I recently purchased a 2003 883 with a 1200 kit. I hear a rubbing sound in the front while riding and as soon as the front brake is applied, the noise disappears. Any suggections and please be specific as I havent riddin in 30 years and am back for the ride again.

 

Mine will make a slight rubbing almost metalic noise when slow riding if my bike sits for a while or dirt gets built up in the pads, put a old towel or shirt on your rim and lightly spray your pads with non chlorinated brake parts cleaner.

 

If it rubs while the wheel is spinning with the brake not applied, its possible the pads are rubbing against the rotor. You might need to reseat the pads or pull the wheel to the right side of the bike. I've seen this before.

 

Sounds normal to me...Just make sure it isn't a metal on metal noise, then you know it;s time to change the pads. Supposedly if you get the Lyndall Racing Brake pads http://www.lyndallracingbrakes.com/home.htm
it should get rid of the nosie. I hear the pads are dustless as well so your wheels will stay cleaner too...

 

If it stops when you apply the brakes, it's most likely the brakes. However, if you are just coasting along and it makes a repetative noise in sync with the wheel, it may be bad bearing(s). So brakes or bearings.

EDIT: If it's the brakes, and it's just a "rubbing" noise, not a scraping or anything, it's probably fine. A bad bearing poses a huge safety hazard, though, and needs to be replaced.

 

I have the same problem but mine seems to be coming from the rear wheel. Is there any kind of adjustment you can do? Haven't checked the manual yet.

 

If your front tire is worn beyond the point of needing replacement, itcan cause an unusual noise.