Tap/knock noise
 

On a four day ride last week, I was often riding in triple digit temps. My 96 1100GS would start off running quietly as usual, but after a while, it would knock and rattle in the right cylinder. The valves were adjusted in the last 1K. After the bike would cool off, it would go back to running without the knocking/tapping in the right cylinder. I run Castrol 20-50 MC oil and the level was checked each morning before riding, and it was fine.

I come home and it's cooler and rode around town and no knocking/tapping in the right cylinder. Anyone have any idea what the heck is going on?

I would greatly appreciate any and all thoughts on the matter.

Scott

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l1...a/IMG_0338.jpg

Health check
 

The valve adjustment might be wrong and when the metal expands, thats when you hear the noise.

Get it to a garage to be checked out ASAP:(

Knocking and tapping are different sounds that mostly mean quite different things.

A knocking is usually associated with piston, con rod or crank. Maybe not crank on your boxer engine.
Tapping cam, tappets or less so valves.

Taking it to a shop will give you a better idea. I think lynch180 is on the right track with expansion..

tripple digit temps would be the first clue for viscocity breakdown using Castrol 20/50
I am a happy Bardahl Premium 20/50 user and on my R1200R,R1200GSA and F650GS have been in those tripple temps and have noticed an increase in lifter noise,and occasional pre ignition ping in those temps and upon returning to the cooler climates of home no more noise,well there is always a little tappet noise this tells me my valves are adjusted.

Tap/Knock noise
 

Well, it turns out it was the RH TB that was wearing out and chattering. Rebuilt and now as good as new.

Cheers