Spline lube, etc

[Bisbee]

Here’s my conundrum. I recently lubed my BMW K bike splines since the K  forum insists on this or tragedy will result. So, I’ve just rejuvenated the 98 EV that was pickled for 10+ years. 17000 miles - runs great. Considering a 4000 mile trip next year and  1) Metzeler Macadams are brand new but we’re mounted in 2006. No dry rot , cracking ,etc . Do they really need replacement if It’s just a touring bike? 2) do I need to remove the rear drive , etc to lube the splines  or does Guzzi do a better job of it than BMW and no need to worry about spline failure? Thanks

[Kiwi_Roy]

Most will say you should replace them but if they haven't been exposed to direct sunlight they will not be perished, for sure they will be harder than a new set.
I was faced with a similar dilemma on my glowing with only 250km  2 5 0 and eventually I buckled and changed the tires
I'm sure your rear spines are fine but if you do decide to replace the tires it's not a big stretch to go the extra distance and do the spline, the peace of mind is worth it.

[pehayes]

Guzzi was NOT good about lubing the drive splines.  Yes, you should.  Quite easy once you have the wheel out.  However, after lubricating, when you put the drive box back on, DO NOT tighten down the 4 holding bolts.  Put the axle in place first.  This helps to hold the rear drive in alignment as you tighten the 4 holding bolts.  Then remove the axle and install the wheel.

For some reason, the final coupler and the input spline on the drive box take the worst of the impact hammering in the drive line. 

BTW, it might also be a good idea to remove and lubricate the floating cush plate and rubbers within the rear wheel hub.

98EV is easily good beyond 100K miles so you have plenty of life to go.  The bike does have some particulars for continued maintenance such as learning to set the TPS and balance the throttle systems.  Keep the fuel tank moat drain clear.  Etc.

Patrick Hayes
Fremont CA

[kingoffleece]

Your motorcycle rides on two credit card contact patches.  Only you can decide on the amount of risk you want to take with 12 year old tires made by a company that never figures that length of time into the manufacturing equation.

[JoeB]

As noted earlier think about the "cush" drive in the rear wheel.
It's easily accessed with the wheel off.
Here's a general description. Although not an EV, but you'll get the idea.
http://www.thisoldtractor.com/guzzitech.dk/pdf/cush-drive-maintenance.pdf
Pretty straightforward, only tip that comes to mind is to note orientation of "C" ring as one side is smooth.
If it hasn't been off for awhile some penetrating oil, rubber mallet and liberal use of curse words may help.

Edit: wanted to add that I agree with Patrick. Grease was evidently in very short supply in Italy when these bikes were assembled.

[Chuck in Indiana]

Do they really need replacement if It’s just a touring bike?

That will be your call. They *won't* have as much traction as fresh tires. For instance, if you have to make an emergency stop or evasive maneuver on that "just a touring bike.." you might wish you had changed them out. Or not.. <shrug>
Edit:
Oh, forgot. Spline lube? Yeah. Absolutely. Luigi is notoriously Scotch with spline lube.. it's for rust prevention and fretting as much as "lube."

[Bisbee]

OK, I know you’re right. An early spring project - replace tires and lube everything. Can’t find tires in EV sizes except Michelin Pilot Activ. Just put those on my new to me K75S which also had excellent 16 year old tires. They seem to be perfect for the bike.

[Wayne Orwig]

Pull the rear drive and put lube in there. If it has not been done you will be getting rust, and damage. On my EV I found that I get rust for some reason.

I would leave those tires on there and wear them out. If you are paranoid, change them.

[JoeB]

An alternative for a rear tire would be a 130/90. More choices available.
Read about others doing it years ago and it has worked well for me.
A quick look at "Guzziology" shows the 130/90 circumference at 2011 mm and the 140/80 at 1981mm.
Search may bring up some old threads about it.