When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
I have a 1995 Heritage Softail FLSTN with approximately 1650 miles on it. Recently, I hear a "chirp" when I upshift. It occurs more frequently when the motorcycle is cold - but not all of the time. It appears that the "chirp" is coming from left side of the motorcyle around the transmission/belt area.
Any suggestions as to what I should be looking for or adjusting to eliminate the "chirp"?
You need to tighten the belt that comes from the primary and goes back around the rear pully on the rear wheel. As far as I know this is the only "belt" on our bikes. The Primmary is chain driven on my 98.
not sure the belt needs to be adjusted as much as it might need to be cleaned with a small brush and soapy water. Normally the chirp is associated with the belt contact with the side of the pulley. Do not use any belt dressings on the belt. there is belt dry lube, parafin wax or Ivory soap. Run these along the edges after cleaning and you should be chirp free.
I would check the drive belt for the adjustment. And while you are checking that look for any rocks that could be stuck in your belt too. They have a way of getting in and rubbing.
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Slideshow: The bar-and-shield logo shows up on far more than motorcycles, some of the company's most unexpected products have nothing to do with riding.
Slideshow: From the troubled AMF years to modern misfires, these bikes earned reputations for reliability issues, questionable engineering, or disappointing performance.
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Slideshow: The Swiss custom shop has taken a Harley Softail and stretched it into something so long and low that it looks closer to a rolling sculpture than a conventional motorcycle.
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Slideshow: A standard cruiser becomes an intricate metal canvas in the hands of a Swiss custom house known for pushing Harley-Davidson platforms far beyond their factory brief.
Slideshow: Harley-Davidson's challenges aren't abstract; they show up in dropping shipments, shrinking dealer traffic, and strategic decisions that aren't yet translating into growth.