GUEST? Registration opens up many more resources which are not available to guests. Registration is free, we never sell or give others access to your information.
Posted by Troll
- September 24, 2026, 07:42:36 AMMine rattles louder with 10-40, so I always run 20-50. Transmission is quieter with 20-50, too. I don't like synthetic oils (many reasons, too many to list here) so I use Valvoline conventional 20-50 motorcycle oil. My 1500 has 249,500 Km on it.
Posted by moto
- September 24, 2026, 07:04:02 AMQuote from: Troll on September 23, 2026, 07:37:23 AMClutch basket wear. Mine has done it for years. Most noticeable when it's cold. Pretty much goes away after the engine is up to temp, but not completely gone. I have 155,000 miles on the bike, as of right now.
Well, you think that I can drive with that sound, so engine dont break ? I have 47 000km mileage.
I use 20w-50 mineral oil. Could switching to a different type of oil help, 10w-40 perhaps ?
Posted by Troll
- September 23, 2026, 07:37:23 AMClutch basket wear. Mine has done it for years. Most noticeable when it's cold. Pretty much goes away after the engine is up to temp, but not completely gone. I have 155,000 miles on the bike, as of right now.
Posted by drifter-paul
- September 22, 2026, 18:45:24 PM1 - Crack the throttle (like a hoon) in 3rd at about 60K/35MPH . If it takes a second for acceleration to catch up - you have worn clutch plates .
2 - Check this post . rear spark plug on right side of motorcycle, forward spark plug on left . You will see a recessed ("23 mm") hex plug . remove spark plug and check for groove in each aluminum tunnel . This will tell you the cam chains are worn and rubbing thru .
3 - If mechanically minded, you can find articles in this forum to replace the Cam chain tensioners - and replace the convex/ concave plates in the clutch - these wear first - otherwise refer previous answer
https://www.vulcandrifterriders.com/forum/index.php/board,124.0.html
Posted by Fab
- September 22, 2026, 01:28:41 AMHey @moto
If I were you, I'd take the motorcycle to a local mechanic or motorcycle shop and have them listen to the noise.
It might be a minor issue, but it's always better than getting stranded on the side of the road if something breaks down along the way.
Posted by moto
- September 21, 2026, 08:33:17 AMThere is a rattling sound coming from the right side of the bike at idle, but it disappears when the clutch is pulled in. So, it only occurs at idle or at very low RPMs.
Is this serious? Could the clutch be failing? The transmission works fine, though, and all the gears engage smoothly.