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Engine Sounds

by Anita Woelfel
(Chesterfield, MO )

2003 Honda Shadow VLX

2003 Honda Shadow VLX

I just learned to ride this October, through the MSF course and bought a 2003 Honda Shadow VLX with 5000 miles on it. It's had an oil change for sure last spring, but prob. nothing else as far as I know. I've noticed the engine sounds like it's knocking a bit. When I first start it up, with the choke out, it doesn't do it, then, after it's good and warm I hear it, not while the throttle is open, only at lights or when idling. It sounds like an unhealthy metal on metal "tick tick tick". I rode by the local shop for the mechanic to listen to it and he said all Honda Shadows do that, it's normal. He seemed unusually dismissive, like he just didn't want to be bothered. I could be a bike hypochondriac, but I'm also not stupid and I've heard a variety of engines run... but I'm just not sure. An old biker dude I work with said there is definitely something not right. He thinks it may need a carburetor adjustment or it could be the lifters. AAGGHHH! Anyway, should I ignore it and enjoy my new ride, or should I pursue a new mechanic before I lock the engine up on the highway, killing myself?

Comments for
Engine Sounds

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Dec 01, 2009
Honda Shadow
by: kenberlyc

My 2007 Shadow VLX doesn't do this. Not sure if it is normal or not, but I would definitely have it checked. Find a new mechanic if you are not satisfied with the one you have.

Dec 01, 2009
Engine Sounds
by: Anonymous

Great suggestion ~ try to find a local mechanic rather than dealer mechanics.
suzzQ

Dec 01, 2009
Might as Well Get it Checked Out
by: Cathy G

I would see what's going on with your bike. When I first bought my bike (Ducati), I heard something that didn't sound right. I got on the Internet and looked around for anyone who had similar issues. I learned I wasn't the only one. So, I got it checked out and now it's fixed. Mechanic bills aren't fun, but better safe than sorry. I hope this helps.

PS: Check out some "Shadow" forums and describe what your bike is doing. You might find others with similar issues and have successfully fixed their problems. It's nice to be able to do a "sanity check" on your mechanic with any background information you can get from other bike owners.

Dec 01, 2009
If you are uncomfortable...
by: Anonymous

then you need to have it checked out. I too have had some bad visits at the local Honda/Yamaha shop here in town. I have found a guy that has a shop and he is really down to earth and explains everything he touches.

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