'82 GS850L 'fork seals'?

[Guest]

HI, new member and just getting back into riding after 30 yr pause. Bought '82 GS850L w/12,000 miles and near mint condition. Got this bike because it reminded me of the GS400 and later '81 GS550 that I use to own. Always liked the 850 but could Not afford one back in the 80s. Also, since my 29 yr old Son just bought a new-to-him '87 Intruder 1400 - figured I'd ride w/him and we can "keep an eye on each other". After I get done admiring my new toy I'll do some riding before the NJ weather gets too cold. Question - heard I should get 'fork seals' replaced and although they seem ok now - likely original and should be replaced. I am Not mechanical at all and most Suzuki dealers are not working on a bike this vintage on any regular basis. Don't need some kid mechanic saying "yeah, I'll take a crack at it" and $500 later have "maybe" seals replaced properly. Other than that I found a gas station in NY that sells premium NON ethanol gas (91 oct.) and have a few 5 gal cans of that to run her on and later store in tank over the Winter.
Appreciate any thoughts more experienced GS owners have - especially owners of 850 or other shaft models. Thx..

[ddaniels]

If they aren't leaking, leave them alone. My 2 cents.

[ddaniels]

Oh, and welcome to the forum. You'll find all the technical information you can stand on this site.

[Nessism]

Agree, leave them unless they are leaking. Change the oil in the forks as preventive maintenance though. For other maintenance tasks, check your factory suzuki service manual. If you don't have one search out Basscliff's site and download one. It's critical to perform things like valve adjustment or the engine will be damaged. Please check the Newbie Mistake thread linked in my signature so you know what to look out for.

[dorkburger]

All good advice.
Welcome to the funhouse from a fellow and nearby NJ member.

[cowboyup3371]

Basscliff's site - http://members.dslextreme.com/users/bikecliff