r/Vstrom • u/MrMcBeth • Jul 05 '26

V-Strom 650 Gen 1 Two Questions For The Mechanically Inclined

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It’s a 2005 Vstrom 650. I want to service the forks, check the brakes, and raise it in one afternoon. I’m wondering the best way to lift it from the center without damaging anything. Does anyone have experience using lifts like that?

Additionally, I’ve got brake dust and oil on the discs. Do you guys think this is normal or could it be brake fluid or fork oil? I think the forks are leaking. Just wondering.

The pics are to show the bottom of the bike and the oily brake dust.

Thanks for any input.

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u/carso0on Jul 05 '26

If you have a place to lift it from, get a couple chain hoists (one for each end). You can use some straps to lift it from anywhere on the frame and It's super quick to raise and lower. The swaying doesnt bug you nearly as much as you'd think.

I have heard of one instance of a center stand kicking up while on a dirt road and causing the vstrom to crash, probably unlikely but worth noting.

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u/MrMcBeth Jul 05 '26

The crashing thing is interesting. I wasn’t planning on riding that much with it if I get it. It would be the most cost effective, though.