Suzuki RM 125cc 2003 learning curve!

[SULLY]

I hope someone can advise on the following...It takes alot of time and effort to 'learn' a bike properly from a mechanics point of view, and any help to speed the process will be appreciated.

Just aquired a s/h (6 months old, VERY little use but owned by a muppet) 2003 RM125 for my son. so far need help on the following(I am awaiting a workshop manual so some Q's may be answered when it arrives)

1.Jetting/throttle response...it's crap!, OK at low, but mid range is spluttering and flat. Main jet is 490, idle is 40, needle is in middle clip...any suggestions on recommended jetting?, I live in the UK (US stock jetting was different)....it has stock pipe and reeds.

1(a). PV link/operation...was the 01/02 fault on the link fixed by 03?, how can I tell if I have the fault without removing the gearbox side case?, when viewed through the PV side case the link does seem a bit 'loose' on the lower end

2. Water ingress, I'm noticing alot of water in carb body after washing the bike(garden hose not power washer) carb clips all OK, no splits in boots, no water in fuel tank...anyone had this pb on the RM?

Hope you can help, happy new year to you all

 

[bclapham]

the PV linkage was fixed in 02- indeed, they did away with the PV spring in 03 and we are finding that maybe wasnt the best way forward.

that main is too big, maybe 430-460 then go 1 smaller on the pilot and needle, marcus should have them specs.

for water, check the ruuber seal on the cable holder on the carb.

 

[marcusgunby]

The 03 rm comes way rich-richest bike ever IMO.

Main 480
needle 2nd clip
pilot 35 AS 2 turns
this is a good starting point for most people.

 

[SULLY]

OK many thanks guys, youve saved me alot of time effort in testing, and expense in maybe buying wrong jets etc...

 

[Chili]

As for water are you covering the airbox vents in the side number plates before washing?

 

[SULLY]

No I am not covering the vents in the side, do you recommend this?, I am awaiting an airfilter cover (plastic bowl type) to enable me to wash the bike with the seat off and filter removed, up to now I have been leaving the seat on and the oiled filter installed, ....not ideal in terms of getting the bike clean but all I can do until the Xmas post gets back on track and my bits arrive!
Thanks for the reply.

 

[mxer842]

dont waste your money on a airfilter cover, just take your airfilter off, wrap it in a wal-mart or target bag leaving only the threads on the inside exposed and thread it back on, thats what i have always done and it works just fine.