Motorcycle Repair: poor running at high speed., honda xl125v varadero, chain tension

Question
Hi Chris.

I have a 2002 Honda XL125V Varadero and it was serviced about 3,000kms ago(spark plugs/oil filter).
My problem is that the bike seems to have trouble going over 80km/h and 8,000 rpm. It will probably go over if i really push it, but the engine feels and sounds like it's at the redline and not at 8,000 rpm and the engine seems a lot louder than usual. I took it to my mechanic and he cleaned the carbs and put in a new air filter - this seemed to improve the running but the problem is back after a few days and seems worse.

The engine also seems a bit louder when its idling(a kind of ticking noise), I think its coming from the top of both cylinders(valves?) and I have also noticed a vibration through the footpegs aswell.


My bike also blew over in the wind recently and the engine sounded a bit strange when I started it(a kind of ticking/rattling) - just in case this has anything to do with it.

Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Brendan.

Answer
Hi Brendan.
 Check your carb synch as well as your valve and ignition timing.

 Find out exactly where the rattle is coming from.  It may have something to do with it.  If it is coming from the top end, then it is the valves.  Also reset your cam chain tension.

Start with that and see what you find.
Good luck.
FALCON