Diagnosis - 'knocking/tapping' at low revs

[drspangle]

Howdy

1997 Honda VTR250, under 8000ks, and in the last month or so it seems to have developed an occasional knocking/tapping coming from the engine at low revs (maybe I just cant hear it at high revs). I mostly notice it in 3rd but also in 2nd.

Is there any common causes for such things?

[crazyv]

Perhaps the tappets need to be adjusted? Best to check with a mechanic. Unusual for it to happen at low kms though. Did you do your 6K scheduled check?

[drspangle]

Perhaps the tappets need to be adjusted? Best to check with a mechanic. Unusual for it to happen at low kms though. Did you do your 6K scheduled check?

I'm not entirely sure what tappers are

I bought it at 5500 from a mechanic who serviced it himself. I will get it checked out, but just thought I would see if there was anything I could look at myself before then.

[crazyv]

To check Tappets need to open up to the engine - tappets make contact with intake or exhaust valve

[vifferman]

Does the noise go away when you pull the clutch lever in? (Some clutch baskets rattle).
Does the noise go away when you rev the bike a bit? (Could be the camchain).

[Subike]

Have you changed the type of fuel you are using?
Could be pre ignition caused by low octane fuel
just a thought

[drspangle]

To check Tappets need to open up to the engine - tappets make contact with intake or exhaust valve

Hmm, ic

Does the noise go away when you pull the clutch lever in? (Some clutch baskets rattle).
Does the noise go away when you rev the bike a bit? (Could be the camchain).

Im not sure about the clutch, I will check that next time it happens. As far as I can tell it it goes away with revving.

Have you changed the type of fuel you are using?
Could be pre ignition caused by low octane fuel
just a thought

No change in fuel