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Anyone know what this Chirping noise might be?

BlueSpy

Member
Hello all,
New member here. Just bought a 2024 RTL on Feb. 21st. I'm trying to figure out how to post pics, will hopefully get it figured out soon. Have a question that hopefully someone can help me with.

When I first start the Spyder, I hear what I call a “chirping” noise coming from the engine compartment. It’s not bad, just bugs me. When the bike is totally warmed up (after riding for a while) and I go to start it again after stopping somewhere for whatever reason, I don’t hear it. I currently have 5500 miles on it. Did the 3000-mile break-in service oil change at 2,350 miles (did it myself) and I put in the 93 octane gas.

Anyway, hope someone knows about this “chirping”. Note: the noise is only when sitting still, not running the road.
 
Noise while not rolling, and from engine.

Curious exactly what oil did you use for the oil change?

My guess, the chirping is the alternator drive coupling slipping.
With it idling, turn the handlebars slightly, did the chirping remain the same or change? The steering system loads the electrical system, sometimes inducing slippage in the coupling. A coupling, improperly set can do the same. Improper oil can contribute also.
 
Concur with PMK - classic symptoms of alternator clutch slip. There are two reasons the chirp occurs when you start the engine:

(1) the starter energy needs to be restored by the alternator, therefore increasing alternator clutch loading.
(2) the alternator charging profile is highest at low rpm reducing above 2500+ rpm for fuel efficiency.

Probable cause is oil choice. Probable long-term effects on engine and alternator life - they're likely to live longer than you are.
 
Ok, thanks for the input!! I put in 10W-40 Full Synthetic.

Clarification: It doesn’t chirp when FIRST starting, only after start (cold) while it is idling. Will turn the handlebars slightly as PMK suggested and see what it does.

Ok, turn the handlebars slightly, no change.
 
I agree with Ron, give us the name of the oil, a picture will help also.

Not all oil is made/compatible with the spyders.
 
Buy a cheap mechanics stethoscope and have a listen around. Or use a long screwdriver held to your ear, make contact with the system you suspect is at fault.
 
Maybe you got the 'Birdie' upgrade!:rolleyes:

OK, maybe not helpful. But a smile is cheaper than a visit to the mechanic!
 
Hello! Bluespy and Baja Ron, any updates on this? I have this same exact problem, and the dealer is saying it is normal. It’s a chirping/chirring noise in the left front of my 2023 F3T (3500 miles). It only happens while under load and is less noticeable at higher RPMs or when unloading the drivetrain or letting off the throttle.
 
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I have no idea if this is the same issue. But we just had a customer with a late model RT come directly from the dealership to our shop (about 4 miles) for some upgrades that he wanted installed. He has a service agreement with that dealership and had his oil changed. No other work was done.

He said that his Spyder wasn't making any strange noises when he dropped it off. But when he picked it up, it was 'Chirping'. Not all the time. But more than enough to be of concern.

The dealership told him it was normal. I wish they wouldn't do that.

We checked everything we could think of, but all seemed well. Still, the chirping was persistent which was a concern to everyone. We told him the only thing we could think of to do was to change the oii (we use 10-40 Amsoil). He agreed, we changed it, and the chirping was gone. We are now having the oil that was drained tested to see what they put in it. If it turns out to be the recommended XPS 5-40, then I am afraid we will be at a loss as to exactly what is going on.
 
We checked everything we could think of, but all seemed well. Still, the chirping was persistent which was a concern to everyone. We told him the only thing we could think of to do was to change the oii (we use 10-40 Amsoil). He agreed, we changed it, and the chirping was gone. We are now having the oil that was drained tested to see what they put in it. If it turns out to be the recommended XPS 5-40, then I am afraid we will be at a loss as to exactly what is going on.
Following... Definitely unusual, be interesting to see what the results of this are.
 
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