Author Archives: Jeffry Henderson

Annoying Tapping Noise – 2004 BMW R1150RT

I continue to have an annoying tapping noise from the engine on my 2004 R1150RT.

I have adjusted the valves twice and rocker end play once and it hasn’t improved. I’ve changed the engine oil/filter, trans oil and final drive oil. The noise is nonexistent at cold idle, barely noticeable below 3000 RPM until at full operating temp and varies under load and/or throttle position (not really sure which and maybe a combination of both). It is more prevalent with the engine at full operating temperature. Sounds more to me like it is coming from the right side of the engine when sitting on the bike.

At first I thought it was valves out of adjustment, and then I thought perhaps a cam chain issue, but it it’s more of a hard tapping noise rather than a noise consistent with chain slap.

Anyone going to be at breakfast on Saturday morning this coming weekend who has a good ear, and perhaps some experience diagnosing noises in an oilhead?

The bike runs fine and seems to have plenty of power, but the noise has me concerned, especially since I plan to ride 2-up with my youngest daughter to Vintage Motorcycle Days at Barber in October…

Jeff