| Author | Message | ||
     Moe03xb |
I just took my 2003 xb9s out for the first time this season. The bike ran and felt fine but when I got home and was pushing the bike around the driveway, I noticed that my belt was creaking. I did just change the rear tire but the belt is not rubbing on anything and it will creak if I just sit on the bike or push the belt down with my finger. When I roll the bike at a walking pace it stops, it only seems to happen when moving real slow. Also, I didn't notice any rubber dust the would indicate that it was wearing on anything and I didn't get any cleaning products on it. Any Ideas? | ||
| Lovematt |
Creaking is normal as long as there are no visible (look close though!) cracks or damage to the belt that could cause a failure. I would think the traction the belt must maintain with the teeth on the pulleys would cause creaking and noised to occur if the position or tension changes. I just tried what you described on my bike and it does the same thing. Interestingly enough if you put a brand new belt on the bike it may NOT make the noise since there are residues from manufacturing that need to be rubbed off and the belt broken into its travel path. This is why gently accel/decel is recommended for the first 100-150 miles when replacing a belt to prevent slippage. Try checking this again after a ride when the belt is warmed up...if there is a difference then it is likely the belt is a bit more pliable and softer and less likely to creak as a result. Bottom line is if there is no visible damage then likely the belt is good. There are exceptions of course but a visual check is a good start. | ||
| Moe03xb |
Thanks. The creaking that I noticed WAS after the bike had been ridden for about 1 1/2 hours. I will keep an eye on it though and I will try it with the belt cold to see (hear) the difference, if there is one. | ||
| Brad_buell |
Mine does that from time to time, as well. And it has no consistent pattern to when it will happen. I only have 1200 miles on the bike and the belt is visibly in great shape. | ||
| Kaese |
Mine does the creak, but I think it is the Idler Pulley bearing. |
