Motorcycle Repair: rear drum, suzuki volusia 800, rear wheel bearings

Question
Hi Chris: I own a 2002 suzuki Volusia 800. I noticed a tapping noise coming from the rear drum as I move the bike forward and backward while the bike is off and in neutral. I jacked it up and spinned the tire to see where the noise is coming from. The gear oil is up to level and have no problems braking. Any ideas? thanks rick

Answer
Hi Rick.
 Based on what you are saying, your test didn't produce the noise that you were hearing when you had the bike fully on the ground.  That indicates to me that the problem is in a part that is under pressure when the wheels are on the ground and the weight of the bike is on them.

Check the rear wheel bearings as well as any other part that is under pressure and moving in the rear of the bike.
Also check the drum brake assembly itself to see if something is protruding from any part of it where it shouldn't.

Let me know what you find.
Good luck.
FALCON