My bike seems to have high vibrations once I go above 5,000 RPM's. Is this normal or should I check the valves?


2009 KLX 250SF with 3,700 miles.

 

Some vibration at higher rpm is expected. Is it speed dependent? Wheels balanced?

Does noise go along with the vibration? Kind of like rocks in a coffee can? Possible failing auto cam chain tensioner. Get a manual one from klx678 on this site (Krieger).

At 3,700 miles, it wouldn't be a bad idea to check valves. I don't know if that could be the cause of vibration.

 

It does it sitting still if you rev the engine. It sounds more like a rattle. I can't seem to find where it's coming from.

 

There's a lot here, but peruse this thread: https://www.kawasakiforums.com/forum...stalled-36477/

Use a screwdriver to the ear or mechanic's stethoscope and listen around different parts of the motor. If it's noisy by the auto tensioner, that's likely your culprit. Very common with this motor. Mine started as a softer rattle and got worse. Often starts around 5,500 rpm.

 

This works great! I use ear defenders and use a pencil sized steel punch. It would be neat to have some vibration analisyt equipment and measure certain points over the life span of an engine.

 

For what it's worth my seat vibrates where it's attached to the gas tank. Just press down on the front of the seat when reving that high an see if it goes away.

 

Ordered a Krieger cam adjuster last week. I'll try and update this thread once the part comes in and is installed.

 

Installed the cam tensioner and the vibration went completely away. Seems like there is slightly more throttle response too.

 

There's zero chance you got more throttle response from it, but that's great that you've not improved the long term reliability of your bike!

Don't forget to put some foam tape under the seat where it mounts to the tank, it can vibrate quite loudly as well!

 

Actually it depends on how bad the cam chain slap is. When the chain is going loose and tight and loose, the valve timing is being affected. If the variance is bad enough it is possible to notice a gain when the valve timing is back in control, but no more power than originally there.

Of course could also be self-fulfilling prophesy.