Piston Slap at 2000 miles?
 

I've just bought this SV650S 2005 model. When I test rode it (never ridden a SV650S before), I heard the noise I am now worried about, but thought it was air intake or exhaust noise. Now that I've put 700 miles on it, I'm beginning to think it may be something more sinister. It now has 2000 miles on the speedo.
There is no hint of the noise when revving up to 9000 rpm at a stand-still. But when the motor is on-load the noise comes up from below the tank and sounds some thing like the sharp note of a well tuned Triumph T110. (although some what less noisy) The only thing that comes to mind is piston slap.

Has anyone had this experience?

Thanks,
Roy

Re: Piston Slap at 2000 miles?
 

It's rather difficult to tell anything about a noise I can't hear, but with modern engines audible slap is exceedingly rare, even when they're so worn they use more oil than fuel. Which leads me to ask; what's your oil consumption like, and, other than the noise, how does it run?
You haven't filled in your location, but there's likely a meeting in your area, and if you ask nicely I'm sure you'll find someone who will open a well tuned SV-listening ear to your bike.

Re: Piston Slap at 2000 miles?
 

Check under the front of the tank and see if the huge rubber snorkel is still attached to the front of the airbox (it'll just be a big oblong hole if it's not there). When removed, the airbox makes quite a distinct noise when the engine is under load.

Re: Piston Slap at 2000 miles?
 

is it not just the injectors working hard? ;)

Re: Piston Slap at 2000 miles?
 

Hi,
Other than the noise, the bike is perfect. No oil consumption, plenty of power, revs smoothly up to the red line. I would'nt worry about it except that I paid quite a bit of money for it and intend to keep her for a long time. I am impressed with the SV650S and would go so far as to say that it's just as good as the 1975 Ducati 750SS I used to have.

I'm taking her to a bike shop next week. I'll let you know what they say.

Thanks for your response.
Roy

Re: Piston Slap at 2000 miles?
 

Just find another SV owner is the easiest way.

Re: Piston Slap at 2000 miles?
 

I think your right. That would establish if it is normal or not.
Thanks

Re: Piston Slap at 2000 miles?
 

Maybe a long shot, but are you using the correct grade of fuel?

Re: Piston Slap at 2000 miles?
 

its not a piston slap thats for sure