Engine noise

Clicks, knocks, or rattles

This free guided diagnosis asks up to 5 questions about what the bike is actually doing and narrows it down to 6 possible faults, each with a safety call, what it costs to fix, and the guide that fixes it.

Start the guided diagnosis

What causes engine noise?

Valve clearance out of spec

Top-end ticking typically indicates valves need adjustment. Check service interval.

Ride with caution. Ridable in the short term, but tight clearances burn valve seats. Get it measured soon. Typical cost: $30-120 DIY, $300-800 at a shop.

Severe cam chain wear

Heavy clattering suggests significant cam chain stretch or tensioner failure.

Do not ride. Stop riding. A cam chain that jumps a tooth puts valves into pistons. Typical cost: $120-400 DIY, $600-1,600 at a shop.

Rod bearing wear

Knock under load often indicates worn connecting rod bearings. Serious — needs professional inspection.

Do not ride. Stop riding immediately. A rod bearing failure destroys the engine and can lock the rear wheel at speed. Typical cost: $200-700 DIY, $1,200-3,500 at a shop.

Piston slap or cylinder wear

Metallic knock may indicate worn cylinder walls or piston/ring clearance issues.

Ride with caution. Ridable gently while you diagnose, but do not rev it hard and do not take it touring. Typical cost: $150-600 DIY, $900-2,500 at a shop.

Timing/cam chain tension issue

Rattle that improves when warm often indicates automatic tensioner needs service.

Ride with caution. Fine for short rides, but book the tensioner work before the rattle becomes constant. Typical cost: $40-220 DIY, $250-700 at a shop.

Tensioner failure

Persistent noise suggests tensioner has failed and needs replacement.

Ride with caution. Ride it no further than the workshop. A failed tensioner can let the chain jump timing. Typical cost: $40-220 DIY, $250-700 at a shop.

Guides that fix these faults

Other symptoms