This summer I plan on doing a little multi-day ride with some buddies. I want to put a little work into my bike beforehand.
While I've always been fairly hands-on in terms of basic maintenance with my cars and bike(s), and recently bicycles, my practical knowledge, ability and willingness to perform more complex work has always been limited.
I've owned my '07 since November '07. I've got nearly 24,000 miles and it runs well, no issues. Probably I could hop on the bike and I would be fine for the whole weekend, but I want to keep the bike a while longer and it's time for some maintenance.
I'm thinking I need to replace the plugs but I am intimidated as it seems a big undertaking. I really should have the valves checked and adjusted if required. Should I just suck it up and find a mechanic? If any of the LA/OC guys have a local guy who is reasonable in terms of price, I'd be very interested. Feel free to PM me!
I think I'll change/have my sprockets and chain changed as well. I bought a -1 front, standard rear, and standard chain a couple of years ago and never installed them.
Totally optionally, I also have an LED brake light kit and a Stebel that I should install. The light is a bit of a pain I think, from what I read - some modification to the reflector/housing is required.
Should I find a good mechanic or try do this stuff myself?
Things I will do myself: change my fork oil, engine oil, coolant, and refresh my K&N air filter.
While I've always been fairly hands-on in terms of basic maintenance with my cars and bike(s), and recently bicycles, my practical knowledge, ability and willingness to perform more complex work has always been limited.
I've owned my '07 since November '07. I've got nearly 24,000 miles and it runs well, no issues. Probably I could hop on the bike and I would be fine for the whole weekend, but I want to keep the bike a while longer and it's time for some maintenance.
I'm thinking I need to replace the plugs but I am intimidated as it seems a big undertaking. I really should have the valves checked and adjusted if required. Should I just suck it up and find a mechanic? If any of the LA/OC guys have a local guy who is reasonable in terms of price, I'd be very interested. Feel free to PM me!
I think I'll change/have my sprockets and chain changed as well. I bought a -1 front, standard rear, and standard chain a couple of years ago and never installed them.
Totally optionally, I also have an LED brake light kit and a Stebel that I should install. The light is a bit of a pain I think, from what I read - some modification to the reflector/housing is required.
Should I find a good mechanic or try do this stuff myself?
Things I will do myself: change my fork oil, engine oil, coolant, and refresh my K&N air filter.