unknown noise when riding in gear

[slickster]

  Hi all my 1984 r65 makes a strange noise when in gear and riding.  Sounds like intermittent bearing spinning, when bike gets under way.  Eighty thousand and counting miles.  Driveshaft looks ok.

[Barry]

If the 80,000 is on the original gearbox then it's probably due an overhaul and that would be the likely culprit.

[montmil]

Can you accurately determine where the noise is coming from?

Have you put the running bike up on centerstand and shifted through the gears while listening? Maybe use a mechanics stethoscope.

Does the noise come and go with different throttle settings? While accelerating or light throttle cruising?

Are you still on your original timing chain, guides and sprockets?

Clutch throw out bearing toast?

So, first order of business is to locate the area -as close as possible- where the noise is coming from. May need a buddy to assist.

We sure could use a little more information before approaching an accurate diagnosis. Please.

[tvrla]

I'd first off check the transmission drain plug. It's magnetic and collects the metal shavings, so is a good indicator of gearbox health. That's quick and easy - don't even need to drain the oil, just pull the plug, quickly do the Dutch Boy finger-in-the-dike trick, then replace. If it's soft fuzz with no slivers, it's good. Chunks or slivers, get it rebuilt now!!! Don't ride it any more till it's rebuilt!!!!