1981 gs450s

[Larry D]

Well I finally got to have a nice ride on the 450S. I have had a really busy summer and not much time for the little bugger. So, after some final carb work, I was able to get it to run great !!! I rode the 19 miles over to bwringer's garage on it's maiden voyage and synced the carbs. It smoothed the engine out beautifully. I put a few extra miles on it riding home.....49 miles to be exact. The only issues were a speedometer that never made it over 45mph, even though I was going at least 65mph at times and a little leak around the shift shaft seal.

All in all, I'm very happy with the little monster. Here is a picture after our first ride Saturday.

[Nessism]

Congratulations Larry! The bike looks great! You planning to keep it around as an alternative to the GK?

The clutch pushrod seal commonly leaks on the 450's. Your comment about leakage around the shaft level seal brought back memories. A preemptive update might not be a bad idea if the source of the leak on your bike proves to be something else.

[Larry D]

Ed, I can't seem to have just one bike.....The Mighty GK just doesn't work in every situation and it's nice to have the smaller, nimble 450 to buzz around town on. The GK will be for day long rides and those with the wife riding along. I now have bikes on both ends of the GS spectrum.

I'm almost certain the leak is from the shift shaft seal. It's not much of a leak, but, it's there. I bought a new seal awhile ago along with a bunch of other parts knowing that it would probably be leaking after the bike got fully up to temperature and ridden a bit.

I like to get a project mechanically sound before dealing with the smaller issues. Next is the leak, of course, and then suspension, rear brake, speedometer, a few burnt out indicator lights, etc....but, it's rideable and it's going to be a beautiful weather week here. A bit to chilly in the morning, but, I work about 4 miles from home and I'm going home at lunch to get it.

Very happy with the GS450S !!!