No matter what kind of gaskets, it's a good idea to let your evo warm up, as the heat snugs up the jugs when they expand. I was always told to start it and when you feel heat in the rocker covers, you can take off, then ride easy for a couple miles, then ride it like you stole it. This from 2 old school indy's. I miss that evo sometimes!

 

I have 39,000 miles on my 99 and have always warmed it up a little before I ride and take it easy for the first few miles. No leaks so far. When it had about 20,000 on it I put Mobil 1 Vtwin 20-50 in it, and it started to weep on the rear base gasket. I changed it back to Castro GTX 20-50 and it has not leaked since. I live just a half mile off the hiway, so I like to warm it a little before I wind her up on the hiway.

 

I just got my first ride in for the year. Still snow, but no ice. She had been laid up since December 1st, so I let her warm up while I got my gear on. Right or wrong... She likes it. Kept it all mellow until about 20 minutes in. Excuse my French but Fuuuuuck it's good to be back in the saddle.

 

I let mine warm up till it idles nicely then set off. Take it easy for a few miles. But I'm easy on a bike anyways. I cruise more than anything. Interstate riding is probably the hardest I run it which is not often since I would rather take the twisties...

Oh and I forgot to add I need a rear base gasket lol!! Might get to it before spring..

 

I always warm mine to where the heads are hot to the touch....always have.