82 KZ440 LTD only does about 65~70 on flat ground

Should use timing light to verify correct functioning of automatic advancer.

Watch advancer quickly move back and forth as rpm's are varied by blipping throttle.

Would also assure valve clearances being to specs.

What are spark plug readings (appearance and color) immediately after a top speed run?

Good Luck!

440's don't have much to start with, but you should have an increase of power. sometimes they stick at full advance, then they are a bear to start and can run a little hot.

Hah ... a bunch of tools I don't have lol...

Only need one feeler gauge to set valve clearances on the model (no shims -- just a screw and locknut for each valve).

But might have to borrow a timing light.
Some auto parts stores loan tools, but might not include a timing light, so could just call and inquire.

Good Luck!

Well I got home this morning and took the cover off and sure enough as my luck would have it the plate holding the transistor-based advancement were stripped... A brief "thanks" to the previous owner.

Anyhow though the timing mechanism itself was certainly well coated with rust. I sprayed some WD-40 on it and used a toothbrush to lightly get some of the surface rust off. Ran the bike for awhile with the cover off and used a bit more WD-40 and more rust came out. Shut off the bike and wiped-up the excess WD-40 and went for a spin.

Either it was perception or actually worked - I noticed an improvement in power right away while riding. Got her all warmed up and ran out to Lakeshore avenue... and she QUICKLY rose to the occassion and hit 70 easily and then slowly climbed from there... I saw enough to convince me this worked (especially as Lakeshore is only 45mph zone and I was near twice that).

Boy I love easy fixes... thanks for the help guys.

Is it bound to rust inside there or should I replace that gasket under the cover?

does your bike have electronic ignition? if it does you might want to pick up a gasket.if the bike has points make sure the little hole where wires for electronic ignition go is clear so moisture can get out of there