Motorcycle Repair: Honda bike, smoking, honda bike, piston rings


Question
I have a Honda 600 (year unknown) out back and it seems to run all right but it's engine smokes. I don't know where the smoke comes from but it kind of worries me. What part of the bikes engine could be causing it and what some possible options to fixing it on my own? Take apart the bike maybe?

Answer
Hi Stephanie,

Worn cylinders, pistons, piston rings, and/or valves may cause the engine to smoke excessively.

Carburetors improperly tuned may also contribute to excessive smoking.

Perform a cylinder compression check and leak-down test to determine the condition of the engine.

Compare test results with specifications in the Honda Service Manual. Repair or tune accordingly.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively