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I've always used screw extractors. Start with the tiny drill bit first then go up in size with the reversed screw sets. Shouldn't be tough getting out as they shouldn't be torqued that much anyway. Not tried the left hand drill bits but certainly makes sens. May try it out next time I shear something. But if you have got enough sticking out, the dremel way will be much safer especially with an impact driver (I bloody love those things! Got me out of many a tight spot).

If you have an angle grinder (or a file and a lot of time on your hands), cut the dodgy link out and replace it. You will find a link for your chain on Wemoto or somewhere similar for a few quid. You will need a chain riveter though or you could do it the old fasioned way with a lump hammer and a hefty bit of metal like the side of a monkey wrench or engineers vice.

I've had a few bikes that make a loud click and others that make various strange noises. As long as it's starting on the button, don't worry about it. I know it's been icy around where I am at the moment so could answer your handling problems. Brakes just top up usually with dot 4 but check your handbook or online just in case. And as someone else mentioned, keep an eye on your pads if the brake fluids getting low. Very cheap to buy and easy to do yourself if you take your time. If you're new to riding, really take care in this weather mate, and make sure you're tyre pressure is perfect before you ride. Happy New Year.

How much slack have you got in the chain centre point? Seller may have put a new chain on but may not have adjusted it correctly.

I had a similar problem on a 250 twin. One exhaust started poping when one o the exhaust studs snapped. Apparently, the air drawing in through the gap was enough to alter the temperature of the dribble of fuel in the exhaust to cause it to ignite. Didn't make any noticable difference with the revs though. Maybe worth a look. Did you put a new copper gasket on the header when you fitted it (from the engine to the pipe)?

Maybe a bit of water in the ignition keeping the circuit closed?

Does your bike have a rear drum brake? Only asking as I had a similar issue with an SR125 many years ago and it turned out to be a worn hub. Had to buy a new wheel.

Same happened with my CB500. Changed the plates and basket but no difference. Fine with the clutch in. Decided to ignore it in the end. Didn't do it any harm.

im sure alex said somewhere he is running z rated tyres and they are not allowed to be repaired Really ? I have z tyres on my z and have plugged the front one because it picked up a screw slap bang in the middle of the tread. I understood the only thing preventing a hole being repaired is if it wasn't within the middle part of the tyre ? I never knew that either. What's the reason you can't plug them?

Also, buy yourself a tyre plugging kit. The way roads are left uncleaned nowadays will end up getting very expensive replacing the tyre each time.

Well, wasted money in the end. After changing the valve and still losing pressure, I decided to resoke the tyre with soapy water and discovered the tiniest hole that I had missed last time I was looking. Plugged it with my cheap kit (which by the way has saved me a fortune over the last year and I would highly recommend buying one if you haven't got one already). Oil and filter change today, just need to sort out the coolant sensor now.

Honda CB's are also prone to seizing up. I find calipers a pain in the bum, replacing seals and stuff, and it can get pricey too. I do my own brakes but only because I'm tight! Get yourself a piston wind back tool, they cost about a tenner and makes the job a hell of a lot easier and quicker.

Not sure but the gaskets should just be rubber and you'll probably get away with using the same ones again. Easy job just a bit fiddly.

Motobatt's are great for winter. best batteries I have ever had by far. Also, if you can afford it, get an Optimate trickle charger and maintainer. My one cost me about £20 ten years ago and I haven't really had a battery problem since. Spend the cash if you have it mate, it will save loads i the long run.

Cheers. Not as bad as I was expecting. Job for Monday I think.