Motorcycle Repair: NOISE AND PERFORMANCE, suzuki tl1000s, premium gasoline

Question
I recently purchased a 1998 Suzuki TL1000s and it rides ok but the engine makes a pinging or tapping noise and I was wondering if that was normal. My neighbor told me to use premium fuel and I've been doing that and it is still making that noise, Can you help?
                          Will  

Answer
Hi Willie,

FYI... Premium gasoline isn't 'all that' after being in the storage tanks at the local petrol stop. Sediment, condensation, and blending newer gas with stale fuel in tanks affects the recipe of newer gas.

I believe Suzuki recommends running regular unleaded fuel.

The ticking that you hear is likely loose valve clearances. If so, this is normal. Check valve clearances and adjust accordingly.

Zero or tight valve clearances causes engine damages. Loose clearances are relatively harmless (noisey), but should not go untended.

TL's are my favorite MC. They're awesome.

Get a copy of the service manual. Learn about maintaining and repairing your TL. It's part of the experience.

http://www.tl1000.com/ <--- Great TL1000 resource

www.bikebandit.com <--- View parts microfiche


Respectfully,
Mark Shively