Motorcycle Repair: noises from engine, chain tension, motorcycle dealership

Question
the bike is a 2005 gs500f. i bought the bike used with 850miles on it from a private party for 3500. the warranty expired 2 months ago so i am responsible for the bike now. the initial service has been done although it was a while back ago by the original owner. now for the question. the bike develops a loud knocking noise when cold. it sounds like a rock is inside the engine. it goes away after i ride it. then the bike sounds ok for a while, no noises, but then a ticking noise develops. the ticking noise is not consistent though. i'll hear it in one stop and wont on another. another sound comes when i tap my front brakes at the begining of each ride, it makes a popping noise but goes away. i have searched for a service manual for the 05 models but cant find any. i have only found manuals for the 02. to the best of your knowledge, are there any significant differences between the specs and the like of this two bikes?     thanks for your time. i feel i should pay you.lol

Answer
Hi Ray.

The manual for the bike should be available.  Check www.repairmanuals.com or check with a Suzuki motorcycle dealership.  Their parts department should be able to order it for you; and it will likely be the factory repair manual, which is the best one to get.  Also, it will not be cheap.

More often than not, unless the manual states the year (or your bike is within the year range listed) of your bike, then it is not a valid manual.

For what you are asking about there is likely to be some very significant differences between your bike and the '02 as far as specs and tolerances.

By what you've described, though, it sounds like it could be a valve issue and/or cam chain tension problem.  I suggest getting the bike in for service, since that is clearly not a normal sound.

Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON