Certain years

[ReinyRooster]

So while shopping for a bike, I was wondering if there were any years of RSV that had known issues that perhaps I should avoid. Generally looking at 2005-2012.

Thanks

ReinyRooster

[steamer]

the 07 had a recall for head gasket. thats the only thing i ever heard of.

[Freebird]

Same here.  The '07 was the only one I heard of with an issue.

[ReinyRooster]

OK, thanks guys.

[XV1100SE]

Potential gear whine for 1999 to 2008 models.  2009 and newer seem to be better.  "i" basket used I believe.

[Guest divey]

Never heard of the 07 recall here in Canada. I bought my 07 new and never had a recall notice nor a problem with the head gasket. Might have only been an issue with 07’s sold in the US. 

[Guest divey]

One other well known issue with these is the uncontrollable addiction to chrome. I’m told there’s no cure or professional help for it either. 

[Marcarl]

I've heard and experienced that a common problem is the nut holding the shifter lever on tends to come off, and there are other nuts that tend to come somewhat loose as well, 'course those are mostly on the drivers seat and in your case may or may not be an issue, but then that's only my opinion.

[uncledj]

Lost my shifter bolt once.   Had to use another bolt off of a sidecover to hold it on.

1 hour ago, Marcarl said:

I've heard and experienced that a common problem is the nut holding the shifter lever on tends to come off, and there are other nuts that tend to come somewhat loose as well, 'course those are mostly on the drivers seat and in your case may or may not be an issue, but then that's only my opinion.

 

[sleepy2]

I also lost the shifter bolt going down highway at 120klm going to U.S. border. Took bolt out of side cover under seat.

[Kybronco]

Yes that pesky shifter. I broke the bolt in the rear that connects it to the engine and is under that rubber cover. Also lost the nuts under the seat. Get some nylon wing nuts cured that problem.