Motorcycle Repair: 1980 honda ATC185, adjustment screw, 3rd anniversary

Question
It started to tick in the front top of motor and lost the power it had. Before I tear it open, do you have any ideas were to look and what to look for. What do you think thank you for you time sir.I also have a 3rd anniversary edition Honda and love to ride.ONLY HONDAS

Answer
Matt, that isn't a real descriptive clue. Load related, rpm related, etc would have been more helpful.

Start with the easy stuff....  check the valve adjustment first. If the exhaust valve adjustment screw locknut loosened up, then the screw backs off, valve noise begins and as the clearance increases the power diminishes.

If valve clearances are still okay, then you could have a broken valve spring, maybe cam chain tensioner failed and camchain is slapping the cylinder, loose camshaft sprocket bolt backing out... or it ran low on oil and the piston seized.

If it isn't something simple, drop the motor down and take it apart, piece by piece. I imagine that any damage or causes for noises will be apparent.

Bill Silver