Parts to replace thermostatic valve and temp sensor should arrive soon so starting to think about the coolant change. Any recommendations on flushing the system? Water? Something else (brand please)? It has been about 5 years since the last coolant change!! 

Hi there, check the radiator cap gaskets.
Replace the the o´ring in the thermostat cap.
Best regards
JAP

japuentes wrote:Hi there, check the radiator cap gaskets.
Replace the the o´ring in the thermostat cap.
Best regards
JAP

Yes I ordered those parts as well. Thanks

Treat it like you would a car radiator.

No doubt you will have access to a few radiator cleaners at the local car parts store. I'd use one that you can use for aluminium (aluminum) systems.
Some say leave for 15 minutes or 4 hours or whenever. Follow their instructions.

I'd actually take the radiator out and reverse flush it just with tap water after you use the cleaner.

Refit it to the bike, fill it with whatever you choose to use (touchy subject...some say anything green, some say no silicates/nitrates).

If it's not already premixed, use demineralised water, not tap water.

Let us know how you go.

always good to back flush

I found a heap of sealant in the intake side  on a couple of radiators that I have seen
perhaps remains from water pump restoration ?

in any case could have been a problem further down the track