Slight knocking noise when going over bumps

[LoopGaroo]

I tried searching the forum, but I don't know exactly what I am looking for....

When the bike hits sudden bumps like a pothole or railroad tracks i can hear and feel a slight knock coming from the front end.

I don't have much mechanical knowledge about motorcycles, but if i was going to diagnose this problem on my bicycle, it would be easy: a loose headset. I'd solve that by adjusting the bearing tension.

To describe the sound and feeling, I first thought it was my keychain rattling, but a bit lower in tone. I also can't reproduce the knock by bouncing the front end while the bike is parked or rocking the bike with the front brake engaged. I haven't noticed it during hard braking either.

Is this a normal? I don't' have much experience and may be over analyzing. If not, any advice? Thanks!

 

[DanTheMan]

Could be you've got dry and rusty bearings in the headset (common problem, the headset gets overlooked on maintenance quite often:-\\\). Or, also in the area of fork maintenance, it's probably time to do a complete fork oil change and clean, install new seals while you're at it.
Also, check your caliper mounting bolts, make sure they're tight ( I left one loose once upon a time....).

 

[jknappsax]

I had the same symptom

I had the same symptom

I had a local shop known for good work install tapered-roller steering-head bearings in my 1978 GS 750, and when I picked it up, I rode about a half mile, then went back for them to tighten the steering adjuster. Problem solved. But the advice to pull the triples and check everything is the best idea.

 

[ALB80-850]

Did you find the source of the noise?

I had a front end noise as well. Mine turned out to be a loose front fender. The rivet holes became egg shaped and it rattled like crazy. But it didn't sound metallic, so I never checked the fender. Yesterday while cleaning a 1000 miles of wet road grime off it noticed it. Was ready to remove the front end and replace everything.

Andy