Motorcycle Repair: timing chain, engine temperatures, temperatures rise

Question
i have a 2003 1200 bandit,when i first start it up itwill make a sound like the timming chain is slapping . it only does this for a minute or so,but when it does this the motor will miss.as it warmms up & gets hot i dont notice it as bad.i have read that some bandit riders have had problems with kinks in their timming chains . is this my problem or is it a tensioner problem.       thanks for the info   gary p.

Answer
Hi Gary,

I don't know of any such "common" problems with the Bandits or GSX-R's.

It's normal for valves to produce a tapping sound when valves clearances are slightly excessive or with a cold engine. As engine temperatures rise and metal engine parts expand, valve clearances decreases and the noise becomes quiet.

A local tech should hear the noises you've described and diagnose the source of the noises. I don't think there's a problem.

Visit the following website:

www.banditalley.com


Respectfully,
Mark Shively