clackity clack? that's not normal... ting ting /ring ring/ rwh rwh together (sewing machine noise) is normal. clack is bad

 

Put a mechanics stethoscope (Harbor Freight) on it. Bet you hear the all is well. Probably just the exhaust resonating thru the motor

 

Well, I took it out for a pretty long ride today. Got her up to highway speeds, pushed the RPMs some, let her get pretty hot and played with it a bit.

It does sound like a sewing machine... As it heats up, it does seem to get a little louder. And when it's truly warm, it seems to hit a little harder, there is more of a clack to it. Like a solid lifter motor.

I do think it is the smaller gas tank and the riding position.... And it being Sportster.

But, i am also curious if a better oil might not hurt. Also, wondering about a heavier weight for the summer months? Something heavier than 20/50? One of the local dealers carries Redline. I might go that route sooner, rather than later.

 

I've had my 72 for over a year now and still wonder if the sounds are normal haha. Coming from sportbikes it all sounds weird to me.

 

My sounds like a sewing machine as well. Some days it's louder it seems.

When the engine is hot, around 45-55mph it seems to be louder. 60-68mph it quiets down. 70-75mph the ticking comes back. It changes with RPMs of course.

 

Yes. I installed a set on my 1250 iron. It doesn't totally get rid of the noise but lessens it. You can tell the difference.

 

Get louder pipes, then you will not even notice!

 

And a full helmet!!