Different Noises Coming From Your Bike - What They Mean & How to Fix Them
Berts Mega Mall | Powersports Hub
Our motorcycles make lots of noises throughout its lifetime but its nothing to be scared of. The sounds it releases are indications of how your motorcycle is doing so when a strange sound comes out of it, know there might be an issue and highly consider looking into the noise. Ignoring or putting off a noise that your motorcycle does not typically make could cost you more in the long run. We’ll go over some strange noises that your motorcycle might make, what they mean and how to fix them.
Ignition Clicking:
Ignition clicking occurs when you try to start your bike. The most common reason why this can occur is a dead battery. Other reasons why this can occur are having a bad starter or a seized engine. If you let your motorcycle sit for long periods you can always hook the battery up to a battery charger, so that it does not die. Starters will age over time and will eventually need replacement, but to help lessen the wear don’t crank it longer than you need to. To prevent engine seizes, the most important thing you can do is routine oil changes. Stay on top of oil changes and choose the right kind of oil.
Backfiring/Popping:
Backfiring or popping will interrupt the sound of your exhaust pipes when your motorcycle is running. Some backfires can emit flames and are potentially dangerous. Motorcycles backfire for many reasons like carburetor issues, having improper exhaust upgrades, clogged jets, etc. Cleaning the carburetor with a high-grade carburetor cleaner will allow fuel to run and flow properly. If you have an improper exhaust upgrade your bike needs to be jetted or tuned correctly to suit the new aftermarket exhaust. Also, consider cleaning out your jets with the proper tools and jet cleaner. Fuel-injected bikes might need the fuel injector cleaned out which will result in a smoother ride.
In-Gear Whining:
Whining that occurs when you put your bike in gear could signify an issue in your gearbox. You can go through each gear and figure out if it’s doing it in one or two gears. If it is, it may be isolated wear. To fix in-gear whining noises you’ll want to consider replacing the gearbox bearings and shafts because they have been run out of alignment.
Knocking:
Knocking-in the engine should alarm you because there may be an issue with the crankshaft and connecting rods. If you are in the middle of riding and hear any metal knocking or rattling do not rev your bike even harder, instead hit the kill switch and come to a safe stop. More than likely you will need a more serious investigation of what the issue is. If you have expert knowledge on the motorcycle engine you’ll want to open your engine and investigate. If not, you may want to consider taking your bike to a local motorcycle dealer.
Sudden Ticking:
If your motorcycle begins to tick like a stopwatch you’ll want to check your exhaust headers. Check them especially if they are old or if they have been fitted/disturbed. Check when the bike is cold and you might see a bit of steam or water dribbling out in the first few seconds, and you can hold a hand close to feel for escaping gas without getting burnt. Locating the precise source of some engine noises can be tricky, but very helpful in sorting out what needs to be done.
Gurgling:
A gurgling sound might be your motorcycle's way of telling you to take a look at your cooling system. Coolant circulates around the bike silently and the level should not be dropped. Check the coolant levels and if it is dropped there is an issue. If there is an air pocket in the pump the coolant cannot circulate properly. To fix this, top off your coolant then check again if it drops to check for a leaking seal or gasket.
Clattering and slapping:
Clattering and slapping will indicate a tensioner that is in need of replacement. Tensioners stretch and reach a wear limit. This will cause the chain to flap and cause that slapping noise. Start with taking a look at the tensioner or cam chain and make sure to replace the parts. Worse case, your valve timing goes out, and valves/pistons can meet.
Bumps and grinding:
If you ever hear any grinding sounds in your motorcycle you should always stop riding it and give it immediate attention. Brake pads could be a cause of this issue when they need replacement. Sometimes the caliper may be the problem and cause the brake pad to drag. You can double-check this by pushing the bike by hand and seeing if it rolls freely. If it does not the sticking caliper may be the issue and will need to be replaced.
Conclusion:
There are various sounds that your motorcycle can make, making it a bit difficult to pinpoint exactly what the issue could be. Being familiar with your bike and talking to other riders with the same or similar bike as you could be resourceful and a great way in knowing which sounds are considered normal and which are not. We hope this helps you in figuring out which sounds your motorcycle might be making, why, and how to fix them!
Related:
-First Things You Need to Do Before Riding Your New Motorcycle
-5 Safety Tips to Ride a Motorcycle
-10 Tips for Daily Motorcycle Commuting
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