OK everyone, I've got an '08 FLHR with 9700 miles on the clock. In the last 1000 miles or so, I've noticed a "knocking" sound when I first fire up the bike. I also hear the "knock" at a certain range of rpm's until the bike gets warm. After the bike is warm, I don't get the "knock" on either start up or at the range of rpm's when the bike is cold.

I'm afraid many of you are going to tell me it's "normal", but I don't think it is because I've got two friends with '07 Kings and another with an '08 Heritage and their bikes don't sound like my knocker. It's hard to describe the sound, not saying that it sounds as bad as a rod knock, but nonetheless, the knock is still prevalent. Any suggestions?

 

If your that close to the 10K service bring it in now and tell them. If they say its normal then ask them to go out into the used lot and lets start up some with 10K or so on them and see how normal your selling used bikes are!

 

I have same issue with my 07 ultra..... I was hoping it was normal but I think its a lower engine issue. I am close to 8000 and due for the 10,000 check up

 

Mine has a single knock when the engine fires. It's normal for thr tc 96. Startup is the only time it happens and it's a single knock. Have the dealer take a listen to be on the safe side.

 

I have never heard a knock on startup on mine yet.

 

HD new comp setup should end the knock.The stock comp is total crap and becomes more so once bike is pushed above stock numbers. The new comp is found in the SE catalog but again it comes out of your pocket to fix.

 

"I also hear the "knock" at a certain range of rpm's until the bike gets warm. After the bike is warm, I don't get the "knock" on either start up or at the range of rpm's when the bike is cold." You said right there! Takes about 5 minutes at start-up to warm-up to op temp esp. the O2 sensors (600 degrees F at sensor). Do not hit your throttle after starting cuz it takes the bike out of warm-up/enrichment table to the idle table (ECM thinks you're ready to ride). Operating temperature (heat) aids in the combustion of fuel.

 

I had the knock sound at 10000 miles, It turned out to be .017 piston to cyl. clearnce. After a few talks I got them to pull the heads to prove it was not normal! I went with 103 kit and the labor was covered . I have 20000 miles now and no knock.

 

I also have the same type knock in my 04'. Scared to ask a dealer to hear it cause I don't know if they would be honest or not. If it is somewhat normal I don't want to pay for something that is not needed, Sounds like it may be somewhat typical. My 04' has 6700 miles on it BTW.