Oil leak?

I've got a KZ1000 and I have a bit of oil sludge coming out the front of the engine. Middle two cylinders, bottom of the barrals.

Doesnt seem like much. I'll clean it up tomorrow and see how much she's blowing out...

My question is how bad is this? I know its not good by any stretch, but how bad?

I'm riding the bike from MA to Arizona in July over a 6 day stretch, then living off the bike for the next 16 months..

Thoughts?

Depends how much it's leaking and whether you care if your old bike leaves puddles....

Not so much yet, no puddles, just gathered up on the front of the barral, a bit running down the bottom of the crank case.

I'd rather NOT have to pull the engine apart just now, but if I have to I will.

Sounds like the base gasket is leaking. PTA to change. You have to remove the head and jugs. I am in the process of that job right now on my number 3 bike. If the oil consumption is not too bad, you can live with it. Once it starts dripping off on your pants leg while you are riding, it is time to change the gasket. I use synthetic oil which will weep more often than regular oil. I run this oil because of the Texas summer heat.....chris3

you might try to re torque the bolts, but I dont thing that will cure the problem, the down side is its only going to get worse

thanks fellas... I figured it'd be a mother to change..

Coppertales, I'm running synthetic too... its mostly habit, but I'm also moving to AZ in July and figured it'd be smart with the heat.

BSKZ650 I'll check into the bolts... worth a shot for sure, I doubt it too, but certainly worth a shot.