800/600 mechanics for touring?

[Ross Dean]

Is there anyone who knows of a workshop (or could run one) showing the basics of fixing the 800/650 twins while touring?

I am thinking of things like puncture repair, changing tyres, replacing chain and sprocket, fuels and radiator leaks, oil and filter changing and basic servicing. I know BMW run one in Wales but it is booked up well in advance.

 

[Tim Cullis]

Of the above list the only one you really need to know is puncture repair. On the F800GS you need to know how to remove the wheel, remove the tyre, patch the inner tube, reassemble without pinching the inner, then reinflate the tyre and readjust the chain if it was a rear puncture.

On the F650GS it's a simple matter of sticking in a plug and reinflating.
(Which ultimately is why I bought a F650GS rather than a F800GS)

You can always find somewhere to change tyres, just make sure the tyres are fitted the right way round if they are directional.

Oil and filter changing is not difficult but are you expecting to do more than 6000 miles on your trip?

Chain and sprockets is best handled by a moped/bike shop as they will have to get in the spares for you. If you get a problem like this head for a cyber café and ask advice.

Tim