Strange noise - need ideas...

So for the past week or so I've been getting this noise when I take off from a stop. It's very low and sounds like a rubbing or grinding. I mostly feel it through the bike vs. hear it. It's from somewhere that rotates since it's not constant, but increases in frequency with acceleration. Once I'm into 2nd or 3rd gear I really can't hear/feel it anymore. At highway/freeway speeds I don't notice anything abnormal. Seems like I notice it more when leaning in a low speed turn.

The brakes don't seem to be dragging. I just had the wheel off putting on a new rear tire and I adjusted my chain. Makes me wonder if the chain is too tight and I have a tight spot in it. Also wondering if the tranny could be on the way out. It's always had somewhat of a clunky engagement in 1st gear. Bike is getting aged (54,000 miles).

So any brainstorming would really help. I'm getting squeamish about riding it in this condition. I might try loosening the chain a bit and see if it changes anything to start.

Thanks

 

Hi.
Check Oil (dot 4) In Clutch Reservoir (left Side).
Lamps. Carmine

 

CARMINE -

What exactly does "Lamps" mean?

Just wondering.

 

Reply To Vt Viffer.
You Know, When A Biker Meets Another Biker He Usually Flashes With High Beam Light, Just A Shot...and This Is The Way We European Bikers Say "hello" Or "see You Gain" In Our Slang ! I Think That This Expression Is Not "english Correct" But We Like It. It Comes From "lamp" And Suggests And Wishes A Ride Full Of Light And Pleasure. Maybe...too Romantic !!!
Well, Lamps To All Vfr Guys !

 

OK...AND WHAT'S IS "motorcyclist wave" ?
THEN, DEAR DERSTUKA, LAMPS TO ALL VFR OWNERS!

 

I would recheck your chain adjustment. I had mine a bit too tight once and that is what it did in first.

 

Interesting...

I had similar issues if the chain was too loose.
Tightened her up a bit/ changed clutch fluid and no more noises.

I woudl assume the same to be true if it were too tight as well...
Easy fix, just double check your chain adjustment (Loose or Tight)

 

Well, I Think I Will Do The Same As Derstuka...i Will Just Hold My Hand (the Left One !) To Say "hey"...
Lamps To All Vfr Owners !
Carmine

 

Lamps to you too, Carmine.

 

Well I have good news...it was the chain! That sucker did have a tight spot. I was in a hurry reinstalling my wheel and adjusting the chain last week. I always measure, but didn't really take the time to find the tightest spot.

The chain was in need of a good cleaning and lube anyway. I ride daily and tend to neglect it mostly because it's a time consuming pain to clean and lube.

The bike feels/rides so much better now! Smooth engagement and shifting. Having it too tight really took away from the performance. I'm glad it's fixed because I don't really feel like buying another bike right now. I like my VFR for the time being. It runs good and is paid for. :smile: :vtr2:

LAMPS to you CARMINE!

 

Well, It Is Nice To See That Other Vfr Owners Adopted My "lamps" !
Then, Lamps To You "savedriver" And "alaskan"...have A Nice Day With Your Vfr.
I Feel Well "surrounded" By Your Kind Attitude And Friendship, But...what About Other European Vfr Guys ? Are They Sleeping...uhmmm
Lamps To All Vfr Owners!