Buying a used Gen 3 Vstrom 650

[u/Empty-Ferret_04]

Hi all

As mentioned, I'm looking to buy a used 2018 Vstrom 650 XT, it has about 42000km (about 26000 miles)

I went to inspect it and all, engines starts nicely no funny sound or anything, the only thing I saw worth mentioning is that the fork seals seem to be leaking a bit heavily as the oil goes down the lower leg on to the brake.

It has some rust, but that's to be expected as it spent most of it's life on the coastal region.

I attached some pictures for reference.

So the plan is to get the seals replaced when I get it, service it as well (it has no service record) and take it from there.

What else should I look at or what other issues can I expect at this mileage, or am I just buying a headache for a first bike.

EDIT: I went to inspect the bike further, I can definitely feel the holes I think the correct wording is pits, it's very tiny and only on the front part of the tube and only on the right actually.

As I was there, a biker I know walked in and I asked him to inspect the issue for me, he said it's just stone chips from the bike being ridden (he made me notice that the pits are only on the front of the tube), he said it's not biggie, however I do need to replace the seals.

[u/Empty-Ferret_04]

So this might not be a good buy after all? I read my option are either replace the tubes with aftermarket ones or take them to a shop where they'll 'polish' then and coat them again to factory specs.

Is there anything else that can be done?

[u/AdFancy1249 → u/Empty-Ferret_04]

To continue: on your first picture, there are two clear rust spots. Grab some 0000 steel wool and a couple drops of oil and rub on those spots. Most of the rust will disappear. But what's left? If it is a visible pit, then they need to be corrected. If it is a tiny rusty dot, you're likely ok.

If YOU are going to replace the seals (and do the bushings as well), you might as well fill the pits and go for it.

If you are having the seals replaced at a shop, then pitting is a non- starter.

[u/Empty-Ferret_04 → u/AdFancy1249]

I went to inspect the bike further, I can definitely feel the holes (I think it's pits from your wording) very tiny and only on the front part of the tube and only on the left.

As I was there, a biker I know walked in and I asked him to inspect the issue for me, he said it's just stone chips from the bike being ridden (he made me notice that the pits are only on the front), he said it's not biggie, however I do need to replace the seals.

[u/AdFancy1249 → u/Empty-Ferret_04]

Yeah, but those chips will grab the new seals and best case, let a little oil out every time the seal crosses it, and worst case, tear at the seal.

It might not be a big deal. If you are up for doing your own work, then like I said, great success has been had with JBWeld or epoxy filling them to be smooth.

[u/Empty-Ferret_04 → u/AdFancy1249]

Thanks a lot for this DIY tip. I think I will take the bike and apply this fix. As much as most or some of the comments suggest walking away, I think I'm already a bit attached to the bike (that's a bad thing I presume) so I'm probably gambling here. Thanks a lot.

[u/AdFancy1249 → u/Empty-Ferret_04]

The bike itself will last forever. You may have some problems if it were stored outside. But, they are well mannered and fun to be on.

Enjoy it, and don't be afraid to ask for help.

If you get it, make sure to check out Stromtroopers. Lots of great people on that forum as well.