Name that problem.
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Cruiser
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 124
Likes: 1
From: East end of Canada
Name that problem.
On Saturday past, I took the bike (2009 Low Rider) out for a nice highway run, and noticed a loud "chirp" coming from the left side of the engine whenever I cranked the throttle.
I've put about 900 miles on it since mid-May (it now has ~ 5100 miles in total), but this bike is new to me so I'm still figuring out the vibes and noises. However, Saturday was when I first noticed the chirping noise upon aggressive acceleration, and that night when I went out for another run, I noticed an unmistakeable vibration from the front end which is noticeably felt through the footpegs.
I've taken it out for a few runs since just to make sure it wasn't my imagination, and it is for real. I notice it mostly at about 30-40 mph.
Also, I'm feeling that there is more heat than usual under my thigh from the pipes. Could all this be associated? I'm far from a mechanic or pro rider, but from what I understand, this could well be a motor mount situation...am I right? What about the noise...is that normal or perhaps connected?
I've put about 900 miles on it since mid-May (it now has ~ 5100 miles in total), but this bike is new to me so I'm still figuring out the vibes and noises. However, Saturday was when I first noticed the chirping noise upon aggressive acceleration, and that night when I went out for another run, I noticed an unmistakeable vibration from the front end which is noticeably felt through the footpegs.
I've taken it out for a few runs since just to make sure it wasn't my imagination, and it is for real. I notice it mostly at about 30-40 mph.
Also, I'm feeling that there is more heat than usual under my thigh from the pipes. Could all this be associated? I'm far from a mechanic or pro rider, but from what I understand, this could well be a motor mount situation...am I right? What about the noise...is that normal or perhaps connected?
Thread Starter
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Cruiser
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 124
Likes: 1
From: East end of Canada
I did check around the entire engine area, but I can't see anything out of the norm. Then again, I don't know exactly what to look for. Between the Owner's Manual, Service Manual, and Fix My Hog videos, I'm gradually soaking up some info to help me along.
Thread Starter
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Cruiser
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 124
Likes: 1
From: East end of Canada
I should add that I have an appointment at the dealership. I'm just trying to learn about and familiarize myself with the bike a little more. The guy at the shop said it could be anything, and named the possibility of it being a "stem bearing" issue (I think that's what he called it). Plus I was wondering if I should not be using the bike at all. But, I guess that's commonsense, right? The appointment isn't until July 29, so I'll have to go on foot till then.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 2,419
Likes: 1
From: Ashland Ore.
I think the chirping is the drive belt. I sometimes get that also and that's the only thing I can associate it to.
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6th Gear
Joined: May 2010
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i adjusted my drive belt last week....took 90% of the vibration out....different ride all together.....
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Cruiser
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 196
Likes: 2
When the belt is too loose, it traps air between it and the pulley. That gets squeezed out under load and causes the chirp. The belt needs to be tighter than you might think. Check it with someone sitting on the bike.
If it gets even looser, you'll get a clunk when you feed in the clutch when starting and usually a little whack when downshifting to a stop.
If it gets even looser, you'll get a clunk when you feed in the clutch when starting and usually a little whack when downshifting to a stop.
