my 1997 916 Bip started to use a little bit of oil between changes after 30,000 miles. It had done over 40,000 when I did a 2500 mile trip to france last year, and didn't use enough to require a top up. So I reckon yours is due a bit of attention. Didn't ride it as hard as DC on long runs, but agree with DC on the approach to the problem.
I've found a guy who will supply a re-built exchange lump for £1000 I've been told that a re-build of mine engine could cost anything up to £1500... How does that sound? What to do!!!
Assuming they are offering a Guarantee of at least 3 months & the motor is fully serviced - rockers, belts etc ready to go it sounds a fair deal. Would this be Moto Louigi by any chance?
Are you planning to fit yourself, if so will they still guarantee.
Before you buy it might be a good idea to establish acceptable oil consumtion rates in case there is a problem.
I expect a full rebuild of yours would be at least £1500 although you could just get topend looked at & fit 2nd hand barrels & pistons for less.
Have you had the bike looked at? it's possible it could be just a valve guide seal problem?
Do a compression dest and a leakdown test as this will tell you if its rings or guides causing the problem.
£1000 for a rebuilt motor does indeed sound good assuming things like rockers, belts etc have been checked and replaced as required. Bear in miond that a 12,000 mile service can cost over £600!!
I wonder if they use your old heads? I dont see how they could recondition a full engine for that kind of money. It might be what we used to call a "short engine" in that all the ancilliary bits are swapped over like heads, clutch, front sprocket, starter etc so you are basically buying a bottom end, pistons and barrels.
Just curious you see. I'd expect a 916 to need a few rockers as they are by definition an older engine so will have done more miles. Lets say three at a trade price of £105 each, so thats £315 before you get to bearings, barrels, pistons, gaskets and rings etc.