chain rattle near front sprocket...time for changing?

just need more of a confirmation. basically all gears are quiet, but 6th is noisy/chattery. not unbearable like somethings gonna break, but noticable when i hit 6th at a lower rpm (below 4k) and when slowing down or coming to a stop. on the centerstand, engine off, just turning the wheel out of gear manually, its easy to hear it front the front sprocket area. i was told by the PO that chain was changed, but i take any previous maintenance with a grain of salt without seeing records. thoughts?

o, and i wax and clean chain every other ride or so (about 50 miles).

 

Hi Rychas1,
First, I would check that the chain is properly adjusted. But also I think you're lugging your engine. There's no reason to be in 6th gear at 4K or below. That can also make a rattling sound. I keep my revs up around at least 5k under normal conditions. These engines like to spin!
And I usually lube and check the chain around every 600 miles, unless I've been through nasty weather. Every 50 miles is overkill, but I guess if you've got the time!
These ar just my opinions, though.
Cheers!

Craig :smile:

 

If the chain needs to be replaced it would rattle no matter what gear you're in. Trust me I know from experience. Like Craig is saying, I think the problem is you're lugging the engine and lubing every 50 miles is overkill.

 

I would inspect the front sprocket immediatley. Mine was doing the same thing. Front sprocket was whipped!

 

good advice. ill try not lugging. but, it doesnt explain the 'when coming to a stop' chain noise.

 

a good practice is that when you change the chain, you change the sprockets. A worn sprocket will tear up a new chain, and the incremental cost is marginal. Complete sets of chains/sprockets are in the $120 range. Cheap insurance.


based on your prob description, would check for adjustment, and stop lugging it in 6th.

 

good advice. so basically there is no point in using 6th on the streets, when rpms are like 3-4k or so? ok ill stop that. as for the chain, its with spec for tightness, so thats not it. i can only assume sprockets are done. but ill put that on my to-do list soon. chain is good and doesnt look to be that old.

 

Agreed 120% Change the sprokets each time you change the chain.

 

usually i just coast down about 20mph, then clutch in and shift all the way to 1st before stopping completely. ever so often, ill clutch/shift or engine brake thru each gear going down to 1st.

revs above 4300? lol, i tried to keep them below that..me coming from car=saving gas. ill try to keep them up!

 

Seriously? Dude, you're missing out on the best part of the VFR: the sound it makes above 7000 RPM!

 

ok. after playing around and getting more of a feel for the issue, ive narrowed it. it only makes the sound in 6th. even at hwy speeds 85+mph (when the wind its not blowing where i cant hear), its there. all gears are fine, but as soon as i hit 6th, i get the marblecan rattle. so i just stay in 5th. am i still not going fast enough for 6th??