Weird sound

[Julio A.]

I don't know if I should be concerned about this weird sound. It sounds like a loud, but not alarming click-clack. Much like an old sewing machine.

I know boxer are supposed to sound like one, but what bothers me is that when I pull in the clutch, whether or not it is in gear or in neutral, The click-clack sound disappears.

[Bob_Roller]

These airhead transmissions do make a bit of unusual noise while in neutral with the engine running .

Mine had been doing this as long as I've had the bike .

I had the transmission overhauled about 5 years ago, even after the overhaul, it still sounded the same .

[Barry]

If it's the usual gearbox rattle due to torque pulsing at idle then it may respond to a very careful carb balance. Basically the engine revs are speeding up and slowing down very slightly every revolution and this can result in some noise if there is any slack in the gearbox components.

Other more unusual possibilities might be something loose in the clutch assembly.

[montmil]

If you think your Airhead clutch rattles, listen to a new Ducati sometime. Both bikes have dry clutches. The Duck sounds like a metal bucket full of marbles bouncing around! Some jingles and rattles are not uncommon while sitting at a stop light, in neutral, clutch lever out or in.

Might try the carb balance after a 12-15 mile warm up.

Monte