Really strange noises coming from front end somewhere.. anyone have an idea???

The bike started making some really strange noises yesterday. The best way I can describe the noise is it sounds like paper or tin foil crumpling. It is really hard for me to find because it only happens when the bike is running, and when I slow down coming to a stop. It only happens at very low speeds, and actually continues making the noise even when I'm sitting at a traffic light(but doesn't do it when I have the bike in the garage of course).


I think it's coming from either the gauge cluster or front wheel.. Anyone have any ideas because I am at a loss :faint2:

 

If it is happening while bike is stopped, I would think it must be something in the air filter. Maybe you sucked up some leaves, or a plastic wrapper?

:crazy:

 

Sitting and running in neutral... Pull the clutch in, does it stop?

 

Thanks for the responses. I wish it was as simple as something in the airbox, but it doesn't appear to be. Sitting at a light in neutral, nothing. Click it into gear (at stop while holding the clutch) and it starts making the noise. It only does it sometimes also making this really frustrating. I may end up breaking down and taking it to a honda dealer to diagnose.

 

Sounds like Clutch Chatter, try different oil and see what you get.

 

have you recently done any clutch work, oil change, ect... ?

 

Havn't touched the clutch personally, but I am the third owner so who knows.. I did an oil change on the bike maybe a thousand miles ago, I'm using Honda GN4 (10w 40 I think) but havn't done any work on the bike recently.

 

Maybe this is it?
Clutch relay chatter - VFR Discussion

I'd have never figured it out myself without this thread. Hope it helps ya

 

The more I think of it, the more I think it IS the clutch relay. Good news - it's only three minutes to fix it yourself. Save your money for better things!

 

Sounds like an easy fix, Glad you found it and it was nothing serious.

 

By your description of the noise I think it is the same issue I have. I would describe the noise more like dried leaves rattling in a tin can but regardless it is the vacuum operated intake for the air box opening and closing. It dose it when I am at very low speeds rolling up on a stop then continues while sitting at idle. Not sure what the fix is but the bike runs just fine so I am going to leave it alone.

 

you guys ROCK!

As this video shows (from jeeters79's link)

Picasa Web Albums - Ian

Clutch relay chatter 100%

Thanks again everyone!

 

Good to hear it's handled!:thumb:

 

I have been trying to figure out the same problem. Driving me nuts, everyone said I was crazy. Now I need to find the switch and get it replaced.

 

no need to replace it. There is a single screw that holds it on, just follow the wire to it take it off and use a little file to clean the connection.