High RPM

[jwade1223]

Hey guys,

I've only had my 1980 GL1100 for a couple months. I'm in Denver where the elevation is high and recently the weather is extremely hot. I have my idle around 950 RPM. When I ride for a decent period of time (30 minutes/50 miles) the idle will be at 2000 RPM sitting at lights. Is this normal? Of course it's when it's around 80-90 degrees outside. Any advice would be appreciated!

-James

[ekvh]

Have the carbs been synchronized?

Usually indicative of an air leak somewhere. It’s common to forget to tighten the rubber boots where they attach to the carbs. Do this after it’s warmed up. The rubber is more pliable.

Make sure your throttle cables are working freely and allowing the throttle to return against the stops. When the bike is idling at 2000, reach down and see if you can push the throttle arms to the stops. If you can, you have cable issues, either sticky or bent. It could also be a carb linkage issue, more complicated.

Next step would be to use an unlit propane torch wafting around the intake boots to listen for a sudden increase in rpm. It can pinpoint the leak. O-rings crack or get broken under the elbows at the head.

[jwade1223]

Awesome! I sort of figured its likely an air leak somewhere. Hopefully it is that simple. I haven't had time to apply this knowledge yet but will give it a go this weekend. Thank you!