Oil Consumption

Over the time I've had the bike, I've become increasingly concerned about oil consumption.

I'd brought up this concern up with Scott Norman at Southbank Motorcycles ages ago as I figured maybe this may be a warranty issue. Scott quickly informed me that the breakover point was one litre consumed in one thousand kilometres. I was nowhere near that, but I thought by the time I reached that point I would be able to see a line of oil on the road.

At the moment, I have to top up the engine about four times between the prescribed ten thousand kilometre services. I'm not dripping oil, so my guess is that I'm burning it. As time goes by, so the oil consumption increases. If I don't take serious action soon, I'll have to start taking oil with me on my trips. Finding Castrol GPS in 'The Outback' is a tall order.

As of present, I think I'll put up with the oil consumption until I reach one hundred and eighty thousand kilometres when I need to have the alternator belt replaced. (Every sixty thousand kilometres.) At that point I'm planning on having the rings or whatever else I need to have replaced done.

My concern is that I may be doing the engine damage by running worn components. I've had all sorts of advice and aren't quite sure which way to turn. Advice like:

• Do it sooner then later and minimise other damage.
• Keep the oil level up and you'll be fine.

Decisions, decisions!