compression test and sparkplug condition

My Actron Professional Compression Tester arrived today so I hurried home to test my compression!

I took out my right spark plug and screwed in the 14mm adaptor and connected the hose and gauge. Using the process I learned from Dan's Motorcycle Compression Testing page, I opened the throttle and kicked the starter a few times. I wasn't sure what to do about the fuel valve. I left it open but you probably don't need to do that. The right side measured about 160 psi which is great! According to the service manual, the acceptable range is between 150 and 170 psi.

Unfortunately, when I started testing the left cylinder I heard a hissing sound. Upon further inspection, I noticed air leaking from the tube. It only leaked when the tube was put at certain angles, so I tried holding it in place while I kicked the starter and eventually the damn tube just popped straight out! I guess I'll be on the phone with Actron customer support.

In either case, if I find that my left cylinder's compression is good, I may decide not to mess too much with the engine this winter. I can't think of any benefit of taking it apart if the compression is good other than for the sake of satisfying my anal retentive tendencies. I'll still take it off the frame and clean the hell out of it though!

In related news, my spark plugs don't look good.

left sparkplug

right sparkplug

Based on the pictures in the Clymer's manual, I'm guessing that these are oil-fouled - which means I have oil in my cylinders. I had an oil leak from behind my points housing but I don't think that's the cause. I'm going to seek out some advice about what to do about these.