I have a 2011 FLHX Street Glide. Stock 96 engine. 15,000 miles. I hear what sounds like valve train sounds.. Is this normal? I had open exhaust on my 2009 Road King, so I didn't notice this sound, if that bike was making it. The sound is very noticeable and varies with RPM.
Dealer tells me it's normal, but I don't hear it on other bikes.
Anyone have any experience with this?

 

Normal Harley sounds with my bike.

Did you just get the SG, or is it a new sound at 15,000 miles?

 

From what I've read/heard, yes it's normal. It should become more noticeable as the engine warms to operating temp.

 

I've learned my lesson well, with many posts similar to yours, that you cannot diagnose noises over the internet, especially those noises created by a Harley. Harley engines and drive trains do have many distinctive and normal noises. They are not the quietest drive trains around. I've got 80,000 miles on one of my bikes and I still hear, or think I hear, new noises on occassion. Noise to some is music to others.

Sorry I couldn't be of more help, but I don't think you'll really find a better answer here.

 

Sewing machine....... just ride it. Don't worry.

 

I had the exact same question when I moved from my Dyna to the SG. It sometimes drives me crazy and I just need to keep telling myself thats normal, all HD's sound like sewing machines. Some bikes can be heard more than others.

 

The reason you hear it more is the sound reflection off of the fairing. Years ago, I had a Softail.....engine noise was nonexistent. Put on a windshield..... all of a sudden I could hear the sewing machine.

 

It still bothers me the noises my bike makes but after more than 52k miles I guess it's normal. A dealer told my friend after complaining about the noises that he should change the exhaust and half of his problems will go away. I'm going to take that advice, my Fuel Moto Power Package will get here this week.

 

Dito, I take the lowers off April thru Sept. an it changes a lot also.

 

Thanks for the replies guys.. I won't worry about the sewing machine noises now.
I'll change to Rinehart head pipes/exhaust and probably won't hear it anymore.
Ernie.