So I am curious what everyone thinks.....

I am not sure if I am being over sensitive but I noticed today that, when idling in neutral it feels like something is moving in the engine. When I pull the clutch in it stops. It's not making a noise or anything it just feel different. Is this normal?? My 03 Hawk just turned 3800 original miles.

 

Is the oil old and clapped out?

Old oil has a tendency to make the engine sound like its falling apart.

 

That's completely normal. Squeeze the clutch and it goes away, right? That's the clutch plates rattling a bit. You really hear it on the Ducatis since they have a dry clutch and there's no oil to dampen the slapping.

Don't worry. It's a Honda. When I took my clutch apart at 25k it still looked like new.

 

Yes that's exactly it! It kind of feels like a rattling but when I pull in the clutch it goes away. I was a little concerned I may have done something as I am still getting used to it. As such, I have noticed I am riding at too low an RPM at times. Sometimes in 1st or 2nd I am around 2500-3000 as apposed to 3000+ where it is much happier. I know I just need to get a little more aggressive on the throttle.

As for the oil, I have not changed it yet but it's a 2003 that I bought with 3500 original miles on it back in March. Since then I have only put about 1000 on it myself. I was planning on changing it within the next few weeks. Any recommendations on a good oil to use???

 

Oh no, another oil thread.

Honda recommends 10w40 API service rating "SJ", available at most motorcycle shops. Using SM energy conserving oil could cause clutch slippage.

 

Mobil 1 15W-50.

Thread closed!

 

If I owned stock in Exxon Mobil, I'd recommend the board of directors send Greg a check for the great good work he's done on behalf of the company and its stockholders! That said, Mobil 15W50 at $22 or $23 for a 5 quart jug is a good a deal as you can get.

 

50k and I've yet to adjust valves. There's something to be said for that.

 

Works for me. Thanks...

 

Too funny!! I had the same experience after i changed out my clutch fluid! I thought i messed something up, but its doing its normal thing after all! I feel better.

 

I thought the clutch was lubricated by the engine oil on the Super Hawk??

 

I would guess he means the (brake) fluid in the clutch hydraulic line.