Looking at an s4

[ccm900]

Hey everybody, looking at an s4 right now. Not local to me but just a few hours away if I choose to get it. Just have a few questions regarding the bike since I'm not familiar with its engine compared to my 2v m900 motor. I've searched for as much info as I can but I want to try and get a confirmation on things before I move forward.

First off, I hear it has a steel tank. True or false? I'd much rather stick with a steel tank then gamble with a plastic one.

Also, whats all this about the rocker arms being chrome and chipping? True or false? Is that common, or just a gamble?

I haven't come upon a valve service on my bike yet, but when I do I'm really going to try and do it myself or with help. But, I'm hearing the 916 motor is about double the cost for the service, or if you do it yourself the ones on top in the back are a PITA. Any info here? Know what the service cost is for the valves to be done?

Looks like it has adjustable suspension up front which my bike doesn't...

I love my m900. My dad may buy this bike for the mean time and I may get it from him once Im able to sell mine or afford the s4 as funds just dont allow at the moment. (always sounds weird saying my dad may get somethnig...makes me sound young but im almost 30  )

TIA for the help, I'll post pics if I get it 

[Speeddog]

Assuming it's a straight-up S4, that is, 2001 or 2002......

Yes, steel tank.

They can have flaking chrome on the rockers.
Depends on maintenance and riding habits.... if you don't change the oil regularly, and you flog it, chances are higher.
If you *do* change the oil regularly, and *don't* flog it, you could get to 50k miles with no flaking rockers, like I did on my '02 S4.

I charge ~50% more for a 4V Monster valve service than a 2V service.
Considering that it's twice as many valves to check and adjust clearances on, access is poor, and cam removal/re-fitment is necessary to change closers.... yes, it's a bit of a PITA.

They do have the adjustable Showa forks, equipped with ~0.85 straight rate springs.
Damping is harsh, but the springs are good for 165-175 lb riders.

[TitanMonsterS4R]

Just bought an 02 S4.  As Speeddog said if it's an S4 it has a steel tank .  Just had mine serviced and it cost me $1500.00 and they did everything.  Given that I can do oil and plugs in the future among other things my next service bill will be a tad bit lower...As for the flaking rocker thing.......Was a major concern of mine when looking at purchasing.  How many miles are on the bike and is it due for service soon.  If so, I'd try to talk the seller down a bit as you will have to pay that expense off the top.  When I bought mine the seller had XX price if he covered the service and potential flaking rockers OR I could have bought it at XX price and paid for service.  I went option B and luckily no flaking rockers.  Might be worth a shot....

Happy with the purchase.  Bit heavier than my S2R (like 100lbs) but tons of fun around the city....