Valve Ticking (Tappets) noises

[marcopol]

Normally drive a K1200lt, very quite and smooth. Just got a R1150GS, 2001, 42K and find it very tapetty , i.e. I can hear the valves clicking , never heard this on the LT. The valve adjustment was done by a BMW dealer 6K ago. Is this tapetty noise normal for the GS?

 

[ahutcheon]

Hope so - mine's done it from new. I think you hear both tappets and the fuel injection ticking away. All out in the open, air cooled and with pushrods.

Is the K motor bucket and shim DOHC inside the water jacket?

 

[davegs]

Noises

On the LT you have a watercooled four cylinder engine the water jacket is a very good sound barrier, listen to any K and you will notice how much quieter they are. Air/oil cooled engines are noisier if you want a real fright listen to
a Vincent twin (proper motor bike, yes I've had on since 1967). It is certainly nothing to worry about so rattle on and be happy!.
dave gs.

 

[Colban]

Normally drive a K1200lt, very quite and smooth. Just got a R1150GS, 2001, 42K and find it very tapetty , i.e. I can hear the valves clicking , never heard this on the LT. The valve adjustment was done by a BMW dealer 6K ago. Is this tapetty noise normal for the GS?

A properly adjusted 1150 motor should "rustle" when its running.
The valve clearances and the rocker end-float can be adjusted to reduce the noise.
You may have a problem with the offside throttle body being worn.
Hold your finger against its pivot end in the TB to check if the noise decreases.
Do you have a few rattles from the nearside pot on start-up which subside after a few seconds?.
You probably have the old style cam chain tensioner.
Do a search for part numbers and fitting instructions for the new style.
I think you've gathered by now that the twins are a bit noisier than the fours.
Most folk dont worry about it or wear better earplugs.

 

[marcopol]

Ticking

Pivot End ?