Strange noise, time to change the chains?

I'm experience some strange knocking sound. It's mostly audible when I accelerate from halt (or slow speed). Originally I thought it had something to do with the clutch but it seems to happen also when driving on 1st gear and applying little pressure with the front brake (or driving up a steep rise, especially with a passenger).

The sprockets & chains don't look really bad though there's a bit of uneven movement when rolling the wheel. My VFR currently has around 28,500 miles on her from which I've driven around 15,000 and I haven't changed the chains & sprockets.

How long do the chains & sprockets usually last and does this sound like it could be an issue with them? (and yes, they're adjusted)

 

There should be no "uneven movement" at all when rolling the rear tier with the bike on the centerstand. Hard to tell without seeing it in-person, but the symptoms you're describing sound like the chain has tight spots - usually caused by an incompletely or incorrectly-lubed chain.

- Has the chain been lubricated?
- Do you also hear this noise at any speed, or only when the engine is under heavy load?

 

Normal chain life is about 20-25 thousand miles.

Unfortunately, quality chain and sprocket replacements run into the $180+ range.

 

Hi
I had the same knocking on my 86 750 ,sounded like the gearbox but after removing the chain I found a couple of loose and wobbly links the rest of the chain was in good condition with little wear to the sprockets. May have been the origional chain with only 40,000 Km and 25 years ,nothing lasts these days . Anyway I replaced the chain and sprockets, oem spec DID chain and aftermarket sprockets £80 on ebay ,all sorted now and runs a lot smoother.

 

During the weekend I took the front sprocket off to clean all sh** up and when the chain was loose, I discovered that some links were indeed a bit stiff.

Also if the maintenance record is correct, the bike still has original chains/sprockets so I guess it's really time to change them :tongue:

I'm using scottoiler and I also clean + oil them manually quite often so externally the chains/sprockets seem fine. Anyway, gonna order a new set ASAP. I don't know long do the aftermarket parts hold up but it seems that the OEM-stuff seems to hold out pretty well if oiled/cleaned properly!

Thanks for the comments.