Help identifying and fixing a leak

[ScarySquirrel]

Hi all,

My bike is leaking something from around the front of the engine, it's dirty and I've not really looked closely yet to be honest. It's a Bandit 650.

I'm pretty sure it is oil, although it's a bit of a weird colour.

Once I've cleaned the bike, are there any particular tricks to find out where it's coming from? I'm guessing I should get some more oil, drain it, and then fix the issue. But any tips to help find it would be appreciated.


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[Dis86]

Visual inspection.

If, after it's clean, you see it on the frame or engine then touch it. Will soon tell you whether it's oil, petrol or coolant. Giving it a sniff helps too.

 

[ScarySquirrel]

Yeah fair enough. I've had a sniff of it and it doesn't seem like fuel.

Guess I had better get the bucket and sponge out!

 

[JonRGV250]

Use spray brake cleaner to clean around the area, then use this

 

[ScarySquirrel]

Use spray brake cleaner to clean around the area, then use this

Oh wow that looks great, thanks for the suggestion.

 

[tom_e]

Clean it, let it dry, squirt talc over anywhere it may be coming from.
Basically what Jon has recommended but you can also ensure you have a lovely fresh undercarriage with the leftovers