Terrible "Clonk" when shifting into first
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 3,255
Likes: 112
From: Florida
Hey guys,
I have a '08 HS-classic with only 5k on the clock. Bought it used from local dealer. Was pretty much in like new condition when I bought it. When I shift into first gear after a cold start there is always a loud "clonk". After the motor has warmed up it is much quieter. My dealer says that is normal for Harleys. Now, last Saturday I test rode a brand new '14 STS and she was quiet. No "clonk". Is there anything that could be done to get rid of this loud noise? I also worry that something inside the gearbox could go bad, one day.
I have a '08 HS-classic with only 5k on the clock. Bought it used from local dealer. Was pretty much in like new condition when I bought it. When I shift into first gear after a cold start there is always a loud "clonk". After the motor has warmed up it is much quieter. My dealer says that is normal for Harleys. Now, last Saturday I test rode a brand new '14 STS and she was quiet. No "clonk". Is there anything that could be done to get rid of this loud noise? I also worry that something inside the gearbox could go bad, one day.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 3,158
Likes: 68
From: Martinsburg, WV
Hey guys,
I have a '08 HS-classic with only 5k on the clock. Bought it used from local dealer. Was pretty much in like new condition when I bought it. When I shift into first gear after a cold start there is always a loud "clonk". After the motor has warmed up it is much quieter. My dealer says that is normal for Harleys. Now, last Saturday I test rode a brand new '14 STS and she was quiet. No "clonk". Is there anything that could be done to get rid of this loud noise? I also worry that something inside the gearbox could go bad, one day.
I have a '08 HS-classic with only 5k on the clock. Bought it used from local dealer. Was pretty much in like new condition when I bought it. When I shift into first gear after a cold start there is always a loud "clonk". After the motor has warmed up it is much quieter. My dealer says that is normal for Harleys. Now, last Saturday I test rode a brand new '14 STS and she was quiet. No "clonk". Is there anything that could be done to get rid of this loud noise? I also worry that something inside the gearbox could go bad, one day.
Road Warrior
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 1,593
Likes: 11
From: Mass/NH
Relax, All is normal. Your clutch plates drip off all their oil when sitting for extended periods and after you go awhile the oil in the primary soak the clutch hub and plates again.
I find they clunk most if they are still on high idle after startup. If you can let it warm up a little to drop the RPMS's it might help.
Also, after you start it you might try pulling in and out on the clutch lever to open and close the clutch pack and get some fresh oil between the plates.
I find they clunk most if they are still on high idle after startup. If you can let it warm up a little to drop the RPMS's it might help.
Also, after you start it you might try pulling in and out on the clutch lever to open and close the clutch pack and get some fresh oil between the plates.
Tourer
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 291
Likes: 0
From: eastern nebraska
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Tourer
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 310
Likes: 13
From: Chesapeake
Although not really a helpful comment I had to laugh out loud. One to remember, for sure.
