Bump,
I didn't think this post got the attention it should have, My V7 has been kept in a warm garage all its life although I don't hesitate to ride in the rain.
I'm sure there are hundreds of cables out there quietly turning to rust. I was lucky the return cable broke first and I was able to carry on riding with just one while I waited on a new pair from Italy >$100 for the pair with a discount. In hind site I think I should have oiled these OEM cables by making a hole through the Nylon sheath and wicking a light oil through the steel strands, protected against rust the cables should last the life of the bike.
For what its worth I think this is the result of sourcing parts from the lowest bidder, they never thought it through.
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I made a pair of replacement cables from stock using the old outer end fittings and screw on nipples these were well lubed with engine oil, hopefully I will never have to instal these.