Hi Folks. This is my first post here after joining this forum and I’d appreciate some wisdom here! I have a year 2000 ST1100 which done a genuine 43,000 miles. I suspect it’s running on the OEM timing belt. Whilst the mileage is low, the time isn’t. So I want to replace the timing belt. I’ve done this on a 1975 GL1000 ‘Plain Jane’ years ago and seem to recall it had two belts but I see the ST has one long belt. Having seen the variance in prices from reasonable to predatory, I read that Gates manufacture the OEM belts for Honda and that the correct belt for the bike is the T325 which is available at £20, as opposed to upwards of £100 from some eBay sellers.
Could anyone advise whether the Gate T325 is indeed the correct belt, before I start on the job?
Also, looking at YouTube videos about doing this, and from previous experience with the GL, the timing marks can drift off slightly as the old belt is removed, albeit by 1/2 tooth or whatever, mainly due to the handling in pulling the old belt off (especially from the drive pulley where space is tighter). I’m thinking of getting all timing marks lined up and tying down the rear brake lever to a ground anchor…then simply cutting the old belt with sharp steel shears and removing the bits. I did do this on the two belts (I think it was two…) of the GL. At this point everytning would be lined up, unless the camshafts have moved slightly and it would be easier to remove the old belt.
Does anyone who has done this job have any views on the above and confirmation re the Gates belt please?
Could anyone advise whether the Gate T325 is indeed the correct belt, before I start on the job?
Also, looking at YouTube videos about doing this, and from previous experience with the GL, the timing marks can drift off slightly as the old belt is removed, albeit by 1/2 tooth or whatever, mainly due to the handling in pulling the old belt off (especially from the drive pulley where space is tighter). I’m thinking of getting all timing marks lined up and tying down the rear brake lever to a ground anchor…then simply cutting the old belt with sharp steel shears and removing the bits. I did do this on the two belts (I think it was two…) of the GL. At this point everytning would be lined up, unless the camshafts have moved slightly and it would be easier to remove the old belt.
Does anyone who has done this job have any views on the above and confirmation re the Gates belt please?