Help needed! Leaking coolant problem

I've done 58 000 happy km's on my reliable 2005. However, I spotted a fairly large green luminous coolant drop when I wheeled the bike out for a ride on the weekend. I removed the right fairing but could not determine where the leak was coming from. The leak however also stops when the bike is running.

I had the bike serviced and the dealer's technicians were unable to determine the origin of the leak after tightening all the hose clamps. It seems to originate in the vacinity of the main hose connecting to the motor from the radiator on the right hand side. I can only guess that it is a seal / gasket that shrinks when the engine is cold causing it to leak and expands when hot resulting in no leak. Any hints on where one would start looking or how to determine the exact spot of the leak?

 

It is probably the hose itself.

Had a similar issue on the 97 and it was driving me nuts trying to locate it. Finally noticed the main hose would have coolant on it after a longer ride.

Replaced all the hoses and no issues.

BZ

 

I don't have any leaks but was thinking about spending the $120 or so dollars to replace them as they feel like the rubber is getting semi hard from old age.

 

If it appears from the hose that goes from the right rad to the engine, that actually goes to the thermostat housing under the throttle bodies. Pull the airbox off so that you can see between the front and rear cylinders. You might find a small puddle there or some staining.

Remove the fairings and clean up ALL spots that you can find of the antifreeze. Start her up and let her idle there till she gets hot and builds up some pressure. Maybe you can find it while it is hot and under pressure. Checking in the driveway while idling would be ideal so you do not have wind blowing whatever drops come out all over the place.

 

Leaks

Very common this time of year to have this problem. A mirror and a flashlight go a long way in locating leak and resealing the entire area is also a good way to rest at night.It is just a seal or two.