Need Help with My 1986 Yamaha Venture Royale Problems

Replacing the entire ignition system can be overkill. I’d work on the switch first and see if that improves things. It might save you money in the end!

Also, have you checked the battery terminals? Loose or corroded terminals can cause a lot of headaches with the electrical system.

Exactly! I’ve had that problem too. I recommend using some petroleum jelly after cleaning them to prevent future corrosion.

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That’s a great idea, jonesjoseph! Keeping those terminals protected is key. Sometimes I feel like I’m just playing whack-a-mole with these issues.

Haha, that’s so true! It’s like the more you fix, the more problems pop up! But hey, it’s all part of the vintage bike charm, right?

Absolutely, hmoore! Reflecting on it, every problem fixed makes the ride that much sweeter. But man, sometimes I wish it came with a manual.

I’ve been having similar issues with my 1986 Yamaha Venture Royale. The ride quality is pretty harsh, and I suspect it’s the suspension setup. Has anyone adjusted the preload on their shocks?

Yes, adjusting the preload can make a significant difference! I increased mine last season, and it really helped with the bumps. Also, check your tire pressure regularly; that affects ride quality too.

I’ve noticed uneven tire wear on mine as well. It could be a sign that the alignment is off. Have you checked the bike’s alignment recently?

That’s a good point, erush! Alignment issues can cause those vibrations we’re experiencing. Let’s get a shop manual and dive into it together!

I’ve seen some folks switch to adjustable shocks for a noticeable improvement. Anyone here tried that? What brands do you recommend?

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I’ve had good luck with Progressive Suspension. They’re easy to install and seem to handle the unevenness pretty well.

I agree with Martin! Progressive made a real difference in my ride. I also added new tires that helped with the handling. They definitely should be replaced if they’re old.

That’s exactly what I need! Can anyone suggest the best tire models for the Venture Royale?

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You can try the Michelin Commander II! They are praised for their durability and smooth ride. Just replace the tires regularly to avoid uneven wear.

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Don’t forget to consider the age of your bike’s components. Sometimes, it might just be time for a full suspension overhaul.

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Definitely something to think about! I can already imagine my bike smooth as butter after such an upgrade.

At the end of the day, we just want a comfortable ride, right? I’m considering a ride on a flat road to test these adjustments. Can’t be worse than my last trip!