Learning

[Ixion]

Any reputable full synthetic two stroke oil . NB two strokes use a special two stroke oil, you can't usually get it at the petrol station, go to Supercheap. Go for full synthetic (look for the words on the label). Fuchs Silkolene is good, but so are the others. Motul is also well thought of and TTS.

I'm not clear either on your "strolling". As you approach lights, brake, and change down through the box as the revs drop, fully engaing the clutch on each change. Once in first continue to slow, when nearly stopped pull in the clutch and put your foot down.

Coasting with the clutch pulled in is a bad practice because it makes it harder to manoeuvre if an emergency arises.

Always be in the appropriate gear, ready to accelerate if necessary. Braking on a motorcycle is not the best reation if danger presents, motorcycles are inherently unstable under braking. It is better to use what motorcycles are good at, manoeuvring, to get clear of danger. "Go where the danger is not"

[RedGnomos]

I am using Motul at the moment. Someone did suggest using Castrol TTS. What you just exemplified on dropping the gears and coming to a stop makes so much more sense compared to what others have been telling me. Thanks mate.

1) Any advice on engine braking?
2) Do I need an engine re-build to replace the piston rings?
3) Do I need to change the oil in the sump?
4) Where can I get good but reasonably priced parts for bikes e.g. brake pads, spark plugs, etc?

[Squiggles]

I am using Motul at the moment. Someone did suggest using Castrol TTS. What you just exemplified on dropping the gears and coming to a stop makes so much more sense compared to what others have been telling me. Thanks mate.

1) Any advice on engine braking?
2) Do I need an engine re-build to replace the piston rings?
3) Do I need to change the oil in the sump?
4) Where can I get good but reasonably priced parts for bikes e.g. brake pads, spark plugs, etc?

1) No such thing on a smoker
2) No, heads off (the things the spark plug sticks into) then you'll be looking at the piston in the cylinders, remove cylinder, measure up piston and cylinder, replace rings / pistons also if neccessary (and hone/rebore cylinder if necc)
3) I never did on my rgv, but you're supposed to... is an rs dry clutch?
4) Spark plugs, depending on the type, maybe repco will have em, otherwise its off to the bike shop, Cycletreads have good deals on brake pads (they have a buy two get one free for one of the brands), otherwise i think its like $45/set

Edit: Being watercooled, its a good idea to change the coolant every once in a while