Motorcycle Repair: Ticking, stock pipes, yamaha virago

Question
I own a 1981 Yamaha Virago. The previous owner had on different pipes and never did carb work. I put the original pipes back on and it runs fairly decent now. But, I have recently been hearing a slight ticking noise as I curise down the road. Could this be from running to lean? I suspect a lifter? Do you think this is what it could be? Is this a serious problem? What are some sugestions you have for solving this, if it needs solving. With the wrong pipes it used to back fire when you let off the throttle, now I have pretty much cured that problem with installing the stock pipes.   
Thanks

Will

Answer
Hi Will,

The ticking is probably from excessive valve clearance on one or more valves. Check and adjust the valve clearances.

Better loose than tight; loose valves (excessive clearance) makes the ticking sounds and is harmless, while tight valves (less or zero clearance) causes valve and valve seat damages.

Sounds as if the pipe problem is resolved.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively