I just looked at a 2002 VTR1000 with 19400+ miles. This one was ridden hard and put away wet. I am fully prepared to immediately replace both CCTs, replace chain and both sprokets, and R/R (although I've read here that the '01s and new have a more reliable R/R). It needs all fluids r&r'd.

A couple of items bother me so I need input from you experienced Superhawk guys on:
1) the steering head--it swings almost too freely. I never read any issues on this board about loose steering heads/bad bearings--what if anything is there to be concerned about here?
2) Oil leak--there is oil running down the kickstand and actually formed a quarter-size puddle at the kickstand pad. The lower left side of the engine (may have been the oil pan itself but I don't know the geography ofthe VTR engine) was really oil/dirt grungy. The oil did not appear to be flowing back from a loose oil filter. What kind of fitting could be leaking from the kickstand mounting area?

Any pertinent thoughts on the steering head & oil leak will be appreciated!

YTKinWI at http://sportbikeroads.com

 

The steering head bearings could well be loose and/or knackered. That's an easy fix.

The oil drain plug is right next to the kickstand. The leak is likely from this plug.

I wouldn't be particularly worried about either of these things.

 

With this description I wouldn't pay more than $2k for it. Worst case scenario is that it becomes a parts donor for a wrecked restoration project.

The oil leak could be from an generously lubed chain, maybe there is one of those auto lubers installed. But its probably a damaged case from throwing a chain. If you can, take off the sprocket cover and look for JB Weld or damage. Maybe the bolts were just mismatched (some long and some short) so it isn't tight enough, maybe the gasket is damaged. The seal around the shift rod could be bad too. Unless it is a shoddy repair job from a significant impact or issue, it could very well be fixed properly for $100-$500 depending on who does the work.

As far as the steering head goes...Is it swinging freely while being ridden? That could just be way too much tire pressure. Or is the bike supported and it turns from side to side easily? That is normal.