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All 650Rs Strange Noise when lubing chain (Front Sprocket)

okaydokay232323

2019
CB650R
Nov 14, 2021
Riding Since
2021
Hi there

I already searched the forum, but didn't find anything similar. Here is my problem:

Today I cleaned the chain (with front sprocket cover removed). That's the first time since I "DIY-ed" the OEM Quickshifter on my 2019 CB. When put in neutral and turning the wheel the chain or enginge makes a really strange "knocking" sound. I made sure that neither the metal bracket plate under the front sprocket cover nor the cover itself or some foreign object is making this sound.

It's definetly coming from the crankshaft (I think). Should I worry? Is it normal? Again: Before the Quickshifter I didn't have this sound when cleaning the chain....

Since I can't upload a video here is the link: streamable.com/nowylv

Thanks in advance!
 

okaydokay232323

2019
CB650R
Nov 14, 2021
Riding Since
2021
Yes, only 9.000 km and I bought it at 4.700km last summer...I assume the first guy didn't change it from OEM and neither did I 🤔🤔

Edit: Just jacked up the '21 CBR of my neighbour after he rode it 300km today: Butter Smooth, no strange klicking or rattling noises :/

Really starting to worry and somehow I can't help but think it's normal...i really don't know
 

okaydokay232323

2019
CB650R
Nov 14, 2021
Riding Since
2021
Chain can't be lifted off the rear sprocket, so I think no?

The teeth from the front sprocket looked in flawless state. No uneven wear.

Just to be sure, I measured the chain slack: still 20-21mm (pushing up to the swing arm and draging it down with moderate pressure) – motorcylce on the side stand as per manual (adjusted it 1,5 months ago)

I also put the chain laser on the rear sprocket, perfect alignment whatsoever

Edit: I really take care of my chain. Unlike some riders in the parking lot of my office, mine is looking the most splendid of all. Just saying, so you can't assume I ride with 1kg of mud on the chain and complain on forums why I do have noises 😂
 
Last edited:

Brammers

2014
CBR650F ABS
Staff
May 30, 2014
Hampshire, England
Riding Since
1993
That chain is too tight. This will cause extra noise and wear on the output shaft bearings.

Chain freeplay should be between 25 and 35mm

J
 

okaydokay232323

2019
CB650R
Nov 14, 2021
Riding Since
2021
Thanks! Will change tomorrow. Already did some good miles with this chain slack. Hopefully I didn't damage something...
 

okaydokay232323

2019
CB650R
Nov 14, 2021
Riding Since
2021
Quick update:
Measured the chain slack every 1/4 turn of the rear wheel (red dot on the tire wall is a good reference point) and adjusted it to the tightest spot 25mm – measuring from top to bottom.

Btw is a diffrence of 5mm slack much or normal? (25mm thightest and 30mm slackest). I know,, I do make it sound like rocket science but it really interests me.

Nevertheless, drove a quick test ride and the weird knocking sound dissapeared.

Thanks a lot J.!
 

Brammers

2014
CBR650F ABS
Staff
May 30, 2014
Hampshire, England
Riding Since
1993
You're welcome.

Some difference is OK, 5mm sounds like you might have a tight link on the chain. Keep an eye on it, as that will be the reason to replace it. 9000km is not great for a chain, but if it wasn't looked after for the first 4000km, it could be worn out already.

I use a chain oiler and get over 15,000 miles from a chain usually.

J
 

okaydokay232323

2019
CB650R
Nov 14, 2021
Riding Since
2021
Yes, you are right. The chain was quite rusty when I bought it, so I assume it wasn't looked well after it. Yesterday I also installed an automatic oiler, that's how I realised the knocking sound. Now I hope to still squeeze some good miles out of it...

Cheers
F
 
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