Pinking, Rattling Noise Kawasaki Versys

[BBJ]

A pinking, rattling noise - like a labouring 1990 Vauxhall astra in 3rd has come about the last 3 weeks. I'm hoping it is the fuel I'm using as for the last 3 weeks when I noticed it I've been filling up with Caltex Benzine 95, but here is the issue.

It is noticeable in traffic as you decelerate to 2nd and then reapply throttle. It isn't labouring and the bike has momentum when throttle is reapplied. I just service the bike two days ago but the noise has been apparent for 2/3 weeks.

Any suggestions? Change fuel perhaps?

I've tried forcing the noise by holding the brakes, releasing the clutch and a little throttle. But nothing.

Thanks in advance.

Edited July 9, 2015 by BBJ

[guzzi850m2]

yes it can be the fuel, check that first.

I use E10 95 in my Versys and so far not problems and uses whatever brand fuel I can find.

If Kawa did the service did you mention it to them?

[BBJ]

yes it can be the fuel, check that first.

I use E10 95 in my Versys and so far not problems and uses whatever brand fuel I can find.

If Kawa did the service did you mention it to them?

I serviced it myself this time as i found on the last service they hadn't put enough oil in the bike. I'll run the tank dry and put 95 v-power that I used before.

Cheers

[Gweiloman]

Are you sure the noise is coming from the engine and not the dash? It's a very well known issue with the Versys and there are hundreds of suggestions online as to how to get rid of it. In my case, I take the noise as a badge of pride as my Versys is mostly held together by cable ties and duct tape anyway. Also, once I've got my earplugs in and music playing, I don't hear it anymore, lol

[BBJ]

Are you sure the noise is coming from the engine and not the dash? It's a very well known issue with the Versys and there are hundreds of suggestions online as to how to get rid of it. In my case, I take the noise as a badge of pride as my Versys is mostly held together by cable ties and duct tape anyway. Also, once I've got my earplugs in and music playing, I don't hear it anymore, lol

Engine for sure. Sound like a motor running on unleaded that should be using 4 star some years ago in the UK.

Someone suggested cam chain tension but I don't think it is that. Dash, hardly any vibes on mine that I notice when riding.

Guess I'll just bang some other fuel in. If it is there, cam chain is the next thing to look at.

[eisfeld]

Did you ask the Kawa mechs if they have any idea? Maybe they encountered this issue before.

[Can samui]

The only time my Versys fairing doesn't emit some sort of rattle,or hum is when it is parked!

I use a cut up yellow kitchen sponge, cut up little pieces and jam them in until the rattling stops, repeat, ride, repeat, ride.........

[BBJ]

Filled up with V-Power yesterday with 2 blobs of Caltex Benzine 95 in the tank. After a 120km run to and from work, the noise has gone. Hope it was just a fuel type issue.

I normally hear it 4/5 times on the way to work when in traffic.

Edited July 13, 2015 by BBJ