hi all, so ive had my bike for about 6 months now, and ever since i got it its had this slight "rattle" or tick coming from the engine. recently, i started shifting gears at alot higher rpms, and i noticed today that the ticking is just a little bit louder. not REALLY loud, just a little bit ouder. not really sure what to think of it...a friend said it could be some sort of exhaust leak, but i dont know. also, is it normal for the front brakes to make a little noise when braking or when you're off the bike and pushing it? another thing, i recently had the brakes changed, as well as replaced both sprockets and chain, and now when let off the throttle, like about to stop or whatever, my bike makes this noise like a semi-truck going down the interstate...you know that "whistling' noise or whatever when a semi is doing about 80? well, when im going at least 50 or so, and go to neutral or downshift, my bike makes that noise until i stop or almost stop. the slower i go, the lower the "whistle"...its not really loud, but i can hear it from where i sit....i just want my bike to be "healthy" and this stuff sorta worries me....please help!!

 

Hello, Great choice in bike!

But before others start tearing you apart for the questions you asked, Im going tosuggest that you Please use the search feature and read some previous posts about the questions you have before posting.

 

dont think ive ever heard of a 954 that doesnt slightly tick.

 

The 954 engine will make some noise, that's normal, get used to it. Trust me, you won't hear it over 8,500 RPM.

The tick is most likely the CCT. Some will tell you to swap it with stock and others will advise the manual version. I chose the stock route, it's up to you. There is the slight possibility that your valves are out of adjustment, assuming the CCT is already replaced, but I don't think it's too likely. I am around 20k miles and my valves are still within spec.

The brake whirr is normal, my last set of pads only made the sound when braking from high speed. My current set, EBC HH, had a super long break in period which produced a constant rub/noise and after ~150/200 miles it started to fade away.

Have fun, don't worry too much and keep that bike under control!