2004 R1150RT

[Swell]

I recently bought an RT as a commuter. It was cheap so I was under no illusions that it would need work. The first on the list was the handling, very difficult when cornering so, I assumed the ball joint was shot. I set about replacing that and put some new boots on it while I was at it and, the handling has been transformed. The next on the list is the gearbox. The clutch seems to slap against the flywheel when releasing it, especially when moving slowly through traffic, it also whirs quite loudly when pulling away and, through the gears. I have experience with this engine as I had a 04 GSA 04-09 and never experienced this issue with that bike, any suggestions as to the cause and, am I ok to keep riding it until I get it sorted (only about 200 miles) Also on the list is a high idle (1500rpm). I intend to check the valve clearances myself but will probably get the syncing done by a pro, does anyone know a good mech in the Portsmouth area?
Thanks in advance of any help.

 

[KMD]

I had a very similar experience to yourself with an 1150 RT I bought recently. So much so I posted a question on here regarding the poor handling. I didn’t get as far as the mechanicals, just a new set of tyres resolved the whole issue. I’ve never had a bike that handles so differently solely due to tyres.

Insofar as the whining is concerned, are you sure it’s the gearbox and not the final drive? The large bevel bearing has a history of going on the 1150, and it’s not difficult to fix yourself. I had one go on a Gs in Italy, so it had to go into a dealer. To locate the source of the noise he put the bike on its centre stand, started up, into gear and revved. The noise soon showed itself up.

 

[Riceburner]

If you're happy doing the valves, balancing is even easier. Just need a manometer and a screwdriver.
Tip: make the manometer using something reasonably heavy, and coloured. I used 3in1 oil for mine and it's nigh on transparent. I'm used to it now, but it's not the easiest thing to read...

 

[theoneandonly]

I used 3in1 oil for mine and it's nigh on transparent.

add some food colouring .

 

[Riceburner]

add some food colouring .

I would, however I'm accustomed to it now and the 3in1 does tend to "drag" on the walls of the tube so the colouring might smear on the tube?