Leaking head gasket - 2002 Vulcan Classic 800

[ross.piche]

I've got a 2002 Vulcan Classic 800 (VN800) which I've owned since new (only 22,000 km).
I am in Canada and only recently got it back on the road this season. (only road 200 km on it last season).

About 20 minutes into my ride I started smelling the sweet smell of coolant when going slow or at traffic lights. Pulled the bike over and could see small bubbles coming from what appears to be a gasket on the forward cylinder. The gasket is between the top chrome cap and the finned cylinder casing. I presume this is the head gasket (I've never had this engine apart).

Do I need to replace the head gasket or should I tighten down the three bolts surrounding the spark-plug? Or any other suggestions?