Cam chain tensioners

[Varooom]

I just checked my rear cam chain tensioner and have 1/4" below the threaded lip.  One thing to note is that a lot of oil drains out onto the back of the engine when you remove the cap.  Messy if you haven't prepared for it.  Checking on the extender availability now as the procedure recommends them after you reach this depth spec.
Varooom

[Varooom]

I have the same bike with 75,000 miles and advise you to check out the section about the original clutch and how to inexpensively rebuild it when its actuating spring gets weak.  The symptom is: You'll be in 5th gear and try to accelerate.  The engine revs but the bike doesn't go any faster.
The limited slip clutch in the first couple if year models wears out in 20,000+ miles.  I had a dealer do two (they used the stock parts which are still available and don't hold up) before I changed it myself using the instructions and few inexpensive part replacements listed under Mods in this website.  Amazing difference.  Pulls like a tractor at any speed.
Varooom

[Duffy]

Bought it from my brother and I put almost as many miles on it in 7 days of riding it back as he did in the 7 years he owned it.  Pretty nice bike.

[Varooom]

Wow!  10K miles on a 1999; that's amazing.  I've just turned 75,000 and didn't know that this procedure was required.
Varooom

[Duffy]

My understanding it is a loud ticking sound.

Well, what I'm hearing isn't a "ticking" sound.  It might just be the stock exhaust and the standard noisy Kawi motor.  Maybe some after market exhaust is in order.

[chief]

My understanding it is a loud ticking sound.

[griz01]

Take a look here, tells how to inspect. It is an easy job to do.

http://www.vulcandrifterriders.com/camtensionext.html

[Duffy]

What are the indications of the cam chain tensioners needing to be "extended"?
I ask because my 99 1500 has an odd "rattle" under fairly hard acceleration or on take off.  Sounds like it's coming from the front cylinder.  Has just over 10K on the clock.