets
- Chain replacement
- Samco radiator hoses with clamps, mainly for the lifetime guarantee
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Sprocket / Chain Questions
Stock gearing is 15T front / 41T rear.
I’m considering either:
- 16/41 for slightly more relaxed cruising
- 15/43 for a bit more punch
I mainly commute, with a little bit of off-road riding mixed in.
Has anyone run either setup? I’d be keen to hear how it felt in real-world use.
Also, there are way too many chain options out there. Any recommendations for a mostly commuting bike that still sees a bit of dirt?
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Photos Attached
I’ve attached a few photos of parts that look broken, damaged, or questionable. I’d appreciate any input on whether any of these need urgent attention before the rest.
Photos include:
- Rear brake disc: There’s a small lip between the outer edge and the area covered by the brake pads. The new pads have only been on for a couple of days with light riding.
- Kickstand sensor: Still functional, but looks broken.
- Brake pedal: Not sure if anything looks off here.
- Gear shifter: I can’t tell if it’s bent inward or if it just looks odd.
- Front fork seals: Looking for opinions on condition.
- Master cylinder sight glass: Foggy/cloudy.
- Right mirror: Looks like red plastic underneath. I’m not sure if twisting it off will mean I can’t get it back on, so I haven’t tried yet. I’ve tightened it, but thought I’d mention it in case anyone knows what’s going on there.
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Any advice would be hugely appreciated, especially on the brake issue, model-year compatibility, and which upgrades are actually worth doing while I’ve got the bike apart.