Motorcycle Repair: Suzuki GSX600F, suzuki gsx600f, work assistance

Question
Mark,

I am about to buy a second hand Suzuki GSX600F (registered in 2000).  The owner has told me that the choke cable has broken, so needs to be fixed as a first thing. So, is this an easy job for a novice to repair?  Does the fairing have to come off, or just the tank to fix this? If I took it into a garage, is it an 'expensive' repair or would it be pretty cheap?  Your thoughts appreciated - I don't want to buy a bike that's got an expensive repair, but on all other fronts, it looks a good buy.  Thanks in anticipation - I note someone else is having a problem with fitting a choke cable, is this a weak spot on these bikes?

Answer
Hi Mark,

Q:  Is this an easy job for a novice to repair?
A:  Choke cable replacement is not difficult. Many repairs can be frustrating especially if you are not experienced. I encourage making repairs and maintaining your MC yourself. I recommend purchasing the Service Manual for your MC. The manual wwill pay for itself with the first job.


Q:  Does the fairing have to come off, or just the tank to fix this?
A:  The tank, side panels, and possibly side tail section panels may need to be removed to do the work. Removeal of these are very easy.


Q:  If I took it into a garage, is it an 'expensive' repair or would it be pretty cheap?
A:  Both. Any work that a garage performs is expensive. It is also one of the cheaper tasks for them to perform.


Q:  I note someone else is having a problem with fitting a choke cable, is this a weak spot on these bikes?
A:  No, it's a weak spot on these owners. : )


Don't be affraid to perform basic maintenance and repairs on your MC. Buy the manual and review it before you have problems to become acclimated with the MC and repairs. Review areas of the manual befroe beginning work and also while you work. Assistance is available via AllExperts.

Check out www.bikebandit.com Click on "OEM Parts" and select your MC from the menus that follow to see microfiche parts views.

Consider negotiating the selling price of the MC down a bit due to the cost of the cable and installing the cable. Call the local shops and get an estimate for the work and then haggle sale price with the seller.  

Respectfully,
Mark Shively