my bike has just had its anunal service, while it was in asked the dealer (not the dealer i bought the bike off) to look at the front of the engine as it has a unpainted area, was told by two mechanics there that they are all like that, so they can get the bolt out. would like to know if what they are saying is true or are they pulling the wool (have lots of it here in wales) over my eyes. have atached some images.

Don't know about pulling the bolt out, but my bike has similar unpainted spots too,it was discussed earlier and I think said not to worry about

thanks, can relax know

Not sure if all of them are like that but I remember a lot of people and a great debate about this subject in xt.660.com markI

Mine has it too !!!
Just make sure you treat it come winter time .

Mine is the same also, looks like the case is machined after painting.

sprayed the area with ACF50, which should help

Same on mine, Use WD-40 or similar products often!!!!!!!!! To protect engine from corroding etc.

Mine is the same also