I have a hard time viewing the oil level in the window. I try holding my bike upright and looking and seems I just can 't get the hang of this.
I have a new s-40 and manual says to run it for a few and then let it rest for 3 mins. Then holding straight up view the window.
I have to literally get down on my knees and hold the bike with one hand which I am leary of doing.
Have any of you found an easier way of viewing your oil level? I have thought of using a mirror..

The mirror is a dam good idea if you got the eyes for it.

I don't anymore.

I throw a pillow on the ground (knees can't take that either) on the right side about 2 feet out, kneel, elbow on ground, flashlight in hand when needed (yes I put the white cane down) and with the free hand tip the bike up.

And you can get it pretty close to vertical with a block of wood under the kickstand.

You should have got one of these with the bike (Part number Suzuki Savage KS-Ext1.0)

I think I might have a spare one somewhere. Let me know if you want me to mail it to you. It cost me $19.95, so just add postage from the UK to get your total price.

justin_o_guy2 wrote on 08/14/09 at 03:22:46:


Just PM me your bank details and I'll ship it today. It'll be with you in 28 days, or so.

rofl Justin; nice.

My tank bag has things in it.  I pull out the tire gauge and check the front wheel & front suspension, check the tire pressure, look at the tread and walls.  Do the rear, also look at the bags and belt.  Sit down on the bike,  pop the pressure gauge into the pencil keeper in the bag and pull out my extender mirror.  Rock the bike to be sure I'm level, then use the mirror to take a peek.  The window fills the little mirror and I can see it perfetly.  I fold it up, clip it in with my mileage book.  Then check the lights and other controls, if the gas is getting low on the trip meter (no gauge) I pull the tank cap and look in.  If it's low, I put on "prime."

Then I put on my helmet, visor up, and gloves.  Back out.  Pull out choke and start up.  Blip the clutch in neutral a couple of times, make sure I've got oil everywhere, and friction zone the beast over the gravel and grass up to the pavement.  Pop the choke in a notch and I'm on my way.  At the top of the hill, after the stop sign, I push the clutch in all the way.

I've only had to bend over at each wheel.  I have a tire pump right at hand, too.

PhilM wrote on 08/14/09 at 01:04:20:


Ah seen a whoal piahl o' them kickstand extenders at a vacant lot th'other day.  Would ye believe somebuddy is usin' 'em to build a house with?