Whats wrong with my bike ... if anything?

[Delfox]

mine sounds like the timing chain or valves must be something as not all are the same

[Burchy]

In post#60 you said the noise was "unknown" but in #74 you are saying its the reed valves chattering.  Was this the final diagnosis?  Think I would have just blocked them off if that were the case

[jonkawasaki]

The noise was 'unknown' in the sense that it could not be diagnosed at the time with any great certainty. But after 3 mechanics at 3 seperate shops either inspected or replaced every thing else that it could have been, we (as in the dealer I bought it from, and I) decided that it was most likely the reed valves. The exhaust was reseated with new gaskets, the timing chain tensioned slightly, all the inner and outer body work checked for loose areas etc. They tried replacing the reed valves, which made the noise slightly quieter but was still present.

On hindsight I wished at the time I got the dealer to block the reed valves off as a final definitive test, but when you are wrapped up with final year exams, coursework etc and having to constantly travel back and fourth to the Isle of Wight, for me it wasn't worth the hassle.

[Burchy]

Thanks for the update