Do i need to remove the engine to replace pistons?

The bike is new to me. The bike is in good general condition I am just sorting it out. I want to check the head/valves and the bores/pistons/rings. do i need to remove engine from frame to get the barrels off and or replace the pistons.? it is a 1979 A1. Thank you. Robbie

Hi Robbie,

You can do all this work with the engine in the frame.
It is easier with the engine out, but not 100% necessary.

Pete F
UK

I had to do some eploratory work when I first got my bike, and I can confirm you can get it down to the lower case before you have to remove the engine for anything. Essentially, any work from the base gasket on up can be done engine-in-frame.