Noise and vibration: finding what has come loose

A new rattle or buzz in the bars is almost always something small that has worked loose. Catch it early and you tighten a bolt instead of replacing a cracked bracket or fairing.

• Wash the bike and let it dry: dirt hides rub marks, leaks and shifted paint marks.
• With a cold engine, shake the fairings, mirrors, number plate, fenders, exhaust and luggage by hand. Anything that moves needs tightening.
• Check the mounts of the exhaust, engine guard, footpegs and levers. Tighten with a torque wrench to the value in the owner's manual, not by feel.
• Turn the bars and wheels: play in the steering head or wheel bearings, or an unevenly worn tyre, causes vibration on the move.
• Inspect the chain and sprockets: a dry, over-tight or sagging chain hums and jerks.
• If it vibrates at certain revs and the mounts are fine, go to a workshop. A beginner should leave suspension, brakes and the engine alone.