Ok, dumb, I mean my bike's been put away for a month and a half, and I won't be riding for another four months-AT LEAST, but I'm looking ahead for next year's projects. Anyway, I've had my '98 Low Rider for the last four seasons now and put on around 25K in that time. Since the beginning, my starter will clunk, I mean really clunk(!) when I'm starting my bike. Not all the time, but every once in a while. As I'm pressing the starter switch, something towards the rear (sounds like its there, anyway)will clunk loud, metal on metal sound, and the starter stops until I start pushing the button again. I'm guessing starter, but I'm more concerned about flywheel damage issues. Anyone else? Guesses? Always had a clean drain plug magnet during oil changes. A little bit on the tranny plug magnet, but nothing more than what I think would be normal for hitting the starter switch instead of the off switch in a dark garage at night!

 

The starters do make some odd noises from time to time. Depends on things like state of battery and how soon it fires.

 

Your clunk might be the starter gear hitting the ring gear on the clutch hub.

I think this will help you

https://www.hdforums.com/forum/evo-c...ck-sticky.html